Have you ever longed to escape to a place where scenic beauty unfolds at every turn? If so, look no further than the Kancamagus Highway located in the White Mountain Region of New Hampshire. 

The White Mountains is one of my favorite places to go in New England!  Over the years, I’ve made countless treks up North to this neck of the woods and it is truly a wonder to explore. With over 700,000 acres of forests, 2 mountain ranges (Presidential and Franconia) and the tallest peak in the Northeast (Mt. Washington at 6,288 FT.), you will be surrounded by natural beauty. 

The White Mountains is an adventure just waiting to happen! 

One of the main attractions in this area is the famous Kancamagus Highway – a 34.5 mile Scenic By-Way known for its rich history, breathtaking views and stunning fall foliage. This route is considered to be one of the best places in New England for leaf peepers to see the kaleidoscope of colors which occurs each autumn. 

The Kancamagus Highway (Pronounced “Kanc-ah-mah-gus), is a portion of NH Route 112 which stretches across the state from east to west, cutting a path through the White Mountain National Forest.”  Along the route, you will be treated to spectacular mountain views, scenic lookouts and roadside stops where you can explore trails and see beautiful waterfalls. 

The Kancamagus Highway is more than just a road – it’s an experience which will take you back in time. While there are plenty of scenic overlooks for photo-ops, you won’t find any businesses, gas stations, hotels, or restaurants along the route – Only pure beauty.  

About This Guide

In this guide, we will explore the awe-inspiring journey of driving the Kancamagus Highway as well as help you decide which side of this scenic stretch of road is best for setting up your base camp so you can make the most of your visit.

There is A LOT of information here so you may want to get comfortable. Short on time? Head to The Bottom Line for a summary.

Kancamagus 101

First let’s get some of the basics about the scenic Kancamagus Highway out of the way…  

Where does the Kancamagus Highway start and end? 

The Kancamagus Highway, also known as the “Kanc” to locals, runs from Conway, NH on the east side to Lincoln, NH on the west side. You can start your journey from either direction. 

When is the best time to drive the Kancamagus Highway?

This scenic-by-way boasts stunning views any time of year but driving this route in autumn during peak foliage season is simply spectacular. Typically, the foliage peaks around late-September to early-October but that can vary from year to year.  

While autumn is most popular, we love visiting in the summer months when you can cool off in the swimming holes along the road or go tubing down the Saco River.  During winter, there may be lots of snow but the Kanc is well maintained offering access to miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  Springtime is the least crowded as it is “mud” season so you may find some services closed along the way. It is best to plan on visiting restrooms and stocking up on either end during non-peak times. 

How long does it take to drive the Kancamagus Highway?

While the Kanc is only 34.5 miles, the time to get from one end to the other will depend on how many stops you make, how long you stay at each site and how crowded the route is that day.  Plan on at least 2-3 hours with a few stops at the viewpoints and a visit to one or two of the short hikes. Add additional time if you plan to do longer hikes or spend time picnicking or swimming.    

If visiting during peak foliage time, you will need to plan ahead – way ahead. During this busy time, accommodations book up months in advance and traffic can be bumper to bumper the entire route with limited or no parking at the viewpoints. It’s not uncommon for this drive to take 3 or more hours to get from one end to the other during peak season without any stops. This certainly would not be the relaxing and enjoyable experience you expected. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the viewpoints, be sure to start your day early and visit during mid-week, if possible. 

Where to stay in the White Mountains

Deciding where to stay when visiting the White Mountains may not be easy with so many options and things to do and see. Even after countless trips, I still debate which side of the Kanc I should stay every time I plan a visit.

The two most popular towns to stay in are North Conway and Lincoln. Both sit at opposite ends of the Kancamagus Highway with North Conway on the east side on Route 16 and Lincoln on the west on Route 93.  

Choosing which side to set up your base camp really comes down to two things: 

1. The Vibe you are looking for
2. What activities you want to do

Keep reading to find out more about each side of the Kancamagus so you can decide where is best to stay for your visit. 

East Side of the Kancamagus Highway

The Mount Washington Valley on the eastern side of the White Mountains, is made up of 25 towns scattered around Mt. Washington and the Presidential range. There are two passes that run through the mountains, Crawford Notch and Pinkham Notch which offer stunning views.

