12 Scenic Fall Foliage Drives in New England: Waterfalls & Covered Bridges, 2025 Edition

Looking for the best places to see brilliant fall foliage, covered bridges and waterfalls without battling the crowds? Beyond the tourist-packed overlooks are hidden routes where locals go to soak in autumn’s fiery colors—along with dramatic waterfalls and charming covered bridges that make every turn photo-worthy.

These 12 New England foliage drives blend natural beauty with architectural history, offering a road trip experience that feels authentic, peaceful, and unforgettable. Whether you will be travel as a family or on a romantic fall foliage getaway, these fall foliage drives will offer lots of spectacular photo opportunities.

Scenic Fall Foliage Drives:

• Arcadia National Park, Maine
• Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
• Smugglers Notch, Vermont
• Franconia Notch and The Flume, New Hampshire
• Route 100 Drive, Vermont
• Courier & Ives Scenic Byway, New Hampshire
• Crawford Notch State Park, New Hampshire
• Jackson Village, New Hampshire
• Woodstock to Quechee, Vermont
• Lake Sunapee Scenic Byway, New Hampshire
• Route 169, the Quiet Corner, Connecticut
• The Mohawk Trail, Route 2, Massachusetts

These 10 scenic byways offer something special – not just spectacular fall foliage colors, but also dramatic rushing waterfalls and historic covered bridges that frame the fiery landscapes perfectly. These New England fall foliage road trips combine natural beauty with architectural charm, creating photo opportunities you won’t find on typical travel itineraries.

Answering the age old question, “Where Can I See Waterfalls and Covered Bridges in New England?”, get ready to pack your camera, fill your thermos with hot apple cider, and get ready to experience fall foliage as it should be – with plenty of space to breathe in that crisp autumn air and secret spots that will make you feel like you’ve discovered New England all over again.

1. Acadia National Park Loop Drive, Maine

This area transforms into a breathtaking autumn panorama making it one of New England’s most spectacular fall destinations. From the drive past flaming red wild blueberry fields, to the mountain views dotted with brightly colored maples, oaks and birches, Maine’s premier National Park has miles of dramatic views in fall.  As it is located in northern Maine, this is an ideal location for early foliage viewing.  Autumn leaves reach peak colors here first and then work their way south.

Acadia National Park Fall Highlights

Acadia National Park is Maine’s most popular tourist attraction.  It’s beauty is evident in every season of the year, but many consider fall the most spectacular time of year to visit.  As you navigate the park’s winding roads (either on your own or by free park shuttle) during peak foliage season, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks that showcase nature’s artistry at its finest.

Bridges to explore in the park

With so many to explore, here are a few standout bridges that showcase the diversity of Rockefeller’s vision. Each one has its own personality, making them must-sees during your fall adventure:

• Duck Brook Bridge: Often hailed as the most elegant of the bunch, this bridge was the first of six constructed in the early 1920s and exudes sophistication with its refined stonework and graceful arches. Located near the Sieur de Monts entrance, it’s a short, easy walk from the parking area. In autumn, the surrounding ferns and trees frame it like a painting, with golden light filtering through the leaves—perfect for photographers.
• Cobblestone Bridge: As the oldest carriage-road bridge, completed in 1917, this one stands out for its rustic charm. Unlike the others, it’s built entirely from local cobblestones, giving it a textured, almost medieval look. Tucked away near Eagle Lake, it’s a quick detour off the main roads. Fall tip: Visit early in the morning when the mist rises from the lake, adding a mystical vibe to the fiery foliage backdrop.
• Waterfall Bridge: For a touch of drama, head to this 40-foot-high span over Upper Hadlock Brook, where a cascading waterfall roars beneath. Built in 1926, it’s one of the more adventurous to reach, involving a moderate hike along the carriage roads. The autumn colors here are breathtaking, with reds and yellows contrasting the whitewater—pair it with a visit to nearby Hemlock Bridge for a full waterfall experience.
• Jordan Pond Bridge (also known as Jordan Pond Dam Bridge): Constructed in 1920, this bridge connects the Jordan Pond House to scenic trails and offers views of the pond’s glassy waters ringed by fall colors. It’s accessible and family-friendly, with nearby popovers at the tea house as a reward. The bridge’s simple yet sturdy design highlights how these structures were built to last, enduring over a century of New England weather.

