Fall in New Hampshire: 16 Best Places to Visit
Figuring out where to go during fall in New Hampshire can be surprisingly overwhelming. There are so many beautiful places packed into a small area – scenic drives, hikes, charming towns, hidden lakes – and it’s hard to know which ones are actually worth the stop.
We did a New England fall road trip recently and spent several days exploring the best parts of New Hampshire along the way. From iconic viewpoints like Artists Bluff and the Kancamagus Highway to lesser-known places like Reflection Pond and Madame Sherri Forest, these are the ones that really stood out to us.
Some are quick stops right off the road, while others take a bit more effort to reach. Either way, they’re all worth it if you want to catch some of the best fall colors in the White Mountains and beyond!
If you’re planning a New Hampshire fall road trip or just looking for things to do in New Hampshire when the colors hit their peak, this list will help you make the most of the season.
*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*
Practical Tips for Planning Your New Hampshire Fall Trip
Best time to visit for fall foliage
Fall foliage in New Hampshire usually peaks between late September and mid-October, but it really depends on the weather and the region you’re visiting.
The higher elevations in the White Mountains tend to turn earlier (sometimes even the last week of September) while southern parts of the state usually peak a bit later.
If you’re planning a New Hampshire fall road trip, the first two weeks of October are generally a safe bet. That’s when you’re most likely to catch the colors at their best across most of the state.
That said, foliage timing can shift each year, so it’s worth checking a foliage tracker like the one from New Hampshire’s tourism board before finalizing your plans.
Where to stay during fall in New Hampshire
There are a few different ways to approach your trip, depending on how much you want to move around. If you’re doing a full New Hampshire fall road trip, you’ll probably want to stay in a few different places to cover more ground.
For the majority of our time, we stayed in Lincoln, which worked really well since it’s right by the Kancamagus Highway and close to spots like Flume Gorge, Mount Washington, and Artists Bluff.
North Conway is another great option on the eastern side; it’s a bit busier but has tons of restaurants, shops, and nearby trails.
Both towns are ideal bases for exploring the White Mountains, but they’re not super practical if you’re planning to visit the far north. For places like Dixville Notch, you’re better off staying somewhere farther up, like Colebrook.
It’s a small town, but it puts you much closer to those northern viewpoints without adding hours of extra driving.
Fall is an incredibly popular time to visit New Hampshire, so accommodations book up fast, especially on weekends. If you’re planning to travel during peak foliage, it’s a good idea to book your hotels as early as possible.
Columbus Day weekend in particular gets very busy, with heavy traffic and higher prices, so if you can avoid it, you’ll have a much more relaxed experience.
Here are my hotel recommendations for staying at the above-mentioned places:
- Lincoln: Parker’s Motel | RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain | Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Lincoln East – White Mountains by IHG
- North Conway: Swiss Chalets Village Inn | Comfort Inn & Suites North Conway | Starlight Lodge North Conway
- Colebrook: Colebrook C.C. & Motel | Mohawk Cottages | Ladd Pond Cabins and Campground
Getting around: Renting a car in New Hampshire
You’ll definitely need a car to explore New Hampshire in the fall. A lot of the best foliage spots (like the Kancamagus Highway, Dixville Notch, and Madame Sherri Forest) are spread out and not accessible by public transport.
If you’re flying in, the easiest option is to rent a car from Boston or Manchester. We recommend using Discover Cars – they’re easy to book with, compare a bunch of different companies, and we’ve had good experiences with them in the past.
Just make sure to book early, especially if you’re traveling in October. Rentals go fast during peak foliage season!
Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire in the Fall
1. Kancamagus Highway
If you’re only going to do one scenic drive during fall in New Hampshire, make it this one. The Kancamagus Highway (also called “The Kanc”) is a 34-mile stretch between Lincoln and Conway that winds through the White Mountains with nonstop foliage views, mountain overlooks, rivers, and trailheads.
It’s one of those drives where you’ll want to stop constantly, even if it’s just to stare at the trees for a few minutes!
We drove it in early October, and the colors were unreal, especially around the higher elevations and the scenic pull-offs like Pemigewasset Overlook, Sugar Hill Overlook, and the Hancock Overlook. Sabbaday Falls is also a super short and easy trail right off the road if you want to stretch your legs and see a waterfall along the way.
There’s no gas, restaurants, or cell service on the highway itself, so make sure you’re stocked up before you start. And if you’re visiting during peak foliage or on a weekend, expect traffic to be slow – it’s popular for a reason!
2. Conway
Conway is one of the gateway towns to the White Mountains and a natural starting or ending point for anyone driving the Kancamagus Highway.
It’s actually made up of two parts – Conway and North Conway – but most people base themselves in North Conway since it has more restaurants, shops, and places to stay. Still, both areas are worth checking out, especially in the fall.
