New Hampshire Kancamagus Highway Travel Postcard

The Kancamagus Highway—often called “the Kanc”—is a 34.5-mile National Scenic Byway that winds through the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains between the towns of Lincoln (west end) and Conway (east end). Following Route 112, this two-lane mountain road climbs to an elevation of about 2,855 ft at Kancamagus Pass, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, dense hardwood forests, and the swift waters of the Swift River. Built in the 1950s and named after the 17th-century Native American leader Kancamagus (“Fearless One”) of the Pennacook tribe, the highway preserves a sense of wilderness with no gas stations, restaurants, or commercial development along its length, making it a peaceful escape into nature. The drive is especially famous for spectacular fall foliage, drawing leaf-peepers from around the world to witness blazing reds, oranges, and golds each autumn. Scenic pull-offs such as Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, and the CL Graham Wangan Overlook provide easy access to waterfalls, short hikes, and panoramic vistas. Several trailheads connect to the White Mountain National Forest’s extensive hiking network, and roadside campgrounds allow for overnight stays. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely drive, photographing autumn colors, or embarking on a backcountry hike, the Kancamagus Highway offers one of New England’s most iconic and unforgettable mountain journeys.