Generally, the eastern side is a bit more developed with more options for restaurants and accommodations. If you are considering visiting the Mt. Washington Auto Road or the Cog Railway, the eastern side is closer.

North Conway/North Conway Village, NH

The North Conway area definitely boasts a more touristy feel than the Western White Mountains. As you travel north through Conway along Route 16, you’ll know you’re in North Conway once you hit the string of hotels, restaurants and Factory Outlet stores.

But don’t despair – as you make your way past this stretch of commercialism, you will soon come to North Conway Village where you begin to experience the quaintness of the town.  

In the heart of North Conway Village, you can’t miss the Victorian-era train station where you can take an old fashion train excursion on the Conway Scenic Railroad. Adjacent to the station is Schouler Park, a large green-space where you can picnic and little ones can play. 

Take a stroll along the Main Street and pop into some of the unique shops. Our favorites are Zeb’s General Store and the North Conway 5 and 10 which are a must-visit. You’ll also find some great restaurants, fun pubs, live entertainment, and lodging at dozens of hotels and bed and breakfasts in the center of the village. 

This popular New England Village is surrounded by mountains and just minutes away from the Cranmore Mountain Resort, one of New Hampshire’s most popular ski resorts. In the summer, the resort transforms into an adventure park with a Mountain Coaster, zip lines and mountain bike trails.

Not far from the village is Echo Lake State Park, a secluded picnic area where the lake meets the mountains. One of my absolute favorite places to visit is Cathedral Ledge State Park, a must-see granite ledge with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Cathedral Ledge’s 500-foot granite wall is popular with mountain climbers so if you are lucky, you may get to see some on the way up the ledge.  

Best for: Staying in North Conway is best for those who like to be where the action is and have lots of options for restaurants and shopping. North Conway Village is also convenient to many of the popular attractions and hiking trails.

Things to do near North Conway, NH 

• Conway Scenic Railroad (Village Center)
• Cranmore Mountain and Resort (1 mile) 
• Cathedral Ledge State Park (2 miles)
• Echo Lake (2 miles)
• Diana’s Bath (2.5 mile)
• Saco River Tubing (4.3 miles)

Where to Stay in North Conway, NH 

• Eastern Slopes Inn Resort – Located right in the heart of North Conway Village this iconic hotel is within walking distance from all the shops and restaurants on Main Street. This elegant property has 230 guest rooms, offers plenty of resort amenities and a restaurant onsite. 
• The Kearsarge Inn – A quaint little B&B located on a side street in the center of North Conway Village.  
• White Mountain Hotel and Resort – Wonderful resort with golf course, spa and incredible mountain views. 
• Cranmore Inn and Suites – Homey accommodations with an outdoor pool within walking distance of the village shops. 
• Comfort Inn & Suites – Family Friendly accommodations with indoor pool and mini-golf just steps away. 

Jackson, NH

Jackson is a quintessential New England town at the foot of Pinkham Notch which has a romantic ambiance with its iconic “Honeymoon Bridge”, cute B&Bs and stunning mountain views.  Jackson is only 15 minutes away from North Conway Village and is an excellent hub for hiking in the White Mountains and exploring the many outdoor sites.  There is a loop drive around the town which takes you past the covered bridge, Flossie’s Emporium General Store and the luxurious Wentworth Inn. 

Best for: Jackson is best for those looking for a romantic experience or easy access to the great hiking and skiing trails.  Staying in Jackson gives you the quaintness of a small New England town with easy access to all the action in North Conway. 

Things to do in Jackson, NH

• Jackson XC Skiing (Town loop)
• Jackson Falls (Off town loop)
• Nestlenook Farm which offers sleigh rides and skating in the winter ( 1 mile)
• Black Mountain Ski and Horse Trails

Where to Stay in Jackson, NH 

• The Wentworth – Elegant hotel with a variety of accommodations from guest rooms, cottages and vacation homes along the Jackson Loop. 
• The Nordic Village Resort – This resort community set on 165 acres has spectacular views of the mountains.  The condo and townhouse style accommodations have various configurations and rooms and are pet-friendly.   
• Christmas Farm Inn and Spa – Historic B&B on 15 acres with jacuzzi suites, cottages, indoor/outdoor pool and onsite restaurant and spa. 
• The Inn at Thorn Hill – A luxurious boutique inn with onsite restaurant and spa. 
• The Inn at Jackson – This lovely B&B is perched on the corner of Thorn Hill overlooking the village of Jackson. 

