If you are researching things to do in the White Mountains, you will quickly see why this region tops so many New England getaway lists. Northern New Hampshire draws visitors in with crisp alpine air, rugged ridgelines, and scenic roads perfect for a long weekend drive. Granite summits rise above dense forests, waterfalls carve through narrow gorges, and nearby towns reflect the timeless character of the area without the congestion of larger resort destinations. Very quickly, it becomes clear that this area offers more than just a beautiful backdrop in any season.
Outdoor adventure defines this corner of New England. White Mountains hiking ranges from gentle woodland paths to summit climbs with sweeping views, especially in iconic spots like Franconia Notch State Park. In winter, the terrain transforms into a playground for skiing and snowboarding at nearby mountains, while fall brings foliage drives that rank among the most scenic in the country. No matter the season, there is no shortage of things to do in the White Mountains.
After a full day exploring what to do in the White Mountains, return to the comfort of a Bed and Breakfast in New Hampshire that elevates the entire experience. We offer beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites along with private vacation cottages, ideal for romantic escapes or extended stays. Guests wake to a gourmet breakfast crafted with care and enjoy access to thoughtful amenities throughout the property. Located close to many of the most sought-after White Mountains attractions, our refined retreat is the perfect spot for your mountain getaway. Book your stay today!
Things to do in the White Mountains
The White Mountains deserve a spot on your bucket list, and not just because the photos look good on social media. This is a four-season destination where every month brings a new reason to visit, from wildflower-covered trails in spring to foliage that lights up entire valleys in autumn. Within a single day, you can move from high elevation overlooks to river level walking paths, then wrap up the afternoon exploring a historic town with local shops and galleries. When you start mapping out the ultimate things to do in the White Mountains, you quickly see why people return year after year: there is always another trail to hike, another view to earn, another road to follow.
- No list of things to do in the White Mountains is complete without Franconia Notch State Park. Artists Bluff is a personal favorite for a moderate hike with a serious payoff, especially at sunrise. Echo Lake offers a more relaxed option if you want water views without a long climb. This park captures everything people imagine when they picture the White Mountains.
- Walk through a dramatic natural chasm of the Flume Gorge, where towering granite walls rise high above a wooden boardwalk. The Flume is one of the most striking White Mountains attractions, and it is especially impressive after a good rain when the waterfalls are rushing. Arrive early in peak season for a quieter experience.
- Experience classic White Mountains hiking. Beyond the notch, hiking in the White Mountains ranges from gentle forest paths to challenging routes like the Franconia Ridge Loop. If you are up for a bigger adventure, tackling a four-thousand-footer is a rite of passage here. Even a shorter summit hike gives you panoramic views that rival anything in New England.
- For a summit experience without the physical climb, the Mt. Washington Cog Railway is a must. The journey up Mount Washington feels like stepping into history, and the views from the top stretch across multiple states on a clear day. Among all the things to do in the White Mountains, this one appeals to every generation.
- If you prefer to control the wheel, drive yourself to the summit on the Mount Washington Auto Road. The road is steep and dramatic, and reaching the top under your own power adds a sense of accomplishment. Check weather conditions before you go, as conditions can shift quickly at higher elevations.
- Take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway. Also known as Highway 112, it’s one of the most scenic routes in the Northeast. This drive winds through mountain passes, alongside rivers, and past trailheads and overlooks worth stopping for. In the fall, it becomes one of the most photographed stretches in New Hampshire. Even outside foliage season, it remains one of the top things to do in the White Mountains.
- Nothing beats chasing waterfalls in New Hampshire. Trails like Falling Waters lead to a series of cascades that make the climb more entertaining. Waterfall hikes are some of the most photogenic things to do in the White Mountains, especially in late spring and early summer when snowmelt keeps the streams lively.
- When snow blankets the peaks, the region transforms into a winter playground. Cannon Mountain and other nearby resorts offer terrain for all skill levels of skier and snowboarder. If you are not into downhill skiing, cross-country trails and snowshoe routes provide a quieter way to explore.
- For those who want a faster way to cover ground, there are extensive trail networks for mountain biking and ATV riding in warmer months and snowmobiling in winter. These high-energy activities add another layer to the many things to do in the White Mountains, giving you access to remote stretches of forest and ridgeline.
- Between outdoor adventures, spend time in nearby mountain towns browsing local shops, sampling craft beverages, and photographing historic covered bridges in New Hampshire. These cultural stops round out the experience and highlight why the list of things to do in the White Mountains goes well beyond the trails.
Stay at the Best Bed and Breakfast in New Hampshire
At the end of a day packed with things to do in the White Mountains, you’ll want to stay somewhere restful, where you can relax and recharge for the next day’s adventures. Our Bed and Breakfast in New Hampshire takes the guesswork out of planning adventures by coordinating select experiences with respected local guides and outfitters. Whether you want a privately guided hike through Franconia Notch State Park, a helicopter tour over the ridgelines, or a rock climbing excursion tailored to your skill level, the arrangements are handled for you. After exploring the many things to do in the White Mountains, you return to a clean, comfortable retreat where everything is ready for you.
Hospitality here goes well beyond a place to sleep. Our on-site dinner restaurant offers a refined dining experience that rivals top White Mountains attractions in its own right, making it easy to savor an exceptional meal without driving anywhere. Our Bed and Breakfast in New Hampshire is the perfect home base for every season, with attentive service throughout your stay. Book your getaway today and prepare to explore all day, unwind each night!
