Ammonoosuc Inn & Restaurant

Most Scenic Fall Foliage Drive - Kancamagus(kan-ca-mäg-us) Highway

The Kancamagus Highway. Undoubtedly the most scenic route in Mountain Country, the Kancamagus (kan-ca-mäng -us) Highway (Rt. 112) stretches from the Pemigewasset River at Lincoln in the west 34 ½  miles to Conway in the east. The views are dramatic: Crossing the flank of Mt. Kancamagus, this National Scenic Byway climbs to nearly 3,000 feet. There are numerous scenic outlooks and scenic areas, so plan to stop along the way. The scenic areas, which have been designated by the Forest Service to preserve their outstanding or unique beauty,include the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, right off the highway; Sawyer Pond and Greeley Ponds Scenic Areas, a half day’s hike over Forest trails. Please note there are no gas stations or other services for 32 Miles along this route. After Passing over Kancamagus Pass, which is the highest elevation of any paved road in the northeast, the Kancamagus highway follows the Swift River, pictured here, which has numerous recreation and natural swimming areas. Just look for cars parked on the side of the road, and you’ll be sure to find people swimming in the river during summertime.

The Kancamagus Highway is considered one of the most scenic roads and a place of natural wonder.

Here are some suggestions of what to see. Mileage is from the White Mountain visitor’s center on Rt 112 in Lincoln, going east. Interstate 93 at Exit 32

14. The White Mountain Visitor information center at 0 miles is also a great source of information on natural attractions and activities.

13. Lincoln Woods at 5.6 miles brings you to a long suspension footbridge. River swimming and restrooms can be found here. Lincoln-Woods Hiking Trail here.

12. Otter Rocks Rest Area at 8.7 miles leads to a small swimming hole. Restrooms available.

11. Scenic Overlook at 13.5 miles features a view of Mt. Osceola.

10. Kancamagus pass or height of land at 14.2 miles is the highest point on the highway. Picnic area and restrooms are available.

9. Lily Pond at 16.3 miles is a great place to spot a moose by the pond.

8. Scenic Overlook at 17.6 miles is a two-tiered stop featuring a striking view of Sugar Hill and other mountains to the east and south.

7. Sabbaday Falls at 19.5 miles leads you 4/10ths of a mile from the parking lot to a beautiful series of the falls explain the geology of this natural wonder. Picnic area and restrooms available.

6. Passaconaway Historic Site and visitor center (Russell Colbath House) - at 22.1 miles is a grayclapboard house built in the early 1800s by Austin George. The site offers brochures detailing the history of the place as well as staff dressed in period costumes.

5. Bear Notch Road at 22.6 miles is a 9-mile road to Bartlett winding through forests and scenic overlooks.

4. Rocky Gorge Scenic Area at 26 miles takes you through the path from the parking lot down to the Swift River. The path leads you through a wooden footbridge with scenic views.

3. Lower Falls at 27.7 miles is a spectacular fall and also a great place to swim in the Swift River. Sandy Beaches, Changing rooms, Picnic Area available.

2. Dugway Road at 28.3 miles leads back to Conway via the Albany Covered Bridge. Boulder Loop Trail is a 3-mile self-guided trail starting from the parking lot.

1. Saco ranger station at 34.3 miles is staffed by rangers and a great source of information. Restrooms and free brochures are available.

Note: Recreational passes are required at all trailheads. Exceptions are: parking 1/2 miles from the trailheads; and day use area along the Kancamagus Highway. Look for signs. If you forgot to get your pass, don’t worry! You’ll receive a salmon colored envelope on your windshield. Enjoy your trip and send it in later!

Note: Walking and Hiking maps for the Kancamagus Highway in other post

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