If you think New Hampshire is beautiful in summer, wait until you see it in the fall.
From easy family trails to challenging summit climbs, New Hampshire offers some of the most breathtaking foliage hikes in all of New England.
Whether you’re chasing short hikes with postcard-perfect lookouts or ready for all-day adventures above treeline, here are the 8 best fall hikes in New Hampshire you should not miss this season.
Table of Contents
1. Mount Monadnock – The World’s Most Climbed Peak
Mount Monadnock isn’t just famous in New Hampshire—it’s considered one of the most climbed mountains in the entire world.
From its rocky summit, you’ll enjoy 360° views stretching across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and even into Vermont.
There are multiple trails to the top, but the White Dot and White Cross loop is the classic route.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: Monadnock sits close to Keene and Jaffrey, both charming towns with inns, B&Bs, and cozy cabins that make a great base.
2. Mount Washington – New England’s Highest Summit
At 6,288 feet, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the Northeast and a true New Hampshire icon.
The most experienced hikers tackle the summit via trails like Tuckerman Ravine, but there are alternatives if you’re not up for the climb.
You can also ride the historic Cog Railway or drive the Auto Road to the top.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: Gorham and North Conway are excellent bases for exploring Mount Washington, with plenty of lodges, hotels, and even campgrounds.
Food Stop: After your hike, grab a hearty meal in North Conway—many local diners serve fall-inspired dishes and homemade pies.
Events: Fall also brings special Oktoberfest celebrations at nearby ski resorts like Attitash and Loon Mountain, making this hike even more festive.
Parking & Access: The Auto Road and Cog Railway both require tickets, which often sell out during peak foliage weekends.
3. Franconia Ridge Loop (Mount Lafayette) – A Classic Foliage Hike
If there’s one hike that belongs on every fall foliage bucket list, it’s Franconia Ridge.
This 8.9-mile loop is challenging, but the payoff is out of this world. You’ll hike along a ridge that feels like a natural balcony above the White Mountains, with sweeping views of valleys.
The trail passes over Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack, offering non-stop scenery that changes with every step.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: The town of Lincoln is the closest base, with everything from motels to mountain lodges.
Food Stop: Lincoln is also home to great local eats—don’t miss a stop at Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill for a fall breakfast before your hike.
Events: In October, Lincoln and Woodstock host harvest-themed events and craft fairs, which pair perfectly with your hiking trip.
4. Mount Willard Trail – Short Hike, Big Views
For a small effort with a big reward, Mount Willard is unbeatable.
The trail is just 3.2 miles round trip and is perfect for families or those looking for a shorter hike.
It’s one of the most photographed spots in the White Mountains and an absolute must if you’re short on time.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: Stay in Bretton Woods or Crawford Notch for a close base, or head to North Conway for more options.
The historic Mount Washington Hotel nearby is an iconic stay in fall.
Food Stop: Pair your hike with a visit to a nearby country store for warm cider or fresh donuts.
Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy it at the summit ledge—it’s one of the best lunch spots in the state.
5. Welch-Dickey Loop – A Rocky Ridge Adventure
This 4.4-mile loop trail near Waterville Valley offers the kind of views you usually only get after much longer climbs.
The rocky ledges provide sweeping vistas of the White Mountains, and in fall, the valleys below explode with fiery color.
The trail climbs steadily, with a mix of forest paths and open rock sections that keep things exciting.
By the time you complete the loop, you’ll feel like you’ve seen fall in every direction.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: The Waterville Valley resort area is an ideal base, offering lodging, restaurants, and even fall activities for families.
Food Stop: After your hike, grab a local craft beer at a brewery in nearby Plymouth.
6. Artist’s Bluff Trail – The Photographer’s Favorite
This short 1.5-mile hike near Franconia Notch is one of the most popular fall foliage spots in the state.
The climb is short but steep in spots, making it accessible for most hikers. Once you reach the overlook, you’ll see a scene straight out of a postcard—especially in the first two weeks of October.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: Stay in Franconia or Lincoln for easy access, or North Conway if you prefer a bigger town vibe.
Food Stop: Pair your hike with a meal at a local diner or grab a cup of pumpkin spice coffee on your way to the trailhead.
Events: Franconia often has fall craft fairs and foliage festivals in October, which makes the area lively.
7. Mount Chocorua – A Scenic Southern NH Gem
Mount Chocorua is one of the most photographed peaks in New England, and for good reason.
Its rugged, rocky summit stands tall above the southern White Mountains, with views that stretch across lakes.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: Tamworth and Conway are great bases for this hike, with rustic cabins and charming inns.
Food Stop: Grab a hearty post-hike meal in Conway, or stop at a roadside farm stand for fresh apples and cider.
Alternative Routes: The Champney Falls Trail is a popular and scenic route, but you can also try the Piper Trail for a different approach.
Pro Tip: The Champney Falls Trail is a popular and scenic route to the summit.
8. Mount Moosilauke – Sweeping White Mountain Views
Mount Moosilauke offers one of the broadest summits in the White Mountains, and in fall, it feels like standing on top of the world.
It’s less crowded than Mount Washington or Franconia Ridge, making it a great choice if you want a quieter but equally dramatic foliage hike.
Trails like Gorge Brook or Beaver Brook provide different approaches, both offering a rewarding climb.
Nearby Towns & Lodging: The town of Woodstock and nearby Lincoln make great bases, offering cozy lodges and small inns.
Food Stop: Don’t miss Woodstock Inn Brewery for a well-earned post-hike drink and meal.
Events: Fall weekends often feature brewery events and harvest festivals in Woodstock and Lincoln, which add to the autumn charm.
Alternative Routes: Gorge Brook is the most popular, but the Carriage Road Trail is a great option if you want a gentler climb.
Suggested Fall Hiking Itineraries
- Easy Weekend: Artist’s Bluff + Mount Willard.
- Challenging Weekend: Franconia Ridge + Mount Moosilauke.
- Day Trip from Boston: Mount Monadnock + Mount Chocorua.
Final Thoughts
New Hampshire is simply unbeatable for fall hiking. Whether you’re scaling the heights of Mount Washington, taking on the legendary Franconia Ridge, or enjoying an easy stroll to Artist’s Bluff, every trail offers a front-row seat to nature’s most spectacular show.
Read More: 9 Best Places to Experience Fall in New Hampshire
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