The fall foliage season has begun in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, and our landscape is bursting with brilliant colors. The mountains are blanketed with the glowing hues of autumn. We are the only lakefront Bed and Breakfast in the region and the perfect quiet hideaway after a day of hiking or exploring. This season of fleeting beauty is a very popular time for visitors, so book your room with us soon.
Fall Hikes with Summit Views
Hiking never goes out of season in the Lakes Region, but fall is the most magical. The crisp, sunny days are best spent immersed in nature. Any hike in our colorful forests would be memorable, but add a great view and it will take your breath away. Here are three hikes that have dramatic vistas:
- Rattlesnake Mountain – This easy trail is about 3 miles round trip and the trailhead is only a 45 minute drive from our location. The Old Bridle Path will begin as a pretty forest trail with a variety of trees, but just under a mile you will reach an amazing view. Here you will find a large pink granite shelf with unobstructed views of West Rattlesnake Mountain. Continue to the summit and be rewarded with panoramic views of Squam Lake.
- Mount Major – About a 30 minute drive will take you to this moderately hard hike. It is 4 miles round trip with spectacular views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains. The summit is a large flat area of rock with sweeping views of the vibrant forests below.
- Mount Cardigan – The one hour drive to this moderately difficult, 3-mile hike is well worth the time. Enjoy the fall colors as the path winds through a forest of maple, beech and birch trees. Then prepare for the 360-degree view at the summit. From this treeless peak are views of Mount Monadnock and the White Mountains.
Scenic Fall Drives
New Hampshire’s roads include quaint covered bridges, charming towns, stunning scenic overlooks, and sparkling lakes. And the brilliant fall colors just intensify the splendor. The list of beautiful drives is endless but here are a few to sample:
- The Kancamagus Highway – This 34-mile drive has been designated as an American Scenic Byway. This section of Route 112 cuts through the White Mountain National Forest and is between the town of Lincoln and Conway. You will not want to rush your way through this trip with its many breathtaking overlooks.
- Pinkham Notch Loop – Begin this journey on Route 16 in the town of Jackson that has a beautiful historic covered bridge. Route 16 will take you to Mount Washington Auto Road, a steep 7.6 mile drive. The dizzying 30-minute ride can be done in your own vehicle or you can take one of the tours. Be prepared to be blown away at the lofty views.
- Squam Lake to Lake Winnipesaukee – This pretty drive with river and lake views also includes two historic covered bridges. Begin in the quaint town of Ashland then take Route 3 to River Street that leads to the Squam River covered bridge. Continue on Route 113 alongside Squam Lake. When you reach Sandwich turn on Quaker-Whiteface Rd, then follow River Road to the Durgin covered bridge. Continue on Route 113 to Route 25 and connect with Route 109. This part of the drive is along Lake Winnipesaukee with views of the vibrant fall leaves reflecting in the cool clear water.
After exploring the magnificent autumn hikes and drives, curl up by our cozy fireplace. Or watch the sunset on Lake Winnisquam from our lovely lawn or gazebo. Plan an unforgettable fall foliage vacation and book your room with us now. We look forward to seeing you.
