Each autumn, New England transforms into a world of vibrant color, and this year, I had the chance to experience one of its most breathtaking drives: the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. Known as “The Kanc,” this scenic byway stretches 34.5 miles from Lincoln to Conway, winding through the heart of the White Mountains. With every twist and turn, the highway reveals sprawling views of mountainsides blanketed in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. 2024 brought an especially rich display of foliage, with a blend of colors so intense it felt like driving through an artist’s palette.

Starting from Lincoln in the west, I was immediately greeted by the deep hues of early-turning maples and birches. These trees, drenched in reds and burnt oranges, set a beautiful tone for the drive. The Kancamagus is unique because it’s more than just a scenic highway; it’s a journey through a range of elevations and microclimates, meaning the colors are constantly changing as you climb higher. The lower elevations were dominated by bright yellows and oranges, while the upper reaches were filled with deep reds and purples, creating a patchwork effect across the mountainsides.

I pulled over at the first major overlook, Hancock Overlook, which gave a sweeping view of the valley below. Even early in the morning, the valley was aglow with autumn colors, and the chill in the air added a feeling of crispness to the scene. The fog was lifting slowly, revealing rows upon rows of trees painted in vibrant hues. Each overlook on the Kancamagus Highway provides a slightly different perspective on the White Mountains, and I was eager to explore as many as possible.

A bit further down the road, I came across the Sugar Hill Scenic Vista, another must-see stop. From this point, the view stretches for miles, showcasing a sea of autumn colors beneath the blue October sky. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a kaleidoscope effect, making the colors appear even more vivid. The leaves rustled in the breeze, and there was a sense of calmness that felt almost otherworldly—an invitation to pause and soak it all in.

One of the most iconic stops along the Kancamagus Highway is the Albany Covered Bridge. Built in 1858, this wooden bridge is a classic New England landmark, and in autumn, it’s nothing short of magical. The bridge itself, with its rustic beams and charm, sits against a backdrop of blazing foliage, casting reflections into the Swift River below. Stopping here felt like stepping back in time; the contrast between the historic structure and the bright foliage made it a picture-perfect moment, one I couldn’t resist capturing.

Continuing on, I made my way to Rocky Gorge, a beautiful spot where the Swift River carves its way through a rocky landscape. This area is known for its picturesque cascades, and in the fall, the surrounding trees add layers of color to the scene. I wandered down to the riverbank, where the reflections of the autumn colors danced on the water’s surface. Despite the popularity of the spot, there was a sense of tranquility, as if the rushing water carried away the noise of the world, leaving just the beauty of nature behind.

One of the highlights of my drive was reaching Lower Falls. This natural cascade is a favorite among visitors, and in autumn, it’s especially beautiful. Here, the river flows over smooth rocks, creating small waterfalls framed by dense, colorful foliage. The reflection of the trees on the water made it seem as though I was surrounded by color on all sides. The light was softer by this point, casting a golden glow that gave the scene a surreal quality, almost like stepping into a painting.

The beauty of the Kancamagus Highway isn’t just in the scenery, though—it’s in the journey itself. The drive is dotted with smaller pull-offs and trails that lead deeper into the woods, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the forest. I took a short hike along the Boulder Loop Trail, which offered even more spectacular views. Walking among the trees, with leaves crunching underfoot and the smell of earth and foliage filling the air, made me feel a part of the landscape rather than just a spectator.

As I neared Conway, the colors began to mellow slightly, hinting at the later stages of fall. Yet even here, the beauty was striking, with the warm afternoon light casting a soft, amber hue over the trees. Reflecting on the drive, I was struck by the sheer diversity of the colors, textures, and views I’d encountered in such a short stretch of road. The Kancamagus Highway had shown me an autumn landscape that felt vast, timeless, and utterly captivating.

For anyone looking to experience fall foliage at its finest, the Kancamagus Highway should be at the top of the list. It’s not just a drive; it’s an immersion into New England’s autumn glory, a place where nature shows off her finest colors. This year’s journey reminded me why people come from all over the world to see this seasonal spectacle. The Kanc will always hold a special place in my heart, and as I drove back, I knew I’d be back next fall to relive the magic.

Happy Travels,

<3 Ann