Bear Notch Road
A thrilling, paved mountain road in New Hampshire, famous for its twists, turns, and spectacular fall foliage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Bear Notch Road
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A thrilling, paved mountain road in New Hampshire, famous for its twists, turns, and spectacular fall foliage. 
"It's like a roller coaster in pave, with the foliage and warm weather today it was a little slower than I like to go."
🚗 Bring Your Camera!
Capture stunning mountain vistas and vibrant fall colors.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
A favorite for motorcyclists seeking thrilling rides and scenic views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Roller Coaster Ride
Entire length of the road
Experience a thrilling, paved road that twists and turns like a roller coaster through the mountains.
Autumn Foliage Spectacle
White Mountains National Forest
Witness breathtaking fall colors painting the landscape, a must-see for leaf peepers.
+1
Sunrise Views
Various overlooks
Catch a magical sunrise over the mountains for an unforgettable start to your day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best for Scenic Drives
+1Seasonal Beauty
+1 Check road conditions in winter as it can be challenging or closed due to snow. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Bring Your Camera!
Capture stunning mountain vistas and vibrant fall colors.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
A favorite for motorcyclists seeking thrilling rides and scenic views.
🍁 Leaf Peeping Gem
The road is renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage displays.
⚠️ Drive Cautiously
The winding nature requires attention, especially with varying speeds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Bring Your Camera!
Capture stunning mountain vistas and vibrant fall colors.
🏍️ Motorcycle Paradise
A favorite for motorcyclists seeking thrilling rides and scenic views.
🍁 Leaf Peeping Gem
The road is renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage displays.
⚠️ Drive Cautiously
The winding nature requires attention, especially with varying speeds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bear Notch Road is celebrated for its thrilling, winding drive through stunning mountain scenery, particularly beloved by car enthusiasts and motorcyclists. While the fall foliage is a major draw, visitors should be prepared for potential crowds during peak seasons and always prioritize safe driving on the dynamic route.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Notch Road is accessible from the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) and connects to Route 302 in Bartlett, New Hampshire. It's a scenic route through the White Mountains National Forest.
Yes, Bear Notch Road is a paved public road, making it suitable for all vehicles.
Many visitors enjoy driving it, especially in a sports car or on a motorcycle, to experience its twists and turns.
Services are limited along the road itself. It's best to fill up on gas and use restrooms before you start your drive.
Bear Notch Road can be challenging or closed during winter due to snow and ice. Always check local conditions before visiting in colder months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bear Notch Road is a public road and does not require an entrance fee or ticket.
There are no specific parking fees for Bear Notch Road itself, but if you stop at designated pull-offs or trailheads within the White Mountains National Forest, a parking pass might be required.
As a public road, Bear Notch Road is generally open 24/7, but accessibility can be affected by weather conditions, especially in winter.
While paved, the road is narrow and winding. Larger RVs or trailers might find it challenging to navigate.
Yes, there are several pull-offs and scenic overlooks where you can safely stop to take photos.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for pull-offs offering panoramic views of the White Mountains, especially during sunrise or sunset. The winding road itself also makes for dramatic shots.
Sunrise offers beautiful light and fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details.
Keep an eye out for the unique curves of the road, the vibrant foliage in autumn, and the expansive mountain vistas.
Drone usage in National Forests is regulated. Check the White Mountains National Forest Service guidelines before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Motorcyclists
+2 The scenic beauty of the White Mountains only adds to the appeal, offering breathtaking views between the curves. It's the perfect place to let loose and enjoy the open road, especially outside of peak foliage weekends when it can get a bit congested. Recommendations:
* Plan your visit: Weekdays or early mornings are best to avoid crowds.
* Vehicle choice: Ideal for agile cars and motorcycles.
* Safety first: Be aware of the road's challenging nature and share it respectfully.
📸 Leaf Peepers & Nature Lovers
+1 The accessibility of the paved road means you can enjoy the foliage without strenuous hikes, making it perfect for those who prefer scenic drives. Tips for Foliage Season:
* Timing is key: Mid-October is often peak foliage.
* Go early: Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday morning.
* Stop and admire: Utilize pull-offs to soak in the views and take photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving Bear Notch Road: A Thrill Seeker's Delight
The road is fully paved, making it accessible for most vehicles, but its tight curves and elevation changes demand driver attention. It's a favorite among car enthusiasts and motorcyclists looking for an engaging drive. +2Travelers often highlight the sheer fun of navigating the road's twists and turns. While it might be slower than desired during peak foliage season due to other visitors admiring the views, the experience is consistently described as epic.
Remember to drive responsibly and be mindful of other users, especially cyclists and motorcyclists who also frequent this scenic route. +1Key Takeaways for Drivers:
* Paved and Winding: Expect a smooth but twisty ride.
* Engaging Experience: Perfect for those who enjoy dynamic driving.
* Respectful Driving: Share the road and prioritize safety.
* Seasonal Considerations: Winter conditions can make the road impassable.
Capturing the Magic: Photography on Bear Notch Road
+1 Many visitors recommend stopping at the various pull-offs to capture panoramic views of the surrounding White Mountains. For the most dramatic shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. A sunrise from Bear Notch Road can be a truly magical experience, offering soft light and fewer crowds.
Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and the serpentine nature of the road itself. +1Photography Tips:
* Golden Hours: Sunrise and sunset provide the best light.
* Pull-offs: Utilize designated spots for safe and scenic photo opportunities.
* Lens Choice: Wide-angle for landscapes, telephoto for details.
* Seasonal Focus: Fall foliage is a major draw, but the mountains are beautiful year-round.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit