New Hampshire Road Trip Itinerary

14 Jun 2026Updated last time

New Hampshire Scenic Drive Overview

The New Hampshire Scenic Drive is an extraordinary road trip that takes you through the heart of New Hampshire’s natural beauty and charming towns. Begin your adventure at the White Mountain National Forest, where you can immerse yourself in the lush, mountainous terrain while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. Next, venture to Franconia Notch State Park, home to the breathtaking Flume Gorge and historic Cannon Mountain, offering stunning vistas and excellent hiking opportunities.

Your journey continues to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Here, you can challenge yourself with invigorating hikes or take a ride on the historic cog railway for panoramic views that are truly unparalleled. As you drive along the renowned Kancamagus Highway, soak in the majestic views of the White Mountains and enjoy one of the most scenic drives in the United States, especially stunning during the fall foliage season.

Finally, visit the charming town of Hanover, home to the prestigious Dartmouth College. Hanover blends the vibrancy of college-town life with a quaint, small-town feel, offering cultural and educational experiences, delightful local shops, and outdoor activities along the picturesque Connecticut River. This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of New Hampshire’s natural splendor, history, and local charm.


Recommended Activities

  • 1

    White Mountain National Forest

    This forest offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and scenic drives through beautiful mountainous landscapes. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • 2

    Franconia Notch State Park

    Home to the stunning Flume Gorge and the iconic Cannon Mountain, this state park offers breathtaking scenery and excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
  • 3

    Mount Washington

    As the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, Mount Washington offers challenging hikes, a historic cog railway, and some of the most dramatic panoramic views in New England.
  • 4

    Kancamagus Highway

    Renowned as one of the most scenic drives in the United States, the Kancamagus Highway offers stunning views of the White Mountains, beautiful fall foliage, and access to numerous hiking trails and picnic areas.
  • Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover combines a charming small-town atmosphere with cultural and educational opportunities. Explore the historic campus, local shops, and enjoy outdoor activities along the Connecticut River.

Restaurants

  • Picture for The Common Man

    The Common Man

    10 Pollard Rd, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States
    Located in Lincoln, this cozy restaurant offers hearty New England fare in a rustic setting, perfect for a comforting meal after a day of exploring.
    4.6
    $$$$
  • Picture for The Woodstock Inn Brewery

    The Woodstock Inn Brewery

    135 Main St, North Woodstock, NH 03262, United States
    Located in North Woodstock, this unique brewery and restaurant is known for its handcrafted beers and creative pub food, all set in a charming inn atmosphere.
    4.4
  • Picture for Polly's Pancake Parlor

    Polly's Pancake Parlor

    672 Sugar Hill Rd, Sugar Hill, NH 03586, United States
    Situated in Sugar Hill, this iconic spot is known for its delicious pancakes made from scratch, served in a quaint and historic setting.
    4.7
    $$$$
  • Picture for Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

    Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

    3 Crossing At Riverplace Dr, North Woodstock, NH 03262, USA
    In North Woodstock, enjoy a gourmet meal aboard a restored vintage train while taking in the scenic views of the Pemigewasset River Valley.
    4.4
  • Picture for Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co.

    Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co.

    3378 White Mountain Hwy, North Conway, NH 03860, ארצות הברית
    Located in North Conway, this restaurant and brewery offers smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the White Mountains.

Hotels

  • Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods, NH

    310 Mount Washington Hotel Rd, Bretton Woods, NH 03575, United States

    Located in Bretton Woods, this historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of Mount Washington and a range of outdoor activities.
  • The Wentworth

    1 Carter Notch Rd, Jackson, NH 03846, ארצות הברית

    Situated in Jackson, this elegant inn features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, fine dining, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the White Mountains.
  • The Manor on Golden Pond

    31 Manor Dr, Holderness, NH 03245, United States

    Located in Holderness, this luxurious country inn offers charming rooms, gourmet dining, and stunning views of Squam Lake, perfect for a romantic getaway.
  • Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa

    101 Mountain View Rd, Whitefield, NH 03598, ארצות הברית

    Situated in Whitefield, this grand hotel offers historic charm, modern amenities, and spectacular views of the White Mountains, along with a range of outdoor activities.
  • The Wentworth by the Sea

    588 Wentworth Rd, New Castle, NH 03854, United States

    Located in New Castle, this historic grand hotel offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, providing a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation.

Local Events & Happenings

  • Picture for 2026 Dirt Duels at The Flat Track at NHMS

    2026 Dirt Duels at The Flat Track at NHMS

    The Flat Track at NHMS in Loudon (49.48 mi)21 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at The Flat Track at NHMS in Loudon.
  • Picture for 2026 Doubleheader Saturday

    2026 Doubleheader Saturday

    New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon (49.48 mi)22 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
  • Picture for Luxury Suite: Double Header Saturday

    Luxury Suite: Double Header Saturday

    New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon (49.48 mi)22 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
  • Picture for NASCAR N4/Trackside Armbands

    NASCAR N4/Trackside Armbands

    New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon (49.48 mi)23 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
  • Picture for Luxury Suite: NASCAR Cup Series

    Luxury Suite: NASCAR Cup Series

    New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon (49.48 mi)23 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
  • Picture for NASCAR Infield Armbands

    NASCAR Infield Armbands

    New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon (49.48 mi)23 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.
  • Picture for 2026 NHMS Ticket Deposit

    2026 NHMS Ticket Deposit

    New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon (49.48 mi)23 Aug 2026
    The event will take place at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon.

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Best scenic drives that AREN'T the Kanc?

    /r/newhampshire

    r/newhampshire: For Granite Staters and all things <strong>New</strong> <strong>Hampshire</strong>