Northern New Hampshire is popular for fall foliage for a reason. This is the most scenic driving loop we found: it starts north of the Lakes Region, runs the Kancamagus Scenic Byway over the highest pass, drops down through Crawford Notch, detours up Mt. Washington, and comes back through Franconia Notch.
Kancamagus Scenic Byway
The colorful scenic byway begins east of Lincoln. There are some hairpins as you climb to the highest pass — drive it in daylight and take your time.
Stop at the Pemigewasset Overlook — though honestly it’s not as impressive for fall colors. The real payoff is half a mile further, where you get the full beauty of the White Mountain National Forest.
Making the loop: Bear Notch Road
Continue down the highway to make a loop — turn left onto Bear Notch Road. Note: it’s not open in winter, so this is a fair-weather route.
Willey House pond
Stop off at the pond near the Willey House site in Crawford Notch. It’s a quick, easy stop with classic White Mountains reflections.
Mt. Washington
Book in advance if you want to go up Mt. Washington. One honest note: the summit is well above the tree line, so there’s no foliage up there — but the views and the experience are worth it on their own.
Echo Lake & Artist’s Bluff
On the way back, stop at the viewpoint near Echo Lake. Artist’s Bluff is a popular hike near Echo Lake and one of the best vantage points of the trip.
Franconia Notch
The entire Franconia Notch area is very scenic — a fitting finale to the loop.
Practical tips
- Bear Notch Road is closed in winter — this loop is a late-spring through fall drive.
- Book Mt. Washington in advance — summit access (auto road or cog railway) sells out on peak foliage weekends.
- Don’t skip the half-mile-past-Pemigewasset viewpoint — it’s better than the overlook itself.
- Drive the Kancamagus in daylight — hairpins and leaf-peeper traffic need your full attention.