5 Scenic Drives in New Hampshire to See Fall Colors

Figuring out which scenic drives in New Hampshire to do in the fall can feel overwhelming, especially with so many gorgeous routes to choose from. The state is packed with winding mountain roads, covered bridges, and quiet forest byways that seem made for a leaf-peeping road trip.

I’ve rounded up five of the best scenic drives in New Hampshire to see fall colors. From iconic routes in the White Mountains to a hidden gem in the Great North Woods, these drives offer incredible foliage views and plenty of spots to stop along the way.

Whether you’re planning a full New Hampshire road trip or just want to spend a few hours exploring, this guide will help you pick the perfect route for your New Hampshire fall adventure.

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Scenic Fall Drives in New Hampshire You Can’t Miss

1. Kancamagus Highway (Route 112)

The Kancamagus Highway is easily one of the most scenic drives in New Hampshire, especially in the fall.

Stretching for 34 miles between Lincoln and Conway, this route takes you right through the heart of the White Mountains with sweeping views, winding roads, and vibrant foliage on all sides.

There are plenty of pull-offs along the way where you can stop and take in the scenery. Popular spots include Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, and the Albany Covered Bridge. You’ll also find overlooks like Pemigewasset and Hancock that give you wide open views of the surrounding peaks.

It’s best to allow at least 2–3 hours for the drive so you have time to explore and stop for photos.

Weekdays are usually less crowded, but if you’re visiting on a weekend during peak foliage (late September to mid-October), expect heavier traffic and limited parking at popular stops.

If you’re staying nearby, Lincoln is a great base with lots of accommodation options. RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain is perfect if you want something upscale with mountain views, while Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln East offers a reliable mid-range stay.

2. Franconia Notch Parkway (I-93)

Franconia Notch Parkway is a short but stunning drive that takes you right through the heart of Franconia Notch State Park.

This stretch of I-93 is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and offers some of the best fall foliage views in New Hampshire.

Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to pull over and explore. The Flume Gorge is a must-see with its wooden boardwalks and cascading waterfalls, while Echo Lake offers a peaceful setting with vibrant reflections on calm days.

For a quick hike, Artists Bluff gives you a postcard-worthy view of the notch and surrounding mountains.

This area is also packed with some of the best things to do in the White Mountains, so it’s worth allowing extra time if you want to explore beyond the drive.

This route is only about 8 miles long, but you’ll want to plan extra time for stops and short walks. It’s especially popular during peak foliage, so visiting early in the day can help you avoid the busiest crowds.

Since Franconia Notch is close to the Kancamagus Highway, Lincoln makes a perfect base for this area too.

3. Crawford Notch (Route 302)

Route 302 through Crawford Notch is one of the most scenic drives in New Hampshire, combining dramatic mountain scenery with some of the most charming small towns in New Hampshire along the way.

The 25-mile route winds past sheer cliffs, dense forests, and plenty of roadside waterfalls, making it a perfect choice for a fall foliage day trip.

Two of the best stops are Silver Cascade and Flume Cascade, which you can see right from the road. The Willey House historic site is another great place to stretch your legs, and the short trail to Elephant Head offers a beautiful view over the notch.

As you continue, you’ll pass through towns like Bartlett, Bretton Woods, and Twin Mountain, each worth a quick stop for coffee or photos.

It’s best to plan at least a couple of hours for this drive so you have time to enjoy the overlooks and explore a few of the small towns along the way.

Peak foliage season (late September to mid-October) can bring more traffic, but it’s generally quieter than the Kancamagus Highway.

For a convenient base, Conway is ideal. The White Mountain Hotel & Resort offers full amenities, including an indoor pool, and is a solid mid-to-upscale pick. The Comfort Inn & Suites North Conway is a reliable mid-range option with breakfast included and easy highway access.

4. Dixville Notch (Route 26)

If you’re looking for a quieter fall drive, Route 26 through Dixville Notch is one of the best fall foliage drives in New Hampshire.

This short but dramatic stretch cuts through the Great North Woods and offers some of the most underrated foliage views in New Hampshire.

The notch itself is known for its steep rock walls and dense forests that turn brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall.

There’s a scenic pull-off near The Balsams resort that gives you a great view of the notch, and nearby hikes like Table Rock offer even more impressive perspectives if you’re up for a short climb.

This route is about 10 miles through the notch, but you can continue east or west along Route 26 for a longer drive through peaceful backroads and small towns.

Since this area is far less crowded than the White Mountains, it’s ideal if you want to enjoy fall colors without the traffic.

There aren’t many hotels in the area, and lodging options are limited. A standout choice is the Mohawk Cottages in Colebrook, offering cozy cabins and a more private stay close by.

5. Mount Washington Auto Road

The Mount Washington Auto Road is one of the most unique scenic drives in New Hampshire, giving you a chance to climb to the highest peak in the Northeast.

This 7.6-mile road is steep and winding, but the views from the top are worth every moment! On a clear day, you can see for miles across New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and even into Canada.

You can either drive yourself or take a guided tour if you’re not comfortable tackling the road’s sharp turns and narrow sections.

At the summit, you’ll find a visitor center, weather observatory, and plenty of photo opportunities. On your way up or down, take your time at the pull-offs to enjoy the foliage from different angles.

If you’re planning a full day of exploring, it’s easy to pair this drive with other nearby routes or attractions since the Auto Road is close to Pinkham Notch and several popular hikes.

This area is packed with some of the best things to do in New Hampshire in the fall, so allow extra time if you want to explore beyond the drive itself.

For a base nearby, Gorham is the most convenient town. Town & Country Inn and Resort is a solid mid-range pick with great views, and The Glen House offers a more upscale option right at the base of the Auto Road.