Grandest Falls and Coastal Views in the park

Hadlock Falls is a must see as waters cascades dramatically through a tapestry of orange and scarlet leaves. Don’t miss the geological marvel of Bubble Rock, perched precariously on South Bubble Mountain, providing panoramic views of the surrounding fall splendor. The thunderous Thunder Hole becomes even more dramatic against autumn’s backdrop, where crashing waves meet cliffs adorned in seasonal colors. For the most rewarding experience, plan your scenic drive between late September and mid-October when foliage peaks, and arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds while capturing the most vibrant lighting. Popular scenic overlooks along Park Loop Road and Cadillac Summit Road offer countless photo opportunities where you can witness Maine’s coastal beauty enhanced by nature’s most spectacular seasonal display.  Be aware that if you want to drive up to the Summit of Cadillac Mountain, you’ll need an advance registration for your car in summer and fall.

Timing Your Visit: When Fall Foliage Peaks in Acadia

The stars must align for peak foliage, but in Acadia, that magic typically happens in in late September to early-October. Colors begin shifting in mid September, but the sweet spot is in the first few weeks of September, when hardwoods rach their zenith in brilliant displays.

To avoid crowds, plan your visit for early morning (especially on weekends) to secure parking at popular scenic overlooks like Cadillac Summit Road and the Park Loop Road—these vantage points offer the most spectacular fall colors and are easily accessible for families, while nearby hiking trails like the Jordan Pond Path provide intimate encounters with Maine’s legendary autumn splendor.

1.  Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

The Kancamagus Highway winds through the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest, offering 34.5 miles of breathtaking scenery along the two lane roadway.  Come prepared as you won’t find a single gas station or restaurant along its length, but every mile of the undeveloped landscape is a treat to behold . This scenic byway, affectionately called “The Kanc,” connects Lincoln to Conway New Hampshire and showcases some of New England’s most spectacular fall foliage.

Kancamagus Highway Highlights

The journey features numerous scenic overlooks that frame the colorful landscape. Notably, Hancock Overlook provides panoramic views of the White Mountains, whereas Pemigewasset Overlook offers breathtaking vistas of the Osceola Mountains. Furthermore, Sugar Hill Scenic Vista delivers stunning eastward views that seem to place you above the treetops. For history enthusiasts, a stop at the Russell Colbath House adds historical context to your fall foliage drive.

Waterfall stops along the Kancamagus Highway

The Kanc boasts a number of magnificent waterfalls. Most noteworthy is Sabbaday Falls, accessible via a short 0.6-mile round-trip walk, features three beautiful drops and is the most popular waterfall stop on the route. Rocky Gorge presents a scenic waterfall dropping into a rugged canyon just 0.1 miles from the parking area. Lower Falls, meanwhile, transforms into one of the Northeast’s premier swimming holes during summer.  Be aware that even when the weather is warm, the mountain fed waters are cold.  Luckily the flow is warmed by the large flat granite boulders as it settles into splashing pools.  This is a favorite stop for families in particular.

Kancamagus Highway covered bridges

The Albany Covered Bridge stands as the highway’s sole covered bridge. Built in 1858 and spanning 120 feet across the Swift River near Conway, this charming structure was destroyed by a flood shortly after construction but was quickly rebuilt. The bridge features Paddleford truss construction with added arches and has become one of New Hampshire’s most photographed covered bridges, especially when surrounded by brillian fall colors.

Best time to visit Kancamagus Highway

For peak fall foliage, plan your visit between late September and mid-October. The leaves typically begin changing color around mid-September, with the most vibrant display occurring during the first two weeks of October. Columbus Day weekend is the most popular time to do the drive as it generally offers excellent viewing opportunities, but expect larger crowds and slow traffic. If you are planning to drive the Kanc on the Columbus Day long weekend, we advise doing it early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heavy mid-day traffic.

