If you’re looking for the best fall foliage in New England this year, you need to head to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. But you find yourself wondering: When is peak foliage in New Hampshire? The best time to view the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows is late September to early October. Visit during those months, and not only will you find breathtaking landscapes, but endless things to do in the White Mountains.
Peak foliage in this area is short-lived, so you’ll want to organize your fall getaway in the White Mountains as soon as possible! Scenic drives, local hikes, aerial tramway and gondola rides, and local festivals are just a few ways to enjoy the White Mountains in the fall. Visitors come to this unique area to experience fall nature at its finest, and you truly don’t have to go far to enjoy it. You’ll watch the beauty of the season unfold from the porch of our New Hampshire Inn. But if you’re looking for more, places like Franconia Notch State Park, Mount Washington, and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway are just minutes from our front door.
After you explore the White Mountains during peak fall foliage in New Hampshire, elevate your getaway by staying at one of the Best New Hampshire Inns in the area. Our inn, located near Franconia State Park, features private guest rooms and cottages, a homemade breakfast, and fine dining at our top-rated restaurant. Looking for a place to stay in the fall in New Hampshire? Aim for the first week in October, then start planning your color-packed itinerary. Book your fall getaway today!
When is Peak Foliage in New Hampshire?
If you’re looking for when to visit for peak foliage in New Hampshire, your best bet is to aim for early October. While hints of fall colors in the White Mountains start in early September, particularly at higher elevations, we reach peak foliage in New Hampshire sometime in early to mid-October. New Hampshire’s Peak Foliage Map is a great place to start when planning your vacation.
Really, you’d be hard-pressed to do fall in New Hampshire wrong, so long as you get here before the last leaves drop off the trees and the long winter sets in. AS a general rule, the higher in latitude and the higher in elevation you are, the earlier the peak foliage will show up. You don’t have to go far to enjoy the best fall foliage in New Hampshire. We’d helped you start a list with our favorite fall recommendations below.
- Hike to Sabbaday Falls or visit another waterfall in New Hampshire for breathtaking views of the cascading water amongst the blazing fall colors.
- Visit nearby Franconia State Park and hike the Artists Bluff Trail or Flume Gorge to get an up-close and personal with the fall foliage in New Hampshire.
- Get the bird’s eye view of the stunning fall leaves. Take a ride on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway or Loon Mountain’s Gondola Skyride during peak foliage. Grab a drink at the top and admire the view! You’ll instantly see why these activities are among the best things to do in the White Mountains in the fall.
- Drive the famous scenic Kancamagus Highway to get an immersive prime foliage experience. This 34.5-mile drive has many overlooks and vistas along the way to its endpoint in Conway. Otter Rocks day use area and Hancock Overlook are just a couple of sights to see on New England’s only National Forest Scenic Byway.
- There are a few ways to get to the Mount Washington Summit. In the fall, ride the Cog Railway or drive the Auto Road to the top of Mount Washington and savor the changing colors of the fall foliage in New Hampshire.
- Take a tour of New Hampshire Covered Bridges to see the peak foliage in the fall. This timeless architecture creates the quintessential New England autumn landscape.
- If you book earlier in the season, you can experience fall in New Hampshire by attending the exciting New Hampshire Highland Games and Festival. Enjoy the changing fall colors while watching heavy athletic competitions, admiring highland cows, and listening to the Scottish bagpipers.
- Take a break while exploring the White Mountains and stop at Alpine Garden Winery. This establishment serves beer, wine, and cider in their cozy taproom or on their quiet patio. This is a fantastic way to take in the picturesque peak foliage in New Hampshire.
Stay at One of the Best New Hampshire Inns This Fall
After enjoying a full fall day in New Hampshire, it’s essential to relax and breathe in the refreshing mountain air at one of the best New Hampshire Inns. Our luxurious inn features nine guest rooms in the main house and five additional cottage rooms on the property. Each room features original works of art, an integral part of our New Hampshire Inns welcoming atmosphere. Some suites are equipped with double whirlpool tubs, private decks, and mountain or garden views- the best place to see the peak foliage.
Whether you are looking for a family vacation or a couples’ romantic retreat, our inn has what you’re looking for. Each morning begins with a delicious homemade breakfast, from omelets to stuffed French toast to blueberry pancakes. It’s everything you need to begin your day before heading outdoors to see the stunning fall foliage in New Hampshire. Once you’ve discovered all that the White Mountain area has to offer, unwind with a drink in our in-house tavern and then delight in a gourmet dinner, provided in our dining room.
A highlight of your stay at one of the most welcoming New Hampshire Inns, besides the lavish amenities and friendly hospitality, is our perfect location for soaking in the beautiful colors of fall. When is peak foliage in New Hampshire? Visit us in early October, and you’ll find out! Join us to enjoy an exceptional fall experience at one of the Best New Hampshire Inns. Book your room today!
