This 34-mile Scenic Freeway Is One of many Finest Locations to See Fall Foliage within the U.S.

There’s no place just like the East Coast within the fall. Loads of locations declare to have the very best variety of deciduous bushes and essentially the most vibrant colours, however only a few can examine to the texture of fall in New England.

Throughout a latest journey to the East Coast, I used to be unknowingly routed onto the Kancamagus Freeway, identified regionally as “The Kanc.” Unaware that it is among the most stunning and iconic drives in New England — and arguably, the nation — I returned residence with tales of the slim, tree-lined freeway that cuts throughout the state of New Hampshire. It didn’t take lengthy for in-the-know members of the family to fill me in. 

Acknowledged as a Nationwide Scenic Byway for its gorgeous views, the Kancamagus Freeway runs 34.5 miles from the city of Lincoln towards Conway. Because the route cuts west-to-east throughout the state, it passes by means of the center of the scenic White Mountain Nationwide Forest. Freeway pull-offs present views of the White Mountains and entry to websites like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge. The west finish of the route (the Lincoln facet) presents sights like Loon Mountain and Hobo Railroad (aka the Granite State Scenic Railway), whereas the east finish of the Kanc is close to Cranmore Mountain Resort, the Conway Scenic Railroad, and several other beloved native eating places.

The scenic byway is value a drive any time of the yr (and it’s open year-round), however the Kanc is at its finest in fall, when the bushes that line the picturesque roadway flip vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and pink. The freeway is among the fundamental explanation why New Hampshire attracts thousands and thousands of tourists over a couple of brief weeks every fall. The colours and their vibrancy must be seen to be believed. 

If seeing the spectacular fall show out of your automobile isn’t sufficient, make a pit cease at one of many many mountain climbing trails that begin simply off the freeway. Fashionable routes embody Sabbaday Brook Path (which ends up in the falls talked about above), Lincoln Woods Trailhead, and the Boulder Loop Path. If a type of trails doesn’t catch your fancy, there are loads extra. For a full rundown, head over to kancamagushhighway.com. 

And should you’re fortunate, you simply may additionally spot native wildlife in your leaf-peeping journey, because the Kanc is thought to supply glimpses of moose, eagles, deer, and bears.