Bartlett – Glen, NH

Located about 10-15 minutes past North Conway Village are the towns of Bartlett and Glen. Bartlett is located on Route 302 and is home to Attitash Mountain Village with its famous Alpine slide. Glen is it’s neighbor and home to Storyland, an amusement park geared towards younger children.  While there are several options for restaurants in this area, you won’t have all the choices you would in North Conway.

Best for: The Bartlett-Glen area is best for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of North Conway and don’t mind a 15 minute drive back to North Conway for all the restaurants and shopping. This is also a great area for younger kids as it is close to amusement and adventure parks. 

Things to do near Bartlett-Glen, NH:  

• Alpine Garden Winery (Bartlett)
• Attitash  Mountain Resort (Bartlett) – Closed Summer 2023 to install new lift. 
• Bear Notch Ski Touring (Bartlett) 
• Covered Bridge Gift Shoppe (Bartlett)
• Storyland (Glen)

Where to stay in Bartlett-Glen, NH

• Bernerhof Inn – this romantic historic inn has an onsite spa and offers personal limo service to take you around the area. (Glen, NH)
• Golden Apple Inn – Right next door to the Bernerhof Inn is the Golden Apple Inn – a family friendly boutique motel.
• Attitash Mountain Village – Located at the base of Attitash Mountain this resort has spacious family suites.
• Covered Bridge House B&B – A cozy B&B with 5 unique rooms located next to the Covered Bridge Gift Shoppe.

Insider Tip: Bear Notch Road, which connects the Kancamagus Highway to the town of Bartlett, is closed during the winter months.

West Side of the Kancamagus

The Western White Mountains are home to Franconia State Park and several natural wonders, including the Flume Gorge and the Basin. This part of the White Mountains has lots of opportunities for outdoor activities and offers a more remote and quieter experience than the east side. 

Lincoln, NH

While Lincoln may be the gateway to the Kancamagus, it portrays a more subdued and low-key atmosphere than North Conway on the east side. The little town is lined with local shops and restaurants. In the center of town, you will find the River Walk Resort and several other larger hotels. The Visitor Center is located across from the Rt. 93 on ramp.

Although this town may be small, it really packs a punch in the adventure area. Loon Mountain Resort offers four season fun with skiing and snowboarding in the winter and outdoor activities such as exhilarating zip-lining and mountain biking in the summer. You can also take a ride to the summit of Loon Peak on the White Mountain Express – the longest gondola ride where you will see stunning views of the mountains. 

Stop by Alpine Adventures in the center of town for more zip-line experiences or book one of the off-road adventures which run year-round.

While North Conway has the Conway Scenic Railroad, Lincoln has the HoBo Railroad which runs right through the center of town. Step back into a simpler time and take a relaxing 80-minute train ride through the valley along the banks of the Pemigewasset River.

Not far is Clark’s Bears, a family friendly park where you can watch trained bears perform, take a ride on a steam-powered train and enjoy the rides and museums. 

Best for: Lincoln is a great base if you are visiting the Western White Mountain Area. Lincoln’s downtown area is lined with plenty of restaurants and local shops but you won’t find the factory outlets and chains that are in North Conway. The quaint North Woodstock area is just a short drive around the corner.

Things to do in Lincoln, NH 

• Hobo Railroad (Center)
• Loon Mountain Resort (Main Street)
• Alpine Adventures (Center)
• Lahout’s Ski Shop (Center)

Where to Stay in Lincoln, NH

• The Mountain Club at Loon – Mountain side guest rooms and suites at the base of Loon Mountain.
• Lincoln Log Cabins – a unique lodging option right off Main Street in Lincoln, NH
• Inn Season Pollard Brook Resort – Recently renovated Mountainside resort with 1-3 bedroom suites and lots of amenities including newly expanded indoor pool, hot tub and arcade room.  
• Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain – A grand resort with amazing amenities, including onsite restaurant, spa and winery. Currently under construction through 2024 to expand.
• Launch Point – a small boutique hotel with 6 rooms which caters to the independent traveler where you check-in on your own.  

North Woodstock – NH

North Woodstock is Lincoln’s quaint little neighbor and for such a small town, it really has a lot to offer.

One of the biggest attractions in North Woodstock is the Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves. This natural wonder has a 1-mile self-guided loop trail along a wooden boardwalk and stairs where you can explore the gorge, glacial caves and see a cascading waterfall. This is where you will find the Lemon Squeezer, a cave with a 16 inch wide wooden gauge that you need to pass through to enter.

Its small downtown is filled popular restaurants like the Woodstock Inn Brewery and Pemi Public House. You will definitely want to pop into Fadden’s General Store and The Bear’s Den.

If you are visiting between late May and October, take a two hour ride on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train while you dine on a 5 course meal while enjoying the scenery of the Pemigewasset River Valley.  

Those visiting during the wintertime can experience walking through colorful Ice Castles and lighted forest. This unique attraction is usually open around January once the weather is sufficiently chilly.

Things to do in North Woodstock, NH

• Woodstock Brewery
• Lost River Gorge
• Polar Caves
• Cafe Lafayette
• Fadden’s General Store

Where to stay in North Woodstock, NH

 Woodstock Inn Brewery – This popular country inn offers several different lodging options on the property, including rooms in the main house and other lodges on the property. The onsite restaurant is fabulous. Stop by for a taste of some great craft beer and stay a while. Brewery Tours run daily at noon.

Franconia, NH

Franconia is home to the northern half of Franconia Notch State Park which was just voted the #1 as the Best State Park by TravelAwaits’ 2023 Best Of Travel Awards. It’s easy to see why with its iconic Flume Gorge, soaring mountain peaks and miles of hiking trails. 

The Flume Gorge is one of the most popular activities on the Western side of the Kancamagus. This natural gorge extends 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty with a roaring 45-foot waterfall. There is a one-way 2-mile self-guided trail you can take which traverses packed gravel, wooden boardwalks and lots of stairs. Reservations are recommended during the peak seasons to reserve your time.  

One of the best ways to take in the beautiful mountain views is to ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway to the 4080-ft summit of the mountain. When you get to the top you can stroll along the scenic paths and up to the observation deck.  On a clear day, you can get stunning views of mountains in four states (New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and New York) and Canada!

At the foot of Cannon Mountain is Echo Lake. In the summer months, you can rent canoes and paddle boats or relax on the beach enjoying the mountain views. 

Things to do in Franconia, NH

• Franconia State Park
• Cannon Mountain Resort & Aerial Tramway
• Echo Lake
• The Flume

Campgrounds

If camping is your vibe, then you’re in luck. There are several campgrounds that are located right along the Kancamagus.

Driving the Kancamagus Highway

Now that you’ve decided on where to stay, let’s talk a little about taking a drive on the Kanc and what you can do along the way.

Before you Start your Drive on the Kancamagus Highway

There are no services along this route, so you will want to make sure you are prepared before you head out. 

Fill your tank before you start: Since there are no gas stations along the highway, be sure to fill up before you begin your drive. You don’t want to run out of gas in the middle of the highway. 

Pack food and drinks:  Once you get going, you won’t find any stores or restaurants along the highway so it’s best to stock up on your favorite road trip snacks and drinks before you begin the drive. Several stops along the way have picnic tables, including Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, and Otter Rocks.

Stop by the Ranger Station or Visitor Center: On the Conway side, you can stop at the Saco Ranger Station which is located on the right once you get on the Kancamagus Highway in Conway.  If you are starting on the Lincoln side, you can stop at the Gateway Visitor Center at (189 Main Street). While you are there you can pick up a handy map which outlines all the stops along the way and use the restrooms.

Purchase a parking day pass for $5.00: You can purchase a parking day pass at the Visitor or Ranger station or at one of the Self Service Pay Stations along the way.

Parking in the White Mountain National Forest is $5 per day. You can get a pass at the Saco Ranger Station in Conway, the Visitor Center in Lincoln, or at one of one self-service kiosks at some stops along the way. Bring CASH and small bills as you won’t be able to make change. Place the tag on your dash so it is visible. Passes are also available online.

Passes are good for all White Mountain National Forest day use sites for the day of purchase.

What are the Best Stops Along the Kancamagus?

While you could simply drive the entire length of the Kanc without stopping, you will definitely want to take some time exploring the diverse attractions scattered along this route.  

The side you start your journey on will most likely depend on where you decided to stay, which is fine since it really doesn’t matter which way you start.  We have driven this scenic byway in both directions and I personally like driving east to west (starting in Conway). 

We will start by leaving from Conway but keep in mind that you can just as easily reverse this itinerary if you are starting in Lincoln.

Cheese Louise 

While not really an official stop…Cheese Louise is certainly worth a pitstop if you’re up for a little comfort food. Try one of their famous grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup or some creamy mac and cheese. They even serve some delicious cocktails!

The Commissary is located on the side of the Kancamagus highway (175 Kacamagus Highway) and is the last place to get food before you traverse the Kanc. Grab a seat or take it to-go to have a picnic at Stop #2 Lower Falls.  After this establishment, there will not be any place to get refreshments until you get to the other side.

Time at stop: (20-30 minutes)

#1: Albany Covered Bridge

The first official stop is the Albany Bridge – one of New Hampshire’s historic covered bridges built in 1858. The bridge is limited to vehicles under 7’9” and the only way to access the Covered Bridge Campground. To get a great shot of the bridge from this angle take the path near the water on the right side. 

Time at stop: (15-20 minutes)

#2: Lower Falls

Lower Falls, is a prime spot for swimming and picnicking and one of the most popular stops on the Kanc. This is a great place to cool off in the summer heat with its natural water slides formed in the rocks along the water. During busy seasons, it can get a bit congested.

Time at stop: (10-15 minutes) Additional time if swimming or picnicking. There are restrooms at this stop.

#3: Rocky Gorge Scenic Area

Rocky Gorge is one of the best stops on the Kancamagus Highway so parking may be limited.

• Take a small footbridge across the Rocky Gorge for scenic views of the Swift River.
• You can walk along the rocks but there is NO swimming as the currents are too strong. 
• There is a trail that goes around Falls Pond if you want to get away from the crowds. 

Time at stop: 15-20 minutes. Longer if you take the trail.

#4: Champney Falls Trailhead

If you are looking to get some hiking in, Champney Falls Trail is an option. 

• This 3.1-mile out-and-back is a moderate-challenging hiking trail that takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete.
• There are several stream crossings (with rocks to hop across) and is sometimes a bit muddy or impassable during the rainy months. 
• Mount Chocorua trail is off of Champney Falls.

Time at stop: 1.5-2 hours if hiking Champney Falls Trail. Longer if hiking to Mount Chocorua.  

#5: Russell-Colbath Historic House

If you are interested in historic houses, stop by Russell-Colbath Historic site. This property has a house built in 1831 with period furnishings, a barn, cemetery and beautiful gardens. 

Time at stop: 15-20 minutes to tour the house and walk the grounds.

#6 Sabbaday Falls 

Sabbaday Falls is about mid-way into the Kanc and one of the most popular stops. It’s easy to understand why as it is just a short walk (0.7-mile round trip) to get to a beautiful multi-level waterfall. 

• Walk across the bridge to see the falls up close.
• In the winter, this walk is magical when long icicles form around the falls. 
• There are picnic tables and restrooms near the parking lot

Time at stop: 20-30 minutes

#7 Scenic Overlooks

Over the next 7 miles, there will be four scenic overlooks where you can stop to enjoy the mountain views. It is definitely worth stopping at each major viewpoint as each one offers a different perspective.  

Time at stop: 10-15 minutes each scenic overlook

Sugar Hill Scenic Vista: This popular viewpoint offers sweeping views of the Swift River Valley and surrounding mountains. If you are driving east to west the parking area comes up pretty quick after a turn and is easy to miss (we did!).  Best for Foliage. 