If you’re passing through Conway, stop by the covered bridges in the area – Saco River Covered Bridge and Swift River Covered Bridge are both easy to access and surrounded by beautiful foliage in early October. It’s also a good place to stock up on snacks or coffee before heading into the mountains.
While North Conway gets most of the attention, Conway itself has a quieter vibe and makes a good stop if you’re looking to avoid some of the crowds.
3. Artists Bluff
This is one of the most iconic places to visit in New England in the fall, and I can totally understand why! The view over Echo Lake with the mountains in the background lit up in reds and oranges is absolutely worth the short uphill hike.
The loop trail is really short (about 0.5 miles – we did it in 8 minutes!) and starts across from the Cannon Mountain parking lot.
The trail is well-marked but does get steep and rocky in parts, so proper shoes definitely help. We did it in the early morning hours, and the lighting was perfect, but it’s also a great sunrise spot if you don’t mind getting an even earlier start.
It can get really crowded during peak foliage season, especially on weekends, so go early or later in the day if you want a quieter experience, or at least fewer people in your photos.
4. Echo Lake
Echo Lake sits right below Artists Bluff, and it’s just as photogenic from the shoreline as it is from above. The water is calm and clear, and on a still day, you’ll get incredible reflections of the surrounding mountains and fall colors.
It’s a quick and easy stop, especially if you’re already doing the Artists Bluff hike.
There’s a small beach area and a walking path around part of the lake, so it’s a nice spot to relax for a bit – great if you’re taking a break from driving or hiking.
Parking is available near the Cannon Mountain base area, and it’s just a short walk to the lake from there.
5. Flume Gorge
Flume Gorge is one of the most memorable stops you can make during fall in New Hampshire.
This natural granite gorge stretches for about 800 feet, with a wooden boardwalk leading you past waterfalls, mossy rock walls, and trees bursting with color. It’s especially beautiful in early to mid-October, when New Hampshire fall foliage is at its peak!
The loop trail is about 2 miles long and fairly easy, but there are some stairs and steeper sections along the way. You’ll want to take your time here anyway – there are so many scenic spots that it’s hard not to stop every few minutes.
If you’re planning to visit Flume Gorge during the New Hampshire fall season, you’ll need to book your ticket in advance. Walk-ins aren’t allowed, and tickets are sold for specific arrival windows. They often sell out during peak foliage, especially on weekends, so it’s best to plan ahead.
6. Lincoln
Lincoln is one of the best towns to base yourself during a New Hampshire fall road trip. It’s right at the western end of the Kancamagus Highway and close to some of the state’s most popular foliage spots, including Flume Gorge, Mount Washington, and Artists Bluff.
The town itself is small but has everything you need – cafes, breweries, a grocery store, and plenty of places to stay. If you’re planning to ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway or drive the Auto Road, it’s also a convenient jumping-off point.
You can easily spend a day or two here without feeling rushed. It’s a good place to slow down, grab a bite, and enjoy the scenery between more active stops.
7. Mount Washington
Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast and one of the most iconic spots to visit during the fall season in New Hampshire.
On a clear day, the views from the summit stretch across several states, and in early October, you’ll get a mix of bright fall colors in the valleys and snow-dusted peaks up top.
There are a few different ways to reach the summit. The Mount Washington Auto Road lets you drive up yourself (if you’re comfortable with steep, narrow roads), or you can take the Cog Railway from the other side of the mountain.
Both are unforgettable experiences, but they’re weather dependent – clouds roll in quickly up there, so it’s a bit of a gamble no matter how you go.
If you’re not planning to go all the way to the summit, there are still great fall foliage views from the base areas and the surrounding trails. Just keep in mind that weather changes fast at higher elevations, so layers are a must if you’re doing any hiking or heading up the mountain.
8. Bretton Woods
Bretton Woods is best known for the grand Mount Washington Hotel, and even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth visiting for the views alone.
The hotel sits at the base of the Presidential Range, and in early October, the surrounding hills explode with color, making it one of the most iconic fall scenes in New Hampshire.
You can walk the grounds, grab a coffee on the deck, or take the gondola up to the top of Bretton Woods Ski Area for a panoramic look at the mountains. It’s an easy stop if you’re already in the area to drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or ride the Cog Railway.
9. Jackson
Jackson is a small town in the White Mountains, known for its covered bridge and fall events. Right at the entrance to town, you’ll pass through the Historic Honeymoon Covered Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in New Hampshire, especially in early October when the trees around it turn bright orange.
If you visit in October, you’ll also see the Pumpkin People all over town. Locals and businesses create quirky pumpkin-headed displays, and spotting them as you drive or walk around becomes part of the fun. It’s worth a quick stop, even if you’re just passing through!
There are also a few hikes nearby, and the town is a quieter alternative to staying in North Conway.
