White Mountain Weekend
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A weekend in New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountain National Forest is good for the soul. This beautiful and unspoiled wilderness area is only about 2 hours from Boston, and a straight shot up US 3 / I-93.
This 3 day White Mountain Itinerary features short hikes, great food, and massive amounts of scenery that is breathtaking in any season. It focuses on Lincoln/Franconia-side of the Kancamagus Byway.
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WHITE MOUNTAIN TRAVEL TIPS
LODGING: We advise booking accommodations in the Lincoln/Franconia, NH region. There are many lodgings at different price points in these towns. Go to the State of NH’s Visit NH : Places to Stay website for a listing B&Bs, Inns, Cottages, Cabins, Condos, Hotels, Motels, and Resorts.
RESTAURANTS: We have recommended some of our favorite places to eat in the itinerary, but there are many other great choices in the area. Go to the State of NH’s Visit NH : Food & Drink webpage for eatery suggestions arranged by restaurant, brewery, winery, farmers market, or ice cream.
WHITE MOUNTAIN 3 DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: If you arrive in the early afternoon, head to Cannon Mountain (Franconia) or Loon Mountain (Lincoln) for a gondola ride to the top of respective mountains. Both offer modern, high-speed gondolas and spectacular summit views. Once at the summit, you can take the gondola back to the base lodge or walk down the mountain.
Next, check into your accommodations and get settled. For dinner, we suggest dining at the Common Man Restaurant in Lincoln. There is a bar, comfy couches, large field stone fireplace, great food, and plenty of parking. After eating, drive down the road to stroll the Lincoln Village Shops. Buy some drinks and snacks for a picnic on Day 2.
Day 2: Have breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor (Sugar Hill). The restaurant is about 6 miles past Cannon Mountain, and a beautiful drive. We have been frequenting this fun, family-owned eatery for many years. Get there early (opens at 7, call-ahead seating) for a hearty, home-cooked meal. The rustic atmosphere is charming. There is a small gift shop to browse.
Next, head for the Kancamagus Scenic Byway (NH Route 112). The “Kanc” run through 30 miles of gorgeous White Mountain forest with tons of hiking trails, rivers, and waterfalls to explore. Be aware that there are no service stations, stores, or restaurants along the byway.
About 5 miles past the Loon Mountain Resort, you will see a sign for the Lincoln Woods Trail. This lovely rail trail covers a distance of about 9.8 miles. At the trail head there is a parking area with rest rooms. After crossing a suspension bridge, the flat trial follows along the Pemigewasset River. The many trails in this area are well marked with mileage, making it easy to know how far you have gone and to loop off the rail trail if you choose. Note: In the winter you can cross country ski here.
After your hike, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus, stopping to check out the sights along the way. About 23 miles past the Lincoln Woods Trail you will come to Lower Falls. This stop has restrooms and a picnic area. It is a popular spot for enjoying the river. Water rushes over smooth boulders forming pools that are fun to wade in (and that make a great backdrop for photos). After your picnic, retrace your route back to Lincoln.
This evening, travel 5 miles south of Lincoln to Woodstock, NH. There is a charming Main Street to shop. Then, we suggest dinner at the Woodstock Inn Brewery. Sample their craft beer in one of 4 pub rooms, and enjoy some comfort food in the dining room.
Day 3: Begin the day with breakfast at Flapjacks Pancake House (Lincoln). The dining room has a homey, chaotic vibe and the food is great.
When you are finished eating, head to the Flume Gorge (Franconia Notch State Park off of I-93). The Flume is an 800-foot natural granite gorge at the foot of Mt. Liberty. To view the attraction, visitors hike a loop that includes boardwalks along the most dramatic sections of the gorge and waterfall. During non-Covid times there is a bus that will take you close to the base of the gorge. Be aware, if the bus is not running there are frequent sections of steep up and down walking on the roughly 2-mile trail.
From the Flume, drive a short distance along I-93 to The Basin. This 20-foot granite pothole with waterfall is a great spot for pictures, and scenic viewing. Well worth a short stop before heading home.
Hope you get to enjoy this beautiful area, Laura and Randy
For more information on travel to New Hampshire's north country read our articles on:
