Portland to White Mountains: Kancamagus & Mt. Washington

Trip Snapshot:

• Distance & Drive Time: ~150 miles round-trip from Portland (approximately 2 hours each way, depending on route). This can be done as a long day trip or a relaxed overnight excursion.
• Best Time of Year: Late spring through fall. Summer offers lush greenery and cool mountain air; autumn is spectacular for fall foliage (the Kancamagus Highway is world-famous for its colors). Winter drives are possible but watch for snow some scenic roads close in winter.
• Ideal For: Mountain and nature lovers, families (lots of kid-friendly stops), hikers, and anyone wanting a quick escape to New Hampshire’s high peaks.
• Route Summary: From Portland, head west on US-302 through Maine’s lake country toward North Conway, NH. Alternatively, you can take ME-25 to NH-16 as a southern approach. In New Hampshire, use NH-112 Kancamagus Highway to cut through the White Mountain National Forest toward Lincoln. Loop back via I-93 south to NH-25 east (through the Lakes Region) or backtrack to North Conway and 302, returning to Portland.
• Top Highlights: Tax-free outlet shopping and a vintage railroad in North Conway, the scenic Kancamagus Highway (34 miles of pure wilderness with overlooks like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge), optional detour up Mount Washington Auto Road (tallest peak in the Northeast), and sights in Franconia Notch (the Old Man of the Mountain historic site and Echo Lake).

Route Overview

Vast mountain vistas from the summit of Mount Washington, New Hampshire the crown of the Northeast and a highlight of the White Mountains.

In just a couple of hours, you’ll transition from Portland’s sea-level landscape to the alpine world of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Head out of Portland on US-302 west, passing the shores of Sebago Lake and quaint villages like Bridgton. As you near Fryeburg and cross into New Hampshire, the scenery grows grand rolling foothills hint at the heights to come. Your first major stop is North Conway, a bustling mountain town about 1.5 hours from Portland. Arriving via 302 (or via NH-16 if you took the alternate route through Ossipee), you’ll notice the classic train station and the backdrop of Cranmore Mountain. North Conway is a gateway to adventures from here, you’ll embark on the iconic Kancamagus Highway (NH-112) heading west. The “Kanc,” as locals call it, is a 34.5-mile National Scenic Byway slicing through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest with no towns or services in between. Climbing from Conway, the road twists upward along the Swift River, entering a world of dense forest and mountain peaks. Pull-offs invite you to stop and explore: Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, and multiple panoramic overlooks. Reaching the 2,855 ft Kancamagus Pass, you’ve hit the route’s apex from here, descend toward Lincoln, NH. At Lincoln (roughly 2 hours from North Conway with stops), you can choose to extend south a bit on I-93 into Franconia Notch State Park for even more sights, or begin looping back. Franconia Notch’s parkway (Route 3/I-93) cuts between towering cliffs here you’ll find Echo Lake, the base of the aerial tram to Cannon Mountain, and the Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza (a memorial site where the famous rock face stood before its 2003 collapse). From Lincoln, head back east either the way you came (for a different perspective on the Kanc) or take NH-112 to NH-16 south for a quicker return via highways. Either way, by the time you arrive back in Portland, you’ll have experienced a dramatic sampler of New England’s mountain splendor, all in a day’s drive.

Top Stops & Experiences

• North Conway, NH: This charming town is an attraction in itself. Browse the many outlet shops (North Conway is known for tax-free shopping on gear and apparel). Train buffs and families will love the Conway Scenic Railroad, offering vintage train rides from the historic Victorian station even if you don’t ride, the station’s classic architecture makes for a great photo. For a sweet treat, stop by Zeb’s General Store on Main Street, a nostalgic country store brimming with candies and New England specialties. Info: Visit North Conway (Mt. Washington Valley Chamber).
• Mount Washington Auto Road (Gorham, NH): If you crave adventure (and it’s summer or early fall), detour about 30 minutes north of North Conway on NH-16 to the base of the legendary Mount Washington Auto Road. This 7.6-mile private toll road climbs to the 6,288 ft summit of Mount Washington, the Northeast’s highest peak. Driving your rental car is allowed just use low gear and caution on the steep, narrow ascent (the rule is “up in drive, down in low,” to spare your brakes). On a clear day, the view from the top spans four states and Canada! At the summit, explore the historic weather observatory and tip-top house, and experience the famously wild weather (it can be 30°F cooler and very windy up there). If you’d rather not drive, guided van tours are available, or you can hop on the Cog Railway on the mountain’s west side (a bit out of the way for this loop, though). Official site: Mt. Washington Auto Road (check for operating dates, hours, and vehicle restrictions).
• Kancamagus Highway Sights & Hikes: The Kanc is the star of this road trip. Highlights along its route include:
• Sabbaday Falls: A short 0.3-mile wooded trail leads to a beautiful flume and cascades. It’s an easy walk and rewards you with an up-close view of the multi-tiered waterfall perfect for stretching your legs.

• Rocky Gorge Scenic Area: Just off the road, see the Swift River squeeze through a narrow gorge. A footbridge crosses high above the water, offering a great vantage of the churning river below. On the far side, a short path leads to Falls Pond, a peaceful spot away from the road.

• Scenic Overlooks: Don’t miss the roadside viewpoints such as Pemigewasset Overlook and Hancock Overlook. These pull-offs offer stunning mountain panoramas especially gorgeous in autumn when the valley below becomes a patchwork of reds, oranges, and yellows. Interpretive signs often explain which peaks you’re looking at in the distance.

