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 Kancamagus Highway is one of New Hampshire’s most scenic drives, winding 34.5 miles through the White Mountain National Forest between Lincoln and Conway.
Known locally as “The Kanc,” this beautiful mountain highway is famous for its fall foliage, 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
Over the years, I’ve explored this iconic scenic byway countless times and driven it in both directions. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best stops on the Kancamagus Highway, including what to see at each one, how much time to allow, and practical tips to help you make the most of your drive.
Be sure to Bookmark this resource so you can easily find it when you are planning your White Mountain visit!
Planning to stay overnight? Not sure whether you should stay on the Lincoln or North Conway side of the Kancamagus Highway? See my guide to which side of the Kancamagus should you stay on? for where to stay and things to do in Lincoln, North Conway, Bartlett, Jackson, and other nearby towns.
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 (pronounced “Kank-ah-mah-gus”) is a 34.5-mile portion of NH Route 112 that runs between Conway, NH, on the east and Lincoln, NH, on the west, passing through the White Mountain National Forest. The route is a designated National Scenic Byway.
Which side of the Kancamagus Highway should you start on?
The side you start your journey on will most likely depend on where you stay or the direction you are traveling from. You can start from either side. We have driven this scenic byway in both directions and I personally like driving east to west (starting in Conway).
How long does it take to drive the Kancamagus Highway?
While you could simply drive the entire length of the Kanc without stopping, you will definitely want to take some time exploring the attractions along this route.
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.
To avoid the crowds and enjoy the viewpoints during peak times, be sure to start your day early and visit during mid-week, if possible.
When is the best time to drive the Kancamagus Highway?
This scenic-by-way offers 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. Be aware that some of the scenic outlooks are not plowed out or blocked.
Springtime is the least crowded as it is “mud” season so expect to find some stops closed along the way. It is best to visit restrooms before starting during non-peak times. Be aware that snow may last into mid-late spring.
If visiting during peak foliage time, you should plan ahead to get the best accommodations. During this busy time, accommodations can book up months in advance and traffic along the Kanc can be bumper to bumper the entire route with limited or no parking at the viewpoints.
During peak foliage season, this drive can take 3 or more hours to get from one end to the other and parking at stops is challenging. This certainly would not be the relaxing and enjoyable experience you anticipated.
Before you Start your Drive on the Kancamagus Highway
A little preparation goes a long way when driving the Kancamagus Highway. Remember – This scenic 34.5-mile stretch through the White Mountain National Forest has no gas stations, restaurants, or stores along the way, and cell service is unreliable to non-existent.
Here are a few things you should do before you hit the road.
Fill your tank before you start
You won’t find any gas stations on this route so make sure you have plenty of gas to complete the drive and explore the scenic stops along the way – especially during peak times when you may get stuck in traffic.
Pack Food and Drinks
Stock up on your favorite road trip snacks, water, and anything else you’ll need before heading out since there are no restaurants or convenience stores along this route.
Several stops along the highway have picnic tables, including Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, and Otter Rocks, where you can enjoy a packed lunch or snack with a view.
Stop by the Ranger Station or Visitor Center
Consider stopping at one of the visitor centers to pick up a map outlining the major scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and other stops along the highway and use the restrooms.
- From Conway: The Saco Ranger Station is located on the right as you enter the Kancamagus Highway from Conway.
- From Lincoln: Stop at the Gateway Visitor Center at 189 Main Street in Lincoln.
Purchase a White Mountain National Forest Parking Pass
A $5 daily parking pass is required to park at recreation sites along the Kancamagus Highway and other parts of the White Mountain National Forest. The pass is valid for the day of purchase and should be displayed on your dashboard.
You can purchase a pass at:
- The Saco Ranger Station in Conway.
- The Gateway Visitor Center in Lincoln.
- Self-service parking kiosks at select recreation areas along the highway.
- Online through the U.S. Forest Service .
If purchasing at a self-service kiosk, bring cash and small bills, as change may not be available.
Plan for Emergencies
With no services along the Kancamagus Highway, it’s important to be prepared for unexpected car trouble. I recommend keeping a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle, including a portable battery jump starter and tire inflator.
Trust me on this one! I once got a flat tire at the Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook, with no cell service (of course!). Luckily, another visitor had a tire inflator and helped me pump up the tire enough to make it back to a gas station.
Don’t Rely on Cell Service
Cell service is unreliable throughout much of the Kancamagus Highway, with little to no coverage for much of the drive through the White Mountain National Forest.
Download your maps and directions ahead of time, and don’t rely on your phone for navigation, roadside assistance, or emergency communication.
Best Stops Along the Kancamagus?
Planning your drive? The stops below are listed in order from Conway to Lincoln, making it easy to follow the route as you drive the Kancamagus Highway. 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 Kancamagus 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
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 it’s 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’re interested in historic houses, stop by the 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 all viewpoints 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 Kancamagus Pass, the highest point of the Kancamagus Highway at an elevation of 2855 feet.
Pemigewasset Overlook
Pemigewasset Overlook was our favorite overlook stop 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
The Hancock Overlook 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
Here are a few tips when taking a drive on the Kancamagus Highway and while in the White Mountains:
Don’t depend on your cell phone: 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.
Where to Stay Near the Kancamagus Highway
If you’re spending more than a day exploring the White Mountains, choosing the right home base can make a big difference. See my guide Which side of the Kancamagus Should You Stay On? for recommendations on accommodations and things to do in Lincoln, North Conway, Bartlett, Jackson, and other nearby towns.
Whether you’re visiting during peak fall foliage or planning a summer road trip, 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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