Intervale Scenic Vista
A stunning rest area offering panoramic views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range, perfect for photos and a scenic break.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Intervale Scenic Vista
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning rest area offering panoramic views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range, perfect for photos and a scenic break.
"The view is spectacular and the staff couldn't friendlier."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
For the most breathtaking photos, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light on Mount Washington is truly magical.
🚂 Train Spotting Fun
Check the Conway Scenic Railroad schedule to catch a train passing by. It's a unique sight against the mountain backdrop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Washington Panorama
Main Vista Area
Gaze upon the majestic Mount Washington and the Presidential Range. A photographer's dream, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Historic Train Spotting
Near the tracks
Catch glimpses of the Conway Scenic Railroad trains passing through the valley. A nostalgic experience for all ages.
Visitor Center Exhibits
Visitor Center Building
Explore local history and get detailed topographical maps of the White Mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating the Vista and Visitor Center
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
For the most breathtaking photos, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light on Mount Washington is truly magical.
🚂 Train Spotting Fun
Check the Conway Scenic Railroad schedule to catch a train passing by. It's a unique sight against the mountain backdrop. +1
🗺️ Get Your Bearings
The visitor center has large topographical maps that are great for planning hikes or understanding the terrain.
♿ Accessible Views
The vista is handicap accessible with plenty of parking and clean restrooms, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
For the most breathtaking photos, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light on Mount Washington is truly magical.
🚂 Train Spotting Fun
Check the Conway Scenic Railroad schedule to catch a train passing by. It's a unique sight against the mountain backdrop. +1
🗺️ Get Your Bearings
The visitor center has large topographical maps that are great for planning hikes or understanding the terrain.
♿ Accessible Views
The vista is handicap accessible with plenty of parking and clean restrooms, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.
📸 Photography Hotspot
This spot is a favorite for landscape photographers, especially for capturing sunsets over Mount Washington.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Intervale Scenic Vista for its spectacular views of Mount Washington and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect stop for photos and a moment of natural beauty. The accessibility, clean facilities, and the chance to see the historic Conway Scenic Railroad are also frequently highlighted as positives. However, some guests have noted an unwelcoming interaction with staff regarding exhibits.
"My husband proposed to me here. Wonderful views. Plenty of very clean bathrooms and lots of parking. It is handicap accessible"
Laura Brown
"This is my must-stop spot whenever I travel to Pinkham Notch for hiking or skiing. The view is spectacular and the staff couldn't friendlier."
Hong Zhang
"Stopped to take some photos of the amazing views before heading out of town. Great map downstairs inside of the mountains. Clean. Was showing my daughter where we were on the map-she was in the arms of my six foot tall wife and I had my hand about 10 inches above the top edge of the glass. We clearly saw the signs and thought we were honoring them by not touching anything. Didn’t see the lady sweeping the stairs, was never spoken to upon entering, not a “good morning” or even a “hello”. But she was prompt to tell us to keep our hand away from the map. She was rude and actually startled us. We left. Ma’am, I was just showing my daughter where we were on the map. If this museum is so worried about the top, cover it with glass as well. And at least say hello and then give a reminder. Thank you."
David Andrew
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Intervale Scenic Vista is conveniently located on Route 16 in North Conway, New Hampshire. It's a well-marked rest area with ample parking, making it easy to access by car.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the vista, including handicap-accessible spots. It's a popular stop, so parking can fill up during peak times.
Absolutely! Intervale Scenic Vista offers a prime viewing location for Mount Washington and the surrounding Presidential Range, especially on clear days. 
It's an excellent stop for road trips through the Mount Washington Valley. You can stretch your legs, take photos, and get information about the area.
Many visitors combine a stop at the vista with a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad or explore nearby hiking trails like the Frankenstein Trestle trail. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Intervale Scenic Vista is a state rest area, so there is no entrance fee to visit the vista itself. Parking and access to the viewing areas are free.
As a state rest area, Intervale Scenic Vista is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The visitor center may have specific operating hours.
Yes, if you wish to ride the Conway Scenic Railroad, you will need to purchase tickets in advance. Prices vary depending on the route and seating class.
Yes, the vista is equipped with very clean bathrooms, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
The vista is handicap accessible, making it a welcoming spot for visitors with mobility challenges to enjoy the views.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing Mount Washington and the valley.
Landscape photography is very popular here, capturing the expansive mountain views, seasonal foliage, and the historic train.
Yes, you can often see and photograph the Conway Scenic Railroad trains from the vicinity of the vista, especially if you time it right. +1
The main vista area provides excellent panoramic views. For unique angles of the train, consider the Frankenstein Trestle trail nearby.
Weather can change rapidly. Clear days offer unobstructed views, while foggy or cloudy conditions can create moody, atmospheric shots.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the stunning mountain views, take photos, visit the visitor center for maps and information, and potentially see the Conway Scenic Railroad.
Yes, it's a fantastic spot to witness the vibrant fall foliage in the Mount Washington Valley, with the mountains providing a stunning backdrop. +1
The visitor center typically offers maps of the White Mountains, information about local attractions, and historical context for the area.
While the vista itself is a viewpoint, nearby areas offer hiking opportunities. The Frankenstein Trestle trail is a popular option for train spotting and a short walk.
The area was once home to the White Mountain School of Art and is situated in a region rich with natural beauty and history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy the scenery, or combine your visit with a short, easy walk nearby. The visitor center's maps can also be a fun way to teach kids about the mountains. It's a low-stress, high-reward stop that adds a beautiful natural element to any family road trip.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The vista offers unobstructed panoramas, perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most magical light, transforming the mountains into a painterly scene. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the Conway Scenic Railroad as it traverses the valley; it adds a unique, nostalgic element to your shots.
🚗 Road Trippers
If your timing aligns, you might even catch a glimpse of the Conway Scenic Railroad passing through, adding a touch of vintage charm to your trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Conway Scenic Railroad Experience
While the train ride itself is a highlight, some visitors also enjoy hiking to vantage points to watch the train pass by, such as the Frankenstein Trestle trail.
Key Takeaways:
* Offers scenic rides through the White Mountains.
* Departs from a historic train station.
* Popular for fall foliage viewing.
* Consider hiking to train-spotting locations for alternative views.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Intervale Scenic Vista
+1 The vista's accessibility and ample parking make it easy to set up and capture the scenery.The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are prime times for photography here. The soft, warm light illuminates the mountains beautifully, creating stunning opportunities for both wide-angle vistas and detailed shots.
Many visitors also aim to capture the Conway Scenic Railroad as it chugs through the valley, adding a dynamic element to their photos. Photography Tips:
* Best Light: Sunrise and sunset for dramatic effects.
* Key Subjects: Mount Washington, Presidential Range, fall foliage, Conway Scenic Railroad.
* Accessibility: Easy access with good parking for photographers.
* Considerations: Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for varied conditions.
Understanding the Visitor Center and Local Information
While the maps are a significant draw, some reviews suggest that certain information within the visitor center may need updating.
Visitor Center Highlights:
* Extensive Topographical Maps: Essential for hikers and explorers.
* Local Information: Details on attractions and activities.
* Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained facilities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit