New Hampshire foliage is some of the most spectacular in the country. People flock here from all over to enjoy the all-too-brief display of color before winter announces its arrival. I find one problem is that it can be hard to enjoy your favorite foliage viewing spots as they can become crowded. Personally, I prefer the quieter spots, and here's one where you can enjoy nature's display in relative solitude.
Holt's Ledge is a cliff located along a high ridge in Lyme. Its lofty height affords an excellent 180-degree vista to the east.
With such a wide angle of view, Holt's Ledge is a prime viewing spot for spectacular foliage color in the valley below.
The route to Holt's Ledge from Dorchester Road follows a segment of the Appalachian Trail. Now you can tell your friends you walked part of the way from Maine to Georgia!
A hike of 1.7 miles one-way with 1,250 feet of elevation gain leads to Holt's Ledge. An interesting 0.3-mile side trip can also be made to Trapper John Shelter.
On a crisp, cool autumn day, take the time to enjoy the distant views and the vibrant color from Holt's Ledge.
The top of the ledge is fenced off to provide protection for the endangered peregrine falcons that nest within the nooks of the cliffs.
Fortunately, one doesn't have to go far to experience great New Hampshire foliage. For more information on hiking to Holt's Ledge, consult the AMC White Mountain Guide or visit the Dartmouth Outing Club.
Fall in New Hampshire is the best time to be outside but if you are unable to explore on foot, head out on a scenic foliage drive or book a ticket for a scenic railroad instead. The weather around these parts is also getting cooler, so stay warm and enjoy the fall color!
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