These 7 Hiking Trails In New Hampshire Lead To The Best Fall Foliage Views In The State

It's that time of year again and we're not complaining. Sure, we miss the beach days. But trading them in for the most incredible views of fall foliage in New England is an okay trade. There's nothing like the changing leaves in New Hampshire and we're grateful to be able to explore the outdoors to see them in-person. If you're also on the move, hoping to take in as much of this season as you can we've got some great hikes for you.

1. South Pawtuckaway Mountain, Merrimack Valley

Head to Pawtuckaway State Park to access this relatively short hike of about 2.3-miles. The elevation gain is only about 450-feet making this one slightly simpler than some of the others on this list. You'll head to Tower Road on the Tower Trail Connector, then on to Mountain Trail, South Ridge Trail, South Ridge Connector and back to Tower Road.

2. Pack Monadnock, Monadnock Region

This nearly 4-mile loop will take you to a 1,150-foot elevation gain and allow you to take two different trails. The Wapack Trail and Marion Davis Trail are both in Miller State Park, the oldest in the state. Enjoy the views and some of the fun wildlife you'll see along the way.

3. North Percy Peak Trail, Great North Woods

While this one is a bit challenging, the views are incredible. The route is about 4.5-miles round trip and leads to views over the Nash Stream Forest. The elevation is 2,200 so be prepared for a hike of about 3-hours.

4. Odiorne State Park, Seacoast Region

This one might be a surprise inclusion on this list, but you don't necessarily need huge peaks to offer great fall foliage views. Right along the water you'll find a large network of trails the lead visitors through forest, ponds and salt marshes.

5. Bemis Brook Trail to Arethusa Falls, White Mountains

This 2.6-mile round trip hike leads right to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Arethusa Falls is about 140-feet tall and offers great views any time of year. But, of course, we can't help but love it the most in the fall.

6. Belknap Range, Lakes Region

There's a lot to see and do here so get ready! Encompassing Gunstock, Belknap and Piper Mountains, this nearly 5-mile loop will let you get in 3 different New Hampshire peaks. It'll take about 3 hours, but you'll get to reach about 1,850-feet.

7. Mount Cube Trail, Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee Region

This 5-mile route in the Southern White Mountains overlooks the Connecticut River Valley for some of the best views in the state this time of year. This is another hike that will take about 3 hours. Start on Baker Road just off NH Rt. 25 A to take the Mount Cube section of the Cross-Rivendell Trail and you'll be on your way!

What are your go-to spots for leaf-peeping? If you're willing to share them, we'd love to check 'em out!

If you're looking for all sorts of ways to enjoy fall we've got some options for you. Here are 8 of the most beautiful fall destinations in New Hampshire.