Kancamagus Highway
A legendary 34.5-mile scenic drive through New Hampshire's White Mountains, famous for its spectacular fall foliage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall foliage
Kancamagus Highway
Best Time
Peak fall foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary 34.5-mile scenic drive through New Hampshire's White Mountains, famous for its spectacular fall foliage.
"The Kancamagus Highway is a must-do for its breathtaking fall colors and stunning mountain vistas."
Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce on the Kancamagus Highway. Top off your tank in Lincoln or Conway to avoid running on empty. :fuel_pump:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download your route and maps beforehand to navigate easily. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sabbaday Falls
Mile Marker 7.9
A short, easy hike leads to a stunning waterfall cascading over granite. A must-see for nature lovers.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Mile Marker 11.9
Witness the Swift River carving through ancient rock formations. The iconic wooden bridge offers a picturesque photo op.
Pemigewasset Overlook
Mile Marker 23.3
Panoramic views of the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Perfect for soaking in the vastness of the White Mountains.
The Kancamagus Highway Drive
Route 112, Lincoln to Conway
The entire 34-mile stretch is the main attraction, offering breathtaking vistas and a true New England autumn experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Foliage
Prepare for Limited Services
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce on the Kancamagus Highway. Top off your tank in Lincoln or Conway to avoid running on empty. :fuel_pump:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download your route and maps beforehand to navigate easily. :iphone:
Pack Snacks & Water
Limited food options along the route. Bring your own provisions for a comfortable journey. :apple: :water_wave:
Go Early for Foliage
For the best fall colors and fewer crowds, aim for early October and arrive before 9 AM. :sunrise:
Tips
from all over the internet
Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce on the Kancamagus Highway. Top off your tank in Lincoln or Conway to avoid running on empty. :fuel_pump:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download your route and maps beforehand to navigate easily. :iphone:
Pack Snacks & Water
Limited food options along the route. Bring your own provisions for a comfortable journey. :apple: :water_wave:
Go Early for Foliage
For the best fall colors and fewer crowds, aim for early October and arrive before 9 AM. :sunrise:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many stops involve short walks to viewpoints or waterfalls. Be ready to explore! :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Kancamagus Highway's stunning fall foliage and breathtaking mountain scenery, calling it a quintessential New England experience. While the drive itself is the main draw, the accessible waterfalls and scenic overlooks are highly praised. Some travelers note that the highway can get extremely crowded during peak season, and recommend planning ahead for limited services.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kancamagus Highway, also known as Route 112, runs between Lincoln, NH, and Conway, NH. You can access it from either end. If coming from the south, take I-93 North to Exit 32 for Lincoln. If coming from the east, take Route 16 North to Conway. Many travelers opt to drive the entire length for the full experience.
The Kancamagus Highway is generally open year-round, but it can be subject to closures due to heavy snow or ice, especially in winter. During fall, it's a popular route, so expect traffic.
Most visitors drive the entire 34.5-mile stretch from Lincoln to Conway or vice versa. The drive itself is the main attraction, with numerous scenic overlooks and short hikes. Consider starting early to avoid crowds, especially during peak foliage season.
Yes, biking the Kancamagus Highway is possible, but it's a challenging route with significant elevation changes. It's best suited for experienced cyclists. Be aware of vehicle traffic, especially during busy periods.
There is no direct public transportation service that runs along the Kancamagus Highway. It's best accessed by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there's no specific 'ticket' to drive the Kancamagus Highway itself, it passes through the White Mountain National Forest. If you plan to stop and use facilities like parking areas for trailheads or picnic sites, you will need a White Mountain National Forest Recreation Pass. These can be purchased at self-service kiosks or online.
The Kancamagus Highway is a public road and is generally accessible 24/7. However, visitor centers and restrooms along the route have specific operating hours, which can vary by season.
There is no direct entrance fee to drive the Kancamagus Highway. However, as mentioned, a White Mountain National Forest Recreation Pass is required for parking at designated areas and using facilities.
You can purchase your pass upon arrival at self-service kiosks located at many trailheads and picnic areas, or in advance online through the recreation.gov website. It's advisable to have it ready before you start your drive to avoid any inconvenience.
