Fall Foliage in North Conway and the White Mountains
Fall is one of the most spectacular times to visit North Conway and the Mount Washington Valley. Brilliant foliage transforms the mountains, river valleys, and scenic roads into a classic New England landscape, while crisp days create ideal conditions for hiking, sightseeing, shopping, and exploring.
Drive the Kancamagus Highway, ride a scenic train, discover waterfalls framed by autumn color, or enjoy the view from one of the region’s mountain attractions. From fall festivals and family adventures to local dining and tax-free shopping, North Conway makes the perfect basecamp for an autumn getaway in the White Mountains.
Popular Fall activities include:
- Hiking and waterfall adventures
- Scenic drives and mountain views
- Golf, mountain biking, and fishing
- Tax-free shopping and local dining
Whether you’re planning a day trip, a fall weekend, or a longer White Mountains vacation, North Conway puts you close to some of New England’s most memorable autumn experiences.
Upcoming Events
North Conway Fall Foliage Reports
See current foliage conditions from North Conway, the Kancamagus Highway, Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, and communities throughout the White Mountains. View the Latest ReportNorth Conway Fall Foliage Reports
Plan Now!Scenic Fall Drives
Discover colorful mountain roads, scenic overlooks, covered bridges, waterfalls, and classic New England villages. Plan a Scenic DriveScenic Fall Drives
Fall Waterfall Adventures in the Whites
Discover the region’s most colorful and accessible waterfalls Plan Now!Waterfall Adventures in the Whites
Plan Now!Tax-Free Shopping
National brands, local boutiques, and unbeatable value — all without sales tax. Explore ShoppingTax-Free Shopping
National brands, local boutiques, and unbeatable value — all without sales tax. Explore ShoppingWhat are the best things to do in North Conway during fall?
Popular fall activities include scenic drives, hiking, waterfall walks, scenic train rides, mountain attractions, fall festivals, tax-free shopping, and dining throughout North Conway and the Mount Washington Valley. Visitors can also explore the Kancamagus Highway, Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, and the villages surrounding Mount Washington.
When is peak fall foliage in North Conway?
Peak fall foliage around North Conway generally occurs between late September and mid-October. The exact timing changes each year depending on temperatures, rainfall, elevation, and wind. Higher elevations and areas north of North Conway often change first, followed by the valleys and communities farther south.
Where can I find current North Conway foliage reports?
NorthConwayNH.com publishes regular fall foliage reports covering North Conway, the Kancamagus Highway, Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, Bretton Woods, Jackson, and other areas of the White Mountains. Check our Fall Foliage Reports before your visit for recent photographs and current color conditions.
Is North Conway a good place to stay for a fall foliage trip?
Yes. North Conway is a convenient base for exploring fall foliage throughout the Mount Washington Valley and White Mountains. Visitors have easy access to scenic highways, mountain notches, hiking trails, waterfalls, attractions, restaurants, shopping, and a wide variety of lodging options.
What are the best scenic drives near North Conway?
The Kancamagus Highway is the area’s best-known foliage drive, but it is only one option. Other beautiful routes include Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, Bear Notch Road, West Side Road, Hurricane Mountain Road, and Route 153 through Eaton, Freedom, and surrounding communities.
How close is the Kancamagus Highway to North Conway?
The eastern entrance to the Kancamagus Highway is located in Conway, just south of North Conway Village. The highway travels through the White Mountain National Forest toward Lincoln, passing scenic overlooks, hiking trails, picnic areas, rivers, and waterfalls along the way.
What are the best fall hikes near North Conway?
Popular choices include Black Cap Mountain, Diana’s Baths, Boulder Loop Trail, Echo Lake and Cathedral Ledge, Champney Falls Trail, and trails throughout Crawford and Pinkham Notches. Conditions can change quickly in fall, especially at higher elevations, so hikers should check the weather and trail conditions before setting out.