Today, I’ve got a tale to tell about our adventure into the heart of the stunning White Mountains in New Hampshire. You could seriously spend a whole week here and still not see it all. Unfortunately we only had one jam packed day to explore. So, keep reading to learn about brace yourselves for a wild ride filled with breathtaking hikes, mouthwatering BBQ, and unexpected encounters!
What We Cover
- Market
- Mt Willard
- The Basin
- Kancamagus Highway
- Flume Gorge
Market
Our journey began as we ventured our way through the winding roads of New Hampshire from Vermont. But what’s an adventure without a little detour, right? We stumbled upon a Sunday market along Main St in Bethlehem that lured us to stop and explore. And boy, are we glad we did!
This market wasn’t your ordinary affair. It had a heartwarming twist – there was a stall for Free Rein Rescue & Rehab; a non-profit dedicated to rescuing horses from slaughterhouses. We chatted with the inspiring lady behind it all and were left in awe of her incredible work. Good people doing good things – that’s what we love to see! Please click on the link to learn more and donate: https://freereinrescue.org/
But let’s talk about the food. Oh, the food! Our noses led us straight to a smoky BBQ food truck, where we indulged in a smoked pulled pork sandwich that was out of this world. As if that wasn’t enough, we couldn’t resist pairing it with some smoked mac and cheese and a side of Shepherd’s pie.
The market also had some really trendy stalls and used goods, plus a stage with live music and circus acts. We are thrilled to have stumbled upon this gem.
Mt Willard
After satisfying our taste buds, it was time to tackle our first adventure – the Mount Willard hike. This 5km trail was a rocky gradual incline through tree cover to a jaw-dropping reward at the summit. The views overlooking the valley were nothing short of spectacular. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must be during the fall season! We spent some time admiring the valley before descenting the trail.
Now, for those of you who aren’t fans of parking nightmares, let me give you a warning – the parking situation here can be pretty hectic. But don’t fret; you can always do what we did and park on the side of the highway.
Ebony & Ivory Tip: be sure to wear supportive shoes as there are a lot of loose rocks and uneven ground. We both rolled our ankles a couple of times.
The Basin
Next on our hit list was ‘The Basin,’ a natural wonder that had us feeling like we’d stumbled across a hidden gem. This short 15-minute walk led us to cascading waters that seemed almost too perfect to be real. If you’re up for it, you can extend your stroll and head over to Kinsman Falls. It was a nice extended stroll but if you don’t have time skip it. We believe the first section was the best.
Kancamagus Highway
And speaking of nature, the Kancamagus Highway deserves a special shoutout. This scenic drive is a dream come true for anyone who loves being behind the wheel. The 45-minute journey starts in Lincoln and ends in Conway, offering plenty of picturesque viewpoints along the way. And if you’re a fan of swimming, you’re in luck – there are spots along the river where you can take a refreshing dip. Just be prepared to pay around five bucks for parking in some areas.
For those who prefer their adventures with a side of swimming, Lower Falls is a popular spot that won’t disappoint. It’s family-friendly and provides ample space for setting up a cozy spot by the water. For a fiver, you can’t go wrong!
Flume Gorge
Finally, if you’re up for a bit of splurging, the Flume Gorge awaits. It’ll set you back $18 each, plus an extra $4 for entrance to the state park, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. This natural wonderland offers boardwalks, caves, and waterfalls that’ll leave you in awe. Don’t forget to book your visit in advance to ensure you don’t miss out!
Other spots to check out if you have time:
- The Mount Washington Cog Railway
- Artists Bluff (hike)
- Lady’s Bathtub (swimming hole)
- Otter Rocks Day Use Area
- Sabbaday Falls
- Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
- Jackson Falls
- Cathedral Ledge Trail
- Diana’s Baths
Above pinterest image if you have one