5 Fall Photo Opps in New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Fall foliage is looking pretty spectacular in New Hampshire right now.  Color is coming out just about everywhere. The White Mountains Region is always a favorite spot for leaf peeping and this year is no exception. Check out this route that takes you off the beaten path!

 Why not kick off this trip with a waterfall!  There’s several places to access Livermore Falls, we found a spot in Campton on the western side of the Pemigewasset River.  Follow the path down a hill, and within just a few minutes you’ll be at a great place to take in the falls and the surroundings.  From this vantage point you have a great view of the cascades that tumble down about 25 feet through a small gorge.  A bonus at this local is the old railroad line… spend a few minutes walking along the path winds along the River.

A bit further down river from the falls is the Livermore Falls Recreation Area.  There’s a small beach located at this spot offering the opportunity for river swimming, as well as a place to launch a kayak or canoe.

Just a couple miles north of the falls you’ll find this gem: the Blair Bridge.  First built in 1829 there’s a lot of history here. The current bridge was constructed in 1977 and spans nearly 300 feet.  Drive or walk across to admire the foliage from both sides of the riverbank.  Or walk down below to get an entirely different view.

From the bridge we opted to take lesser traveled Route 175 to our next stop – and were glad we did as we happened upon this photo opp at Campton Pond and the start of the Mad River.

Then it was onto Mad River Coffee House just a few minutes away. About halfway through our trek we figured it was the perfect time to fuel up for the rest of our route.  This is a must stop whenever we’re in the area.  They offer lots of delicious baked treats and sandwiches – and an  amazing selection of freshly brewed coffees and did we mention they roast their own beans?

Heading north from Campton – our next stop is Loon Mountain in Lincoln. If you haven’t taken the gondola to the summit are you in for a treat! Take the scenic ride up the mountainside and in just about 10 minutes you’re at the top taking in majestic mountain views – talk about breathtaking scenery!  Be sure to check out the observation tower for 360 degree panoramic views overlooking the White Mountain National Forest.

From Loon we headed to the town of Warren. Not only does it have a charming town common but it’s also home to this: A Redstone Rocket.  It’s been referred to as one of NH’s curiosities – I’d  just say “how cool is that?!?”  The eight-ton missile has taken center stage here in town since its arrival in 1971.  The monument honors NH Native and Astronaut Alan Shepard.

To wrap up our day we break out the bikes and hit the trail – you can pick up the Warren Recreational Rail Trail from the Redstone Rocket so that’s just what we did.  The trail is a nice fairly flat ride – good for just about any ability.  It’s quiet and peaceful and offers up a great way to see some of this season’s seasonal scenery.

Peak color is on its way to this region so don’t wait too long to see the sights.  And don’t forget to follow all our falls travels on Facebook and Instagram!