2.  Smuggler’s Notch, Vermont

Nestled between Mount Mansfield and Sterling Mountain, Smuggler’s Notch offers a dramatic mountain pass steeped in history and natural splendor. This winding route through Vermont’s Green Mountains earned its name during Prohibition when it served as a secret corridor for smuggling goods from Canada.

Smuggler’s Notch highlights

The narrow, serpentine Route 108 passes through towering rock formations creating a natural corridor flanked by 1,000-foot cliffs. Fall transforms this passage into a vibrant tunnel of color, with sugar maples displaying brilliant reds and oranges against the stark gray rock faces. Pull-offs along the route provide perfect vantage points for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the contrast.

Smuggler’s Notch waterfalls

Bingham Falls, located near the southern entrance of the notch, offers a refreshing stop with its 25-foot cascade emptying into a deep emerald pool. For those willing to hike, Sterling Pond Trail leads to several seasonal waterfalls framed by autumn foliage, creating postcard-worthy scenes after rainfall.

Smuggler’s Notch covered bridges

Just a short detour from the notch, the Gold Brook Covered Bridge in Stowe (locally known as “Emily’s Bridge”) dates back to 1844 and spans the picturesque Gold Brook. Additionally, Cambridge Junction Bridge offers another historic wooden structure set against Vermont’s fall palette.

Best time to visit Smuggler’s Notch

Peak foliage typically arrives in late September through early October, slightly earlier than lower elevations given its mountain setting. Morning visits offer softer light for photography and fewer vehicles navigating the narrow pass.

3. Franconia Notch & Flume Gorge, NH

Carved by ancient glaciers, Franconia Notch presents a natural wonderland that truly shines during autumn and all year round. This magnificent mountain pass cuts through New Hampshire’s White Mountains, creating one of New England’s most celebrated fall foliage drives.

Franconia Notch highlights

Franconia Notch State Park offers a perfect confluence of towering mountain ranges and vibrant fall foliage. Nearby, visitors can explore several remarkable attractions including Echo Lake, Cannon Mountain ski area, The Basin, and Artist’s Bluff. The Artist’s Bluff trail provides an unparalleled 1.5-mile loop with sweeping views of Echo Lake and surrounding mountains.  It is especially dramatic when it is ablaze with fall colors. For those seeking less demanding hikes, Mount Pemigewasset (Indian Head) offers a moderate 3.7-mile round-trip culminating in panoramic views looking south toward Lincoln.

Flume Gorge waterfalls

The spectacular Flume Gorge features a narrow chasm with towering 90-foot granite walls formed 200 million years ago. Avalanche Falls stands as the crown jewel—a photogenic multi-tiered waterfall at the top of the boardwalk. Liberty Cascade offers additional water features along the 2-mile loop trail that includes 485 feet of elevation gain.

Covered bridges near Franconia Notch

Two historic covered bridges enhance the Flume Gorge experience. The picturesque red Flume Bridge, built circa 1886, spans 50 feet across the Pemigewasset River using Paddleford truss construction. Nearby, the Sentinel Pine Bridge, constructed in 1939, extends 60 feet and carries hikers over the river. Both bridges provide ideal photo opportunities for framing autumn’s colorful display.

Best time to visit Franconia Notch

Peak fall foliage typically occurs from mid-September through late October. This is a popular area for visitors on the Columbus Day long weekend holiday, so if you come during this time you’ll experience maximum corwds.  For optimal viewing with fewer crowds, visit on weekdays in early October. Morning hours offer softer light for photography, particularly at the gorge and covered bridges.

4. Route 100 Scenic Drive, Vermont

Stretching 216.6 miles from south to north, Route 100 claims the title of Vermont’s longest state highway and perhaps its most scenic road in the state, especially during fall foliage season. This picturesque drive has earned recognition in publications dor decades.

