Are you looking for New Hampshire’s scenic drives? NH has several pleasing drives, but the two-lane Kancamagus Scenic Highway is the most scenic. It has been a popular tourist destination for hundreds of thousands of New Hampshire visitors for many years. It is difficult to speak and pronounce, so locals named it “Kanc.”

The Highway, also called the American Scenic Byway, is based on its rich culture, history, and beauty. Along the Highway, many walking paths, natural wonders, hiking trails, picturesque ponds, waterfalls, bridges, and other excellent stops exist.

Secondly, it takes you to the Kancamagus Pass’s highest point, 870 meters. There are many enjoyable things for everyone, even if you come with toddlers. Many sites pass through the white mountains, such as Tremont, Osceola Range, Pemigewasset Wilderness, and Sugar Hill.

It is easy to drive on a highway because the condition of the road is excellent, and there is no need for a trained driver. The road map leads from Lincoln to Conway. This road traverses through the beautiful white mountain national forest.

In New Hampshire, there is no better place to spend quality time and enjoy natural beauty than at the Kanc. The byway also has a campground where people can see the charming views of the byway from their tents.

If you plan to visit the Highway, you should check all the essentials because there are no gas or food points along the trail. As there are no essentials of daily life, it looks like you are in forests.

The Highway also has wild animals. You are also advised to exercise caution while visiting this area. Every season, guests have different drive experiences. But they have an exceptional experience in the fall because of the rain and foliage that make the road colorful.

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Best Time to Drive the Kancamagus Scenic Highway

Fall is the best time to drive the Kanc because it is the most beautiful time of the year. During those months, foliage is at its peak, and red, orange, or gold color leaves increase its beauty. People come from different parts of the country at peak foliage. Compared to the other months, that time is much more crowded, and accommodations are expensive.

Not only fall, but you can also enjoy other seasons. For example, winter is good for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The rivers are nice for cooling off or relaxing your body in summer.

Secondly, we recommend driving the American scenic byway during peak foliage if you are coming from far away and looking for the absolute best things to do in New Hampshire.

However, if you’re a New Englander, we recommend visiting during the off-peak season because there are many other attractions. We love to visit the White Mountains from 20 to 25 September because usually, the roads are empty, with clear skies and early hints of color.

When is fall foliage at its peak in the White Mountains?

The best time to enjoy the color is the start of October. However, in most years, you will see bursts of different beautiful colors from 15 September to 20 September. Sometimes, you will also experience the foliage at its peak from the end of September into mid-October.

Best Stops on the Kancamagus Highway

There are various hiking and swimming opportunities along the National Scenic Byway. It has picturesque scenery surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, snow-covered mountains, historic sites, and different waterfalls.

It is not uncommon for visitors to stop at a variety of locations, park their cars, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. As long as they have their children, they will also be happy to have a picnic in the park with them. Along with picnic areas, restrooms are also available for visitors.

Otter Rocks:

After Lincoln, Otter Rocks is a first stop and a beautiful place for a picnic. It looks like the water comes from the mountains and falls into the pool. It is beautiful but also dangerous for swimming because of the greasy rocks.

Swimming is allowed for adults and older kids. Here, you will also find picnic tables that you can use to enjoy a snack and takeout breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Swift River Lower Falls:

A variety of riverfalls can be found on the National Scenic Byway. Undoubtedly, the Swift River’s lower falls are among the best attractions. Swimming pools are one of the main attractions for visitors and look different during the summer and winter. There are picnic tables, restrooms, charcoal grills, and a washroom for visitors.

Secondly, the White Mountains Lower Falls is the best place to cool off a hot summer day. There are many pools, swimming spots, and waterfalls. Some pools are kid-friendly and gentle, but sometimes high water can be dangerous if you are not trained.

Franconia Falls:

Franconia Falls is a top choice for those looking for a long and easy hike. The hiking trail starts from the Lincoln Woods Trail and splits into the Franconia Falls. There are many rocky areas to relax and a narrow waterfall to swim.

In the fall foliage, it is a must-visit destination. In the fall, colorful trees and leaves are everywhere, making this view breathtaking. It is an approximately 7-mile return hike to Franconia Falls.

Russell-Colbath House:

It is considered one of the best stops while driving the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. If you communicate with any native worker or individual, you will be significantly amused by their story. Since the 19th century, the Russell Colbath has been on the Kancamagus Scenic Byway.

It is a house built by Thomas Russell and his son Amzi. The Russell-Colbath House was constructed in 1832. It is directed at Albany. Visitors can view this museum, which shares the valley’s history and is filled with many historical artifacts.

It is a historic place listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On the back side of this house, there is a river called the rail-n-river trail.

