Driving the Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway — “the Kanc” to locals — is one of the most beautiful drives in the Northeast, and it begins right in Lincoln, NH. Officially New Hampshire Route 112, it winds about 34 miles east through the White Mountain National Forest to Conway, climbing over the Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet — the highway’s high point — with sweeping mountain views the whole way. It’s a designated National Scenic Byway, and it’s minutes from your door.

Best Stops, West to East

  • Lincoln Woods — a popular trailhead with a suspension bridge over the Pemigewasset River; an easy, scenic walk right at the Lincoln end
  • Kancamagus Pass (~14 miles) — the highest point on the highway at 2,855 feet, with overlooks along the way
  • C.L. Graham Wangan Ground Overlook (~20 miles) — sweeping views of the Sandwich Range
  • Sabbaday Falls (~17 miles) — a short, flat, family-friendly trail to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall through a narrow granite flume; a highlight of the drive
  • Albany Covered Bridge (~23 miles) — a picturesque 19th-century covered bridge spanning the Swift River
  • Lower Falls Scenic Area (~25 miles) — a beloved swimming and picnicking spot on the Swift River; there are other Swift River swimming holes at pull-offs along the way
  • Diana’s Baths (~30 miles, near the Conway end off West Side Road) — an easy, nearly flat 0.6-mile path to a lovely run of cascades and pools; a small parking fee, and the lot fills fast in season
  • North Conway (~34 miles) — outlet shopping, breweries, and restaurants if you make a full day of it

Fall Foliage

The Kanc is legendary in autumn. Peak color in the White Mountains usually lands from late September into mid-October, and the highway gets busy on peak weekends — go early in the morning for the best light and the easiest parking at the popular pull-offs.

Before You Go

  • There are no gas stations or services along the highway — fuel up in Lincoln first
  • Cell service is spotty to nonexistent — download directions ahead of time
  • Pack water, snacks, and layers; mountain weather changes quickly
  • In winter the road stays open but can be snowy — drive for conditions
  • Pack out what you pack in — it’s a protected national forest

Looking for more? See our full Things to Do in Lincoln, NH guide for dining, hiking, and attractions across every season.

Where to Stay

Hibernation Station offers remodeled condos, lofts, and king rooms right in Lincoln, NH — steps from the Pemigewasset River and minutes from Loon Mountain, with full resort amenities and the free winter ski shuttle. Browse all our rentals, or jump to hotel-style king rooms for a couples’ getaway, studio condos for a simple base, or large group & family rentals when you’re bringing the whole crew. Book direct with us and skip the online travel-site fees.