Kancamagus Highway is the scenic eastern strip of the New Hampshire Route 112 and is popular for long drives. This road strip stretches through the White Mountain National Forest for 32 miles (51 kilometers), along the banks of the river Swift. The path is flanked by tall coniferous trees with the river flowing softly on one side and bluish mountains yonder. In spring, the trees wear a fresh look, but during autumn the landscape breaks into myriad shades of yellow, orange, red and brown, bathing the entire region in breathtaking natural beauty. The river bed contains plenty of rocks and pure white sand and one can see numerous waterfalls and bridges while driving through this path. September to November is the best time to hike, cycle or bike through the road.
Echo Lake State Park is a popular spot for family recreation. It features a scenic trail surrounding the lake, as well as hiking and rock climbing amenities to White Horse and Cathedral ledges. The view from the top of the Cathedral ledge overlooking the Saco River Valley is mind-blowing. Some of the popular activities in this park include fishing, hiking, swimming and boating. It is a favorite outdoor recreation destination among locals and tourists a like.A year-round sanctuary, Echo Lake State Park invites all to discover the magic of the great outdoors.
Cranmore Mountain Resort is a ski area in winter and an adventure park in summer. This resort was founded by a local businessman named Harvey Gibson in the year 1937. There are over 200 acres (80 hectares) of terrain and has 54 trails serviced by 9 lifts across different levels of ability. This resort operates as an adventure park in the summer months. Activities like zip lines, summer tubing, bungy trampoline and hiking are carried here during that time of the year. Over the year, this resort has undergone a lot of refurbishment and improvements. It is a popular recreational ground for locals as well as tourists in North Conway.
Embark on a historic tour on the Conway Scenic Railroad to get acquainted with the unique culture and enchanting natural beauty of North Conway. This heritage railway operates from the North Conway station between two historic routes, one terminating at Conway, and the other at Fabyan. The main terminal, the North Conway station, is located in the historic downtown area and is housed in an awe-inspiring building that is a part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Take a challenging hike or drive to the top of Cathedral Ledge in New Hampshire. This attraction is set at a height of 700 feet (213 meters). Overlooking the White Mountains and Saco River Valley, the top boasts of spectacular views of the Echo Lake and the verdant woodlands. This attraction is a popular picnic spot among families. Here you can even indulge in rock climbing activities along the White Horse ledge. Cathedral Ledge is also the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Diana's Baths is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. Set within the White Mountain National Forest, Diana's Baths features several cascading falls. In the 1800s, this historic site was home to a sawmill that was previously managed by the Lucy family. A popular draw in the summer, this oasis even features stunning rocks and ledges. The diversity in its landscape attracts kids as well as adults to this place all year round. Visitors can get away from the bustling city and indulge in outdoor activities like hiking and swimming.
Glen Ellis Falls in New Hampshire can be reached through a fairly easy hike from the trailhead off Route 16. Helpful signs along the trail leads you to this delightful gusher that cascades down rugged cliffs in multiple dramatic drops. There is also a lookout point near the falls that offers spectacular vistas of the amber-hued foliage, especially during the autumn season. On summer days, reaching the waterfalls after hike is highly rewarding, owing to the crystal-clear waters and cool air.
Nestled amid the picturesque White Mountains, Franconia Falls beckon outdoor enthusiasts over to bask in the beauty of their natural surroundings. Featuring rocky slabs through which water cascades down to meet a pristine pool, the falls and their location render them a great option for those looking to unwind amid serene and scenic locales. The falls are especially known for their waterslides.
Spread over 60.3 acres (24.4 hectares), Mount Washington State Park is home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeast. Amenities at this park include a cafeteria, a restaurant and a gift shop. Visitors to this park can also have a look at The Mount Washington Observatory and Extreme Washington Museum as well as the Tip Top House, the only structure left standing on the summit after a fire in 1908 CE. Although the park closes during winter, it’s still possible to climb the mountain, participate in the Mount Washington Observatory Tour or indulge in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding at Tuckerman Ravine.
America's national parks and nature reserves have no shortage of picturesque waterfalls. Among these, one which attracts tourists in droves are the Lower Falls, their cascades gushing forth to meet a pristine pool perfect for swimming. Like the Franconia Falls located about a half hour away, this waterfall too is known for its natural waterslides.
Situated in Crawford Notch State Park in Hart's Location, Arethusa Falls is set at a height of 140 feet (43 meters). This beautiful falls is named after Nereus’ daughter Arethusa, who was known to be a nymph. Its allure has enchanted visitors since the American botanist Edward Tuckerman's discovery in the year 1875. This waterfall can be accessed via the Arethusa Falls Trail. As water gracefully tumbles over the ancient rocks, a sense of tranquility envelops all those who stand in its mist.
The White Mountains, situated in the northeastern region of the United States, are part of a larger network of outdoor areas within New Hampshire. The designated national forest, established in 1918, encompasses a mammoth 750,852 acres (3,038.59 square kilometers) of land. With six different wilderness areas, the park offers an endless variety of vistas, serene lakes, and lush forests. The mountains themselves are some of the most rugged in all of New England. A wonderland for backpackers, hikers, and climbers alike, the forest is interspersed with tracery of charming, alpine huts and trails like the White Mountain Trail and Appalachian Trail that weave through dense woodland. The undulating topography of this forest is further augmented by the magnificent mountain ranges that fringe it. It shelters wild animals like raccoons, bobcats, deer, coyotes, otters, and foxes among others. This national forest is an invigorating embodiment of nature at its wildest.