Leaf-Peeping in New Hampshire’s White Mountains

We consider ourselves downright lucky to live smack-dab in one of the world’s premier places to appreciate autumn trees, which in this part of New England put on a color show unrivaled anywhere else.

The White Mountains Autumn Color Wheel

From maples to birches, from aspens to cherries, the broad leaf trees of our jaw-dropping White Mountains turn a spectacularly varied suite of colors as the crisper, shorter days of autumn set in. All around us, the slopes and ridges catch fire in mesmerizing patterns.

New Hampshire’s autumn foliage is known across the globe for its almost unbelievable intensity, the focus of our longtime “leaf-peeping” tradition. Wandering a stand of crimson-leaved red maples or bright-golden aspens in the White Mountain National Forest that surrounds us is something like stepping into a dream.

The broad vistas up Wildcat Ridge, Mount Washington, Carter Dome, and our other White Mountain heights become truly extraordinary when they’re banded with yellow, red, copper, burgundy, and all the other shades of New England fall. It’s something you simply have to see for yourself!

Fall in Jackson Village, NH

Jackson Village, happily nestled in the folds of the White Mountains, makes the ideal spot to drink in this special season. Miles of scenic byways and hikes await you, all of them rich in opportunities to experience fall colors.

All October, you’ll be able to experience firsthand Jackson’s famous “Return of the Pumpkin People,” a self-guided exploration of fantastically creative pumpkin displays all about town. You’ll have lots of opportunities for leaf peeping on the tour as well!

Jackson Village is also just a stone’s throw from the Fryeburg Fair right across the border in Maine. This fantastic celebration of regional agriculture—full of livestock shows, amusement rides, live music, and plenty of delicious eats—runs from September 28 through October 5 this year. The roots of this beloved tradition stretch back to the 1850s.

Whatever you choose to do in our neck of the woods during nature’s most beautiful display, we’re sure it’ll be an unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to take lots of pictures!