Where To See Fall Colors In The Upper Valley
Oct 01, 2024 12:12PM ● By Elise RenaudThe temperature is dropping, football stadiums are packed on Saturday afternoons, and warm chili is starting to sound like a delicious meal. That can only mean one thing: fall is here!
This colorful season means an end to the lush greenery and a welcoming of the beautiful fall colors. If you’re looking to see as much of the color as you can before it’s gone, here are a few tips and places to visit.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
If you’re looking to see the fall foliage in New Hampshire, Visit New Hampshire recommends “starting your road trip off in the Dixville Notch area near the Canadian border” because it sees the color changing first. There are also several roads that have beautiful views of the color.
The Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway is about 45 minutes but can take up to three hours if there is traffic.
“There are several stops along the way that do require an entrance fee, although this can be waived if you have a qualifying pass,” Visit New Hampshire said.
Franconia Notch State Park
If you’re looking to get out and walk through the colors, the Franconia Notch State Park is a great place to visit. Visit New Hampshire said there are many trails to walk including the Artist Bluff Trail and the Flume Trail Loop.
Crawford Notch State Park
This state park has walking trails and roads to drive through to see the beauty of fall including Mt. Willard Trail and Route 302.
“We highly recommend pulling off (along Route 302) to see the Flume Cascade and the Silver Cascade which are a short drive from the Mt. Willard Trail area,” Visit New Hampshire said.
VERMONT
If you’re looking to explore the color in Vermont, Visit Vermont has several recommendations.
Route 100 from Wilmington to Waterbury
Traveling from north to south, Route 100 offers views of the Green Mountains with lots of activities along the way.
Visit Vermont says this 74-mile drive takes you through some classic New England areas. Along the drive, you can explore museums, shopping, dining, and wineries.
Lakes Bomoseen and St. Catherine Loop
If you’re wanting to make a loop and never see the same area twice on your drive, Lakes Bomoseen and St. Catherine Loop is a great option.
“A neat side trip takes you to Proctor, where you can learn about and marvel at the state’s historic marble quarrying industry. Also, tour a real castle!” Visit Vermont said.