Top Spots for Fall Colors in New Hampshire

Oct 21, 2017

Last updated on December 9th, 2024 at 02:52 pm

Wondering where to see fall colors in New Hampshire? You’ve landed at the right place. It is finally that time of the year when nature is at its colorful best and there is no better place than the Northeast USA in Autumn.  

In this post, we will cover all the top places you must visit for fall foliage in the state of New Hampshire including important tips for photography locations. 

If you are looking for places beyond New Hampshire, check out this fall in New England guide. You might also want to consider taking a road trip to Vermont for more awesome fall colors. For other fall inspiration on the East Coast, read our fall road trip guide to Blue Ridge Parkway and West Virginia.

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” – Albert Camus 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

This image shows a scenic mountain landscape in peak autumn, with vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow foliage blanketing the surrounding hills. A calm lake sits in the valley, reflecting the sky, while a winding highway curves through the trees, creating a picturesque contrast between nature and infrastructure. The bright blue sky with wispy clouds adds to the overall serene and captivating view.

It is very difficult for me to see the world in B&W, although that’s an art I am trying hard to learn as a photographer. So how can I ignore fall colors? Every year Gaurav & I travel to someplace new chasing fall foliage.

Related: A Fall Getaway in West Virginia You Cannot Miss

Best Time to Visit New Hampshire for Fall Colors

Generally speaking, mid to end of October is the best time to see fall colors in New England. However, since it’s weather dependent, we suggest keeping an eye on the New Hampshire’s fall foliage tracker website starting early September to get a better idea.

Need to rent a car for your New Hampshire road trip? Find one on RentalCars.com – it’s our go-to site.

Places to Visit in New Hampshire in Autumn

We spent 3 days (Friday to Sunday) in New Hampshire and most of our time spent was in the White Mountain National Forest. 

White Mountain National Forest

White Mountain National Forest is probably one of the most visited locations in New Hampshire and rightly so. Being a large area to cover, below are the top places you must visit on your New Hampshire trip. 

1. The Mt. Washington Cog Railway

Cog railway is probably the easiest and the most scenic way to get on top of Mt. Washington. The other way would be a difficult 8-10 hours roundtrip hike and you better be trained to do it. Combine the best of fall scenery with a lovely cog rail ride? Yes, please! We were instantly transported to our childhood as we ascended Northeast USA’s highest peak in the steepest railroad in North America.

The entire Cog rail up and down the mountain takes around 3 hours and the tickets cost about $75 per person round trip. We highly recommend booking your Cog Railway tickets in advance given how popular this ride is in Autumn.

Photography Tip: There are unique photography opportunities at the bottom and top of Mt. Washington as you can see below. Which means, give yourself extra time in addition to your 3-hour ride!

This image captures the iconic Mount Washington Cog Railway train as it ascends over rocky terrain toward the summit under a vivid blue sky. The train's vibrant green and teal colors stand out against the rugged mountain landscape, with distant clouds below hinting at the high elevation. The scene embodies a unique blend of engineering and natural beauty in a high-altitude setting.
Mt. Washington Cog Railway transporting you above the clouds.
This image showcases the Mount Washington Cog Railway track leading up a hillside, surrounded by trees displaying autumn hues of orange, yellow, and green. The clouds hang low over the mountains, creating a dramatic and moody backdrop, while the vintage locomotive with a bold number "1" on its side sits in the foreground, ready for its ascent. The scene captures the essence of fall in a mountainous region.
Cog Railways ascending Mt. Washington Climb.

Self-proclaimed as the worst weather in the world, Mt. Washington summit at the height of 6,288 feet takes you to another world above the clouds. TIP: Take warmer clothes for the summit as you are likely to find frost or even snow up there in contrast to the foothill. Besides the 360 degree views, there is a historic Tip Top house, Summit Museum, and a cozy little gift shop at the summit.

This image captures the view from the summit of Mount Washington, with a parking area filled with cars and rugged, rocky terrain in the foreground. The landscape extends into a vast mountain range below, partially covered by a blanket of low-lying clouds, under a bright, clear blue sky. The scene highlights the dramatic elevation and expansive views from this iconic peak.
This image shows the entrance sign for Mount Washington State Park, situated on a rocky summit under a clear blue sky. The sign stands against a backdrop of low-lying clouds that create the sensation of being above the clouds, emphasizing the elevation and unique atmosphere of this high-altitude park. A building on the left hints at visitor facilities available at the peak.

