There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the White Mountains than from behind the wheel, cruising with the windows down and the radio on! Although it might not seem like it at first, this region features an incredible amount of natural beauty and small-town charm that can all be enjoyed from the comfort of your own car. Whether you’re visiting for peak foliage, a summer escape, or a winter getaway, here are some of the best local sights in the area that you won’t want to leave off of your road trip itinerary.
The Kancamagus Highway
No road trip through the White Mountains is complete without a drive along the Kancamagus Highway, one of New England’s most celebrated and well-known scenic routes. It winds through the White Mountain National Forest and offers many panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Plus, there are plenty of roadside stops that offer some of the best photo opportunities in the whole region, especially during fall foliage season.
Several Scenic Regional Waterfalls
The Kancamagus and nearby area also has some of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls, making it easy to build a few short hikes into your drive. Sabbaday Falls offers a relatively easy, family-friendly walk, while Arethusa Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire, rewards a slightly longer hike with a truly stunning payoff. Closer to North Conway, Diana’s Baths is another favorite, perfect for a quick stop to cool off!
Mount Washington Auto Road
For those seeking a little more of an adventurous drive, the Mount Washington Auto Road is a very captivating option. This historic, 7.6-mile drive ascends the summit of Mount Washington, which is the highest peak in the Northeast. Those who make the trek are rewarded with incredible vistas, as well as the chance to experience the mountain’s notoriously unpredictable and unbelievable weather. Just keep in mind that this drive can be a bit challenging, though any standard car (2- or 4-wheel drive) should be capable.
One of New Hampshire’s Many Covered Bridges
New Hampshire’s covered bridges are a charming reminder of the region’s history, and several are just a short detour from the main route. Their distinctive shapes form a signature for New Hampshire; some say they were built to make horses more comfortable as they traveled across them, while others claim it helped the construction materials last longer. Keep an eye out for these iconic red structures as you make your way through the valley; they’re a favorite stop for photographers and history buffs alike.
While most of these attractions can be enjoyed on the same day, especially if you bring your own car or rental, it is always worth slowing down, extending your stay, or checking out some of the region’s many other spots!
About the Buttonwood Inn
At the Buttonwood Inn on Mt Surprise, we love sharing the best of North Conway with our guests, and we’d be more than happy to help you plan the perfect day of exploring! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to learn more about us before booking your stay, you can reach out online or call us today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (603) 810-0642.