Highlights of Route 100 Drive

This scenic byway meanders through the Green Mountains and quaint picturesque New England villages. From Wilmington in the south to Newport near the Canadian border, the route offers diverse landscapes with colorful scenery at every turn. Driving through the Mad River Valley provides spectacular views as you pass under canopies of vibrantl fall leaves.

Waterfalls along Route 100

Several impressive waterfalls dot this scenic route:

• Moss Glen Falls in Granville—a 35-foot cascade accessible via a short boardwalk
• Warren Falls—a popular swimming hole in summer that transforms into a picturesque scene in autumn
• Texas Falls—featuring a 35-foot drop viewed from a bridge crossing the stream

Covered bridges on Route 100

Vermont boasts around 100 covered bridges still in use today, and more covered bridges per square mile than any other state. This makes Vermont a particularly wonderful state for discovering historic covered bridges.  Along Route 100, the Waitsfield Covered Bridge (also called Great Eddy Bridge) stands out as the oldest operating covered bridge in the state, built in 1833. Its 105-foot span is the longest of any Burr truss bridge in Vermont and will worth discovering.

Best time to visit Route 100

For peak foliage, plan your journey during the first two weeks of October. The colors begin changing in late September and continue through most of October, with northern sections turning first.

5. Currier & Ives Scenic Byway, NH

Named after the famous 19th-century printmakers who captured rural New England life, the Currier & Ives Scenic Byway offers 30 miles of quintessential fall charm. This picturesque route guides travelers through the heart of the Merrimack Valley, connecting five charming towns.

Highlights Along the Currier & Ives Scenic Byway

The journey begins in Hillsboro, NH, following Route 202 northeast along the Contoocook River. Throughout the drive, visitors pass through the quaint towns of Henniker, Hopkinton, Warner, Webster, and Salisbury. Hopkinton, once New Hampshire’s state capital, showcases lovely Colonial homes along Main Street. Moreover, travelers can breathtaking views of Mount Kearsarge and Pat’s Peak along the way. The route features tranquil farmland with moss-covered stone walls marking old property boundaries dating back to the earlierst days of America.

Water features along the route

While not home to impressive waterfalls, there are other water features to appreciate.  The Contoocook River runs shimmering through Hopkinton, providing dazzling foliage views framed by reflective waters. For outdoor enthusiasts, both the Contoocook and Blackwater Rivers offer excellent kayaking opportunities. The Blackwater Dam area provides extensive trail networks for hikers seeking to explore riverside scenery.

Historic covered bridges

Among the route’s treasures stands the Contoocook Covered Railroad Bridge, New Hampshire’s oldest surviving covered railroad bridge. The picturesque Henniker Covered Bridge spanning the Contoocook River presents perfect photo opportunities framed by autumn leaves.

Best time to visit Currier & Ives

Mid-October typically offers the most vibrant fall colors along this scenic byway. Interestingly, the route is designed for year-round enjoyment, although autumn showcases its most spectacular seasonal display.

6. Crawford Notch State Park, NH

Route 302 winds through the northern notches of the White Mounts in New Hampshire, forming a radiant tunnel of fall colors between steep mountainsides. This dramatic landscape in the White Mountains offers visitors with striking vistas and an immersive experience with far less traffic than other nearby attractions.

Crawford Notch highlights

Towering cliffs and rugged beauty define this scenic region, making it a hiker’s paradise. Stop into the wonderful AMC Highland Center to get maps of nearby hikes, to meet other outdoor enthusiasts, and to become inspired by the dedicated team of workers who cheerfully offer assistance in planning your hiking adventure.  The Saco River meanders through the notch, providing picturesque backdrops for photography enthusiasts. For an easier exploration, visit the historic Willey House site, which reveals fascinating local history surrounded by vibrant foliage. Alternatively, tackle the challenging Arethusa Falls trail, rewarding hikers with sweeping views and one of New Hampshire’s highest waterfalls. Finally as you emerge from the notch in Bretton Woods, the iconic Mt. Washington hotel will surrounded by brilliant foliage colors will take your breath away.