• Picnic Spots: The Kanc has several picnic areas (like Otter Rocks and Covered Bridge area near Conway) where you can sit by the river and enjoy lunch. Pack a picnic and dine with the sound of rushing water in the background.
  
  
• Franconia Notch State Park (optional extension): If time allows, a quick drive through Franconia Notch (via I-93/US-3 from Lincoln) is highly worthwhile. You’ll be flanked by Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain as you drive this stunning pass. Stop at Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza, which commemorates New Hampshire’s famous “Old Man” rock profile that collapsed in 2003 stand in a certain spot and you can see an outline of the Old Man superimposed on the cliff where it used to be. Nearby is Echo Lake, a pristine mountain lake beneath Cannon Cliff (in summer, you can swim or rent a pedal boat). If you’re eager for more views, Cannon Mountain’s aerial tramway can whisk you to its summit in minutes (operates in summer/fall). Info: Franconia Notch State Park.
• Story Land (Glen, NH): Traveling with little ones? Story Land is a fairy-tale themed amusement park right along Route 302 in Glen (between North Conway and Bartlett). It’s a beloved family stop featuring whimsical rides and nursery rhyme characters an easy add-on either on your way in or out via Route 302. Official site: Story Land.

Where to Eat & Stay

• Eat: North Conway has you covered for dining options. For breakfast or coffee, check out Frontside Grind or Peach’s (a cozy cafe). Midday, options range from sandwich spots to breweries Moat Mountain Smokehouse is a local favorite, pairing house-brewed beers with BBQ and pub fare. If you find yourself in Lincoln around lunch or dinner, Woodstock Inn & Brewery (in North Woodstock, just next to Lincoln) offers hearty comfort food and craft brews in a rustic setting. Along the Kanc itself, there are no restaurants (pack snacks!). For a classic roadside bite on the drive back, you could stop at Yankee Smokehouse in West Ossipee (if returning via NH-16) for some casual barbecue.
• Stay: While you can do this loop in one day, an overnight turns it into a relaxing getaway. North Conway has numerous hotels and B&Bs consider the North Conway Grand Hotel (convenient for outlets) or a cozy inn like the Cranmore Inn downtown. Waking up in the mountains means you can tackle an early hike or enjoy the morning mist. Alternatively, Lincoln or nearby Franconia have lodges and inns if you want to overnight on the western end of the loop (for example, the Indian Head Resort in Franconia Notch has classic motel charm with a great view of the mountains). In winter, make sure your accommodation is open year-round many are, catering to ski season visitors.

Practical Tips

• Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather is fickle. Even if Portland is mild, the White Mountains can be much cooler. Bring layers and rain gear, especially if driving up Mount Washington (the summit can feel like winter even in August). Check the Mount Washington Observatory forecast if you plan to ascend high winds or storms should be taken seriously (the Auto Road may close for unsafe conditions).
• Driving the Auto Road: If you drive the Mount Washington Auto Road, use first gear when coming down to avoid overheating your brakes. The road is paved but very steep with sheer drop-offs (no guardrails), so drive slowly and pull over at turnouts to let your brakes cool or to allow more confident locals to pass. If heights make you uncomfortable, consider taking the guided van tour instead of driving you’ll still get the experience without the white knuckles.
• Kancamagus Logistics: As noted, there are no services on the Kanc. Fill your gas tank in Conway or Lincoln. There are a few National Forest pit-toilet rest areas at major sites (like Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge), but no food beyond perhaps seasonal snack stands. Also, cell phone reception disappears for most of the Kanc, so don’t rely on GPS alone carry a map or download offline maps of the area.
• Wildlife & Safety: You are in moose country! Pay attention to “Brake for Moose” signs especially around dawn or dusk. Moose (and deer) sometimes cross roads unexpectedly; hitting one can be extremely dangerous. If you spot one, slow down and enjoy the sight from a distance do not approach or feed. Also, when exploring short trails like Sabbaday Falls, keep kids close, as rocks can be slippery near the water.
• Timing & Traffic: This route is generally low-traffic on weekdays. On peak foliage weekends (late September–early October), North Conway and the Kancamagus can be extremely busy expect slow cars and full parking lots at overlooks. Starting your drive very early can help beat the crowds. In winter, Route 302 and NH-16 are well-plowed main roads, but the Kancamagus Highway is not maintained at night and can be closed during heavy snow. If traveling in winter, consider sticking to the lower elevations or main highways (and ensure your rental has all-season or snow tires).
• Kid-Friendly Stops: Aside from Story Land, the region has other family attractions: Clark’s Trading Post in Lincoln has trained bear shows and a quirky woodland ride, and in warmer months you’ll find mini-golf, ziplines, and alpine slides around North Conway and Lincoln. Tailor your stops to your crew’s interests whether that’s a short hike to a waterfall or an ice cream at Lickety Split in Lincoln. The beauty of a car trip is flexibility!

Rentals & Logistics

One of the perks of this trip: you’ll cross state lines and be back by evening, all with your own set of wheels. Ensure your rental car is ready for mountain driving brakes and engine cooling in good shape if you plan to tackle big ascents. Most Portland rental agencies allow travel into New Hampshire with no issue. If visiting in winter and you’re not used to snow driving, consider renting an AWD vehicle for added stability. For GPS, download offline maps for the Whites due to spotty cell service. Lastly, don’t forget that New Hampshire has no sales tax those outlet finds in North Conway might be even more tempting, so leave a little trunk space for shopping bags. Reserve your rental car ahead of time during leaf-peeping season, as demand is high. A tank of gas, a sense of adventure, and this loop through the White Mountains will give you a refreshing change of scenery from Portland’s coast all in a day’s drive.