Albany Covered Bridge:

Albany Covered Bridge is another scenic site of Kanc. There are many covered bridges in New Hampshire, but they are still functional and cover the historical sides. The bridge was built in 1857 by Amzi Russell.

After that, it was destroyed in 1858 then the bridge was again restored in 1970. In winter, the bridge is only open to pedestrians. In other months, vehicles under 7’9″ can easily use the bridge. The parking area has already been set up, so you can easily enjoy this beautiful attraction by parking your car.

Champney Falls:

It is one of the most spectacular attractions on this Highway. If you love to experience hiking and have much time to drive, you must visit Champneys Falls. You will love the high waterfalls.

The average distance is almost 3.1 miles long, and it will take approximately 2.5 hours to reach the final destination. If you visit in the fall, there are fewer chances for enjoyment because all the waterfalls have dried up. In spring, you can see the heaviest flow. Visit in the less crowded season.

Hancock Overlook:

Hancock Overlook is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Kanc and is located in the center of the hairpin turn. Locals cherish some beautiful overlooks on the way and other scenic views.

Panoramic Overlook:

Panoramic Overlook is the second Overlook after the Hancock Overlook. It is a worthwhile place to enjoy the stunning views. You will see many attractions that make your trip more memorable.

Pemigewasset Overlook:

Compared to the first two overlooks, the Pemigewasset overlook is much better. This overlook delivers the most amazing views of the Osceola Mountains. There is a wooden fence that is good for photography.

CL Graham Wangan Overlook:

On the National Scenic Byway, the CL Graham Wangan Overlook is stunning. In early foliage, many beautiful colors give unique feelings. The views from this place are spectacular when the weather is clear.

Sabbaday Falls:

Sabbaday Falls is a popular hike due to many reasons. The waterfall is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to enjoy. It is a 0.5-mile flat trail and a 15-minute walking distance towards the waterfall.

Sabbaday Falls is a multi-level waterfall that is an excellent option for those who are looking for an easy, short walk and have young kids. Swimming is prohibited, but you can see the falls from different angles. The water comes from ice glaciers that look like they are flowing along the rocks.

It is a popular picnic place, and you can have a lovely time with the kids. As the year progresses, their waterfalls are laden with snow, making for a fantastic sight during the winter months. It is recommended to stop at lunch because there are restrooms and picnic tables near the parking area.

Scenic Wangan Grounds Overlook:

Wangan Overlook has beautiful fall colors. It is one of the most colorful scenic overlooks. It has remarkable views from the top of the National Scenic Byway. It has two points, one in the east and another in the west. Two rivers flow from two points.

On the east side, the Swift River joined with the Saco River. And on the other side, in the west, the Pemigewasset River converged with the Merrimack.

Greeley Ponds Trail:

It has the most beautiful scenery found anywhere in the world. Taking a walk along the pond trail is a lovely experience. There are two ponds in the area. One is called the Upper Greely Pond, and the other is called the Lower Greely Pond.

Walking around this area is a great way to enjoy the scenery and the outdoors. Mountains surround an upper pond with a deep pond and a pond covered with water.

Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook:

The picture shows a scenic view of the surrounding area from a distance. It is located in the right place. Many rivers pass through the area, making it very picturesque. Looking at this hill, you will see that a Swift River valley covers it as you look at it from above.

Lincoln:

Kancamagus High is the best hometown in Lincoln. As you already know, this road ends in Lincoln. In other words, it is a great place to rest. There are many options to choose from at any given time. Food restaurants and other services are available here. This town is already full of people, so book your seats before reaching Lincoln.

Things to do on the Kancamagus Scenic Highway

The following are the best things you can do here.

Cranmore Chair Lift:

The Cranmore chair lift is where you can see these beautiful views from the top. The whole family can enjoy the summer activity. A seven-minute ride provides impressive views from the mountain. You feel like you are in the forest, and only trees and leaves surround you in the fall.

Mount Washington Railway:

If you don’t have height phobias and must ride the Mount Washington railway. It takes you to the top of the white mountains. In winter, it is one of the most enjoyable rides because all the mountains and surroundings are covered with snow, and the entire landscape is covered in white. It has the distinction of being the second sharpest route in the northeast.

Hike in the River Gorge:

The Lost River Gorge is a flume gorge in New Hampshire. It is an 800-kilometer-long gorge. There is an online registration for this hike, and you must do hiking. You must have booked your slot before coming to this place. It is almost a 2-mile-long path and stairs. We hope you will love this charming activity.

How Much Time Do You Need on the Kancamagus Scenic Highway?

