Cruising Down the Kancamagus Highway for Fall Foliage
If you’re planning a fall road trip in New England, let me save you some research. Add the Kancamagus Highway, affectionately known as “The Kanc,” to your must-do list. This awe-inspiring 34-mile scenic drive through the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest is a showstopper, especially when the fall foliage is doing its thing.
My sisters and I took an unforgettable road trip through a real-life autumnal wonderland on the Kancamagus Highway to witness the fall foliage, and it was a highlight of our trip.
Let me tell you about our adventure and what you can expect when you visit.
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What is the Kancamagus Highway?
My New England road trip began by traveling from Boston to Stowe. With five days ahead of us, we mapped out a route that included Stowe, Vermont, scenic New Hampshire, coastal Maine, and Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
The Kancamagus highway was our middle of the trip treat. The scenic detour that promised jaw-dropping foliage, waterfalls, and bridges delivered.
Often considered one of the best scenic drives in New Hampshire, we knew a road trip through New England wouldn’t be complete without a drive along the Kancamagus Highway.
After much research, Route 112, best known as the Kancamagus Highway, was added to our fall foliage itinerary.
This beautiful national scenic byway meanders from Lincoln, NH, just north of Woodstock, through the White Mountain National Forest to Conway, NH.
It’s a no-frills road, with no gas stations or food stops – just you, the forest, and a bunch of photo ops.
Preparing for the Kancamagus Highway Drive
We began our trip along the Kancamagus at the White Mountains Visitor Center in Woodstock, NH, which I recommend you also visit before heading through the mountains.
Here, you can pick up a free map of places to stop for photos of the Kancamagus Highway fall foliage. The map also points you to accessible hikes to stretch your legs.
The employees are extremely helpful and highlight the stops for hikes, waterfalls, and other points of interest on the map.
The visitor center has an adorable gift shop that sells souvenirs from White Mountain National Forest, such as ornaments and T-shirts.
Trip Tip: Use the clean bathrooms before heading out. Once you drive into the White Mountain National Forest, there are no gas or food places to stop, so make sure you have what you need before heading in.
Best Time to See the Kancamagus Highway Fall Foliage
We visited in late September, as the colors of the leaves were just starting to blush with color—golds and reds peeking through the green.
The timing for seeing the peak foliage can be tricky to pinpoint since it is based on several factors, including the year’s weather pattern.
If you’re aiming for peak foliage, plan for early to mid-October, but keep an eye on the New Hampshire fall foliage tracker for updates. Mother Nature is on her own schedule.
The drive is majestic, but I imagine it is even more magnificent during the peak season when the tree-lined highway is entirely filled with reds and oranges.
The Best Stops on the Kancamagus Highway
We hit the highway with our map in hand and snacks in the car.
There are plenty of stops along the way. Some have parking lots, while others just have pull offs. Most parking areas do require a pass, but they’re inexpensive and available right at the lots.
Hancock Overlook
If you are driving west to east, the first place you should stop is Hancock Overlook.
This was our first stop, and it set the bar high.
The panoramic views of the White Mountains are stunning. The crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas made us all pause for a moment of silence…before diving into a mini photo shoot.
I can’t say enough about how beautiful the landscape, scenery, and views are from each spot along the Kancamagus, and they only seem to get better along the way.
The Lincoln Woods Trailhead
The largest trailhead on the Kancamagus Highway is the Lincoln Woods Trailhead.
While we didn’t venture far down the trail (sisters in cute fall boots aren’t exactly hikers), our short stroll gave us a feel for the lush, peaceful forest.
Visitors can access over twelve hiking trails from the Lincoln Woods trailhead, so if you are looking for a good place to hike, this would be it.
Additionally, there is a large parking lot, a ranger station, and bathrooms.
Pemigewasset Overlook
You will get a fabulous view of the Osceola Mountains at this stop.
At the Pemigewasset Overlook, we found a covered pavilion with interpretive signs giving historical information about the views.