2. Kancamagus Highway

Pronounced “Kank-ah-mah-gus”, Kancamagus Highway is one of the most scenic highways in New England during Autumn. It is officially called New Hampshire Route 112 and is roughly about 34 miles long east-west state. Kancamagus is a part of the American Scenic Byway, providing splendid views as it cuts through White Mountain National Forest.

Photography Tip: Driving through Kancamagus highway will be the highlight of your trip. Be prepared to drive multiple times in different hours of the day to get the right light for your shot. 

This image features a small wooden bridge crossing over a stream, nestled within a forest filled with autumn foliage. Bright yellow and green leaves create a warm, vibrant canopy above, while large rocks frame the creek below. The scene captures the tranquility and beauty of fall in a wooded area.
This image captures a cascading waterfall tumbling over rugged rocks, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage in shades of orange, yellow, and green. The bright blue sky above contrasts with the warm fall colors, adding to the scenic beauty of the landscape. The waterfall creates a dynamic focal point within the serene, natural setting.

3. Franconia Notch State Park

Franconia Notch State Park is a large state park and we chose to visit the below three points of attractions primarily due to their deep historical, geological, and botanical significance. In order to see the Franconia State Mountain pass in White Mountain National Forest, jump on I-93.

I-93 passes through Flume Gorge in the south to Echo Lake in the north and hit Cannon Mountains in between. Here is the brochure of these points of attractions in Franconia Notch State Park.

This image features a dense forest of tall, slender trees with autumn leaves in warm shades of yellow, orange, and red against a clear blue sky. The vivid fall colors create a striking contrast, emphasizing the seasonal beauty of the woodland landscape. The simplicity of the scene highlights the natural elegance of fall foliage.
Golden fall in Franconia Notch State Park.

Echo Lake, Franconia

Echo Lake Park has a big parking lot that is accessible to the lake trail and a beach which is usually closed during the fall season. But a better view of the lake can be found from the top of the mountain across the street. Here is how to find the hidden spot with postcard views of Echo Lake.

Photography Tip: There is a short but steep uphill hike across the street called Artist Bluff. At the summit of Artist Bluff is an aerial outlook of the lake surrounded by panoramic views of Cannon Mountain, Franconia Notch, and the Millennium Trails. Look out for this hike called ‘Bald Mountain/Artist Bluff’ across the parking lot of Echo Lake, you will thank us later.

This image shows two people sitting on a rocky ledge overlooking a serene lake nestled within a valley surrounded by mountains covered in autumn foliage. The bright reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees contrast with the deep blue of the lake and the winding roads below. The scene evokes a peaceful moment of nature appreciation with sweeping panoramic views of the fall landscape.
Echo Lake and valley view from the top of Artist Bluff, this artist summit ain’t bluffing!
This image is split into two panels: the left side shows a forest trail lined with trees showing early autumn colors, leading toward a rocky bluff under a clear blue sky. The right panel features a wooden sign for "Artist's Bluff Trail" with directional arrows and a yellow "Hiker Responsibility Code" notice below it. Together, the panels convey the inviting start of a scenic hike, highlighting natural beauty and trail guidelines.
Artist Bluff trail is located across the street from Echo Lake parking lot.

Cannon Mountains Aerial Tramway

Cannon Mountain might be more famous for skiing and ice climbing but it is also a gem in the fall season. The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway operates between mid-May to mid-October and is the only way up to the mountain besides hiking. The tramway ride tickets cost $18 round trip.

Given its close proximity to Echo Lake, this will be a great addition to your fall itinerary. There is a 360-degree observation tower at the summit which provides panoramic fall foliage views of four mountainous states i.e. New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, New York, and Canada.

This image shows a cable car at Franconia Notch State Park, filled with passengers and preparing to depart from the station. The bright red cable car contrasts with the orange and steel structure of the station, with a scenic view of the mountainous landscape visible in the background. A park staff member stands by, overseeing the boarding process, adding to the sense of adventure and anticipation for the ride.
Get panoramic views from the top of Cannon Mountain by taking the aerial tramway.