Silver Cascade waterfall

Silver Cascade stands as perhaps the most accessible natural feature in the park. This 250-foot waterfall cascades down the southwestern side of Mount Jackson, hopping and skipping from left to right before flowing under Route 302. Its roadside location has made it one of New England’s most photographed waterfalls, particularly stunning during foliage season. Visitors can safely view it from designated parking areas across the highway.

Nearby covered bridges

Throughout the White Mountains, historic covered bridges dot the landscape. These distinctive structures, often built with Paddleford trusses originated by Peter Paddleford of Littleton, New Hampshire. The Bartlett Covered Bridge, constructed in 1851, sits just east of Crawford Notch.

Best time to visit Crawford Notch

Early to mid-October typically offers peak color viewing opportunities. Simultaneously, you’ll encounter fewer crowds by visiting on weekdays rather than holiday weekends.

7. Jackson, NH & Honeymoon Bridge

Jackson’s idyllic village atmosphere offers a quintessential New England experience that comes alive with color each autumn. As your round the corner into Jackson village, the sight of the picturesque covered bridge will stop you in your tracks.  Find a parking spot and snap away to capture some of the best photos of your trip. This charming mountain town serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding White Mountains region.

Jackson Village highlights

Every October, iconic Pumpkin People take over Jackson, adding whimsical charm to the already stunning New England mountain community. The Jackson Village Loop provides an ideal introduction to the town with its historic inns, local shops, and restaurants serving seasonal comfort foods like hot cider and pumpkin pastries.  The inns in the Jackson area are renowned for their hospitality and charm.

Nearby waterfalls

Jackson Falls (alternatively known as Wildcat Falls) offers a series of cascading waters just off Carter Notch Road. Indeed, these falls received official “Wild & Scenic” designation in 1978. Nearby, Glen Ellis Falls features an impressive 64-foot drop into a beautiful green pool, accessible via a pleasant quarter-mile walk along the Ellis River.

Honeymoon Covered Bridge

Built in 1876 by Charles Austin Broughton and his son Frank, this iconic red covered bridge spans the Ellis River at the entrance to the picturesque town of Jackson, New Hampshire. Featuring Paddleford truss design with added arches, it earned its “Honeymoon” nickname from the tradition of lovers kissing under it for good luck—a name dating back to at least 1936 [30]. In 1930, a sidewalk was added to enhance the bridge’s accessibility.

Best time to visit Jackson

Between late September and mid-October, this region is alive with county fairs, corn mazes, scenic train rides and fall celebrations.

8. Woodstock to Quechee, Vermont

The scenic corridor connecting the villages of Woodstock and Quechee forms a perfect microcosm of Vermont’s autumn charms. This short but spectacular drive follows US Route 4, newly designated as “The Crossroad of Vermont” scenic byway, offering concentrated fall splendor within a compact area.

Route highlights

Driving east from Woodstock village takes you through quintessentially Vermont landscapes with classic New England architecture framed by brilliant foliage. The journey between these two destinations spans just 15 minutes, yet encompasses numerous photo opportunities alongside the Ottauquechee River. This segment features charming farmland, sugar maples ablaze with color, and quiet country roads branching off the main route.

Quechee Gorge waterfall

Often called “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” Quechee Gorge features a jaw-dropping 165-foot drop visible from the US-4 highway bridge. Trails on both sides of the gorge provide access to stunning views of the Ottauquechee River flowing below. Mill Pond Falls (occasionally called Dewey’s Mill) sits at the head of the gorge, offering picturesque cascades beneath the dam that are easily accessible via a short walk.

Woodstock covered bridges

Four historic covered bridges grace this area. The Middle Covered Bridge in downtown Woodstock spans 139 feet across the Ottauquechee River, built in 1969 using traditional methods including wooden pegs instead of nails. Nearby, the bright red Taftsville Covered Bridge (completed in 1836) stretches 189 feet, making it one of the oldest covered bridges nationwide. The Lincoln Covered Bridge (1877) features unique Pratt truss design with flanking arch trusses. Finally, the Quechee Covered Bridge near Simon Pearce offers sweeping views of the waterfall below.

