Four Days in the Mountains

New Hampshire's White Mountains reveal extraordinary natural grandeur from the roadside, and they provide the opportunity to explore mountain crags and crystalline streams.

Day 1: The "Kank"

Start at the town of Lincoln, at Exit 32 of I-93, and drive to North Conway via the scenic Kancamagus Highway, stopping for some short hikes or a picnic. Indulge in a few shopping forays in town, and savor the views of the Mount Washington Valley. Head to the village of Jackson for the night.

Relax before dinner at Jackson Falls, or take a bike ride up Carter Notch Road or other back roads in the hills above the village.

Day 2: Pinkham Notch

Stay another night in Jackson, and spend the day exploring by foot around Pinkham Notch. Stop at Glen Ellis Falls en route to the base of Mount Washington. Park at Pinkham Notch and hike to dramatic Tuckerman Ravine for a picnic lunch.

Return to your car and continue north to Wildcat Ski Area. Take the chairlift to the summit for spectacular views of Mount Washington, the Presidential Range, and the Carter Range. Return to Jackson for the night.

Day 3: Mount Washington

Retrace your path down Route 16 and back to Route 302, turn right, and drive through Crawford Notch. If weather and time allow, hike to one of the scenic waterfalls.

Go to the Mount Washington Cog Railway on the far side of the Notch. Take the train ride to the summit of Mount Washington (dress warmly). On your return, stop by the grand Mount Washington Hotel for a celebratory snack.

Day 4: Franconia Notch

Continue west on Route 302 to Route 3. Turn left (south) onto I-93, then drive through scenic Franconia Notch. Visit some of the scenic attractions (such as the Flume Gorge or the tram ride to Cannon Mountain) as time permits.