12 Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire in the Fall

New Hampshire is one of the best places in the US to experience fall at its finest. Between the winding mountain roads, charming small towns, and fiery foliage that lights up the landscape, it’s basically a dream for anyone chasing autumn vibes!

From the famous Kancamagus Highway to cozy villages like Jackson and Sugar Hill, New Hampshire in the fall has something for everyone.

You can spend your days hiking to epic viewpoints, wandering through covered bridges, or just road-tripping your way through endless shades of red, orange, and gold.

To help you plan your New England fall getaway, I’ve rounded up the best places to visit in New Hampshire in the fall. Whether you’re after jaw-dropping scenery or a little small-town charm, these spots deserve a spot on your New Hampshire fall bucket list!

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Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire in the Fall

1. Kancamagus Highway

If there’s one spot that screams “fall in New Hampshire,” it’s the Kancamagus Highway. This 34-mile scenic byway winds through the White Mountain National Forest and is packed with jaw-dropping foliage, mountain vistas, and plenty of pull-offs to stop and take it all in.

Along the way, you’ll find spots like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge, plus sweeping overlooks like the C.L. Graham Wangan Ground.

The drive itself only takes about an hour end to end, but you’ll want to give yourself at least half a day to stop, wander, and snap photos.

The Kancamagus (locals call it “the Kanc”) is especially stunning around the first two weeks of October when the colors are at their peak.

Start early in the day to avoid traffic – it’s one of New Hampshire’s most popular fall experiences for a reason! Try to schedule the drive for a weekday as weekends tend to be extremely busy.

2. Artists Bluff

This short but sweet hike gives you one of the most iconic views of New Hampshire in the fall!

Located in Franconia Notch State Park, Artists Bluff overlooks Echo Lake and the surrounding mountains that explode with color in October. It’s one of those spots that feels straight out of a postcard, and it’s incredibly popular for a reason.

The loop trail is just under 1.5 miles and is moderately steep in spots, but the effort pays off as soon as you reach the viewpoint. Try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and get softer light for photos.

If you’re putting together a New England fall road trip, this stop pairs perfectly with nearby attractions like Flume Gorge and Cannon Mountain. It’s a must for any fall foliage bucket list!

3. Flume Gorge

Flume Gorge is one of those spots that totally lives up to the hype, especially in the fall!

This 800-foot granite gorge is surrounded by bright foliage, and the wooden boardwalk lets you walk right through it alongside waterfalls, mossy walls, and rushing streams.

The loop is about 2 miles and pretty easy, but you’ll want to take your time as there’s something to see around every corner. It’s one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire in the fall if you’re after stunning scenery without a challenging hike!

In the fall, you’ll need to book a timed ticket in advance since walk-ins are usually turned away once the slots fill up. Tickets often sell out on weekends in early October, so it’s worth planning ahead.

4. Mount Washington

No New Hampshire fall trip is complete without a visit to Mount Washington!

At 6,288 feet, it’s the highest peak in the Northeast and offers incredible views of the White Mountains covered in fall colors. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Maine, Vermont, and even Canada.

There are a few ways to reach the summit. You can drive the Mount Washington Auto Road (open through mid-October, weather permitting), hop on the historic cog railway, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hike one of the trails like Tuckerman Ravine.

Either way, the panoramic views at the top make it one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire in the fall.

5. Jackson

Jackson is one of the prettiest small towns in New Hampshire, and it feels especially magical in the fall. This little village is known for its covered bridges, historic inns, and cozy mountain vibe.

The iconic Honeymoon Covered Bridge makes a perfect photo stop, and you’ll find plenty of charming cafes and shops to wander through.

It’s also a great base for exploring nearby foliage highlights like the Kancamagus Highway and Mount Washington.

If you’re visiting in October, check out the Pumpkin People festival! Businesses and homes around town create fun and quirky pumpkin displays that are worth a drive around.

6. Sugar Hill

Sugar Hill might be small, but it’s packed with fall charm. This little town sits on a hillside with sweeping views of the White Mountains, which turn into a sea of red, orange, and gold in October. It’s the perfect spot for a slow drive or a picnic with a view.

While you’re here, stop by Polly’s Pancake Parlor for a cozy breakfast or lunch – this place is famous for its pancakes and maple syrup.

