Autumn in New England

Published: November 3, 2023

Autumn in New England is a magical time of year. The leaves change color, the air gets crisp, and the pumpkin spice flows like water. But let’s be real, the real star of the show is the fall foliage. It’s like Mother Nature took a paintbrush and went to town on the trees. And what better way to enjoy the foliage than by taking a scenic drive through the countryside? Just make sure you don’t get too distracted by the beauty, or you might end up driving into a tree. Trust me, it’s happened before.

But what if you’re not a fan of driving? No problem! You can always take a leisurely stroll through the woods. Just be sure to wear some bright orange clothing so the hunters don’t mistake you for a deer. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try to blend in with the foliage. Just don’t blame me if you end up getting lost in the woods.

And let’s not forget about all the fun fall activities. You can go apple picking, pumpkin carving, or even take a hayride. Just be sure to bring a jacket, because it’s New England, and the weather can change on a dime. One minute you’re sweating, the next you’re shivering. It’s like the weather can’t make up its mind. But hey, that’s part of the charm, right?

So there you have it, folks. Autumn in New England is a time to be cherished. Just don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you. And if you happen to see a bear, just remember: they’re more afraid of you than you are of them. Probably.

New England is a great place to view the fall foliage. Here are some of the best locations to view the fall foliage in New England:

1. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire: This scenic, tree-lined drive spans 34.5 miles and allows travelers to tour some of the most picturesque spots the region has to offer. Beginning in Lincoln and ascending through the White Mountain National Forest, there’s no shortage of stunning overlooks and stops along “the Kanc,” so be prepared to put it in park. Be sure to stop at the C.L. Graham Overlook just below the summit of Kancamagus Pass, then picnic at Sabbaday Falls in Conway, a half-mile walk from the trailhead, before heading north to Bretton Woods on 302. There, you’ll be treated to blazing views of Mount Washington ¹.

2. Lake Winnipesaukee Loop, New Hampshire: Road trip around New Hampshire’s biggest lake (we’re talking 97 miles of premium New England sights) and take in the waterfront views and bright autumn foliage. Stop for lunch and a stroll in any one of the quaint towns along the route, like Meredith, or even stop for some outdoor activities (think: boating, fishing, and hiking) ¹.

3. Route 100, Vermont: Vermont in the fall is like something straight out of a picture book. The billboard-free Route 100 winds through some of Vermont’s most quintessential villages, with all the cider donuts and country stores your heart desires. Hike to the top of Mount Killington for some seriously impressive views before continuing to the 11-mile Green Mountain Byway. Spend a weekend in Stowe or Mad River Valley and indulge in farm-to-table dining, craft beer, and maybe even a trip through those beautiful autumn trees on a zipline tour at Arbortrek Canopy Adventures or the Stow Mountain Resort (home to the second-longest zipline tour in the US) ¹.

4. Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire: Franconia Notch State Park is a public recreation area in the White Mountains. The park is home to Cannon Mountain, a popular ski resort, and Franconia Notch, a mountain pass between the Kinsman Range and Franconia Range. The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The park is also home to the Flume Gorge, a natural gorge extending 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty ².

5. Acadia National Park, Maine: Acadia National Park is a 47,000-acre park located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. The park is home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and camping. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and bald eagles ³.