New Hampshire’s scenic drives are famous across the country, drawing leaf-peepers from Boston, New York, and beyond.
Whether you want a short, relaxing drive through small towns or a day-long adventure across mountain passes, the Granite State has the perfect route for you.
Here are the best fall scenic drives in New Hampshire that you absolutely shouldn’t miss this season.
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Kancamagus Highway – The Crown Jewel of Fall Drives
Known simply as “the Kanc,” the Kancamagus Highway is hands down the most iconic fall drive in New Hampshire.
Stretching 34 miles between Lincoln and Conway, this winding road cuts straight through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest.
Pull over at overlooks like Hancock Overlook, Sabbaday Falls, and Rocky Gorge for postcard-worthy views.
Drive details
- Length: 34 miles, about 1–1.5 hours nonstop.
- Parking: Multiple scenic pull-offs and parking lots at trailheads.
- Accessibility: Suitable for families and RVs, though sharp curves require caution.
Why it’s special in fall
- Offers some of the brightest foliage in New England.
- Multiple scenic pull-offs for photos and picnics.
- The foliage usually peaks in early to mid-October.
White Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway – A Full-Day Loop
If you want a one-day ultimate foliage road trip, the White Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway is your best bet.
This 100-mile loop connects several famous routes including the Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch Parkway, and Crawford Notch.
It’s like getting three of New Hampshire’s best drives in one journey. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, mountain ridges, covered bridges, and plenty of small towns where you can stop for apple cider or a hot pumpkin donut.
Drive details
- Length: About 100 miles, 4–6 hours with stops.
- Parking: Scenic pull-offs and visitor centers throughout the loop.
- Accessibility: Easy for families and great for RVs since it’s a full circuit.
Must-visit stops on the loop
- Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch.
- The historic Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods.
- Scenic overlooks in Pinkham and Crawford Notch.
Pro Tip: This loop can take 4–6 hours with stops, so plan to make a full day out of it.
Franconia Notch Parkway – A Quick Foliage Drive with Big Views
Short on time but still want a jaw-dropping fall drive? The Franconia Notch Parkway (part of I-93) offers a quick but spectacular route right through the White Mountains.
Landmarks like Flume Gorge and the Basin are just a few minutes from the road, making it easy to combine the drive with a short hike.
Drive details
- Length: Around 8 miles through the notch, 15–20 minutes nonstop.
- Parking: Designated areas near Echo Lake, Flume Gorge, and the Basin.
- Accessibility: Perfect for families, easy access for quick stops.
Insider Tip: Pull over at the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway — the ride to the summit gives a 360-degree view of the notch in full fall bloom.
Route 302 through Crawford Notch – Waterfalls & Wilderness
For a more dramatic and rugged fall drive, head to Route 302 through Crawford Notch State Park. This stretch offers steep mountain walls, rushing rivers, and waterfalls framed by foliage.
You’ll pass through dense forests where the leaves almost form a canopy above your car. Scenic pull-offs give access to spots like Silver Cascade Falls and Arethusa Falls, both of which are stunning in autumn.
Drive details
- Length: About 35 miles through the notch, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Parking: Roadside pull-offs at waterfalls and viewpoints.
- Accessibility: Works for both cars and RVs, though some areas have limited parking.
Why it’s worth the drive
- Less crowded compared to the Kanc.
- Multiple waterfall viewpoints along the road.
- Wilderness feel with fewer towns and more raw scenery.
Route 16 through Pinkham Notch – Gateway to Mount Washington
If Mount Washington is on your bucket list, the Route 16 drive through Pinkham Notch is a must.
This road takes you past the base of New England’s tallest peak while offering sweeping views of the Presidential Range.
What makes it special in fall is the contrast between the warm foliage below and the often snow-dusted summit of Mount Washington above.
Drive details
- Length: About 20 miles through the notch, 30–40 minutes nonstop.
- Parking: Visitor centers, scenic turnouts, and trailhead lots.
- Accessibility: Great for families and visitors planning to connect with the Auto Road.
Pro Tip: Stop at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center for maps, restrooms, and short hikes to scenic viewpoints if you want to stretch your legs.
Lakes Region Scenic Byway – Foliage Reflected on Water
Not all of New Hampshire’s best fall drives are in the mountains. The Lakes Region Scenic Byway offers a different kind of beauty.
Circling around Lake Winnipesaukee and smaller lakes like Squam and Newfound, this drive is perfect if you want to see foliage mirrored in calm waters.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming small towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro, where you can stop for coffee, cider, or even a fall boat cruise.
The combination of lake views and surrounding hillsides makes this one of the most photogenic drives in the state.
Drive details
- Length: Roughly 97 miles, about 2.5–3 hours without stops.
- Parking: Plenty of town centers, boat launches, and lakeside pull-offs.
- Accessibility: Family-friendly with lots of food and lodging along the route.
Insider Tip: The Lakes Region tends to peak a little later than the mountains, making it a great option if you missed peak foliage up north.
Planning Your Fall Road Trip in New Hampshire
A successful foliage drive isn’t just about the road — it’s about planning ahead. Here’s what to know:
- Best time for foliage: Northern mountains peak late September–early October, central regions early–mid October, and the Lakes Region mid–late October.
- Fuel up early: Some stretches, like the Kanc, don’t have gas stations.
- Where to stay: Cozy inns in Lincoln, Conway, Meredith, and Franconia make great bases for these drives.
Bonus: Local Festivals & Stops Along the Way
Pair your fall drive with a taste of local culture:
- Sandwich Fair (early October): A classic New England fair with food, rides, and livestock shows.
- NH Pumpkin Festival (Laconia): Thousands of pumpkins lighting up the night.
- Apple picking: Orchards across the state are in full swing in fall.
These small stops make your scenic drive even more memorable.
Conclusion
Fall in New Hampshire is a fleeting but unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re winding through the legendary Kancamagus Highway, exploring the White Mountain loop, or circling the Lakes Region, each drive reveals a different angle of autumn magic.
Read More: Best Fall Camping Spots in New Hampshire for Unforgettable Views
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