CL Graham Wangan Overlook: This outlook offers views of the Swift River Watershed and White Mountain peaks in the distance. No restrooms.

After the CL Graham Wangan viewpoint, you will hit the highest point of the Kancamagus Highway at an elevation of 2855 feet.

Pemigewasset Overlook:  This was our favorite overlook as it had a nice observation gazebo and some of the prettiest views of the Osceola Mountains. Restrooms are at this stop.

In between Pemigewasset and Hancock overlooks there is another unmarked outlook you can stop at along the side of the road. 

Hancock Overlook: This scenic outlook has a nice viewing platform with beautiful views, especially in the fall. There is a display board with information on the history of hiking in the White Mountains.

There are restrooms at this site. The Hancock Notch Trail begins at the end of the parking lot. Parking here was a little smaller than the other outlooks. 

#8 Otter Rocks

Otter Rocks is another popular swimming hole on the Lincoln side of the Kanc.  There are picnic tables overlooking cascades and a small pool.

Time at stop: 10-15 minutes

#9 Lincoln Woods Trail / Franconia Falls

The Lincoln Woods trail is the last stop. This is where you will find the Ranger Station with a spacious parking lot at the trailhead and bathroom facilities. A highlight of this spot is the scenic suspension bridge that spans the Pemigewasset River. Once you cross the bridge, you’ll end up on an easy, out-and-back walking trail along the river.  For a longer hike, try the Lincoln Woods trail (9.8 mile round trip) or Franconia Falls trail (6.8 mile round trip). 

Time at stop: 15-20 minutes to walk across the suspension bridge.

Tips for Driving the Kancamagus in the White Mountains Highway

• Don’t depend on your cellphone: Be aware that cell service along the highway is very unreliable and most likely non-existent – we had NO SERVICE pretty much the entire time while driving the Kanc. Be sure to grab a map from the visitor center or download one to your phone before you head out so you don’t miss any interesting viewpoints. 

• Follow the Rules: If there are No Swimming signs – Don’t Swim. Signs are there for a reason and the river can be very dangerous when the current is strong and you can get swept away. Be sure to check river conditions before swimming or tubing.
• Be a considerate and safe photographer:  Don’t put yourself or others in danger trying to get that perfect Instagram photo standing in the middle of the road or hanging over a cliff. Don’t monopolize the scenic space and give others a chance to get their photos.    
• Keep Dogs on a leash. Dogs are welcome but they need to be kept on a leash. 

The Bottom Line

So which side of the Kancamagus should you stay on? Both if you can!

You really can’t go wrong no matter which side you stay on. Both sides offer breathtaking landscapes, plenty of nature trails, ski resorts and an array of enticing activities for every season.

While some may think North Conway is touristy because of its huge outlet shopping area, it is very easy to get away from the hustle and bustle where you can enjoy the beauty of the White Mountains. When we visit, we generally stay on the eastern side just past North Conway Village or in Barltlett or Jackson where it is a bit quieter but an easy ride to all the quaint shops and restaurants. There are great hiking trails, ski resorts and popular attractions in that area, including Diana’s Baths, Echo Lake and Cathedral Ledge.

When we go, we do try to spend time on both sides, either with a day trip or by spending a night or two on each side. The Lincoln side has the Franconia State Park which puts it in excellent proximity to plenty of hikes and waterfalls. You also have several adventure parks and attractions like the Flume Gorge and Polar Caves.

If you can spare the time, I highly recommend exploring both sides. If your time is limited, pick the activities and attractions you want to explore and stay in the most convenient area to limit travel time. Once you visit and experience this amazing region, you will surely want to come back again and again!

Visiting in autumn where you can experience the fall foliage is amazing but be prepared for the crowds. Summer can be busy as well but you won’t experience the backups on the Kancamagus Highway like you may during peak foliage season. Winter attracts lots of skiers and Springtime is typically the least crowded.

Visiting the White Mountains and driving the Kancamagus Highway is a must for your bucket list.

Have you been to the White Mountains? Which side of the Kancamagus do you love best?

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