Best time to visit Woodstock

Peak foliage typically begins in late September, reaching its height during early October through approximately the third week of the month. For optimal viewing with fewer crowds, visit midweek instead of during Indigenous People’s weekend.

9. Lake Sunapee Scenic Byway, NH

Circling pristine waters amidst rolling hills, the Lake Sunapee Scenic Byway offers a 39-mile route through charming New England villages adorned with autumn splendor. This half-hour drive reveals colorful vistas across mountains, lakes, and quintessential countryside landscapes.

Lake Sunapee highlights

The byway connects three vibrant communities—Sunapee, Newbury, and New London—each offering unique connections to the region’s history and culture. Starting in Newbury, travelers head north on Route 103 for remarkable views of Mount Sunapee before turning at Route 11 junction toward Lake Sunapee harbor. Throughout the journey, intermittent glimpses and panoramic views of Lake Sunapee and undeveloped mountainsides provide stunning scenic gems. Key attractions include Sunapee Harbor, Newbury Harbor, The Fells historic estate, and Mount Sunapee.

Otter Pond and Pleasant Lake

Continuing east on Route 11 past Lake Sunapee, the drive reveals scenic overlooks with views of Otter Pond, Little Sunapee Lake, and Pleasant Lake. These smaller water bodies reflect spectacular fall colors, creating mirror images of the surrounding foliage. Near Otter Pond, the Shore Loop and Stone Wall Trail offers hilltop picnic areas with views of both Mount Sunapee and Lake Sunapee.

Nearby covered bridges

Two historic covered railroad bridges—Wright’s Bridge and Pier Bridge—stand as Newport’s only remaining Sugar River crossings from an original thirteen. The Pier Bridge (aka Chandler Station Bridge) spans 216 feet 7 inches, making it the longest covered railroad bridge worldwide. Wright’s Bridge features unique double Town lattice truss with laminated arch construction. Both bridges form part of the 9.5-mile Sugar River Rail Trail used by hikers, bikers, and winter sports enthusiasts.

Best time to visit Lake Sunapee

Peak foliage typically arrives in early October, creating a vivid display against royal blue waters. Morning visits offer exceptional photography opportunities with autumn colors reflecting on the lake’s surface. For a different perspective, consider Clark Lookout trail—less than a mile round trip with spectacular views of Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee.

10. Route 169, Connecticut’s Quiet Corner

Connecticut’s eastern corner reveals a lesser-known gem for fall foliage enthusiasts—Route 169. This 32-mile National Scenic Byway meanders through historic villages and pastoral landscapes that transform into a tapestry of amber, crimson, and gold come autumn.

Route 169 highlights

Beginning in Lisbon and extending north to the Massachusetts border, this picturesque route passes through pristine Colonial-era towns including Canterbury, Brooklyn, Pomfret, and Woodstock. Stately stone walls line much of the drive, framing centuries-old maple trees that create natural canopies overhead. The roadway itself follows ancient paths once traveled by Mohegan and Nipmuck tribes, later becoming an important colonial thoroughfare.

Hidden waterfalls

Throughout the Quiet Corner, several secluded cascades reward travelers willing to explore beyond the main route. Small streams feeding into the Quinebaug River create seasonal falls that become particularly striking after autumn rains when surrounded by colorful foliage. Local favorites include Mashamoquet Brook’s series of cascades within Pomfret’s state park.

Historic covered bridges

While fewer in number than northern New England states, Connecticut’s covered bridges offer charming photo opportunities amid fall colors. Near Route 169, the Comstock Bridge spanning the Salmon River showcases classic New England craftsmanship surrounded by mature maples and oaks.

Best time to visit Route 169

Mid-October typically provides optimal viewing conditions as colors peak slightly later than northern New England. Weekday mornings offer both softer light for photography and noticeably fewer fellow travelers.

11. Route 2 Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

The historic 63-mile Mohawk Trail winds along Route 2 through Massachusetts, tracing an ancient Native American footpath that once connected the Connecticut and Hudson River valleys. This scenic journey through western Massachusetts offers some of New England’s most spectacular fall foliage vistas and is by far the most popular fall foliage road in Massachusetts. Traveling on Route 2 you will traverse the beadth of Massachusetts from the farms stands in Lincoln to the green mountains in western Massachusetts.