10. Historic Bartlett Covered Bridge
Just outside Jackson on Route 302, the Historic Bartlett Covered Bridge is a quick and unique stop during fall in New Hampshire. Built in 1851, the bridge is no longer used for cars – it now serves as the entrance to a small gift shop inside the bridge itself, which makes it one of the more unusual covered bridges in the state!
The setting is beautiful in early October, with bright foliage along the river and a chance for mirror-like reflections on calm days. We loved this spot – not just for the photo ops, but because it felt like one of those quiet little surprises you only find when you’re not in a rush!
If you’re driving between Jackson and Conway, it’s super easy to stop here for a quick break.
11. Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the largest and most popular lakes in New Hampshire, and it’s a great place to visit during fall if you want to mix foliage with lake views. The shoreline is dotted with small towns like Meredith, Wolfeboro, and Alton Bay, all of which make good stopping points on a fall road trip.
The best part of visiting in the fall is that it’s much quieter than summer. You can drive around the lake, take a short hike, or even hop on a foliage cruise if boats are still running for the season. The contrast between the water and the trees makes this area especially scenic in early to mid-October.
It’s not in the White Mountains, so the colors here turn a little later, usually a few days behind the higher elevations. That makes it a great add-on if you’re planning to explore different parts of the state across multiple days.
12. Dixville Notch
Dixville Notch is one of the most scenic places to experience fall in New Hampshire, especially if you’re heading up to the quieter northern part of the state. The notch itself is a dramatic mountain pass surrounded by cliffs and dense forest, and in early October, the colors are incredibly vibrant.
One of the highlights here is the view across Lake Gloriette toward the historic Balsams Resort. The resort has been closed for years, but the setting is still beautiful, especially with the lake reflecting the fall foliage and the mountains rising up behind it.
If you have time for a hike, the Table Rock Trail is steep but short and leads to a rocky outcrop with one of the best panoramic views in the area. It’s especially striking when the trees are at peak color!
There are a few waterfalls nearby as well. Huntington Falls is tucked into Dixville Notch State Park and just a short walk from the road. Another good stop in the area is Beaver Brook Falls, about 15 minutes north of the notch – it’s right off the road and well worth the quick detour.
If you’re planning to explore this region, Colebrook is the best place to stay nearby. It’s a small town but has everything you need for a short visit. If you do so, make sure to stop by Mostly Muffins for breakfast – it’s heavenly!
13. Littleton
Littleton is one of those towns that feels like a perfect mix of small-town charm and practical stopover. It has a cute Main Street lined with shops and cafes, and it’s a nice place to slow down a bit during a New Hampshire fall road trip.
One of the highlights is the covered bridge right in town – it crosses the Ammonoosuc River and gives you a great view of the riverbanks lined with fall colors. You can also walk the riverfront trail just below the bridge, which is especially nice in early to mid-October.
There’s a decent mix of restaurants and local shops, and if you’re in the mood for something sweet, Chutters has one of the longest candy counters in the world. Overall, it’s a solid place to stop for lunch, stretch your legs, or even stay the night if you’re exploring the northern part of the White Mountains.
14. Sugar Hill
Sugar Hill is a tiny village just west of Franconia, and while it’s best known for its lupine blooms in early summer, it’s also a great spot to visit in the fall.
The open fields and mountain views make it one of the more peaceful places to take in New Hampshire’s fall foliage, especially if you’re trying to avoid the crowds in busier towns.
Even just driving around the backroads here is worth your time – the scenery is classic New England, with rolling hills, red barns, and bursts of color in every direction. The views of the White Mountains from Sunset Hill Road are especially beautiful when the leaves are peaking.
If you’re passing through, Polly’s Pancake Parlor is a popular stop, though be prepared for a wait on weekends!
15. Madame Sherri Forest
Tucked away in the southwestern corner of New Hampshire, Madame Sherri Forest is one of the most unique places to explore during the fall.
The forest is best known for the crumbling stone staircase that’s all that remains of a once-grand house built by Madame Antoinette Sherri, a former costume designer from New York with a colorful past.
The ruins have become a popular photo spot, especially when the surrounding trees are bursting with fall color.
There are a few trails in the area, including the Ann Stokes Loop, which is an easy to moderate hike that takes you through the woods and past a small pond. It’s a peaceful spot, and much quieter than anything you’ll find in the White Mountains.
If you’re looking to explore a different side of New Hampshire in the fall (somewhere a little off the usual foliage route), this is a great place to add to your itinerary.
16. Reflection Pond
Reflection Pond is a quiet, roadside stop just east of Gorham, and it totally lives up to its name in the fall.
On a still day, the surface of the pond mirrors the surrounding trees and mountains almost perfectly! It’s one of those places where you can pull over for five minutes and walk away with some of your favorite photos from the trip.
We stopped here on our way to Acadia National Park after finishing up our time in New Hampshire, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful moments of the day. It’s not a major destination, but it’s one of those low-effort, high-reward stops that’s well worth including on any fall road trip through northern New Hampshire.
