Visiting the White Mountains in New Hampshire offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking the iconic trails of Franconia Notch, driving the scenic Kancamagus Highway, or taking in the panoramic views from the summit of Mount Washington, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the region’s rugged beauty. From waterfalls and wildlife to quaint New England towns, the White Mountains promise an unforgettable escape into nature. In this travel guide, you will find the best things to see and do in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
When to Go
The best time to visit New Hampshire depends on your interests and what you want to experience. If you want to witness the famous fall foliage, the best time to visit is between late September and early November. During this time, the foliage bursts into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, creating some of the most stunning autumn landscapes in the country. Winter transforms the mountains into a wonderland for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cozying up in charming lodges.
Spring in New Hampshire is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, as the weather starts to warm up. The landscapes come to life as spring flowers begin to bloom, making it a lovely time for nature enthusiasts. Summer is also a popular time to visit the White Mountains. The mountains come alive with outdoor adventures, from hiking the Franconia Ridge Loop to swimming in Echo Lake.
Where to Stay
The best area to stay for exploring the White Mountains depends on your preferred activities and travel style. Here are some top areas to consider:
- North Conway – This area is best for first-time visitors and families. It has shopping and dining options and is a central location for exploring the region. It is close to Mount Washington and the Kancamagus Highway. Great hotel options in the area include The White Mountain Hotel and Resort and North Conway Grand Hotel.
- Lincoln & Woodstock – This area is great for hiking and outdoor adventures as it is near Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge, and Loon Mountain. Good hotel options in the area include Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln East and RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain.
- Jackson – This charming New England village features covered bridges, waterfalls, and cozy inns. It is close to Pinkham Notch, Mount Washington Auto Road, and has great hiking trails. Stay at The Wentworth Inn or Christmas Farm Inn & Spa.
- Bretton Woods – This village is home to the Bretton Woods Ski Resort, New Hampshire’s largest ski area. In addition to skiing, this area is ideal for exploring Mount Washington, taking scenic drives, and engaging in outdoor activities. It is also home to the stunning Omni Mount Washington Resort.
- Franconia & Sugar Hill – This area is less crowded, with beautiful mountain scenery and rustic inns. It is near Franconia Notch, Cannon Mountain, and incredible fall foliage views. Stay at the Franconia Inn or Sugar Hill Inn.
What to See and Do
Mount Washington
The tallest peak in the northeastern United States, Mount Washington is renowned for its extreme weather conditions, stunning panoramic views, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Hiking to the summit can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The mountain offers a range of hiking trails, with the Tuckerman Ravine Trail being one of the most popular routes to the summit.
An easier way to reach the summit is by driving the scenic Mount Washington Auto Road. The narrow and curvy road climbs 4,600 feet in about seven miles. Driving on the auto road costs $36 per adult and $15 per child. Each vehicle will receive a bumper sticker that reads, “This Car Climbed Mount Washington.” Be sure to download this app that features a fascinating narrated tour to listen to while driving to the summit. Once at the summit, check out Extreme Mount Washington, an interactive museum dedicated to weather and science.
Another way to reach the summit of Mount Washington is by taking the Mount Washington Cog Railway. This historic railway has been taking passengers to the summit since the 19th century. A small museum at the base station has interesting exhibits about the cog rail. The full trip takes three hours including an hour at the summit.
Crawford Notch State Park
Crawford Notch State Park is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and the stunning Crawford Notch, a mountain pass through the White Mountains. The scenic drive through Crawford Notch provides breathtaking views of the mountains and waterfalls, where you can spot wildlife such as moose, deer, and various bird species. There are plenty of picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal in a natural setting. Crawford Notch is especially popular in the fall when the foliage peaks, and the White Mountains are ablaze with vibrant autumn colors. This is an ideal time for leaf-peeping and photography.
The Visitor Center provides information about the park’s trails, wildlife, and history. It’s a great place to start your visit and get trail maps and advice. The park offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. Popular hikes include the Arethusa Falls Trail, Mount Willard Trail, Mount Jackson Trail, and the Frankenstein Cliff Trail. In the winter, the park is known for its cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, offering serene and snowy landscapes. You can find more information about Crawford Notch State Park here.
Franconia Notch State Park
Franconia Notch State Park is known for its dramatic and picturesque landscapes, including rugged mountain terrain, dense forests, and the remarkable Franconia Notch, a mountain pass carved by glaciers. The park is flanked by towering peaks, including Cannon Mountain and the Franconia Range. It is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities. The Visitor Center provides information about the park’s trails, attractions, and wildlife. It’s a great place to start your visit and get trail maps and advice. Here are some of the key attractions at Franconia Notch State Park.
Flume Gorge
Flume Gorge is one of the most stunning natural features in Franconia Notch State Park. It’s an 800-foot-long natural chasm with towering granite walls that rise to 90 feet high and are spaced only 12 to 20 feet apart. A scenic boardwalk trail guides visitors through the gorge, passing waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and lush forest. The Flume Gorge Trail is a two-mile loop trail with about 462 feet of elevation gain. It is rated as a moderately difficult trail. The trail is fully accessible from May to October. In the winter months, the trail is only partially accessible. Due to its popularity, reservations are required to access the Flume Gorge Trail. In addition to the gorge, highlights along the trail include the Flume Covered Bridge (one of the oldest in New Hampshire), Sentinel Pine Bridge and Pool, Avalanche Falls, and Wolf Den.
