11 Fall Weekend Ideas in the White Mountains of New Hampshire

The White Mountains of New Hampshire are a stunning backdrop for autumn adventures, with vibrant foliage and crisp air. This region is truly spectacular in the fall, offering endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring natural wonders, enjoying local flavors, or simply soaking in the season’s beauty, you’re sure to have an unforgettable weekend in the mountains of New Hampshire!

standing on railroad tracks. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Loon Mountain Resort

A small lake surrounded by forested hills with autumn foliage, featuring shades of green, orange, and brown. The scene is set under an overcast sky with distant mountain ranges in the background. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Kick off your weekend at the Loon Mountain Resort, where you can enjoy breathtaking views while riding the gondola to the summit. In the fall, the surrounding mountains are a canvas of orange, red, and gold. There are various view points on the summit as well as some caves to explore.

Find your happy place

Lost River Gorge

Person stands on a boardwalk reaching a large nest-like structure, surrounded by trees with colorful autumn foliage and distant mountains. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Explore the natural beauty of Lost River Gorge, a unique geological wonder. Wander through the gorge’s stunning rock formations and waterfalls on wooden boardwalks. The fall foliage makes this hike even more picturesque, and don’t forget to visit the caves for a little adventure!

North Woodstock

A person stands on rocks beside a flowing stream with trees showing autumn foliage in the background. The sky is partially cloudy. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Make a stop in North Woodstock, a charming town with a variety of shops and eateries. Grab a bite to eat the the Woodstock Inn and Brewery and visit Cascade Park across the street for some views of the Pemigewasset River.

Kancamagus Highway

A small waterfall flows over large rocks into a calm pool, surrounded by autumn foliage. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Take a leisurely drive along the Kancamagus Highway, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and vibrant fall colors. Be sure to stop at various scenic overlooks and enjoy short hikes along the way, such as the Sabbaday Falls trail. The highway is particularly stunning in late September to mid-October.

Conway

A weathered, wooden covered bridge with a red roof spans across a river with autumn foliage on both sides under an overcast sky. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Visit Conway, where you can find a mix of quaint shops and delicious restaurants. Take a scenic train ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad to admire the fall foliage from a unique vantage point. This charming town is perfect for an afternoon stroll and a bit of exploration.

Crawford Notch State Park

A serene lake with autumn-colored trees on mountainsides under a cloudy sky. Fog partially obscures the mountaintops. Cars and people are visible at the edge of the lake. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Head to Crawford Notch State Park for some incredible hiking opportunities. The park offers a range of trails suitable for all skill levels. Don’t miss the chance to hike the famous Arethusa Falls trail, where you can see one of the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire surrounded by vibrant fall colors. Ripley Falls is also a stunning, lesser-known waterfall you can hike to within the park.

Franconia Notch State Park

A misty landscape with a lake surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and a winding road at the foot of tree-covered hills. — Photo credit: Depositphotos

Franconia’s Notch State Park is one of the top destinations in the White Mountains for the fall. If you’re looking for a hike with a view, you can hike to Artist’s Bluff. If you’re looking for some waterfalls, head to The Basin or Flume Gorge. You can also take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway for some stunning views of the area from the Cannon Mountain summit!

Cathedral Ledge Lookout

A scenic view from a rocky cliff showing a vast forested valley with scattered houses, farmlands, and distant mountains under a cloudy sky. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This scenic overlook is located near North Conway, New Hampshire, and requires no hike. Simply drive up to the top and make the short walk to the overlook. While there is one main overlook, be sure to explore the trails to discover the other overlooks!

Albany Covered Bridge

A wooden covered bridge with a red roof spans a rocky, shallow river. The surrounding trees are tinged with autumn colors. — Image credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This historic bridge was first constructed in 1858. You can actually drive over this bridge and there’s a parking area nearby so you can enjoy the bridge and the Swift River below. There’s also a hiking trail and two campgrounds in the area.

Omni Mount Washington Resort

A large, white hotel building with red roofs is set against a backdrop of mountains and surrounded by autumn-colored trees and green fields. — Photo credit: Depositphotos

This beautiful historic hotel has stunning views and plenty to do! There’s something for everyone from elegant dining and a spa for those who want to be pampered to hiking and fly fishing for the outdoor lovers. The hotel has been host to countless celebrities, including Thomas Edison and three U.S. presidents.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

A pink train coach with the words "Mt. Washington" is on display, with a yellow coach visible behind it. The train is situated on a railway track under a cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Lisa MarcAurele

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is a great way to experience the White Mountains in the fall. Take this historic railway to the top of Mount Washington, the tallest summit in the northeast. No hiking involved, just a relaxing train ride up with scenic views.