If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s an ideal time to visit North Conway and the surrounding Mount Washington Valley, springtime is pretty tough to beat! The ski slopes have quieted down, the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet, and the entire landscape is in the middle of one of its most spectacular transformations of the year. To help guide you during your stay, here are some of our favorite landmarks that are worth checking out year-round, but especially during the spring.
Conway Scenic Railroad
Not every great spring adventure requires hiking boots. You can catch unobstructed, breathtaking views aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad! You’ll have your pick of two different excursions, and both trips depart from the historic Conway Scenic Railroad station, a beautifully preserved local landmark built in 1874. It’s a lovely way to spend a springtime morning, and the perfect introduction to the valley for first-time visitors.
Settlers Green
If a bit of shopping is on your springtime agenda, Settlers Green is the place to head. This outlet village offers a wide range of stores from popular brands, along with dining options and seasonal events. Spring, particularly April and May, is an especially sweet time to visit, as the crowds are still light compared to summer, and the open-air layout of the village is genuinely pleasant to walk in when the spring air is warm and fresh.
Diana’s Baths
It would be a travesty not to have Diana’s Baths on your springtime trip itinerary. The Diana’s Baths trail is just over half a mile long and leads to a series of beautiful waterfalls. Melting snow pours down from the higher elevations, and the falls are at their most powerful and dramatic in spring. It’s a short, easy walk that rewards you with scenery that feels completely worth the effort.
Cathedral Ledge
As one of the most iconic views in all of New Hampshire, Cathedral Ledge offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, accessible by both car and foot, and is a popular spot for sightseers and rock climbers alike. In late April and early May, the valley below is a stunning patchwork of emerging greens, with the White Mountains on every side. And just a short distance away is Echo Lake State Park, offering a quieter but just as beautiful experience.
After a day exploring everything the area has to offer, there’s no better place to come home to than the Buttonwood Inn. As the valley blooms back to life after a cold winter, our garden offers a peaceful spot to sip your morning coffee or unwind after a day on the trails!
About the Buttonwood Inn
The Buttonwood Inn on Mt. Surprise has been serving guests in North Conway for over 75 years, and if you’re planning a trip this upcoming spring, we would be more than happy to host you during your stay. We are close to several exciting landmarks in the area, not to mention our property has its very own garden, which provides quiet moments for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty around you. If you have any questions or you’d like to get in touch with us to begin booking your stay, you can call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (603) 810-0642.