1. Overview
Things to do and places to stay while leaf peeping in the Granite State.
2. Discover New Hampshire’s Fall Foliage
New England is renowned for its brilliant fall foliage, and one of the best places in the region to leaf peep is New Hampshire. Home to the rugged White Mountains and a portion of the vast Great North Woods, this nature lover’s paradise erupts with color come October. The foliage is at its most radiant during the first two weeks of the month, with more northern and higher elevation areas kicking off the shade-turning wave. Whether you prefer a road trip along the scenic Kancamagus Highway or a weekend stay at a cozy inn, you’ll want to plan ahead. In the fall, New Hampshire’s best hotels and bed-and-breakfasts fill up with Bostonians looking to escape the city.
3. Top Spots for Fall Vacation in New Hampshire
01. Franconia
The town of Franconia is a perfect base for exploring Franconia Notch State Park and the White Mountain National Forest. Although the beloved Old Man rock formation no longer graces Cannon Mountain, there’s still plenty of scenery to admire. Take the Aerial Tramway up to the 4,080-foot-high summit for one of the most spectacular views in all of New England, hike through Flume Gorge or along the Appalachian Trail, or cycle along the park’s bike path. Also not to be missed is the stretch of I-93 that connects the Kinsman and Franconia ranges. The Franconia Inn offers 34 rooms, candlelit dining, a pub, and sunrises over the front porch, as well as unique horseback riding tours of the surrounding landscape.
02. Hanover
One of the best New England drives for fall foliage is the Upper Connecticut River Valley Loop, beginning and ending in Woodstock, Vermont. From there, it’s just a 30-minute drive east to picturesque Hanover. The campus of Dartmouth College pops with arboreal color, as do the banks of the Connecticut River and the Appalachian Trail that passes through the forest of the east side. In addition to nature, nourish your cultural side at the Hood Museum of Art and Left Bank Books. Conveniently stay right on campus at the Hanover Inn.
03. Lincoln
A great town for outdoor activities, Lincoln provides easy access to both Mount Osceola and The Basin, which is a 15-foot-deep glacial pothole in Franconia Notch State Park. Experience the fall foliage from above with a zip line excursion from Alpine Adventures or by taking the White Mountain Express Gondola to the summit of Loon Mountain. Make the Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain your base camp for an unforgettable fall experience.
04. Meredith
Hop aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad at Meredith Station for a leisurely ride through the forest and along the lakefront. After finishing your scenic journey, sample seasonal flavors at Cider Bellies Doughnuts or enjoy lunch on Lakeside Deli & Grille‘s waterfront porch. For accommodations, consider Mill Falls at the Lake or the secluded Ballard House Inn, which connects to Waukewan Highlands trails.
05. North Conway
North Conway is a popular destination for travelers looking to hike or drive up nearby Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. Just west of the village, Cathedral Ledge offers stunning views of the Saco River Valley and the Green Hills beyond. While you’re in town, take a scenic drive on Route 112, aka the Kancamagus Highway, to fully appreciate New Hampshire’s natural beauty. The White Mountain Hotel and Resort beckons with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests bursting with autumn colors.
06. Peterborough
A short drive from Mount Monadnock, Peterborough boasts quaint charm ideal for relaxation between hikes. Nearby Monadnock State Park features trails that immerse you in colorful foliage. The local culinary scene includes establishments like Waterhouse for garden-sourced American fare, Pearl Restaurant and Oyster Bar, and Bantam Grill. Stay overnight at the Little River Bed & Breakfast, a charming 1870’s farmhouse along the Nubanusit Brook.
07. Portsmouth
Experience the warm colors of changing leaves on the country’s shortest seacoast. Just across the Piscataqua River from Kittery, Maine, Portsmouth features a beautiful waterfront and a charming downtown. You can embark on a foliage cruise along the river from its harbor. Notably, this coast generally reaches its peak color later, typically in late October. When not admiring nature’s display, stroll through Market Square, explore Strawbery Banke, a living-history museum, and indulge in fresh seafood at Row 34 or Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Cafe. Consider spending the night at The Hotel Portsmouth, a converted 19th-century mansion filled with color and charm.
08. Walpole
Walpole is a village nestled in the Connecticut River Valley of southern New Hampshire. Foliage observers flock to Route 12 north of town for stunning views of the valley as leaves change. Before heading out, stop by Alyson’s Orchard for apple picking, bocce ball, and petting resident goats. Additionally, to enhance the pastoral feel, consider staying at the Inn at Valley Farms, a restored 18th-century country house situated on 100 acres of working pasture, where you’ll enjoy farm-fresh breakfasts sourced from the property.
