The White Mountains Trail Will Take You Through The Best Scenery In New Hampshire

If you’e spent much time in New Hampshire, you’ve probably driven on the Kancamagus Highway. But you might not have realized that the 34.5 miles of the Kanc is part of a larger, absolutely spectacular 100-mile loop drive that will give you views of some of the most scenic spots in the Granite State. What are you waiting for? Gas up your car now!

This 100-mile route, created by the White Mountains Visitors Center, starts and ends at that spot. You could technically drive the 100 miles in 2.5 hours, but where’s the fun in that? There are plenty of places you’ll want to stop, plus fantastic side trips all along the route. Click here for a map of the route!

Google Maps

The route is primarily based on natural attractions and beautiful scenery, but it also takes you right past a number of fun tourist spots. One of the first is Clark’s Trading Post, which is an absolute must-visit in the Granite State.

Google/Maurizio Giove

Your next must-visit stop is Flume Gorge, one of the most spectacular natural sites in New Hampshire. Rain or shine, this spot is just plain beautiful.

Google/Alain Rodrigue

Another great detour is through the adorable town of Bethlehem – and if you have kids with you, you won’t want to pass up a stop at Santa’s Village.

Wikimedia Commons/Steveage

Press onward on our route and you’ll reach Bretton Woods and one of the most beautiful hotels in the country. There are some great lookout points in this area!

Google/Omni Mount Washington Resort

You’ll soon find yourself driving through Crawford Notch, with its dramatic peaks and seemingly endless views.

AllTrails/Odessa Fraser-Lampere

As you get closer to Mt. Washington, you’ll have a decision to make – is this trip long and adventurous enough for you? If not, and if it’s open for the season, put your car to a test with a drive up the Mount Washington Auto Road.

TripAdvisor/management

By this point in the trip, you’re probably getting hungry. Luckily enough, you’ll soon reach North Conway and its plethora of restaurants and shops. Stretch your legs and get a bite to eat before you return to the car!

Wikimedia Commons

Leave Conway and you’ll be on the famous Kancamagus Highway with its incredible scenery. Luckily, there are plenty of places to pull over to snag the perfect picture! It’ll take you right back to where you started, so relax and enjoy this lovely section of road.

Flickr/Jim Pennucci

For a more detailed description of this route and all of the available side trips, visit the White Mountains tourism website.