The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In New Hampshire That Showcases Small Towns, Mountains, And Rivers

Exploring New Hampshire is one of my favorite things to do, both on foot and in the car. There's just so much to see and experience. Most people who visit here probably stick to the major highways to get to their destination and may miss a lot in doing so. To really get a feel for the Granite State you need to get on to the secondary highways and back country roads. One scenic drive in New Hampshire encompasses much of what makes New Hampshire great, and it's a trip you should put on your to-do list.

New Hampshire Route 16 begins its 48.6-mile journey in Haverhill, just east of the Connecticut River. It passes Black Mountain State Forest, home to the scenic Black Mountain.

The road continues northeast through the village of Benton. This tiny hamlet was home to a number of sawmills in the 19th century.

After passing through Easton, the highway makes its way toward Franconia, where views of the White Mountains begin to open up.

In Bethlehem, Route 116 visits the Rocks Estate. This former private estate is now owned by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.

Shortly beyond the Rocks Estate, the highway passes through scenic Littleton, whose quaint downtown lies along the Ammonoosuc River.

In Whitefield, Route 116 crosses the Johns River. The river takes rise at Cherry Pond and also drains many other small ponds on its 14-mile journey to the Connecticut River.

Route 116's northern terminus is at U.S. Route 2 in the town of Jefferson, home to Cherry Mountain, a prominent ridge that can be seen from many surrounding locations.

This excursion is just one scenic drive in New Hampshire but there are plenty more road trips to take. Check out these 10 weekend drives, explore the state on a budget, cruise the coast, or hit the road to discover some of the state's hidden wonders. Drive safe out there!