Mohawk Trail highlights

The route rises dramatically at the Hairpin Turn in Clarksburg to the Western Summit (historically called Spirit Mountain by indigenous peoples), revealing breathtaking panoramas across northwestern Massachusetts into Vermont [37]. This viewpoint encompasses Mount Greylock, Mount Prospect, and Mount Williams in one magnificent sweep. The Golden Eagle restaurant, nestled into a cliff niche, provides an ideal stopping point with coin-operated tourist binoculars for extended viewing of the colorful landscape below.

Waterfalls along the trail

Cascade Waterfall stands as a favorite stop for nature enthusiasts exploring the region. Natural Bridge State Park showcases a pretty waterfall flowing through naturally formed white marble formations. Furthermore, venturing into nearby Mohawk Trail State Forest reveals additional water features amid 6,000 acres of mountain ridges, deep gorges, and old-growth trees.

Covered bridges in western MA

Western Massachusetts hosts several historic covered bridges worth exploring. The Upper Sheffield Bridge in Sheffield, originally built in 1832 and reconstructed in 1999 after a fire, spans 93 feet across the Housatonic River. The unique Arthur A. Smith Bridge in Colrain represents the last surviving Burr arch-truss covered bridge in Massachusetts, initially erected around 1870. Additionally, Charlemont’s Bissell Covered Bridge, rebuilt in 2009, creates perfect foliage-framed photo opportunities.

Best time to visit Mohawk Trail

October traditionally offers prime viewing conditions, making this drive particularly popular during the height of leaf-peeping season. Early morning visits provide softer light for photography, especially at the famous Hairpin Turn overlook.

American Independence Byway, NH

Discover a journey through America’s early history along the American Independence Byway, a 21-mile scenic loop traversing four of New Hampshire’s original towns—Exeter (1638), Hampton (1639), Hampton Falls, and Kensington [43].

Byway highlights

This State Scenic & Cultural Byway begins in Exeter Center, home to the American Independence Museum where visitors can view one of only three original Purple Hearts awarded during the Revolution as well as an original Dunlap Broadside copy of the Declaration of Independence. The route follows Route 150 south through Kensington, then Route 84 east to Hampton Falls with its abundant apple orchards. Throughout the journey, travelers enjoy sweeping views of fields, woodlands, marshes, and eventually the Atlantic Ocean.

Seacoast waterfalls

While exploring the region, visitors can take short detours to discover hidden cascades. Specifically, Gonic Falls in Rochester (also called Locke Falls) offers year-round accessibility via a half-mile walk. Additionally, Orris Falls in South Berwick features a narrow cascade through a picturesque gorge. For more adventurous travelers, Little Niagara Falls in Strafford provides impressive water flow during spring melt.

Historic bridges and towns

The byway showcases colonial architecture and quintessential New England villages. Besides colonial-era structures, the route passes by numerous historic farms largely unchanged in 250 years.

Best time to visit the Byway

Autumn transforms this already scenic drive into a colorful showcase, primarily between late September and mid-October.

Conclusion

New England’s hidden fall foliage routes offer far more than just colorful leaves. Each drive showcases a different facet of autumn’s beauty—from the thundering cascades along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway to the rustic wooden spans of Vermont’s Route 100. Most importantly, these routes provide an escape from the tourist-filled hotspots that dominate social media feeds.

Some of these lesser-known pathways allow travelers to experience New England autumn as it should be—with space to breathe that crisp fall air and time to appreciate each vibrant vista. Whether admiring the reflections at Perkins Pond or capturing the perfect shot of a waterfall framed by fiery maples, these drives create memories beyond standard tourist experiences.

So, pack your thermos of hot apple cider, grab your camera, and prepare to discover these hidden gems. After all, the true magic of New England’s fall season awaits those willing to venture beyond the obvious paths and explore these perfect combinations of natural wonders and historic treasures.