Kancamagus Highway Scenic Drive: A Road Trip Locals Guide
The Kancamagus Highway (pronounced Kan-kuh-mah-gus) is one of the most scenic drives in New England. Known to locals as “The Kanc,” this 34-mile stretch of NH 112 runs through the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest, connecting the towns of Lincoln and Conway.
It’s a short drive distance-wise, but it’s packed with mountain overlooks, waterfalls, and covered bridges that make it one of the most beautiful places to see fall colors in the entire Northeast. While the Kancamagus Highway Scenic Byway is best known for its bright autumn foliage, it’s worth visiting any time of year, whether you’re here for summer hikes, spring waterfalls, or a snowy winter drive.
We first drove the Kanc during our 2022 New England road trip, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best New Hampshire scenic highways. Even though we were a couple of weeks early for peak foliage, the forested mountain views and easy waterfall hikes made it one of our favorite drives of the season.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to plan your own Kancamagus Highway road trip, including where to stop, the best hikes and overlooks, where to stay and eat nearby, and how to link it with other nearby scenic drives like Crawford Notch, Mount Washington Auto Road, and Franconia Notch State Park.
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What is the Kancamagus Highway?
The Kancamagus Highway (locals call it “The Kanc”) is a 34-mile stretch of NH 112 that cuts through New Hampshire’s White Mountains, connecting Lincoln in the west with Conway in the east. It’s designated the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, and is well known for being a spectacular fall foliage drive in New England.
Where Is the Kancamagus Highway?
The Kancamagus Highway is in northern New Hampshire, linking the towns of Lincoln (west end) and Conway (east end). For Kancamagus Highway directions, just follow NH-112 between those towns.
It’s about 2.5 hours from Boston, 1.5 hours from Portland (ME), and links naturally into other scenic routes like Crawford Notch or Franconia Notch.
Best Time of Year to Drive The Kanc
Fall is the headline season for the Kancamagus Highway. Early to mid-October usually brings peak foliage, but even late September or late October can be beautiful depending on elevation and yearly conditions.
Summer offers warm weather, accessible hikes, and swimming holes like Franconia Falls, making it a great time for outdoor adventures. In winter, the road remains plowed, providing snow-covered mountain views and access to nearby ski resorts. Spring brings bustling waterfalls from snowmelt, though some hiking trails can be muddy during the thaw.
We drove the Kancamagus Highway in late September and found the foliage not quite at its height. It was a lovely scenic drive (and on the way to other great New England destinations, making it an easy drive), but not the jaw-dropping color we hoped for.
Locals told us (and later research confirmed) that mid-October is often when color truly peaks. Two weeks can make all the difference!
How Many Days Do You Need?
You can technically drive the Kancamagus Highway in about 45 minutes to an hour without stopping, but that would mean missing everything that makes it special.
To really experience the Kanc, plan to spend a full day exploring!
Start your morning in Lincoln with coffee and breakfast before making your way east through the White Mountains. Stop at scenic overlooks like Pemigewasset and Hancock, and stretch your legs on short trails such as Sabbaday Falls or Champney Falls. Pack a picnic for Rocky Gorge or Lower Falls, where you can sit beside the water and enjoy the views.
End your drive in Conway with dinner and a stop at Cheese Louise for one of their famous grilled cheese sandwiches. With time to linger, hike, and take photos, a full day on the Kancamagus Highway gives you the best mix of scenery, waterfalls, and classic New England charm.
1-Day Itinerary for the Kancamagus Highway
If you only have one day to explore the Kancamagus Highway, this route is a great place to start.
Begin in Lincoln, fueling up with breakfast and coffee at Mad River Coffee House or White Mountain Bagel before hitting the road.
As you head east on NH 112, make your first stop at Lincoln Woods Trailhead to walk the short suspension bridge over the Pemigewasset River or stretch your legs on the Franconia Falls Trail.
Next up is Otter Rocks Picnic Area, a peaceful riverside spot with picnic tables and small cascades, perfect for a quick photo stop or mid-morning break.
Continue to the Greeley Ponds Trail, a scenic trailhead surrounded by dense forest and quiet ponds, then make your way to the Hancock Overlook, famous for its winding hairpin turn and mountain backdrop.
From there, stop at the Pemigewasset Overlook and C.L. Graham Wangan Overlook, both offering gorgeous views across the White Mountains. Just beyond, pull over at the Sugar Hill Overlook, another easy photo stop that gives you a sense of the highway’s mountain scenery.
Midday is the perfect time to explore Sabbaday Falls, one of the most popular short hikes along the Kanc. This 0.7-mile round-trip trail follows a gorge with boardwalks and stone steps to a beautiful three-tiered waterfall.
Afterward, stop by the Russell Colbath House Site, a historic homestead with interpretive displays that give a glimpse into life in the White Mountains during the 1800s.
As the road winds east, make time for the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, a classic picnic stop where you can walk across the footbridge and follow a short loop trail.
