Craving mountain views, waterfalls, and alpine adventures? I’ve got just the place for you—Franconia, New Hampshire! Tucked away in the White Mountains, this town stole my heart with its rugged beauty and cozy charm. If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall for the dramatic hikes, the peaceful forest trails, and those unforgettable drives through Franconia Notch. Whether I’ve been chasing autumn colors, carving down snowy slopes, or just soaking up the quiet, I always leave feeling recharged. You will too.
Best Time to Visit
From experience, I’d say go in autumn (September–October) if you want jaw-dropping foliage—some of the best I’ve ever seen. If skiing’s more your thing, winter (December–March) is when you’ll want to be there. I’ve also loved hiking and biking in the spring and summer—Franconia Notch State Park is stunning when the waterfalls are flowing and the trails are dry. No matter when you visit, you’ll find something worth writing home about.
How to Get There
- By Car: I usually drive in from Boston—it’s an easy 2.5-hour ride up I-93. If you’re coming from Montreal, it’s around 3.5 hours, and the scenery’s worth every mile.
- By Bus: I’ve taken Concord Coach Lines to Littleton before. From there, you can grab a taxi or a rideshare to Franconia—super simple.
- By Air: If you’re flying, I’d suggest Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (about 2 hours away). I’ve also flown into Burlington (2.5 hours), then rented a car—it makes for a really scenic drive into the mountains.
Best Things to Do in Franconia, NH
Hike Through Granite Wonders and Rushing Falls at Flume Gorge -
Explore Peaks, Lakes, and Legends in Franconia Notch State Park - Explore iconic natural wonders like the Flume Gorge, Echo Lake, and the Basin.
Ride High and Look Far from the Slopes of Cannon Mountain - Ride to the summit for panoramic views of the White Mountains.
Honor a Granite Icon at the Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza -
Walk in the Poet’s Footsteps at The Frost Place -
Discover Alpine Legends at the New England Ski Museum - Learn about ski history and legendary Olympians at this compact museum near the tramway.
Bike or Stroll the Scenic Stretch of the Franconia Notch Recreation Path -
Dine Fireside in Rustic Elegance at Horse and Hounds Inn -
Rest Easy with Mountain Views at the Historic Franconia Inn -
If You Dream of Country Comfort, Book a Night at Lovetts Inn -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Hike Through Granite Wonders and Rushing Falls at Flume Gorge
- • Explore Peaks, Lakes, and Legends in Franconia Notch State Park
- • Ride High and Look Far from the Slopes of Cannon Mountain
- • Honor a Granite Icon at the Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza
- • Walk in the Poet’s Footsteps at The Frost Place
- • Discover Alpine Legends at the New England Ski Museum
- • Bike or Stroll the Scenic Stretch of the Franconia Notch Recreation Path
- • Dine Fireside in Rustic Elegance at Horse and Hounds Inn
- • Rest Easy with Mountain Views at the Historic Franconia Inn
- • If You Dream of Country Comfort, Book a Night at Lovetts Inn