Length: Varies
Travel Time: Varies
Connecticut River Scenic Byway is over 270 miles of scenic highway that passes through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The New Hampshire section runs from the Massachusetts border near Walpole and West Chesterfield area and runs to the Bath and Littleton area. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge and Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site, as well as quiet college towns, like Lyme and Orford. In general, Connecticut River Scenic Byway provides an excellent opportunity to explore the unique rural New Hampshire countryside.
Length: 34.5 miles
Travel Time: 2-3 hours
The Kancamagus Scenic Byway, also known as "The Kanc," is a beautiful 34.5-mile stretch of New Hampshire Route 112. The scenic route travels through the White Mountain National Forest from Lincoln, New Hampshire to Conway, New Hampshire. Along the way, you'll get stunning view of Swift River, Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, Rocky Gorge, and, of course, the unforgettable White Mountains. Scenic overlooks include Hancock, Sugar Hill, and Pemi. The highest point on the route is Kancamagus Pass, with an elevation of 2,855 feet. Kancamagus Scenic Byway passes through areas that contain an abundance of wildlife. You'll have an excellent chance to catch a glimpse of deer, moose, eagles, hawks, and, possibly, bears. When the colors change, Kancamagus Scenic Byway is considered to be one of the best places in the world to view fall foliage. Note, however, that, during the fall months, this scenic route draws crowds, so don't expect to have it to yourself. The route also provides access to a number of hiking trails and walking paths. So, if you want to stop along the way and get a closer look at nature, you'll have the opportunity. Be prepared for emergencies: This route is free of hotels, rest stops, gas stations, and pretty much any modern amenity.
Length: 25 miles
Travel Time: 45 miles
As the name implies, the Lake Sunapee Loop circles New Hampshire's Lake Sunapee. The scenic loop starts in Greenfield, New Hampshire, runs through Windsor, Washington, and Goffstown, and returns to Greenfield. Along the way, the route passes the outskirts of John Hay National Wildlife Refuge and Mount Sunapee State Park. Lake Sunapee is one of the cleanest lakes in New Hampshire, and you should definitely set aside a lot of time to stop and enjoy is the lake and it's many amenities.
Length: 67 miles
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
End Points: Glen New Hampshire; Wendworth, New Hampshire
Three Rivers Scenic Drive (New Hampshire Highway 16) travels throughout the White Mountain National Forest. (Note that, if you plan on stopping along the way in White Mountain National Forest, you'll need a White Mountain National Forest Pass.) Specifically, the route starts near Glen, New Hampshire and ends in Wendworth, New Hampshire. The drive provides spectacular views of Glen Ellis Falls, Thompson Falls, and a variety of mountain ranges. Probably the most enjoyable part of the route is Mount Washington Auto Road. The road twists and turns along a 12-degree grade to the top of Mount Washington. At Mount Washington's summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of parts of Vermont, New York, and Canada. After leaving the Mount Washington area, look for the Great Gulf Overlook, which includes views of a glacier cirque. Later on the drive, near Wentworth, you'll want to visit Lake Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is made up of forests, wetlands, and streams. It provides a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife.