Best Places to See New Hampshire Fall Foliage in 2026

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Fall in New Hampshire is truly magical. The vibrant colors of the leaves create a stunning backdrop that’s perfect for exploring. From covered bridges to the great north woods, you will have plenty of places to visit for leaf peeping. Here are some of my favorite spots to see New Hampshire fall foliage in 2026, along with some tips to make your trip even better.

Where to View New Hampshire’s Fall Foliage

Here are my favorite places to see New Hampshire’s fall foliage!

1. Dixville Notch State Park

Dixville Notch State Park has one of my favorite hikes to see fall foliage, the Table Rock Trail.

This hike offers an amazing view of the fall colors in the area.

Stunning mountain views and peak fall colors at Dixville Notch State Park.

Read all about my hike here: New Hampshire’s Most Striking Fall Foliage Hike: Table Rock Trail

I also recommend checking out the Balsam’s Grand Resort Hotel area for some great vantage points.

2. Newry

Not too far from Dixville Notch is Newry, New Hampshire, which is a great spot for seeing fall colors.

Located in the western part of the state, it offers beautiful mountain views and vibrant foliage.

A drive along Route 26 gives you amazing views of the changing leaves.

Fresh-baked maple treats at Puzzle Mountain Bakery are a must-stop during fall.

I had to stop at the Puzzle Mountain Bakery to try their whoopie pies.

They are cash only!

But they also offer Venmo, which we used last time. Just be mindful that the service can be a little spotty. So cash is always king!

Delicious Pies & Maple Cream Cookies

One of my favorite parts of exploring New Hampshire in the fall is the tasty maple shops and bakeries.

3. Kancamagus Highway

And of course, the most infamous spot is the Kancamagus Highway, which takes you through the White Mountains.

One of the best ways to see the colors is by driving along the Kancamagus Highway, also known as NH Route 112.

This scenic route stretches about 34 miles and offers breathtaking views of the foliage, making it the perfect road trip.

There are plenty of pull-offs where you can stop, and I am going to share my top ones now

Scenic overlook on the Kancamagus Highway — a top spot for fall foliage in New Hampshire.

Tips: Be sure to get an early start to avoid the crowds and find parking easily at popular spots.

4. Lincoln Woods Trail

Located off the Kancamagus Highway is the Lincoln Woods Trail. The Lincoln Woods Trail in New Hampshire is an excellent spot for fall foliage.

This trail, which runs along the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River, offers a flat and easy hike that’s perfect for taking in the colorful scenery.

The Lincoln Woods Trail is one of the best places to see New Hampshire fall foliage in 2026

As you walk, you’ll see a mix of red and orange leaves reflecting off the river, and the surrounding forest creates a stunning autumn landscape.

It’s a peaceful and scenic route that’s especially beautiful in the fall.

Tip: Don’t forget your flannels!

5. Loon Mountain Resort

The Loon Mountain Resort, also located off the Kancamagus Highway, is a fantastic spot for fall foliage in New Hampshire.

Located in Lincoln, the resort offers stunning views of the colorful landscape from various vantage points.

Panoramic fall views from Loon Mountain Resort in New Hampshire

One of the best ways to take in the fall colors is by riding the scenic gondola to the summit.

From there, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of the vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves spread across the mountains.

The resort also has some great hiking trails and easy walking paths that let you enjoy the autumn scenery up close.

Tip: Check the resort’s website for fall events and activities, as they often have special events like autumn festivals or guided hikes that can make your visit even more enjoyable.

6. Sabbady Falls

The Sabbady Falls Trail is one of my favorite spots for fall foliage in New Hampshire.

Located off the Kanc in the White Mountains, this trail offers a peaceful hike through a gorgeous forest.

Water cascades through brilliant foliage at Sabbaday Falls.

You will be surrounded by vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows from the changing leaves.

The trail follows Sabady Brook, and the water views add a serene touch to the colorful scenery.

Tip: I recommend wearing sturdy shoes because the trail can be a bit rocky and uneven. For the best experience, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to enjoy the beautiful light and avoid the crowds.

7. Conway Scenic Railroad

For a unique and relaxing way to see the foliage, ride the Conway Scenic Railroad.

The train offers several routes through the mountains and valleys, providing beautiful views of the changing leaves.

It’s a fun way to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without having to worry about driving.

I have not gotten to do this yet, but I am planning my visit for 2026 and will update you after!

Tips: Check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early, especially during peak foliage season. The train offers different classes, so you can choose between a more basic ride or a luxury option.

When Is Fall Foliage In New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the best time to see fall foliage typically falls between late September and mid-October.

For 2026, the official fall foliage map isn’t out yet, but here’s a rough timeline to help you plan your visit:

Late September: Some of the higher elevations, like the White Mountains, might start showing early signs of color. It’s a good time to catch the beginning of the fall transformation.
Early October: This is usually the perfect time for planning a trip for peak foliage in New Hampshire. The colors are generally at their most vivid across the state, with both lower and higher elevations displaying a stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Mid-October: The foliage continues to be beautiful, but colors might start to fade as you get towards the end of the month. It’s still a great time to visit, especially if you prefer a slightly quieter experience with fewer crowds.

Tips for New England Fall Foliage Viewing

Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings.
Crowds: Fall is a popular time, so try to visit popular spots early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times.
Photography: Early morning or late afternoon light is best for photos. Also, consider bringing a tripod to capture the best shots.