Enjoy this National Scenic Byway in a Day or a Week
New Hampshire is known as the Granite State. It is an earned title. The 100-mile White Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway consists of a large outer loop and two inner extensions. This byway combination of scenic drives going through Franconia Notch and Crawford Notch. It showcases rugged mountain scenery, numerous waterfalls, the Appalachian Trail, and iconic viewpoints. It is a popular scenic drive destination, especially for autumn foliage.
Beautiful New Hampshire Mountain Scenery
The White Mountains have long been known for natural splendor, cultural richness, historical charm and stimulating recreation, as well as some of the most beautiful scenery in the eastern United States. The White Mountain Trail, designated as a National Scenic Byway, encompasses all these aspects over the course of its 100-mile route. The byway winds through sections of the 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest and past many of the region’s most popular attractions. It can be driven in a day or can be the object of an entire vacation’s worth of relaxation, exploration, and discovery.
Parts of the Byway have been used by travelers for centuries. In the early 19th century, the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne and landscape painter Thomas Cole, among others, drew attention to the White Mountains. In short order, visitors in search of wilderness adventure and glorious scenery began to arrive in significant numbers. Many vistas we admire today along the White Mountain Trail are little changed since then. Along the way, you’ll discover amazing scenery, covered bridges, historic sites, picturesque towns and villages, and friendly people.
The Historic “Notches” are Mountain Passes
The White Mountain Trail offers New England’s most rugged mountain scenery as it travels easily through three historic “notches” or mountain passes. Views abound of villages and unspoiled National Forest. Stops include views of Mount Washington and the grand Mount Washington Hotel, mountain cascades, wildlife, and the Appalachian Trail. The White Mountain Trail boasts 7 Covered Bridges, 32 Scenic Outlooks, Roadside Waterfalls, and numerous Historic and Interpretive Sites.
Some Special Sites to Experience along the Byway
- Flume Gorge – Enjoy a 2-mile self-guided nature walk through the Flume Gorge, a spectacular natural chasm.
- Mt. Washington Cog Railway – This first-in-the-world mountain climbing Cog Railway has been making its dramatic 3-hour round trip to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast (6288’) for over 150 years.
- Omni Mt. Washington Resort – As grand as the history behind it, Omni Mount Washington Resort is gracious in ambiance and generous in amenities. A favorite New England retreat of presidents, poets and celebrities, our hotel delights every sense with award-winning dining, splendid décor and endless recreational pursuits.
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