This 34-mile Scenic Highway Is One of the Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the U.S.

There’s no place like the East Coast in the fall. Plenty of destinations claim to have the highest number of deciduous trees and the most vibrant colors, but very few can compare to the feel of fall in New England.

During a recent trip to the East Coast, I was unknowingly routed onto the Kancamagus Highway, known locally as “The Kanc.” Unaware that it is one of the most beautiful and iconic drives in New England—and arguably, the nation—I returned home with stories of the narrow, tree-lined highway that cuts across the state of New Hampshire. It didn’t take long for in-the-know family members to fill me in. 

Recognized as a National Scenic Byway for its stunning views, the Kancamagus Highway runs 34.5 miles from the town of Lincoln toward Conway. As the route cuts west-to-east across the state, it passes through the heart of the scenic White Mountain National Forest. Highway pull-offs provide views of the White Mountains and access to sites like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge. The west end of the route (the Lincoln side) offers sights like Loon Mountain and Hobo Railroad (aka the Granite State Scenic Railway), while the east end of the Kanc is near Cranmore Mountain Resort, the Conway Scenic Railroad, and several beloved local restaurants.

The scenic byway is worth a drive any time of the year (and it is open year-round), but the Kanc is at its best in fall, when the trees that line the picturesque roadway turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The highway is one of the main reasons why New Hampshire draws millions of visitors over a few short weeks each fall. The colors and their vibrancy have to be seen to be believed. 

If seeing the spectacular fall display from your car isn’t enough, make a pit stop at one of the many hiking trails that start just off the highway. Popular routes include Sabbaday Brook Trail (which leads to the falls mentioned above), Lincoln Woods Trailhead, and the Boulder Loop Trail. If one of those trails doesn’t catch your fancy, there are plenty more.

For a full rundown, head over to kancamagushhighway.com. And if you’re lucky, you just might also spot local wildlife on your leaf-peeping journey, as the Kanc is known to provide glimpses of moose, eagles, deer, and bears.