SCENIC DRIVES IN MT WASHINGTON VALLEY OFFER LEAF PEEPERS GREAT VIEWING

There is no where more ideal for a Sunday drive than meandering through the Mt. Washington Valley during the height of fall foliage. In fact, why wait until Sunday? The annual fall pageant of color is already approaching peak, and anytime from now until mid-October, these scenic routes will offer great viewing opportunities. And talk about a great budget travel idea - Mother Nature's artistry is among the most brilliant works of art in the universe, and this masterpiece can be taken in FREE! No toll roads, just plenty of majestic beauty with the grand dame of the Northeast- Mount Washington - as the centerpiece! There's still availability at lodging properties offering everything from budget to grand luxury. But remember, book your reservation soon or forever hold your peep! Call the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-367-3364 or visit their web site at www.mtwashingtonvalley.org  for lodging suggestions and information on availability. Best of all, you don’t have to wait until fall to view ride these scenic roads. Come anytime of year, and witness beautiful scenery in the midst of the 660,000 acre White Mountain National Forest.

West Side Road From Route 16 North in Conway, with an outlet in North Conway Village onto Route 16, or continue North to Route 302 in Bartlett. This is a popular alternative to the Route 16 “strip” through North Conway’s business section, as it parallels that road. This country road takes you through farmland, past the White Horse and Cathedral Ledges, and past farms and farm stands bearing local produce. The Bartlett section alone is worth the trip for views across the river and the Intervale.

Cathedral Ledge Road From the North Conway-Bartlett section of West Side Road. Park at the top and walk out onto the ledge to see all of Mt. Washington Valley before you. This is one of those rare scenic overlooks that you can drive to!

Jackson Loop From Route 16 North, go through the Jackson Covered Bridge to Route 16B. The road loops left just before Black Mountain, then goes left again down Carter Notch Road back to Jackson Village. Scenic spots include the picnic stop along Jackson Falls, and the New England Church and gazebo in Jackson Village.

Eaton/Madison From Route 16 in Conway, head east on Route 113 . You can continue south to Madison or turn left at the lake and go through Snowville. Crystal Lake with the little New England white, steepled church is one of the most often requested photos from this area. Take this scenic drive and capture your own photo to remember it by!

Kancamagus Scenic Byway & The White Mountains Trail Take Route 112 off Route 16 in Conway and follow New Hampshire’s only scenic by-way to Lincoln, NH, then through Franconia Notch onto Rt. 302 through Bretton Woods and back into Mt. Washington Valley. This is one of the only designated scenic by-way loops in the country. You’ll travel over 33 miles through the White Mountain National Forest, past waterfalls, mountain brooks and hiking trails to Lincoln Keep a watchful eye out, as this is one of the best moose-watching locations! From there, continue through Franconia Notch to view the site of the former Old Man In The Mountains. You can visit the Old Man Museum and the New England Ski Museum and other attractions, then hop on 93 to Rt. 302 and travel south through Bretton Woods, stopping for a free tour of the Mt. Washington Hotel (at 10am or 4:00pm only). Continue through Crawford Notch back to Bartlett.

Bear Notch Road Access from Route 302 in Bartlett and take over to Kancamagus Hwy or from the “Kanc” over to Route 302 in Bartlett. For some, this is considered a by-pass, for most it’s considered incredibly scenic. This is also a great location for moose-and-bear-spotting in the early morning or dusk hours.

The Notches Pinkham Notch (on Route 16, past Jackson); Crawford Notch (on Route 302, past Bartlett) and Evans Notch (from East Conway). Each of the notches offer scenic glory and ideal picture taking opportunities. Look for fabulous views of Mt. Washington from Pinkham Notch and gorgeous flowing waterfalls and rock formations.

For complete fall vacation planning information, call 1-800-DO-SEE-NH (800-367-3364) or visit www.mtwashingtonvalley.org.

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