A curated guide to the most scenic byways and mountain passes in Vermont and New Hampshire, perfect for witnessing the spectacular fall foliage season. This list highlights routes known for vibrant sugar maples, rolling hills, and classic New England rural landscapes.
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Often cited as the premier foliage drive in Vermont, this route runs north-south through the heart of the Green Mountains. It offers continuous, breathtaking views of golden and red leaves against a backdrop of historic farmsteads and small villages.
New Hampshire's most famous autumn destination, this 34.5-mile stretch of Route 112 winds through the White Mountain National Forest. It provides easy access to scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and some of the densest hardwood forests in the state.
Located in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, this route offers a more rugged and less crowded alternative to Route 100. The steep hills and valleys create stunning contrast with the fall colors, making it a favorite among photographers.
This dramatic mountain pass in New Hampshire features towering cliffs and the iconic Old Man of the Mountain site. The drive through the notch is narrow and winding, offering intimate views of the surrounding peaks bursting with autumn hues.
A steep and winding road that climbs Mount Sunapee in New Hampshire, offering panoramic views of Lake Sunapee and the surrounding mountains. The summit provides a vantage point for observing the regional color transition patterns.
Connecting the towns of Stowe and Waterbury in Vermont, this short but spectacular byway is flanked by dense forests. The drive is particularly beautiful in late October, with sugar maples lining the road and creating a tunnel of color.
Running through the western part of Vermont, this route parallels Route 100 but often sees less traffic. It winds through the Taconic Mountains, offering serene views of rolling hills and valleys filled with golden foliage.
Located in New Hampshire's White Mountains, this park features a scenic loop drive that showcases the raw beauty of the region. Visitors can enjoy overlooks of the Saco River and surrounding peaks adorned in fall colors.
Beyond the Kancamagus Highway, Route 112 extends north and south, connecting Conway to the Kancamagus. This stretch offers charming small-town atmospheres combined with accessible views of the White Mountain foothills in full autumn splendor.
A steep, paved road climbing Mount Ascutney in Vermont, offering panoramic views of the Connecticut River Valley. The summit provides a unique perspective on the color variations across the lowlands and distant mountain ranges.
Located in north-central New Hampshire, this route offers a quieter drive through the Belknap Mountains. It is less trafficked than other major foliage routes, providing a peaceful experience amidst vibrant maple and birch forests.
This scenic byway in Vermont cuts through a narrow mountain gap, featuring dramatic rock formations and dense forest. The drive is relatively short but exceptionally beautiful, with colorful leaves framing the rugged terrain.
Winding through the White Mountains of New Hampshire, this route connects Concord to the northern forests. It offers diverse landscapes, from river valleys to mountain ridges, providing varied perspectives of the autumn foliage season.
Driving to the summit of Mount Equinox in Vermont provides sweeping views of the Taconic and Green Mountains. The road itself is scenic, with switchbacks offering glimpses of the vibrant fall colors spreading across the valley below.
Located in the western part of Vermont, this route offers a slower-paced drive through the Taconic region. It is ideal for those seeking a more leisurely foliage chase with stops at historic towns and scenic viewpoints.
A short loop road in New Hampshire that circles Echo Lake, surrounded by dense hardwood forests. The proximity of the water and the steep, colorful hillsides make it a popular spot for photography and peaceful drives.
Running east-west through New Hampshire, this route crosses various landscapes from the seacoast to the mountains. The central sections offer excellent views of the White Mountain foothills, particularly in towns like Plymouth and Lincoln.
The highest peak in Vermont, accessible via a scenic road from Stowe. The drive offers changing vistas as you ascend, with late-season colors visible near the summit and vibrant hues in the valleys below.
A picturesque route in central Vermont connecting Montpelier to Waterbury. The road winds through gentle hills and farmland, offering a mix of rural charm and spectacular views of the surrounding autumn forests.
A scenic access road in New Hampshire's White Mountains leading to the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center. The surrounding area features high peaks and dense forests, providing excellent opportunities for viewing fall foliage from multiple overlooks.