We lingered here, dodging the incoming rain, and marveled at how tiny we felt compared to the towering trees around us.
This area has a parking lot that is easy to access off the highway, making it an excellent place to stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy peacefulness and beauty.
Sugar Hill Scenic Vista
The Sugar Hill Scenic Vista is close to the middle of the drive. Again, you will find dedicated parking and a pavilion. Here, you will feel like you are on top of the trees with views for miles.
Sabbaday Falls Observation Site
Out of the entire drive, the Sabbaday Falls was, hands down, my favorite place to stop.
Sabbaday Falls is a short, paved hike leading to one of the most beautiful waterfalls on Kancamagus.
Stairs and a wooden deck lead you to this three-level waterfall.
With each level you climb, the waterfall cascade changes. The waterfall flows over rocks and logs until it reaches the bottom, where it pools into the river flow.
It’s really magical, almost like something out of a fairytale.
Sabbaday Falls is absolutely gorgeous. If you take this route, give yourself some time to enjoy this part of the drive.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
It was beginning to rain at this point in our drive, so I did not get pictures of the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area.
However, there is a footbridge at this stop where you walk across the Swift River, even stopping in the middle to see the rocky gorge.
Albany Covered Bridge
The last notable stop along the Kancamagus Highway is the Albany Covered Bridge, which dates back to 1858. This 120-foot covered bridge is still open to car traffic.
Because of the rain, we missed out on pictures. But, with the Swift River running under it and the fall foliage surrounding it, it is a sight you shouldn’t miss.
The only campground along the Kancamagus Highway that allows reservations is near the covered bridge. The covered bridge campground has 49 campsites and charges a fee of $25 per vehicle.
The height limit is 7’9″, so if you have a larger RV, this might not work for you.
Parking Along the Kancamagus Highway
Parking at stops along the highway requires a parking pass, which you can purchase for $5 per day at the lots.
Using the visitor’s center map, you will find a lake, running creeks, a river, scenic overlooks, and a beginner-friendly hike to a beautiful waterfall.
Most stops include parking, restrooms, and a pavilion or shelter.
Other Things to Do Near the Kancamagus Highway
When planning our five-day New England fall road trip, we didn’t give ourselves enough time to explore everything this area offers, but here are a few bonus activities if you have the extra time.
- Loon Mountain Gondola Ride: Located in Lincoln, this scenic ride offers panoramic views of the White Mountains.
- Mount Washington Cog Railway: A historic train ride to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.
- North Conway: This charming town is perfect for shopping, dining, and relaxing after your drive.
- Omni Mount Washington Resort: Named the Best Ski Resort on the East Coast by Conde Nast, the Mount Washington Resort is known for its ski slopes, but it’s also a stunning place to grab a drink and soak in the views.
Where to Stay Near the Kancamagus Highway
- Lincoln, NH: Stay at the RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain. It’s upscale but cozy, with a hot tub to unwind in after a day of leaf peeping.
- Conway, NH: Check out The Stonehurst Manor. This boutique hotel has charming rooms and a delicious on-site restaurant.
- North Conway: For families, the Residence Inn North Conway is a great pick with plenty of amenities.
Tips for Driving the Kancamagus Highway for Fall Foliage
- Timing is Everything: Peak foliage typically hits in early to mid-October, but check the fall foliage tracker for updates.
- Pack Snacks and Water: There are no restaurants or gas stations along the way.
- Get a Parking Pass: Available at the stops, and it’s super easy to purchase.
- Allow Time to Explore: We felt rushed with only a few hours. Plan for at least half a day, or longer if you want to hike.
- Start Early: The road gets busy during peak leaf-peeping season. Starting early means fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Driving the Kancamagus Highway was one of the highlights of our New England road trip. It is the most scenic road I have traveled.
Don’t miss this magnificent drive if you are in New Hampshire during the fall. The beauty of the Kancamagus Highway fall foliage will leave a lasting impression. You will not be disappointed.