Flume Gorge

The last stop of our trip turned out to be the best. A must on your New Hampshire fall itinerary is the Flume Gorge especially because of its geological importance. FUN FACT: Flume Gorge formed during the Jurassic times nearly 200 million years ago and was covered safely under glaciers during Ice Age. 

Flume is a natural Gorge extending 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty. The walking flume trail entry fee is $16 which is totally worth every penny. The trail turns into a boardwalk taking you through walls of Conway granite, waterfalls and spectacular geological views which are changing as we speak. The pictures don’t even do justice to this place.

This image shows a lush forest trail alongside a moss-covered rock wall, with a wooden walkway extending over a flowing creek. Sunlight filters through the trees, illuminating the vibrant green foliage and creating a serene, inviting atmosphere. In the distance, another bridge can be seen, adding depth to this tranquil nature scene.
Conway granite walls of Flume Gorge preserved from the Jurassic era.
This image features Avalanche Falls cascading down a rocky cliff, with a wooden walkway curving alongside it for visitors. Sunlight catches in the mist, creating a subtle rainbow effect that enhances the enchanting atmosphere. The lush greenery and dramatic rock formations around the falls add to the scenic allure of this natural landmark.
Avalanche Falls, the 45-foot waterfall creates a roaring sound as the Flume Brook enters the gorge. The falls were formed during the great storm of 1883, which washed away the hanging boulder.

Where to Stay in New Hampshire

Now comes the biggest question, lodging especially in fall which is a peak tourist season in New Hampshire. Consider staying in one of these small towns around White Mountain National Forest:

North Conway/Conway is one of the bigger cities with more options but all of the above-mentioned places are accessible from any of these towns.  

Where to Eat in White Mountain, NH

Very close to Carlson’s Lodge in Twin Mountain where we stayed, we found a family-owned restaurant, called ‘Munroe’s Family Restaurant‘ which in my opinion served one the best American breakfast. For dinner, we really enjoyed ‘The Common Man’ in Lincoln on the Kancamagus highway.

This image displays a rustic shelf with a wooden sign reading "Kancamagus Highway - Established 1959" with pronunciation ("Kăn-că-mă-gus") and a moose icon. Surrounding the sign are bottles labeled "The Common Man" and packets of Buttermilk Pancake Mix, giving a cozy, local store vibe. A painted "Do Good" bucket adds a charming, community-focused touch to the display.
The Common Man restaurant on Kancamagus Highway.

We hope this post has helped you put together a weekend itinerary in New Hampshire in the fall season.  If you have any questions, leave us a comment.

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Explore More Places in the Fall

Best Fall Photography Spots in New Hampshire by www.myticklefeet.com
Must-See Places in Autumn in New Hampshire by www.myticklefeet.com

Happy Traveling!

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21 comments on “Top Spots for Fall Colors in New Hampshire”

  1. Hi, thank you for the info! We are going to New Hampshire in a few days. One thing to note, the echo lake state park is near Conway but the other echo lake is in Franconia with artists bluff trail being across the street from that one. Echo lake state park does not have the artists bluff trail nearby as it is said above.

    Reply

    • Fall is probably the best time of the year! Perfect weather and beautiful foliage 🙂 Hope you get to experience it someday Madhu.

      Reply

  7. Wow Mount Washington. On my list since this mountain broke the wind speed record a long time ago. Plus you cannot beat those views. Heading to Norwalk in CT in a few weeks. Here is to some leaves beginning to turn color.

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    • I bet you CT is beautiful as well. In fact, I drove to New Hampshire from CT for this trip and Wow, the colors are changing already?!? 😮

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  8. I also spent a really good time there with my friends on my best friend’s birthday party. I really enjoyed there photography and came back with great memories. I hope you will fully enjoy there like I enjoyed.

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  9. I recently took a road trip to VT and NH and while I was just happy to be outside the city and things were beautiful the colors weren’t AS gorgeous as your pictures show. Ah well… there’s always next year. Fall is the best!

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    • Tell you what Sarah, this year has been all kind of weird. My post is a collection of pics from my visit to NH a couple years ago. The fall colors aren’t as great here in mid-atlantic either this year as it has been previous years unfortunately. The leaves are just drying and falling instead of showing off their majestic colors. Yes let’s pray next year is much better! 🙂

      Reply

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