Kancamagus Highway Fall Foliage in New Hampshire 2025

The Kancamagus Highway, or, as the locals call it, "the Kanc," is New Hampshire's most picturesque drive during any season. But in fall, when leaves start turning gold, the route gets a completely different, fairytale vibe. Like other fall-foliage places in New Hampshire, this 34-mile (55 km) highway, crowded with dark-red and bring-yellow trees, is a perfect destination for your leaf-peeping adventure.

Route of the Drive

The Kancamagus Highway is located within the eastern portion of New Hampshire Route 112, starting from the town of Lincoln, east of its center, and until Conway, a quaint town in the White Mountains. This scenic byway passes through the White Mountain National Forest, offering gorgeous views of the White Mountains. During fall, the mountains are covered in coppery and vivid orange foliage, signifying the onset of fall. After the Kancamagus Pass and a short drive along the Swift River, the road extends beyond the forest and ends at Downtown Conway.

Peak Season for Fall Colors in the Kanc

You can drive along the Kanc at any time, and you'll always witness amazing views. However, going there at the end of September and especially at the beginning of October will let you enjoy the real golden foliage. During this time, the leaves change their colors to various shades of red, yellow, and orange, ranging from amber to burgundy. Plus, the rainy season doesn't start until mid-October, so you have plenty of time to explore the vistas and natural landmarks. This way, you can get the full fall-foliage experience.

Best Places for Leaf-Peeping Along the Drive

The Kancamagus Highway certainly has many stunning spots to stop by during your trip. Otter Rocks, Hancock Overlook, Sabbaday Falls, and Albany Covered Bridge are just some of the attractions you can witness during your trip.

Otter Rocks

Otter Rocks is a perfect picnic place. Located in close proximity to ​​the Pemigewasset River, it offers terrific views of the water, surrounded by golden forests. There are many picnic tables overlooking a small pool and many cascades. In addition, you can access unique swimming holes from a nearby parking lot. Otter Rocks draws in hundreds of visitors during the summer to its swimming holes, but they're especially beautiful during fall.

Hancock Overlook (Hairpin Turn)

The Hairpin Turn is an iconic part of the Kanc route. This beautiful invention of road engineering sits on an elevation of 2,855 feet (870 m) and was created to lighten the descent to the Kancamagus Pass. The turn is located near the Hancock Overlook parking lot, so you may stop there to take some pictures. Parking costs $5. While many people are scared to drive along the turn, it is actually super safe if you stick to the speed limit or drive at an even lower speed. The overlook reveals a stunning view of the White Mountains and vibrant fall foliage forests.

Sabbaday Falls

Located in Camptown, Sabbaday Falls is one of the most popular destinations along the Kancamagus Highway. Sabbaday Falls is a set of multiple spectacular small waterfalls and cascades surrounded by golden fall foliage. Although you can't swim there, nobody can stop you from taking pictures at the marvelous location. The falls are situated just 15 miles (24 km) from Conway, New Hampshire.

Albany Covered Bridge

Located 6 miles (10 km) from Conway on the Passaconaway/Dugway Road, the Albany Covered Bridge is a prime example of New England architecture, surrounded by stunning fall leaves and overarching above a river. Built in 1858, this wooden bridge is in great condition and is equipped with a fishing pier. There is a parking lot near the bridge, so you can make a brief stopover, take a few snapshots on the bridge, and enjoy the quiet ripples of the river.

Admission & Fees

Entry to the White Mountains National Forest is completely free, but some recreational sites, such as day-time use areas, parking lots, and so on, might require a pass. The annual National Park pass costs $30, while the daily pass costs $5.