If you’ve driven the highways and byways of New Hampshire, chances are you’ve passed through one of the state’s famous “notches.” What’s a notch? It’s what we call mountain passes here. These notches are almost always scenic due to their very nature. This one scenic drive through Franconia Notch State Park is actually an interstate highway, but it sure doesn’t feel like it.

Franconia Notch Parkway is a section of Interstate 93/U.S. Route 3 that runs through Franconia Notch State Park, the pass between Franconia Ridge and Cannon Mountain.
Praveen P.N/Moment via Getty Images
The parkway was built through the notch as a "Super Two" (one lane in each direction) due to environmental impacts. This required a special act of Congress for approval.
suhas chowdary/500px/500px via Getty Images
From higher vantage points, the parkway can be seen winding its way through the notch.
Daniel Hanscom/iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
The parkway provides easy access to the spectacular natural features of Franconia Notch State Park, including The Flume.
littleny/iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

Related Stories

7 Places In New Hampshire Way Out In The Boonies But So Worth The Drive

7 Places In New Hampshire Way Out In The Boonies But So Worth The Drive

 This Scenic 43-Mile Drive Just May Be The Most Underrated Adventure In New Hampshire

This Scenic 43-Mile Drive Just May Be The Most Underrated Adventure In New Hampshire

 Hike To A Beautiful View Then Dine At A Small-Town Diner On This Delightful Adventure In New Hampshire

Hike To A Beautiful View Then Dine At A Small-Town Diner On This Delightful Adventure In New Hampshire
A short walk from a parking area off the parkway leads to the glacial pothole known as The Basin.
Holcy/iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
One of the most dominant features seen on the drive along the parkway is the great cliff on the east side of Cannon Mountain.
Ken MacGray/Flickr
For hikers, the parkway also provides access to the many trailheads within the park.
Cavan Images/Cavan via Getty Images
Making stops along the way is the best way to fully experience the drive, but great scenery awaits even if you never leave the car.
Amy Beres/iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

No matter what corner of New Hampshire you look in, more scenic drives can be found, and here are seven of them to put on your bucket list. Happy motoring!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore New Hampshire

Featured Addresses
Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge, Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251, USA