Top scenic drives and lookouts
Foliage season in the White Mountains is beginning to emerge. This is my favorite time of year!
If you're planning a foliage trip, here are some of the best places to view fall colors in New
Hampshire’s White Mountains, curated from recent guides and local trackers:
Top Scenic Drives & Lookouts
Kancamagus Highway (Route 112)
A 34-mile stretch between North Conway and Lincoln, this is arguably one of the most
spectacular leaf-peeping drives in the world! Notable stops include:
• Lower Falls – a stunning riverside vista, great for photos.
• Rocky Gorge – a dramatic gorge with easy access.
• Sugar Hill Scenic Vista and Pemigewasset Overlook – elevated overlooks offering
sweeping mountain views.
• This drive typically hits peak foliage from late September through mid-October.
Franconia and Crawford Notch State Parks
Both offer epic autumn panoramas. Franconia Notch is famed for Artist’s Bluff overlooking
peaceful Echo Lake—an iconic, easy-access photo spot. Crawford Notch boasts views from
Mount Willard and waterfalls like Ripley and Arethusa Falls.
Mount Washington Area
You can enjoy foliage from the Cog Railway or the Auto Road, both offering panoramic vistas of
fall color from high elevations.
Great Hiking Vistas
Franconia Ridge
A challenging but incredibly rewarding hike, with sweeping views of fall foliage along this
alpine ridge
Baldface Circle and Basin Trail (Evans Notch)
Offering dramatic panoramas and gorgeous scenery, these routes shine in the fall.
Mount Chocorua (via Champney Falls Trail)
Features a lovely waterfall and a rewarding summit view—perfect for combining hike and
scenery.
Mount Pierce (Crawford Notch)
An accessible Presidential Range hike along the Crawford Path with outstanding fall vistas
Other Scenic Gems
• Lost River Gorge (Kinsman Notch) — a dramatic riverside hike through caves and
cascades beneath autumn colors
• Diana’s Baths – a peaceful, easy walk to charming falls near North Conway-a great family spot for foliage immersion.
