Kancamagus Highway Named Top Fall Foliage Drive

Travel + Leisure recognized the New Hampshire route as the premier destination for seasonal leaf-peeping.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in National Parks

Screen-print poster illustration of a winding mountain road surrounded by vibrant autumn trees and distant peaks, evoking a vintage travel aesthetic. — Travel + Leisure has ranked New Hampshire's 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway as the top scenic drive in the country for fall foliage. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Travel + Leisure recently named the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire as the number one fall foliage drive in the country. The 34.5-mile National Scenic Byway stretches between Lincoln and Conway through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest.

Why it matters

This recognition draws national attention to one of the most significant tourist corridors in the state. The highway serves as a vital artery for the nearly 4 million visitors who travel to New Hampshire specifically to experience the fall season.

The Kancamagus Highway spans 34.5 miles along Route 112 and is designated as a National Scenic Byway. The route contains no gas stations or businesses, requiring travelers to be fully prepared before entering the White Mountain National Forest.

The players

Travel + Leisure

This travel magazine is a globally recognized publication that provides editorial content on destinations, hotels, and tourism experiences.

White Mountain National Forest

This federally managed protected area encompasses 800,000 acres of mountainous terrain across New Hampshire and Maine.

The details

The highway winds through the White Mountain National Forest on Route 112, serving as a primary route for leaf-peepers between the towns of Lincoln and Conway. Because there are no commercial businesses or gas stations along the road, visitors must plan their travel needs carefully before departing.

The first two weekends of October mark the peak foliage season in the White Mountains.

Travel Outlook

This accolade underscores the persistent popularity of the National Scenic Byways Program in driving state-level tourism. The designation highlights how specific infrastructure investments continue to anchor regional travel economies throughout the shoulder season.

Visitors should anticipate high traffic volumes during the peak foliage windows in early October and ensure they have a full tank of gas before entering the highway. Because the route has no commercial services, all food, water, and fuel must be secured in Lincoln or Conway.

The takeaway

Travelers should prioritize safety and preparation when traversing remote scenic routes during peak tourism periods. Planning for the lack of services along the Kancamagus Highway is essential for a smooth experience during the busy October weekends.