White Mountains, New Hampshire
More than 20 summits topping 4,000 ft (1,200 m) define the rugged north country of New Hampshire, of which 1,200 sq miles (3,116 sq km) is set aside as the White Mountain National Forest. The area is ideal for some of the main outdoor activities of New England: summer hiking and climbing, fall foliage sightseeing, and winter skiing. Drive through the White Mountains to encounter soaring mountain ridges, tumbling waterfalls, deep glens, and dark forests. Wildlife abounds – be careful of deer and moose on the roads at dusk.
White Mountain National Forest Saco District Ranger Station • 33 Kancamagus Hwy. • 603 447 5448 • open daily
1. Franconia Notch State Park
Stop along this 8-mile (13-km) pass between the Franconia and Kinsman mountain ranges to walk the narrow-cut Flume Gorge with its dramatic steep rock walls and gushing waterfalls. Challenging hiking trails cut through the park.Franconia Notch State Park Flume Gorge & Visitor Center • 603 745 8391 • open daily May–Oct • adm
2. Kancamagus Highway
One of few roads crossing the spine of the White Mountains, the 26.5-mile (43-km) “Kanc” is among the state’s most thrilling drives. Park the car and get out at the designated scenic areas to picnic, hike, or explore Colonial history.
3. Mount Washington and Mount Washington Cog Railroad
New England’s highest peak at 6,288 ft (1,917 m), Mount Washington has lured climbers and sightseers since the 1840s. For the most picturesque ascent, take the Cog Railway, operating since 1869.Mount Washington Cog Railroad • Marshfield Base Station, off Rte. 302 • 603 278 5404 • open Apr–Dec • adm
4. Ski Mountains
Precipitous drops and heavy snowfall make the White Mountains a top ski destination. Cannon Mountain and development-free Wildcat Mountain also have extensive summer activities. Loon Mountain boasts major mountain-biking trails.
5. Mount Washington Hotel and Resort
Legendary golfing and invigorating winter skiing are just two of the draws to this palatial resort, which opened in 1902. It remains the queen of the old-time White Mountains resorts.
6. Conway Scenic Railroad
See the scenery as earlier generations did – from a train. Go through Mount Washington Valley, or over the towering trestles and cliffside rails of Crawford Notch.Conway Scenic Railroad • Rte. 16, North Conway • 603 356 5251 • mid-Apr–Dec • adm
7. Story Land
The most popular seasonal amusement park in the region has always thrilled the imagination of children with its assortment of rides and other attractions. Character dinners and tea time with Cinderella are also offered.
8. Pinkham Notch
This rocky mountain pass is the White Mountains hub for hikers and backcountry skiers. Hikes range widely from easy walking to challenging expert trails in Tuckerman Ravine.Pinkham Notch Visitor Center • Joe Dodge Lodge, Rte. 16, north of North Conway • 603 466 2721 • open daily
9. Lincoln and Woodstock
With the Kancamagus Highway to the east and Franconia Notch to the north, Lincoln and Woodstock are the civilized little villages that serve as easy-going base camps for hikers, climbers, and skiers.
10. North Conway
Gateway to the east side of the White Mountains, North Conway is a bustling commercial center. Spend the morning hiking, and the afternoon cruising for discounted designer goods at more than 200 outlet stores.North Conway Outlet Malls • www.northconwaynh.com
Tip: In foliage season, drive the “Kanc” on a weekday, when there’s less traffic. Tip: Pick up a picnic at Half Baked & Fully Brewed, 187 Main St. (Rte. 112), in Lincoln, 603 745 8811.
