White Mountains & New Hampshire

The White Mountains in New Hampshire are New England's wildest and most dramatic mountain landscape — rougher, higher, and harsher than Vermont's gentle Green Mountains. The Mount Washington (1,917 m), the highest mountain in the northeastern USA, holds the world record for the highest wind speed ever recorded on the Earth's surface (372 km/h, 1934). Up here, there is an arctic climate, while idyllic New England villages lie below in the valley.

Mount Washington

You can reach the summit of Mount Washington in three ways: on foot (the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, 13 km round trip, 4–5 hours, challenging), with the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway (the second-oldest cog railway in the world, since 1869, 3-hour round trip, $79 for adults), or via the Auto Road (12 km toll road to the summit, $35 per car plus $10 per passenger). Once at the top: a 360° panorama over six states, Canada, and the Atlantic — provided the weather cooperates (the summit is shrouded in clouds over 300 days a year). The small Sherman Adams Summit Building features an exhibit on the extreme weather.

Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) between Lincoln and Conway is considered one of the most beautiful mountain roads in the USA — especially in the fall, when the 55 km stretch leads through a sea of red and golden leaves. There is not a single gas station or building along the road — just nature. The best stops: Sabbaday Falls (easy 15-minute hike to a tiered waterfall), the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area (a narrow rock gorge with a swimming spot), and the Kancamagus Pass Overlooks at 870 m altitude with a wide view over the forests. Parking fee: $5/day (White Mountain National Forest Pass).

Franconia Notch

The Franconia Notch State Park is a spectacular mountain pass between the Franconia and Kinsman ranges. The Flume Gorge (admission $18, May–October) is a 250 m long, moss-covered granite gorge with a waterfall, traversed by a wooden walkway — like a scene from "Lord of the Rings." The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway (cable car, $24 round trip) takes you to 1,260 m altitude in 8 minutes with a magnificent autumn panorama. At the foot of the mountain lies the crystal-clear Echo Lake — perfect for swimming in summer (admission $4).

Conway Scenic Railway

The Conway Scenic Railway offers nostalgic train rides through the White Mountains — especially the Notch Train route (5 hours, $85 adults) through Crawford Notch is an unforgettable experience in the fall: The historic train winds through narrow valleys, over iron bridges, and past waterfalls, while the mountains glow in all autumn colors. The shorter Valley Train route (55 minutes, $25) is well-suited for families. Be sure to book in advance — the fall rides are often sold out weeks ahead.