A few minutes later, you’ll reach the Albany Covered Bridge, one of the most photographed landmarks on the Kancamagus Highway. Across from the bridge is the Boulder Loop Trail, a moderate 3-mile hike with beautiful views from the top if you’re up for one last adventure.
Continue into Conway for the evening. Wrap up your day with dinner at Cheese Louise, known for their creative grilled cheese sandwiches, or explore nearby North Conway for shopping and local breweries.
If you’re looping back toward Lincoln, consider ending your day with dinner at Covered Bridge Farm Table in Campton, NH. It’s about 25 minutes south of Lincoln and overlooks the Pemigewasset River and the historic Blair Bridge. The cozy outdoor patio was our favorite spot to unwind after a full day on the road!
For extra adventure, add a few side trips: in summer, don’t miss the Franconia Falls Trail, which offers swimming holes and natural slides; in fall, continue your scenic drive through Crawford Notch State Park or Franconia Notch State Park for even more brilliant foliage before returning to Lincoln for the night.
Map of Kancamagus Highway
Here’s a map highlighting some of the best things to do and see along the Kancamagus Highway!
Lincoln to Conway: Best Stops on the Kancamagus Highway
Here are some of our favorite stops:
Lincoln Woods: Quick photo stop over the Pemigewasset River or your launch point for longer hikes like Franconia Falls. Franconia Falls is one of the best, most popular hikes along the Kancamagus Highway, and is a 7ish-mile, mostly flat, round-trip hike with natural slides and swimming in summer. Here, you’ll also find the Lincoln Woods Trail, Mount Flume via Osseo Trail, Flume Slide Trail, Black Pond Trail, and many others.
Otter Rocks Day Use & Picnic Area: Easy riverside pullout with tables and little cascades.
Hancock Overlook (Hairpin Turn photo): The classic U-shaped bend with stunning views! Great wide-angle shot spot.
C. L. Graham Wangan Overlook: Big mountain layers just below the high point of the Kancamagus Highway.
Pemigewasset Overlook (Height of Land): One of the highest vistas on the Kanc. Broad panoramas in all seasons.
Sugar Hill Scenic Vista: Another wide view toward the Swift River valley.
Sabbaday Falls Trail: A 0.7-mile round-trip, easy hike. Boardwalk and viewing platforms over a pretty gorge. A must-do!
Champney Falls Trail: About 3.1 miles round-trip to the falls, or continue to Mount Chocorua if you want a bigger day.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area + Falls Pond: Footbridge and short loop around the pond. A good picnic option, but heads up: No swimming here.
Lower Falls Day Use Area: Flat slabs and pools along the Swift River. One of the best picnic and summer cool-off stops.
Albany Covered Bridge: Quintessential New England photo stop!
Finish in Conway / North Conway: Cap the drive with food, shops, or a stroll through the village.
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FAQ: Driving the Kancamagus Highway
Is the Kancamagus Highway paved and open to all vehicles?
Yes, the entire 34-mile stretch is paved and open to cars, motorcycles, and RVs.
Is it free to drive the Kancamagus Highway?
Yes! There’s no fee to drive the highway itself. However, some trailheads and recreation sites require a day-use pass ($5, available at self-service kiosks or online).
Which direction should you drive the Kancamagus Highway?
You can drive the Kancamagus Highway in either direction, but we personally preferred starting in Lincoln and driving east toward Conway. The mountain views unfold more dramatically that way, especially as you climb toward Kancamagus Pass and descend into the Swift River valley. It also worked perfectly for our trip since we were staying in Lincoln—meaning we could wrap up the drive with dinner at one of our favorite local spots, Covered Bridge Farm Table in nearby Campton, NH.
If you’re staying closer to Conway, reversing the route works just as well. The scenery is beautiful in both directions, and you’ll pass all the same overlooks, waterfalls, and trailheads either way.
How long does it take to drive the Kancamagus Highway?
Without stopping, the drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour. If you plan to stop at overlooks and hike, set aside a half-day to a full day.
Which part of the Kancamagus Highway is best?
The stretch around Pemigewasset Overlook, Sabbaday Falls, and Rocky Gorge tends to deliver the most dramatic views and accessible waterfalls. That said, the entire 34 miles has charm—don’t rush it.
Is the Kancamagus Highway dog-friendly?
Yes, much of the Kancamagus Highway is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome at overlooks, picnic areas, and on most trails along the route. Just keep them leashed and clean up after them.
Where’s the best place to stay when driving the Kancamagus Highway?
You won’t find lodging directly on the Kanc, but Lincoln and Conway are perfect bases. Some of our favorite spots:
Residence Inn North Conway: Spacious suites with kitchens and an indoor pool.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Plymouth: A comfortable spot west of Lincoln, good if you’re combining the Kanc with Franconia Notch.
Note: We’re partial to Marriott, so that’s who we tend to recommend when it comes to hotels. One of our top tips for planning and budgeting road trips is to take advantage of hotel loyalty programs (the same is true for flights, rental cars, etc.). Even if Marriott isn’t your choice, we highly recommend sticking to one brand as much as possible for the best long-term deals and offers.
