13 Best Places to See New Hampshire Fall Foliage in 2025
When New Hampshire fall foliage arrives, the landscape transforms into a rich tapestry of color, from golden mountaintops to fiery red forests that line the winding roads. Whether you’re chasing reflections on a quiet lake, exploring dramatic mountain passes, or taking in sweeping views from rugged overlooks, the Granite State offers some of the most unforgettable foliage in all of New England.
This guide highlights the best places to experience fall in New Hampshire, complete with nearby towns to base your stay and ideas for what to see and do at each destination. On top of that below you’ll also get a complete 7 day itinerary if you wish to explore all 13 places in a single road trip!
1) Cannon Mountain:
Cannon Mountain towers over Franconia Notch and is one of New Hampshire’s most recognizable peaks. Known for its dramatic cliffs and alpine views, it’s also home to the historic aerial tramway that carries visitors to the summit. In the fall, the mountain transforms into a fiery palette of reds and golds, making it a favorite for foliage seekers and photographers. Its high vantage points provide some of the best panoramic views in the White Mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October for vibrant color on the mountain slopes and valley below.
Things to Do:
- Stop by the New England Ski Museum
- Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
- Visit the summit observation deck
- Hike the Rim Trail or nearby Lonesome Lake Trail
2) Flume Gorge:
Flume Gorge is a dramatic natural chasm at the base of Mount Liberty, with 90-foot granite walls, cascading waterfalls, and a wooden boardwalk that winds through the heart of the gorge. It’s one of the most iconic natural attractions in New Hampshire, especially during the fall when the surrounding hardwoods erupt in color. The gorge feels like a hidden world carved out of the mountainside, full of rushing water and towering stone walls.
Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-October when foliage is at its brightest and trails are still accessible.
Things to Do:
- Walk the 2-mile loop through the gorge
- See Avalanche Falls and Sentinel Pine Bridge
- Take fall photos from the covered bridge
- Explore visitor exhibits and grab a map from the info center
3) Lost River Gorge:
Tucked into Kinsman Notch, Lost River Gorge is a quiet, forested attraction featuring boardwalks, waterfalls, and a maze of glacially carved caves. The trail through the gorge allows visitors to explore narrow boulder passages and observation points with brilliant views of surrounding foliage. It’s a family-friendly destination with an adventurous feel, especially in autumn when the surrounding forest glows with peak color.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October for crisp air, vivid leaves, and fewer crowds.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy peaceful riverside picnic areas
- Navigate the wooden boardwalk through the gorge
- Crawl through rock caves and crevices
- Visit the Giant Bird’s Nest overlook
4) Beaver Pond:
Located off Route 112 near Kinsman Notch, Beaver Pond is a serene, still lake framed by forested hillsides. In autumn, the pond becomes a mirror for fall foliage, offering some of the most tranquil reflections in the White Mountains. It’s a peaceful stop ideal for photographers, families, and anyone looking to slow down and soak in the scenery.
Best Time to Visit: Early October for calm water and peak mirrored foliage.
Things to Do:
- Take fall foliage photos from the shoreline
- Enjoy a picnic at the small parking area
- Spot wildlife like loons or even moose at dawn
- Explore nearby trails or relax with a hot drink by the water
5) Mount Washington:
Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast and known for its extreme weather, panoramic views, and legendary auto road. In fall, its slopes and surrounding valleys become an explosion of color. Adventurous travelers can hike, drive, or ride the cog railway to the summit for a once-in-a-lifetime foliage view stretching into Maine, Vermont, and even Canada on clear days.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October, earlier at higher elevations.
Things to Do:
- Drive the Mount Washington Auto Road
- Take the historic Cog Railway to the top
- Hike via the Tuckerman Ravine or Ammonoosuc trails
- Visit the Sherman Adams Summit Building and museum
6) Artist Bluff Overlook:
Artist Bluff is a short, scenic hike with one of the most iconic overlooks in New Hampshire. It rises above Echo Lake and provides an expansive view of the surrounding mountains and Franconia Notch. This spot becomes especially stunning in the fall, when the lake is surrounded by dense, colorful forest. It’s a must for foliage photographers and casual hikers alike (but do note that it is one of the most crowded sights in the entire state during this season).
Best Time to Visit: Early October, especially at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
Things to Do:
- Hike the 1.5-mile Artist Bluff loop
- Capture photos of Echo Lake and Cannon Mountain
- Visit Echo Lake Beach below for a peaceful walk
- Combine with a drive through Franconia Notch
7) Franconcia Notch Parkway:
This scenic stretch of I-93 runs directly through the heart of the White Mountains, connecting many of the state’s most famous natural attractions. Known as Franconia Notch Parkway, the route is lined with towering cliffs, lakes, and vibrant hardwood forests. It’s one of the most beautiful drives in New England, especially in the fall when every curve reveals a new burst of color.
Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-October for full foliage and comfortable driving conditions.
Things to Do:
- Combine with short hikes and picnic stops
- Take a scenic drive with stops at Echo Lake, Flume Gorge, and the Basin
- Photograph foliage from roadside pullouts
- Look for moose, eagles, and other wildlife
8) Conway Scenic Railroad:
Based in North Conway, the famous Conway Scenic Railroad offers vintage train rides through the Saco River Valley and into Crawford or Notchland. Riding the Conway Scenic Railroad during foliage season is a relaxing way to soak in the colors without hiking or driving. The train’s historic cars, gentle pace, and dramatic views make it perfect for families or anyone wanting a more laid-back experience. On this ride you’ll travel through the stunning Crawford Notch State Park and White Mountain National Forest region of New Hampshire.
Best Time to Visit: First two weeks of October, when the valleys and notches are at peak color.
Things to Do:
- Take the Mountaineer route into Crawford Notch
- Enjoy lunch in the dining car
- Explore the train yard and historic station
- Stroll through North Conway’s shops and cafés
9) Wildcat Mountain:
Wildcat Mountain is a popular ski resort turned foliage hotspot located across from Mount Washington in Pinkham Notch. It features a gondola ride to the summit with some of the best views of the Presidential Range. In autumn, the elevation and open ridgelines offer an unbeatable perspective of the colorful forests and distant peaks.
Best Time to Visit: Early October when the surrounding mountains reach their peak.
Things to Do:
- Ride the gondola to the summit overlook
- Hike the Wildcat Ridge Trail or nearby waterfall paths
- Visit Glen Ellis Falls a short drive away
- Enjoy fall-themed events or a drink at the base lodge
10) Mount Willard Trail:
Mount Willard is a moderate hike with one of the most rewarding views in the White Mountains. The trail leads through quiet woods and opens to a wide cliff overlook at the summit, revealing a full view down Crawford Notch. It’s a favorite among hikers of all skill levels and offers an iconic vantage point during the fall season.
Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-October for peak color filling the entire notch.
Things to Do:
- Hike the 3.2-mile round-trip Mount Willard Trail
- Spot trains winding through the valley below
- Visit the nearby AMC Highland Center
- Explore short nearby trails or waterfalls
11) Jericho Mountain State Park:
Located in the northern town of Berlin, Jericho Mountain State Park is a large, rugged area known for its ATV trails, quiet lake, and remote backcountry vibe. In fall, the forested hillsides come alive with color, and the park offers a more peaceful, uncrowded alternative to the southern White Mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October, northern foliage peaks earlier.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy solitude and nature photography in the backcountry
- Ride or hike the extensive trail network
- Kayak or paddle on Jericho Lake
- Camp overnight at the park’s campground
12) Stark Covered Bridge:
The Stark Covered Bridge is a classic New England scene, an old wooden bridge crossing the Ammonoosuc River with mountains rising behind it. In fall, this postcard-perfect setting becomes even more stunning as the village of Stark is surrounded by peak foliage. It’s quiet, remote, and feels like stepping into the past.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October for full fall color around the bridge.
Things to Do:
- Explore the scenic backroads of Coös County
- Walk across the covered bridge
- Photograph the bridge with mountains in the background
- Visit the adjacent Stark Union Church
13) Sugarloaf Mountain:
Sugarloaf Mountain consists of two peaks, North and Middle Sugarloaf, accessible by a moderate hike that offers exceptional views over the Pemigewasset Wilderness. The trail is less crowded than others in the region but still delivers some of the best foliage vistas in New Hampshire, making it a true hidden gem for fall adventurers.
Best Time to Visit: Early October, with excellent visibility and cooler hiking conditions.