Cannon Mountain
This 4,080-foot peak in Franconia Notch State Park is known for its stunning views, outdoor activities, and historical significance. It is famous for being home to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, the first passenger aerial tramway in North America, built-in 1938. The tramway takes visitors to the summit in under 10 minutes, where visitors can take in the breathtaking views, ski/snowboard, hike, and enjoy a meal.
Old Man of the Mountain Memorial
Cannon Mountain was once home to New Hampshire’s iconic “Old Man of the Mountain”, a rock formation resembling a human profile that collapsed in 2003. Today, visitors can visit the memorial with viewing stations to recreate the historic sight.
Echo Lake
This picturesque mountain lake offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the beach area. The water is crystal clear, adding to its scenic charm.
The Basin
The Basin is a large granite pothole created by a glacier over 15,000 years ago. The pothole is 30 feet in diameter and 15 feet deep and has been known for generations as “The Old Man’s Foot.” It is a short walk from the parking area.
Hiking
The park features some of New Hampshire’s best hiking trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail and the challenging Franconia Ridge Loop. Other popular trails include Lonesome Lake Trail, Artist Bluff Trail, and Mount Pemigewasset Trail.
Biking
This 20-mile round-trip paved trail parallels the Franconia Notch Parkway and brings riders within easy reach of park attractions.
Kancamagus Highway
Often referred to simply as the “Kanc,” Kancamagus Highway is a scenic byway that offers spectacular views of the White Mountains, pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. The highway stretches for approximately 34.5 miles, connecting the towns of Conway and Lincoln. The highway is especially famous for its vibrant fall foliage, making it a prime destination for leaf-peepers in autumn. There are numerous pull-off areas for travelers to stop and take in the views and access various hiking trails, including Sabbaday Falls, Hancock Trail, U.N.H. Trail, and Champney Falls Trail. Several swimming areas, such as Lower Falls and the Covered Bridge, are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. There are also picnic spots where visitors can enjoy meals in a beautiful natural setting.
Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves
Visiting the Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves is an unforgettable adventure through a stunning natural landscape formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. As you explore the winding wooden boardwalks, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock formations, and moss-covered cliffs. The real thrill comes from squeezing through the maze of boulder caves with names like “Lemon Squeezer” and “Bear Crawl,” offering an exciting challenge for visitors of all ages. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s rich geological history and admire breathtaking views of the surrounding White Mountains. Other highlights include the treehouse, suspension bridge, and a giant bird’s nest that visitors can climb into. Advance online reservations are highly recommended, as in-person ticket sales are not guaranteed.
Conway Scenic Railroad
Departing from the charming 1890s North Conway station, the railroad features vintage locomotives and beautifully restored passenger cars, providing a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Whether you take the Valley Train for a leisurely ride through picturesque countryside or embark on the Mountaineer to witness the dramatic vistas of Crawford Notch, every trip is filled with history and stunning scenery. The experience is especially magical in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Perfect for families, history buffs, and train enthusiasts alike, the Conway Scenic Railroad is a must-do attraction for anyone exploring New England.
Diana’s Baths
Located near North Conway in the White Mountain National Forest, this series of cascading waterfalls and pools offer a refreshing escape, especially in the summer months. The short, easy hike to the baths is about 0.6 miles on a well-maintained trail, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. Once there, visitors can explore the smooth rock formations, wade in the crystal-clear water, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Fall brings stunning foliage, while winter transforms the area into a frozen wonderland, making Diana’s Baths a year-round destination worth exploring.
Cathedral Ledge State Park
The main attraction at this state park is Cathedral Ledge, a 700-foot granite cliff that provides a panoramic overlook of the Saco River Valley, White Mountain National Forest, and Echo Lake below. Visitors can either drive up the paved road to the summit or hike to the summit. The paved road is one mile long and is generally open from late April or early May through early November. If you are hiking to the summit, start at either Echo Lake or Cathedral Ledge Road. The park is a favorite among rock climbers, with challenging routes drawing adventurers from all over. Whether you’re there for a scenic picnic, a rewarding hike, or to watch climbers scale the sheer cliffs, Cathedral Ledge offers a memorable glimpse into New Hampshire’s rugged beauty, especially during peak fall foliage.
Winter Activities
Winter in the White Mountains is magical, with tons of activities for adventure seekers and those who just want to enjoy a cozy snowy escape. Here are some of the best winter activities:
Ice Castles
Located in North Woodstock, this breathtaking attraction features massive ice formations, tunnels, archways, and slides, all illuminated by colorful LED lights that create a mesmerizing glow at night. Visitors can walk through frozen corridors, marvel at intricate icicle formations, and even enjoy a sleigh ride for an extra touch of winter wonder. The Ice Castles are built anew each year, making every visit a unique spectacle. It is generally open from January through late February or early March. For tickets and opening dates, check the Ice Castles website.
Skiing & Snowboarding
The White Mountains have some of the best skiing in the northeast, with resorts for all skill levels. Bretton Woods is the largest ski resort in New Hampshire and is great for all skill levels. It also boasts amazing views of Mount Washington. Loon Mountain is a favorite for families with varied terrain and a vibrant base area. The previously mentioned Cannon Mountain is known for challenging trails and stunning views of Franconia Notch. Wildcat Mountain offers breathtaking views of Mount Washington and some of the best powder skiing. Finally, Attitash Mountain Resort has a good mix of trails and terrain parks.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
Great Glen Trails is a top spot for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, guided tours, and snow tubing. The company rents out snowshoes and skis, making it easier for those who are traveling or without equipment. Another top spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is Jackson XC. They have an extensive trail network and also offer gear rentals.