You’ll also find farm stands selling fresh cider, apples, and other fall treats that make the whole experience feel straight out of a New England postcard.

7. Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee is a beautiful spot to soak up New Hampshire’s fall foliage, especially if you want a mix of mountain and lakeside views.

The shoreline is dotted with charming towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro, where you can stroll along the waterfront, grab a coffee, and enjoy the fall colors reflecting off the water.

For a unique perspective, take a scenic cruise on the historic M/S Mount Washington. It’s a relaxing way to see the foliage from the lake and take in views of the surrounding hills.

If you’re planning a New Hampshire fall road trip, this area makes a great stop between the mountains and the southern parts of the state.

8. Conway

Conway is a great spot to slow down and enjoy classic New England charm during your fall trip. This small town sits right at the edge of the White Mountains, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby foliage hotspots like the Kancamagus Highway and Mount Washington.

You can wander the quaint downtown area, grab a coffee at a local cafe, and browse the shops for handmade goods and fall treats.

The Conway Scenic Railroad is a must if you’re visiting in October! The vintage train ride gives you incredible views of the surrounding mountains and forests bursting with color.

If you’re planning a fall getaway, Conway is one of the best places to stay in New Hampshire thanks to its central location and cozy small-town feel.

9. Dixville Notch

Dixville Notch is one of the most dramatic places to experience fall in New Hampshire. This narrow mountain pass is surrounded by sheer cliffs and dense forests that explode with color in October.

It’s a little more remote than other spots, which means you’ll often have the views all to yourself!

One of the best things to do in New Hampshire in the fall is to hike up to Table Rock. This short but steep trail (just over a mile round trip) leads to a narrow rock ledge with a breathtaking view over the notch and Lake Gloriette far below.

From the top, you’ll also get a panoramic view of the historic Balsams Resort, which adds even more character to the landscape.

The Balsams has been closed for years and is undergoing renovations, but its grand architecture and lakeside setting still make it a photogenic stop.

Even if you’re not hiking, you can pull over at the scenic overlook on Route 26 to enjoy the colorful cliffs and get a glimpse of this unique area.

If you’re planning to explore Dixville Notch, the nearby town of Colebrook makes a great base. Check out Mohawk Cottages for a cozy stay surrounded by the fall colors.

10. Bretton Woods

Bretton Woods is a beautiful area in the White Mountains that’s perfect for soaking up fall foliage. It’s home to sweeping mountain views, hiking trails, and the historic Mount Washington Hotel, one of the most iconic resorts in New Hampshire.

Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth stopping by to admire the grand architecture against a backdrop of fiery autumn colors.

For a bit of adventure, take the Bretton Woods Skyway Gondola to the summit of Rosebrook Mountain. The ride up gives you panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, and there’s a mountaintop restaurant where you can grab a coffee or lunch with a view.

This area is also great for leaf-peeping drives and is an easy stop if you’re traveling between Mount Washington and Franconia Notch.

11. Littleton

Littleton is one of those charming small towns that’s perfect for a New Hampshire fall getaway.

Its lively Main Street is lined with cute shops, cafes, and local businesses, all set against a backdrop of colorful foliage in October. You can stroll along the covered footbridge over the Ammonoosuc River or grab a coffee and soak up the small-town vibe.

Don’t miss Chutters, home to the world’s longest candy counter! It’s a fun stop if you’re traveling with kids or just want a sweet treat.

Littleton also makes a great base for exploring nearby spots like Franconia Notch and Bretton Woods, giving you easy access to some of the best fall foliage in New Hampshire.

12. Madame Sherri Forest

If you’re looking for something a little different, Madame Sherri Forest is one of the quirkiest places to visit in New Hampshire in the fall.

This peaceful forest near Chesterfield is home to the ruins of Madame Sherri’s “castle,” a once-grand stone house built in the 1920s.

Today, all that remains is a dramatic stone staircase that feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale, especially when surrounded by colorful fall leaves.

The forest itself is beautiful for a short walk or a longer hike along the Ann Stokes Loop Trail, which takes you past the ruins and through quiet woodlands.

It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and snap a few photos if you’re exploring southern New Hampshire during foliage season.