This 34.5-Mile Road Trip Leads To Some Of The Most Scenic Parts Of New Hampshire, No Matter What Time Of Year It Is
By Ken MacGray|Published December 04, 2022
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Ken MacGray
Author
Hey! I'm a freelance writer and guidebook author. I've authored "New Hampshire's 52 With A View - A Hiker's Guide", serve as editor of Appalachian Mountain Club's "Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide", and and am co-editor of the "White Mountain Guide", also for AMC. I'm currently beginning work on the 6th Edition of AMC's Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide, which will be published in 2025. I live in southern New Hampshire and can usually be found wandering throughout the state's mountains and forests.
Up until 1959, there was a vast section of New Hampshire between the towns of Lincoln and Conway that was difficult to reach. With the opening of the Kancamagus Highway (or “The Kanc” as it is locally known), this formerly inaccessible area was opened to the public. Named after the third and final chief of the Pennacook Indian tribes, this National Scenic Byway, which is mostly within the White Mountain National Forest, is one of the Granite State’s most beautiful drives.
The most stunning time of the year to drive the Kanc is in Autumn when the foliage is at its most vibrant. Have patience in driving the road at this time of year though, because you won't be alone!
Sabbaday Falls is a short side trip that should not be missed. A 0.3-mile path leads to spectacular waterfall that tumbles down Sabbaday Brook through a narrow flume. More information is available on the U.S. Forest Service website.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area is a spot where the Swift River flows over ledges and through a deep gorge. A paved footpath leads to a bridge over the gorge. Walkers can continue on the path for another mile for a loop around Falls Pond. More information is available on the U.S. Forest Service website.
On the east side of Kancamagus Pass, the highway mainly follows the course of the Swift River. Together, the highway and river make a gradual descent toward Conway.
Near the eastern end of the highway is the Albany Covered Bridge. This historic structire was first constructed in 1858 and is still in use by vehicles today. More information is available on the U.S. Forest Service website.
The Kanc is open for vehicle traffic year-round. While generally safe, drivers should be prepared with winter experience and enough tools and supplies as there are no services along the highway.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your map and pack up the car for a day trip through some gorgeous New Hampshire scenery. For more information, visit the Kancamagus Scenic Byway website.
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