Things to Do:
- Hike to North Sugarloaf for expansive views
- Continue to Middle Sugarloaf for a different perspective
- Enjoy forest solitude and quiet rest spots along the trail
- Stay nearby in Twin Mountain for easy trail access
Where to Stay:
- Cannon Mountain – Lincoln, NH (check hotels)
- Flume Gorge – Lincoln, NH (check hotels)
- Lost River Gorge – North Woodstock, NH (check hotels)
- Beaver Pond (near Lost River Gorge) – North Woodstock, NH (check hotels)
- Mount Washington – Check hotels
- Artist Bluff Overlook – Franconia, NH (check hotels)
- Franconia Notch Parkway – Franconia, NH (check hotels)
- Conway Scenic Railroad – North Conway, NH (check hotels)
- Wildcat Mountain – Gorham, NH (check hotels)
- Mount Willard Trail – Bretton Woods, NH (check hotels)
- Jericho Mountain State Park – Berlin, NH (check hotels)
- Stark Covered Bridge – Stark, NH (check hotels)
- Sugarloaf Mountain (Twin Mountain area) – Carroll, NH (check hotels)
New Hampshire Fall Foliage Road Trip Itinerary (5–7 Days):
Want to mix up the above locations in a single road trip for the ultimate fall road trip in New Hampshire? Here’s a sample itinerary you can try out:
Day 1: Franconia Notch State Park
- Visit Flume Gorge and hike the 2-mile loop
- Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
- Hike the short but scenic Artist Bluff Trail
- Drive the Franconia Notch Parkway for pull-off foliage views
- Overnight in Lincoln or Franconia
Day 2: Lost River Gorge & Beaver Pond
- Explore the caves and boardwalks at Lost River Gorge
- Relax or take photos at Beaver Pond, known for mirrored foliage
- Optional short hike on nearby Kinsman Ridge Trail
- Overnight in North Woodstock or Lincoln
Day 3: Mount Washington & Pinkham Notch
- Drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or ride the Cog Railway
- Explore summit views and visit the observatory museum
- Hike a section of Tuckerman Ravine Trail if time allows
- Overnight in Gorham or Jackson
Day 4: Wildcat Mountain & Mount Willard
- Ride the Wildcat Mountain gondola for views of Mount Washington
- Visit Glen Ellis Falls nearby
- Afternoon hike up Mount Willard for a sweeping view of Crawford Notch
- Overnight in Bretton Woods or Twin Mountain
Day 5: Conway Scenic Railroad & North Conway
- Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad through foliage-lined valleys
- Explore shops, cafés, and covered bridges in North Conway
- Optional: short hike to Cathedral Ledge or Echo Lake
- Overnight in North Conway
Day 6: Stark Covered Bridge & Jericho Mountain State Park
- Visit the historic Stark Covered Bridge for fall photos
- Continue to Jericho Mountain State Park for light hiking or lake views
- Explore backroads of Coös County for peaceful foliage
- Overnight in Berlin or Lancaster
Day 7: Sugarloaf Mountain Hike & Return
- Hike to North or Middle Sugarloaf for panoramic views
- Enjoy a peaceful forest trail and fewer crowds
- Wrap up with a scenic drive along Route 302 or Route 3
- Return south or extend your trip toward Vermont or Maine
Itinerary Overview
Lincoln, North Woodstock, Gorham, Bretton Woods, North Conway, Stark, Sugarloaf/Twin Mountain, loop back south
This route gives you a balance of New Hampshire’s most iconic locations (Mount Washington, Franconia Notch) and off-the-beaten-path gems (Stark Bridge, Sugarloaf, Jericho). It’s perfect for photographers, road trippers, and foliage seekers alike.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan Around Peak Foliage: Visit between late September and mid-October.
- Book Early: Fall is busy in New Hampshire. Reserve lodging weeks in advance.
- Start Early in the Day: Arrive at trails and scenic spots before 9 AM.
- Dress in Layers: Weather can change fast, especially in the mountains. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and sturdy footwear.
- Drive Scenic Routes Not a hiker? Roads like the Franconia Notch Parkway and Kancamagus Highway offer incredible foliage views.
- Explore Hidden Gems: Popular spots are worth visiting, but lesser-known places like Stark Bridge and Sugarloaf Mountain offer more solitude.
- Be Respectful: Stay on trails, pack out trash, and support local businesses in the small towns you visit.
- Capture the Moment: Sunrise and sunset offer the best light. Bring a camera or smartphone, and don’t forget to simply enjoy the view.
- Pack Essentials: Water, snacks, layers, a trail map/GPS, and good hiking shoes will keep you safe and comfortable.
- Check Foliage Reports: Use online trackers to stay updated on peak color zones and adjust your route accordingly.
More New Hamphire fall foliage photos:
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Final Thoughts
New Hampshire’s fall season is short but spectacular, and every spot in this guide delivers a unique way to experience it. Whether you find yourself hiking the rocky ledges of Franconia Notch, riding a scenic tram at Cannon Mountain, or strolling through the quiet forests of Pisgah, you’ll quickly see why so many travelers return here each year to soak up the color.
For the best experience, plan your trip between late September and mid-October, and aim to stay in one of the nearby towns listed above for quick access to the most scenic spots. Book early, pack for cool weather, and don’t forget your camera—because New Hampshire in the fall is pure magic.