It is difficult to answer the question because it depends on the hiking time. The total distance from one end to another end is about 45 minutes. But you need half a day or at least three hours if you stop in different places.

In the above section, we listed major stops and recommended stopping at Sabbaday Falls for a short hike. You can also consider the Champney Falls Trail, Franconia Falls Trail, Lincoln Woods Trail, or Mount Chocorua for longer walks.

Before making a plan, check out their length and duration. On the other hand, doing everything in a single day is unnecessary because stopping at the above-listed places requires a lot of time.

Tips for driving on the Kancamagus Scenic Highway

Following are some tips and tricks while going:

No Gas Stations:

Whenever you plan to visit this place, it is advisable to bring a cylinder or any electric weapon that you may need. The area has no gas stations or restaurants, so fill your car tank in Lincoln or Conway.

Drive Carefully:

It is critical to ensure you can drive around wildlife when you first drive. Some areas are dangerous for beginners. The road is crowded with people so you must drive carefully.

Take GPS Audio Guide:

While traveling, take your GPS audio guide or navigator. The GPS audio guide helps a lot and narrates your current location. Sometimes, there are no signals on the Highway. The GPS audio guide searches for your location and guides you to your destination. You can also use it to learn about the White Mountains’ culture and history.

Swimming is Forbidden.

When there are signs of “No Swimming,” it means there is some reason why they stop you from doing this. Swimming is not allowed in areas with sandy and slippery rocks. You can fall off slippery rocks and cause serious injury. So take care of yourself while doing such things.

No Parking Space:

In the summer or the winter months, most people love to travel. There are limited parking areas that fill up fast. Ensure you park a car in the parking area when you stop at a point. You can also buy a parking lot recreation pass. The per-day parking cost in the White Mountain National Forest is $5. Payment is only accepted in cash.

Bring Picnic Items:

There are no restaurants or food stops along the Highway, but you will find many picnic spots, so taking out your food is recommended. Rocky Gorge, Sabbaday Falls, and Otter Rocks offer picnic tables where you can enjoy your meal.

Fireworks are Not Allowed:

As in summer and fall foliage, parking lots are already filled. Fireworks are not allowed in the forest as they harm anyone. Because of traffic, the road becomes narrow, and fireworks are impossible.

Where to Stay on the Kancamagus Scenic Highway

Many people spend a night in North Conway or Lincoln because there are no accommodations along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. For an overnight stay, you can also use the camp.

Kancamagus Scenic Highway New Hampshire Campgrounds

Here are the Kanc’s campgrounds from west to east:

Blackberry Crossing Campground in Albany, NH
Passaconaway Campground in Albany, NH

Big Rock Campground in Lincoln, NH
Hancock Campground in Lincoln, NH
Jigger Johnson Campground in Albany, NH

Covered Bridge Campground in Albany, NH

Where to Stay in North Conway, NH

In the White Mountains, the village-like small town offers a charming atmosphere and many accommodation places. Visit Cranmore Inn if you have a good budget. Red Jacket, Mountain View Hotel, is the best family-friendly place to stay. Visit Kearsarge Inn if you don’t want to spend more on hotels.

Where to Stay in Lincoln, NH

Compared to North Conway, it is not pretty, but it is considered the base camp for the White Mountains attractions. Use this base for quick access to River Caves, Franconia Notch State Park, Lost River Gorge, Cannon Mountain, and Flume Gorge.

Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain is a top choice if you have a good budget. InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook is the best family-friendly place to stay. Visit Riverbank Motel and Cabins if you don’t want to spend more on hotels.

FAQs

How long is the Kancamagus Scenic Highway?

The total distance of the Highway is 90 km or 56.39 miles.

How long does it take to drive the Kancamagus Scenic Highway?

It will take around one hour to complete the journey if you don’t stop at any point while driving the Highway. However, frequently stopping at different points would be best to enjoy many attractions.

Where does the Kancamagus Scenic Highway begin and end?

The Kancamagus Scenic Highway is a part of NH Route 112. It starts in Lincoln, New Hampshire, and ends in Conway, New Hampshire or vice versa.

What should you know before driving the Kancamagus Scenic Highway?

There are no necessities around the Highway like food stores, gas stations, hotels, or convenience stores. Stocking up on all the items before starting a journey is recommended.

Why is it called the Kancamagus Scenic Highway?

It was named after Pennacook’s fearless chief.

How do you pronounce Kancamagus?

It is difficult to pronounce, and several people pronounce it wrong, like kan-ka-MAH-guss, but the real pronunciation is kan-ka-MAW-guss.

How much does it cost to drive the Kancamagus Scenic Highway?

It is free of cost to drive on the highway, but per day, parking costs are $5 in the White Mountain National Forest.

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