Discounts may be available for certain passes, such as annual passes for frequent visitors or senior passes. Check the White Mountain National Forest website or recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on pass options and pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key stops include Sabbaday Falls for its beautiful cascade, Rocky Gorge Scenic Area for unique rock formations and the iconic bridge, and the Pemigewasset Overlook for expansive mountain views. Don't miss the various pull-offs for spontaneous photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The Kancamagus Highway offers numerous hiking opportunities, from short, easy walks to more challenging treks. Popular options include the Sabbaday Falls Trail, the Mount Kancamagus Trail, and trails in the Franconia Notch area nearby.
You might spot deer, moose, various bird species, and other forest animals. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed them.
Yes, there are restrooms available at several designated stops and visitor centers along the highway, such as Sabbaday Falls and the Kancamagus Lodge area. However, they may have seasonal operating hours.
The speed limit on the Kancamagus Highway is generally 45 mph, but it can be lower in certain sections. It's important to drive cautiously and be aware of other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Dining options directly on the Kancamagus Highway are very limited. Your best bet is to eat before you enter the highway in Lincoln or Conway, or pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
In Lincoln, you'll find a variety of restaurants, from casual diners to pubs. Conway also offers more dining choices, including cafes and eateries. North Conway has many popular spots, like the one mentioned for brunch.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery! There are designated picnic areas with tables at several stops along the highway. Remember to pack out all your trash.
While not directly on the highway, North Conway has unique spots like 'Tricks and Treats' for sweets and milkshakes, and various cafes for brunch.
Pack easy-to-eat foods, plenty of water, and any necessary utensils. Don't forget trash bags to keep the beautiful forest clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area with its bridge and river, Sabbaday Falls, and the Pemigewasset Overlook are prime photography locations. Many pull-offs offer stunning vistas of the White Mountains, especially during fall.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls.
While dedicated photography tours might be limited, many local guides and photography enthusiasts offer workshops or private sessions. It's worth checking local tourism boards or photography groups for options.
The peak fall foliage season typically occurs in early to mid-October. For the most vibrant colors, aim for a clear day with good light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider stopping at Zeb's General Store in North Conway for a fun, old-fashioned shopping experience that kids will love. The Conway Scenic Railroad also offers a memorable adventure for the whole family, providing a unique way to see the fall foliage without extensive walking.
🚗 Road Trippers & Photographers
Photographers will find endless opportunities. Aim for early morning or late afternoon light for the best shots. Key locations like Rocky Gorge and Sabbaday Falls offer iconic scenes, but don't overlook the spontaneous beauty found at any of the numerous scenic viewpoints.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water. Check trail conditions before you go, especially outside of the peak summer and fall seasons. The White Mountain National Forest offers a rich biodiversity, so keep an eye out for local flora and fauna.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Fall Foliage Drive
During peak foliage season, typically from late September to mid-October, the highway can become quite congested, especially on weekends. The drive offers numerous pull-offs and designated scenic overlooks, allowing travelers to stop, admire the views, and capture stunning photographs. Many of these stops also provide access to short hiking trails, making it easy to combine a scenic drive with a bit of exploration.
While fall is the star attraction, the Kancamagus Highway is beautiful year-round. In summer, it's a lush green paradise for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Winter transforms it into a serene, snow-covered landscape, offering opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, though sections may be closed due to weather. Regardless of the season, the Kancamagus scenic drive promises a memorable journey through some of New Hampshire's most stunning natural beauty.
Exploring the Natural Wonders
Further along, the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area showcases the power of the Swift River as it carves through ancient rock formations. The area is known for its unique geological features and a charming wooden bridge that offers excellent vantage points for photos. Nearby, the Covered Bridge at Rocky Gorge is another picturesque spot.
For panoramic vistas, the Pemigewasset Overlook provides sweeping views of the vast Pemigewasset Wilderness. This is an ideal location to appreciate the scale and beauty of the White Mountains. Many other unmarked pull-offs also offer incredible, spontaneous views, so keep an eye out and be ready to stop and soak it all in.
Beyond the Drive: Nearby Attractions
For a unique experience, consider a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, which departs from North Conway. This offers a different perspective of the White Mountains, especially during the fall foliage season. The train journeys through scenic valleys and offers stunning views of the autumn colors from the comfort of a vintage railcar.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do. Cathedral Ledge and Echo Lake are nearby natural attractions offering hiking and breathtaking views, often mentioned alongside the Kancamagus Highway as part of a larger White Mountains itinerary.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit