NH Fall Foliage trackers nailed it again! This past weekend, the White Mountains were ablaze with color—right on cue for peak foliage season. While the crowds are inevitable on an October weekend, my husband, Nick, and I embraced the adventure, keeping our journey simple and enjoyable. If you’re ready to experience the best of New Hampshire’s fall colors without the stress, follow along as I share our road trip, from breathtaking views to gluten-free dining recommendations.
(Disclosure: Some of the product links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase an item or book a stay, I will receive a small affiliate commission. This helps keep my blog running!)
NH Fall Foliage Starting from Meredith, NH
Living in Meredith, NH, we’re fortunate to enjoy the fall colors of the Lakes Region, which are currently at around 30-50% color change. While it might not be peak here yet, it’s an ideal time to explore the higher elevations of the White Mountains. If you missed the prime foliage there, consider booking a stay near Mill Falls Marketplace via VRBO on Lake Winnipesaukee. That way, you can still enjoy the beautiful foliage here or plan ahead for next year’s peak colors in the mountains.
Early Morning Gondola Ride at Bretton Woods
Our adventure began early with a 10:00 AM reservation for the Bretton Woods Gondola. The scenic drive through Franconia Notch State Park greeted us with a palette of glowing yellows against a backdrop of fog—an ethereal start to the day. As we neared Bretton Woods, the fog thickened, but the foliage didn’t disappoint.
Pro Tip: If you’re booking gondola rides, get there early. Parking is free at the base lodge, and ticket kiosks inside make check-in a breeze.
The gondola ride up Bretton Woods offered a stunning 13-minute journey. While we were initially socked in by clouds at the summit, the views were worth the wait. We took shelter inside Rosebrook Lodge, eagerly awaiting the opening of Switchback Grille for lunch.
Lunch at Switchback Grille: A Gluten-Free Delight
Planning to dine at Switchback Grille? Be sure to line up early—we started waiting at 10:30 AM for the 11:00 AM opening, which secured us a cozy table inside. While we missed out on a window seat, I quickly forgot my disappointment when my New England Aperol Spritz arrived, blending Aperol, prosecco, cranberry, and club soda.
The restaurant caters wonderfully to gluten-free diners. I opted for the PBLT—slow-cooked pork belly, heirloom tomatoes, bacon, and maple aioli on gluten-free bread. Nick devoured the Chicken and Brie sandwich, featuring grilled chicken, creamy brie, and cranberry habanero jam, all on a gluten-free bun. Tip: The fries aren’t gluten-free due to cross-contamination, so I substituted them for the mixed greens—delicious and safe.
The Perfect Fall Views from Bretton Woods
Just as we finished lunch, the clouds parted, revealing jaw-dropping views of the White Mountains. It was a reminder that patience is key when it comes to weather in the mountains. Our descent via gondola was a romantic ride bathed in autumn sunshine, with views stretching out to Mount Washington Resort.
Exploring the Historic Omni Mount Washington Resort
After our gondola ride, we headed to the Omni Mount Washington Resort, a grand Renaissance Revival hotel built in 1902 by Joseph Stickney. With its famous red roof and sweeping veranda, the hotel has a rich history, constructed by over 250 Italian craftsmen. Today, it’s still one of the most luxurious spots in New Hampshire, having undergone a $90 million renovation.
Nick and I stayed here for his 40th birthday, and it’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. From relaxing in Adirondack chairs by the firepit to enjoying cocktails with stunning views of Mount Washington, the resort offers countless ways to unwind. If you’re looking for a celebration idea, I highly recommend a stay here to soak in both the history and luxury.
Navigating Crowds at Popular Foliage Stops
By mid-afternoon, we left the resort and headed for Franconia Notch, hoping to hit some of the park’s iconic sights. Our first stop, Artist Bluff Trail, was a bust—overcrowded with cars and people. Take it from me: If you want to hike this popular trail, get there at sunrise to beat the rush.
Our next stop, the Flume Gorge, closed at 5:00 PM, and we arrived just a little too late to explore. A heads-up for future visitors: You’ll need to purchase a ticket for the Flume Gorge to see the Flume Covered Bridge, even though it’s just a short walk from the visitor center. Despite missing out, the facilities here were a great stop before heading home.
Ending the Day at Common Man Italian Farmhouse
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Plymouth, NH, for dinner at Common Man Italian Farmhouse—a must for gluten-free travelers (see more of my gluten-free travel tips). After a long day of foliage peeping, nothing beats a comforting bowl of gluten-free Penne Rosa with sautéed chicken and crème rosa sauce. Paired with a glass of Tuscan Chianti, it was the perfect way to cap off our adventure.
Tips for Your NH Fall Foliage Road Trip
- Timing is Everything: For the best views, head out early to beat the crowds at popular trails like Artist Bluff.
- Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be ready for fog or clouds to roll in—and out!
- Gluten-Free Dining: Bretton Woods and Common Man Italian Farmhouse both offer excellent gluten-free options, so you don’t have to compromise on taste.
- Plan for Next Year: Missed peak foliage in the White Mountains? Don’t worry! The Lakes Region offers its own stunning fall colors, and it’s worth the trip.
New Hampshire’s fall foliage never fails to deliver, and this road trip through the White Mountains was no exception. Whether you’re chasing the colors, savoring the views, or indulging in gluten-free eats, autumn in NH is simply magical. I’d love to hear about your own fall foliage adventures!
Leave a comment below with your favorite leaf-peeping spots and any must-visit locations you’ve discovered on your travels. Let’s keep the fall inspiration going!
Safe Travels from your your curly-haired travel expert living the New Hampshire life ✈️ 🌍 🏔️
