Once that hot summer air starts to fade away and the smell of pumpkin spice and apple cider fill the air, that can only mean one thing: fall is here! There is really no better place to spend a weekend in the fall than New Hampshire’s White Mountains! Expect bright colorful leaves, big mountains, corn mazes, apple cider mills, and so much more. Here’s how to spend a fall weekend in New Hampshire!
Hike through the Lost River Gorge
The Lost River Gorge is the perfect hike, and I’d recommend it time and time again. The trail is a relatively easy and flat loop that allows you to go at your own pace. It’s a popular tourist destination (especially in the fall) so make sure you arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. Here, you’ll find waterfalls, caves, and beautiful scenery at every turn. The walkways are easy, and are even paved for the first half mile or so. While walking on the platform near the river, it can get slippery so make sure you wear shoes with a decent grip! (Not that I am speaking from experience or anything…;))
Drive the Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway is hands down one of the most scenic drives you’ll ever do- and it’s even better in fall! Officially it’s known as NH 112, and it runs for over 50 miles through the scenic White Mountains. The Swift River runs parallel to the road most of the drive, making the views even more incredible (if that’s even possible). Lush, mature trees with changing leaves will surround you the entire way, and plenty of marked scenic viewpoints will give you those perfect photo ops.
Drive (or hike) to the top of Mt Washington
Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast, and is located right in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains! For $35, an auto toll road allows visitors to drive to the top and take in the spectacular views and cool mountain air. More adventurous (and more in shape) travelers can hike up for free, but keep in mind that it can take approximately 10 hours round trip!
Another thing to keep in mind is that you are over 6,000′ above sea level, and it gets cold. Expect the temperature to be about 20 degrees colder at the summit than at the base. In fact, Mt. Washington is famous for its unpredictable weather. The highest wind speed recorded by man was at this summit: a whopping 231 mph! Whether you’re hiking or driving, pack some warm clothes so you can spend time exploring.
Tip: Depending on when you plan on visiting, make sure you check their website ahead of time. The road is only opened seasonally and typically closes for the winter in mid-October.
Explore and hike through the mountains
Sometimes the best plans are no plans. Jump in your car and get lost! The White Mountains are beautiful, and there will be no wrong turn in fall. Get on the road early in the morning to get views of the fog in the valleys (pictured above). Don’t worry, once the sun comes up it burns off pretty quickly. There are literally hundreds of trails to explore, all ranging in difficulty and length. I was able to find a short 1-mile loop that took me past babbling brooks and bright colored trees. It was perfect!
Stargaze
Just because the sun goes down, does not mean the fun has to end! Once the night sky falls, the stars come out. And boy, are they impressive.
Try downloading a star tracker app and pointing up at the night sky. There’s a few options on the app store, and they will identify all the constellations for you. I really had a lot of fun breaking out my camera practicing my star photography. I’ve got a lot of learning to do, but it was a blast playing around with the settings and angles! Or, just take a seat on the grass and enjoy looking up. You can’t go wrong!
At the end of the day…
There’s nowhere else I’d rather spend my time than with a fall weekend in New Hampshire. Nothing can compare to the feeling of being isolated in the mountains with colorful leaves, babbling streams, and the sounds of nature surrounding you. Make sure you plan ahead though, because the secret of NH is out and hotels and rental cars may be booked up!
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