8 Best Places to Experience Fall in New Hampshire
Fall is the prime season for visiting New England, and New Hampshire is no exception. The Granite State sees its peak tourism season in September and October when people flock from across the country (and the world) for a chance to see the incredible fall foliage for themselves. Driving down almost any road in New Hampshire is pleasurable when the colors are at their peak, but these places to visit in New Hampshire during fall should top everyone’s itinerary.
North Conway
North Conway is a scenic village in New Hampshire surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest. The town promises gorgeous views of the famous New England fall colors from mid-September through later October. Consider it a four-season travel destination with something extra magical during the fall. Autumn is prime time for leaf peeping and hiking nearby, but it’s also just a scenic season for exploring the charming streets of this ski town. Go shopping at some of the 100 big-name factory outlet stores at Settlers Green and then grab a bite to eat on the patio of one of the many local restaurants, like the Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub.
Echo Lake State Park
Located on Echo Lake Road in North Conway, New Hampshire, Echo Lake State Park is a family-friendly fall destination for picnicking and hiking. Exploring the hiking trails around the lake is the perfect way to appreciate the vibrant fall foliage. Admission to the park is $4 for adults (ages 12-65). The park is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, but the public bathhouse closes at 4 PM. Visitors with furry companions should remember that dogs are allowed only on the back trails in the Cathedral Ledge and White Horse Ledge areas. Pets are not permitted at Echo Lake between May 1 and October 31.
Portsmouth
Not to be confused with the English town of the same name, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a premier fall destination for travelers exploring America’s New England. Located on the state's southeastern coast, Portsmouth is full of things to do and see, from walking tours to historic sites or museums (like Strawbery Banke Museum) and outdoor fun. Sunset cruises on the coast or grabbing a pint at a local brewery (like Earth Eagle Brewings) are great ways to relax while enjoying the season.
Franconia Notch State Park
Franconia Notch State Park is one of the best places in New Hampshire to admire the fall scenery in all its glory. Located in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, this state park is home to a mountain pass of the same name (Franconia Notch) with a parkway extending from the Flume Gorge to Echo Lake. Driving through the park to enjoy the scenery before having a cozy picnic at Echo Lake is a great way to spend a day. For more adventurous visitors, there are excellent biking conditions on Recreation Trail and falcon watching on Cannon Cliffs. The park also has beautiful trails like Lonesome Lake Trail, Artist Bluff Trail, and the Flume Gorge Trail.
Flume Gorge
For spectacular natural sites to visit in New Hampshire this fall, look no further than Flume Gorge. The gorge is an impressive 800-foot expanse at the base of Mount Liberty, located inside Franconia Notch State Park. The hike to the gorge is its own attraction with a separate entrance fee—Conway granite rock walls of a towering 70 to 90 feet high surround this area. Explore the gorge by walking along the wooden boardwalk and taking photos. It’s worth noting that while admission to Flume Gorge is $21 on-site, visitors can save three dollars by booking a ticket online in advance.
Woodstock
Woodstock, New Hampshire, is a quaint often associated with nearby Lincoln (sometimes affectionately coupled together as Linwood). Especially picturesque in the fall when surrounded by New England’s famously colorful foliage, Woodstock is worth visiting for its lively Main Street, which features small shops and locally-owned restaurants. The unassuming area has much to do and see, including beer tastings and tours at the Woodstock Inn Brewery or a visit to Twin Barns Brewing North Taproom. From Woodstock, it’s also easy to take a day trip to Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves.
Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
The Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves are located in Kinsman Notch, New Hampshire. This is a must-visit spot in the Granite State for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone hoping to admire New England’s fall foliage at its peak. This unique area was forced by nature, allowing visitors to follow a wooden boardwalk trail through the gorge along the Lost River. As they navigate between towering rock walls, they will visit 11 boulder caves over the course of 1 mile.
Remember that this attraction is only open from May to mid-October, so visiting at the end of September is prime time to enjoy the fall colors without the crowds before it closes for the season.
Henniker
Henniker is a special town in New Hampshire that is the epitome of fall in New England. The town is located west of Concord and is home to famous attractions like Pat's Peak ski area and New England College. The town’s streets are lined with quaint shops and old trees that turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red during September and October. Henniker offers a completely different more relaxed atmosphere than Concord with cool fall weather and lots of fun activities to enjoy. Grab a coffee at Abigail’s Bakery and Cafe, and then spend a cozy afternoon at the Old Number Six Book Depot.
There’s Nothing Like Fall In New Hampshire
New Hampshire is always a good idea, but the state comes alive with a rush of tourism during the fall when the leaves on the trees turn. Instantly, the state feels cozier and more welcoming, as do its small towns and state parks. It’s the perfect season for outdoor exploration or just doing some shopping on the quaint main streets.