What are the best hikes along the Kancamagus Highway?
Some of the most popular hikes include Sabbaday Falls (easy, family-friendly), Champney Falls (moderate, with an option to summit Mount Chocorua), Boulder Loop Trail (moderate loop with big views), and Franconia Falls via Lincoln Woods (longer, flat, and great for summer swimming).
Are there breweries or cideries nearby?
Yes! After your drive, head into North Conway or Lincoln for local brews. A couple of favorites:
Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co. in North Conway: A post-hike classic with hearty food.
One Love Brewery in Lincoln: Craft beer and a dog-friendly patio. We enjoyed having dinner here—we ate on the outdoor patio and were glad we could bring our pup with us.
Rhythm Ciders in Lincoln: Small-batch craft cider made from locally sourced apples. Try their tasting room for creative flavors that change seasonally.
White Mountain Cider Co. in nearby Glen, NH: Part restaurant, part cider press, this spot serves fresh-pressed cider, craft cocktails, and farm-to-table dishes in a charming barn setting.
Where are the best places to eat near the Kancamagus Highway?
You won’t find restaurants along the highway, so plan to eat before or after. Some good options to consider:
White Mountain Bagel (Lincoln): A local favorite for bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and quick grab-and-go options.
Mad River Coffee House (Campton): Great coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries before you hit the road.
Café Lafayette Dinner Train (Lincoln): A splurge-worthy experience aboard a vintage train with mountain views and a full dinner service.
Covered Bridge Farm Table (Campton, NH): Overlooks the Pemigewasset River and historic Blair Bridge. This is one of our favorite restaurants near Lincoln. We went all the time while spending a month in Campton, NH, during our 2022 Travel Season. We loved the ambiance of the patio, plus appreciated that it was dog-friendly.
Cheese Louise (Conway): Creative grilled cheese sandwiches that are a perfect pre- or post-drive snack.
Can I camp along the Kancamagus Highway?
Yes, you can camp along the Kancamagus Highway. The White Mountain National Forest operates several campgrounds right off the highway, including Hancock, Passaconaway, and Covered Bridge Campgrounds. Sites book up quickly in the fall (as does all lodging during peak season), so reserve early.
When do the leaves peak in fall?
Usually early to mid-October, but the exact timing shifts every year. Higher elevations along the Kanc change earlier than lower valleys. If we were to go again, we’d plan to be there the second week of October. (And would plan our drive during a weekday!)
How do I plan a Kancamagus Highway road trip?
Start in Lincoln or Conway, drive the 34 miles with stops at overlooks and trailheads, and plan at least 3-5 hours. Add Crawford Notch State Park or Franconia Notch for a full-day loop. Overnight in Lincoln or North Conway if you want to explore multiple days. Here’s how to include it as part of a 10-Day New England Fall Road Trip.
Is the Kancamagus Highway worth it?
Yes! The Kancamagus Highway is absolutely worth it. It’s short enough to drive in under an hour if you’re pressed for time, but it offers more than a dozen scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and trailheads if you want to make a day of it.
We drove the Kanc twice during our 2022 New England road trip, and it’s one of those drives that feels timeless no matter the season. The only caveat? If you’re hoping to see epic fall foliage, timing really does matter. Locals say (and our own experience confirms) that the second week of October is typically the sweet spot for color. When we visited in late September, we were just a little too early. The drive was beautiful, but the trees were still mostly green. Just two weeks later, they would have been glowing gold and red.
If you can, we also highly recommend making the Kanc part of a longer New Hampshire road trip through the White Mountains. Once you reach Conway, continue toward Crawford Notch State Park and the Mount Washington Auto Road. The drive through Crawford Notch is absolutely stunning in the fall. Even when the trees along the Kanc weren’t fully changing, the colors through Crawford Notch were already vibrant during our visit.
If you’re looking to add a hike, consider the Mount Willard Trail for valley views or Arethusa Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire.
From there, head north to the Mount Washington Auto Road. Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the Northeast and one of the highest in the eastern United States. You can drive the Auto Road (there’s an admission fee—when we went, it was $65 for two of us), ride the Cog Railway, or even hike to the summit via the Tuckerman Ravine Trail if you’re feeling adventurous. The 360-degree views at the top are spectacular, and we recommend hopping out to follow one of the short trails near the summit for an even better look at the surrounding mountains.
Finally, finish your route with a drive through Franconia Notch State Park, home to some of New Hampshire’s best hiking trails and mountain views. The Flume Gorge Trail winds through a narrow chasm with waterfalls, while the Franconia Ridge and Mount Lafayette Trail offers an all-day challenge with jaw-dropping views from the summit. Don’t miss the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which takes you high above the valley for one last panoramic view before you wrap up your White Mountains adventure.
Taken together, the Kancamagus Highway, Crawford Notch State Park, Mount Washington Auto Road, and Franconia Notch State Park form one of the most scenic and rewarding loop drives in New England. Whether you come for the foliage, the waterfalls, or the mountaintop views, this corner of New Hampshire is pure road trip magic.
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