Enjoy Un-Matched Scenic Splendor Along White Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway
Breath-taking mountain views, historic covered bridges, flowing waterfalls, stunning foliage, and rich history are just some of the reasons millions of visitors flock to the White Mountains each year. All of this and more can be seen simply by hopping in the car and driving along the miles of scenic highways and byways in this region in north central New Hampshire. A quick stop at any scenic vista will showcase why the 100-mile White Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway is a popular destination for those visiting the White Mountains. The Byway is located within the 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest and winds past many iconic features such as Mount Washington (the highest peak in the northeast), natural attractions such as the Flume Gorge, and nostalgic attractions such as Story Land. Visitors will drive through several “notches”, or mountain passes, and there are also plenty of opportunities to view moose, black bears, bald eagles, and other wildlife, or soak in a beautiful sunset.
A Brief History Lesson
Travelers have been descending upon the White Mountains since the early 19th century when the works of Nathanial Hawthrone and landscape painter Thomas Cole, among others, drew widespread attention to the mountains. Railroad travel in the late 1800’s made it easier for affluent travers coming from the cities to stay for longer periods of time and that led to the construction of the Grand Hotels of which there are several still standing today, including the Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa.
Be Sure to Stop and Experience These Sites Along the Byway
- Mount Washington Cog Railway-Constructed in 1869, the Mount Washington Cog Railway is world’s first mountain climbing cog railway. This unique and impressive train ride takes riders to the summit of Mount Washington (6,288’), which is home to the “World’s Worst Weather”. Enjoy year-round excursions with the Cog Railway.
- Kancamagus Highway- This 34.5-mile byway stretches between the towns of Lincoln and North Conway and is known for its scenic vistas, hiking trails, historic sites, and incredible foliage. There are 6 White Mountain National Forest campgrounds along the route and visitor information centers on either end.
- Loon Mountain Resort Gondola Skyride-Enjoy stunning views as you ride on New Hampshire’s longest gondola skyride. Travel 1,738’ to the summit of Loon Peak and explore glacial caves, the observation tower, or grab a bit to eat at the Summit Café.
For more information head to www.VisitWhiteMountains.com