No matter the season, the White Mountains of New Hampshire are always a sight to behold. Similar to many New England states, you will want to take the scenic route – and you’ll never regret it! One of the loveliest, most scenic spots in New Hampshire would be the Presidential mountain range, within the White Mountains. The Presidential Range contains the highest peaks of the Whites, all named after American presidents.
If you’re planning on visiting New Hampshire, there is a route you just have to make the time to take! Bring a camera, because you’re about to witness some of New Hampshire’s best views! Your starting point would be Lincoln, NH, at exit 32 off of highway 93. Poke through the adorable ski town and make your way southwest on Route 112, which is the road you’re on right off the highway, and head into North Woodstock! I highly recommend having a pitstop at the wonderful and iconic Woodstock Station Inn and Brewery right off Route 3 for their delicious appetizers and a local beer.
Once you’ve had your fill, continue North on Route 3! You will pass by other well-known NH spots! Eventually, you will hop back onto 93 North. From here, you’ll start to make your way through beautiful Franconia Notch. The first few peaks you will see on your right are Haystack, Liberty, Lincoln and eventually Lafayette. To your left, you will see the Cannon Balls of Cannon Mountain and the rockface of Cannon Mountain, where the Old Man of the Mountain (google him if you are unsure who the Old Man of the Mountain is!) once looked down on the valley below. You will have a few spots to stop and take in the views. Once you’re mostly through the Notch, you’ll take the Cannon Mountain exit and head left and continue down Route 18 (Profile Road) heading to the quaint town of Franconia, past the base of Cannon, past the historic Mittersill Alpine Resort, right into downtown Franconia.
Eventually, you will take a left turn onto Route 117, or Sugar Hill Road. There, you’ll start your climb, and you’ll begin to see why it was the right decision to drive this route. Take a breather at the famous Polly’s Pancake Parlor and learn about their 80-year history, maybe stock up on maple syrup!
Once back in the car, you will come upon the cutest Chapel on your left, St. Matthew’s Chapel, and that is when you should be on the lookout for a big red barn on your left, plus the sign for Sugar Hill Sampler. Take that left, pull over and take in the overwhelmingly stunning views looking back at Franconia Notch. On a clear day, you can also see Mount Washington in the distance – unbeatable New Hampshire views!
So, you did it, you made it to the final viewing spot! Just take the same route back or check out the little town of Sugar Hill (recommended).
Just a few suggestions for the drive! As I mentioned a camera, maybe binoculars as you will come across wildlife. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and prepared for a bit of a drive. Always have water and make as many pit-stops as you need, too beautiful of an area not to!
For our official road trip tire safety checklist, click here. And visit the main page of our microsite to add your own adventures!
