As we move into October, peak foliage season in the White Mountains is coming fast! The leaves are already changing colors, and they’re only expected to get prettier over the next couple of weeks. The White Mountains area is perfect for a day or weekend trip from UNH. Whether you want a challenging hike, a beautiful nature walk, or just some time to relax and enjoy the view, here are some of my favorite spots in the Whites to take in the foliage.
An important note: if you’re planning on doing a strenuous hike, make sure you pack lots of layers and watch the weather! The weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. Check out this list of the ten essentials compiled by REI if you’re new to hiking or are unsure what to pack.
- The Kancamagus Highway
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If you want to get all the beautiful views without the hiking, take a drive down the Kancamagus Highway. This 34.5 mile stretch of highway runs from Lincoln to North Conway and is surrounded by beautiful views. Pull over at one of the many scenic outlooks for some cute fall pictures or take a stroll down one of the walking paths. This National Scenic Byway won’t disappoint!
- Artist’s Bluff
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Artist’s Bluff is a great short hike with an amazing view. At only 1.5 miles, this loop can easily be fit into a busy day. The top of the hike offers some great views of Cannon Mountain, Echo Lake, and the surrounding landscape. Don’t be fooled though. This hike is short, but it has some steeper sections! Make sure you wear proper hiking footwear and clothes.
- Mt. Pierce
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This mountain is a great intro to hiking 4,000 footers. Take Crawford Path out and back for a total of six miles and get some beautiful views of the Presidential Range at the top! If you only have moderate hiking experience but want to experience the New Hampshire foliage at higher elevations, Mt. Pierce is a great hike for you.
- Franconia Ridge Loop
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This list wouldn’t be complete without including the famous Franconia Ridge. One of the most popular hikes in New Hampshire, this nine-mile loop will take you up Falling Waters Trail, which has some gorgeous waterfalls, and down Old Bridle Path. The exposed ridgeline offers some of the best views in the White Mountains and takes you over two 4,000 footers: Mt Lincoln and Mt Lafayette. On your way down, make sure to stop by the AMC Greenleaf Hut to refill on water and grab some baked goods! Before choosing this hike, just remember it’s a very difficult one and should only be attempted if you have a lot of hiking experience.
- Carter Dome and Mt Hight
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This hike takes you up Carter Dome, a lesser-known 4,000-footer. I had to include this one because it was my first fall hike, and it was absolutely amazing! Head up Nineteen Mile Brook Trail to Carter-Moriah Trail and then Carter Dome. The summit is wooded and doesn’t have much of a view, but the trail up is very scenic and pretty. Keep going a little farther, and you’ll reach my favorite part of the hike. Mt Hight is not an official 4,000-footer, but it has one of the most beautiful foliage views I’ve seen. Bonus, it’s usually way less crowded than some of the more well-known peaks! Make your way down Carter Dome Trail, and then backtrack down Nineteen Mile Brook to finish up your hike. Again, this is a strenuous hike, so make sure you have plenty of experience before you set out.
- Mt. Washington
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As the highest peak in the White Mountains, Mt. Washington had to get a spot on this list. There are many great trails up this mountain, and they’re all sure to give you some great foliage views. One of my personal favorites is a ten-mile loop that takes you up Jewell Trail and down Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail. You’ll pass the Cog Railway, the picturesque Lakes of the Clouds, and the Lakes of the Clouds Hut, and you’ll get some breathtaking views all the way! If you’re not in the mood for a long hike, you can drive up the Mt. Washington Auto Road or take the Cog Railway up the side of the mountain. However you choose to get there, you’re sure to see some beautiful colors! Make sure you get a picture at the famous Mt. Washington summit sign before you leave!
There are countless great spots in the White Mountains to take in the fall foliage, but these are some of my personal favorites. Whether you choose to hike to the top of Mt Washington or make some stops along the Kancamagus Highway, you’re sure to get some beautiful views. Once again, make sure to do your research and pack the ten essentials before you set out on a challenging hike. Also, wherever you go, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and leave the wilderness just as beautiful as you found it! Enjoy!