7 Scenic Drives in New Hampshire That Are Downright Magical in the Fall

When the apple cider flows like wine (don’t worry, it’s still juice) and the leaves change like fall leaves, it’s just about the best time to take some fall foliage drives in New Hampshire. With some of the best fall foliage views of any place in New England, it’s easy to see why the roads here are packed with traffic every year when autumn comes around. But, despite a little bit of traffic, we highly recommend hopping in the car for one of these scenic drives in New Hampshire to enjoy nature’s best show when autumn colors are at their peak.

1. The Sawyer Highway

If you're looking for a new story to tell after recounting your trip along "the Kanc" one too many times, you'll want to take this road. The Sawyer Highway is really Route 118, and it runs from Canaan toward Woodstock. Take the time to pull over and enjoy the fall scenery in New Hampshire, or simply glide on through.

2. The Kancamagus Highway

Yes, yes. We know. This is perhaps the most popular drive during the fall in New Hampshire, but we assure you it's for good reason. Also known as Route 112, the Kancamagus Highway winds through the White Mountain National Forest for unbelievable views of the state's foliage.

3. Route 153

From Wakefield to Conway, Route 153 will take you through small towns and towering trees. The nearly 40-mile trip should take about an hour and 20 minutes as you pass ponds and lakes along the eastern border of the state.

4. The Connecticut River Byway

Head to the western border of New Hampshire to enjoy this beautiful drive along the Connecticut River Byway. Not only is this part of the state stunning in terms of foliage, but it also features impressive mountain views that go all the way to eastern Vermont. And, of course, the Connecticut River is a beauty any time of year.

5. Route 4A

Why take I-89, which runs parallel, when you can take this beautiful route instead? The 24-mile route between Lebanon and Andover is somehow shorter in mileage than the interstate but takes about a few minutes longer. However, the 45-minute drive is totally worth those views on this lesser-known of many New Hampshire scenic drives.

6. Route 124

New Hampshire is full of various regions and areas, all unique but equally beautiful. The Monadnock Valley, where this drive is located, is just one example. The drive through the mountains from Marlborough to Jaffrey is just about 20 miles, but the route will stun you.

7. Mount Washington Auto Road

And, of course, who can forget the incredible drive up Mount Washington? This one will cost you an entrance fee of around $36, but the famous Mount Washington Auto Road has views that you just can't get anywhere else. Make your way through the 7.6-mile route for incredible views down the mountain and then enjoy views from the summit.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own New Hampshire trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.