White Mountain Weekend
- Jun 4
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 11
Working Joe Travel uses affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a commission. Thank you for supporting our site.
A weekend in New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountain National Forest is good for the soul. This beautiful and unspoiled wilderness area is only about 2 hours from Boston, and a straight shot up US 3 / I-93.
This 3 day White Mountain weekend Itinerary features short hikes, great food, and massive amounts of scenery that is breathtaking in any season. The itinerary focuses on Lincoln/Franconia-side of the Kancamagus Byway and includes some of the best things to do in New Hampshire.
THINGS TO DO IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
WHITE MOUNTAIN WEEKEND GETAWAY GUIDE
Hotels Near White Mountain National Forest
We advise booking accommodations in the Lincoln/Franconia, NH region. There are many lodgings at different price points in these towns including B&Bs, Inns, Cottages, Cabins, Condos, Hotels, Motels, and Resorts.
Consider these well reviewed hotels:
North Conway Grand Hotel - located on Settlers Green Outlets, North Conway
Fox Ridge Resort - North Conway mountain views, heated pool and hot tub
Indian Head Resort - Lincoln mountain resort with outdoor pool
InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook - Lincoln near White Mt. Natl. Park
Click here for information on Car Rentals in New Hampshire.
WEEKEND THINGS TO DO IN THE WHITE MOUNTAIN
Day 1 Itinerary: Lincoln New Hampshire Attractions
If you arrive in the early afternoon, head to Cannon Mountain (Franconia) or Loon Mountain (Lincoln) for a gondola ride to the top of respective mountains. Both offer modern, high-speed gondolas and spectacular summit views. Once at the summit, you can take the gondola back to the base lodge or walk down the mountain.
Next, check into your accommodations and get settled. For dinner, we suggest dining at the Common Man Restaurant in Lincoln. There is a bar, comfy couches, large field stone fireplace, great food, and plenty of parking. After eating, drive down the road to stroll the Lincoln Village shops. Buy some drinks and snacks for a picnic on Day 2.
Day 2 Itinerary: Kancamagus Scenic Byway Attractions
Have breakfast at Polly's Pancake Parlor at (Sugar Hill). The restaurant is about 6 miles past Cannon Mountain, and a beautiful drive. We have been frequenting this fun, family-owned eatery for many years. Get there early (opens at 7, call-ahead seating) for a hearty, home-cooked meal. The rustic atmosphere is charming. There is a small gift shop to browse.
Next, head for the Kancamagus Scenic Byway (NH Route 112). The “Kanc” run through 30 miles of gorgeous White Mountain forest with tons of hiking trails, rivers, and waterfalls to explore. Be aware that there are no service stations, stores, or restaurants along the byway.
TRIP ESSENTIALS
For almost every travel destination, I find myself reaching for my Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Jacket, Frogg Toggs Hat, and Merrell Hiking Boots.
Other items I rely on include my Huk Sunglasses and Contigo Autoseal Water Bottle (no spills in the backpack).
But by far, my number one can’t-do-without essential is my Sony RX100 Compact Camera. It fits perfectly into a pocket. Or, mounted on a Mini-Tripod it slips into my Travelon Sling Bag.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
About 5 miles past the Loon Mountain Resort, you will see a sign for the Lincoln Woods Trail. This lovely rail trail covers a distance of about 9.8 miles. At the trail head there is a parking area with rest rooms. After crossing a suspension bridge, the flat trial follows along the Pemigewasset River.
The many trails in this area are well marked with mileage, making it easy to know how far you have gone and to loop off the rail trail if you choose. Note: In the winter you can cross country ski here.
After your hike, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, stopping to check out the sights along the way. About 23 miles past the Lincoln Woods Trail you will come to Lower Falls. This stop has restrooms and a picnic area. It is a popular spot for enjoying the river. Water rushes over smooth boulders forming pools that are fun to wade in (and that make a great backdrop for photos).
After your picnic, retrace your route back to Lincoln New Hampshire.
This evening, travel 5 miles south of Lincoln to Woodstock, NH. There is a charming Main Street to shop. Then, we suggest dinner at the Woodstock Inn Brewery. Sample their craft beer in one of 4 pub rooms, and enjoy some comfort food in the dining room.
NEW ENGLAND TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
Day 3 Itinerary: Franconia Notch State Park Attractions
Begin the day with breakfast at Flapjacks Pancake House (Lincoln). The dining room has a homey, chaotic vibe and the food is great.
When you are finished eating, head to the Flume Gorge (Franconia Notch State Park off of I-93). The Flume is an 800-foot natural granite gorge at the foot of Mt. Liberty. To view the attraction, visitors hike a loop that includes boardwalks along the most dramatic sections of the gorge and waterfall.
There is a bus that will take you close to the base of the gorge. Be aware, if the bus is not running there are frequent sections of steep up and down walking on the roughly 2-mile trail.
From the Flume, drive a short distance along I-93 to The Basin. This 20-foot granite pothole with waterfall is a great spot for pictures, and scenic viewing. Well worth a short stop before heading home.
Hope you get to enjoy this beautiful area, Laura and Randy
PACKING ESSENTIALS
We rely on a combination of bags: Our Level-8 28” and Level-8 20” spinners are fun and stylish. Our Delsey Helium 28” hardshell is a workhorse. Our Tomtoc Backpack is great for short trips.
Randy doesn’t use them, but I swear by segregating items into Compression Packing Cubes and Wet Bags.
For security, we place an Apple Air Tag in each bag, and keep a supply of RFID Blocking Sleeves on hand.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
For more information on travel to New Hampshire's north country read our articles on:
Comments