Growing up in New Hampshire, I feel like I never really appreciated the beauty of the state until I left for college. There truly is no other place like it, especially during the fall season. Over the past week I was able to travel back to my hometown in New Hampshire just in time for the Fall season. I am only able to stay here for two weeks, so I am making sure to visit all my favorite places.
Here are my personal top five things you must check out while in New Hampshire.
1. Kancamagus Highway
This 35 mile scenic drive is one of the best ways to really get to see New Hampshire. You could easily spend a whole day here and not get bored, especially during the summer. There are many spots where you are able to park and explore the different waterfalls, rivers, and hiking trails. If you are looking to stay longer than just a day they have many campground options along the drive. Going during the Fall season, you might not be able to swim but you’ll get to experience an abundance of NH Fall Foliage. This is personally one of my favorite spots to visit just because the scenery is so breathtaking.
2. Carter Hill Orchard
I’ve done my fair share of apple picking growing up, but Carter Hill Orchard has to be my favorite go to place when it comes to picking apples. This orchard is located in Concord, New Hampshire and has some of the best prices for apples. One of my favorite things about this orchard is they have a viewing spot overlooking the gorgeous mountains of New Hampshire; it’s a great little spot to relax after spending hours trying to find that perfect apple to pick. Of course, any good orchard wouldn’t be complete without fresh apple cider and donuts – and they definitely deliver. They have a great little bakery where you can get not only fresh warm apple cider donuts but also pumpkin whoopie pies. While you are there you can also pick up pre-packaged homemade mixes for apple crisp and apple pie. Definitely check this place out if you are visiting New Hampshire anytime between mid-September to mid-October.
3. The Old Country Store
The Old Country Store in Moultonborough, NH has been a big part of my childhood and whenever I’m in New Hampshire, no matter what time of year it is, I always try and stop by. This country store is every child’s dream: a store filled with toys, penny candy, and the best NH comfort food you can find. This country store is also full of history and on certain days you can actually visit the museum that is on the second level free of charge. The museum includes local history, antique items, and older maps. If you are a fan of pickles you are also in for a special treat as they have two giant barrels always filled to the brim with giant pickles (dill or sour), only $1.50 each! This country store is one of the oldest in the country, so if you don’t go for the penny candy you have to go for the history and learn about their amazing story.
4. Attitash Mountain Resort
Attitash offers so many things to do all year around, and you can find so many activities for all ages. Personally, one of my favorite things to do at Attitash is the Alpine slides during the summer time. After a quick 5-10 minute lift ride up the mountain you can walk over to the start of the Alpine track where you are given a “coaster” which almost looks like a bobsled. You use this coaster to go down the Alpine track which will bring you back down to the bottom of the mountain. The great thing about this coaster is you get to control the speed. If you have younger kids feel free to take your time, or if you are thrill seeker let go of that brake and go! Attitash also has other activities such as skiing, hiking, and zip lining. This is a great spot if you are looking for a thrill seeking vacation or an easy day trip to keep the whole family entertained.
5. Red Hill
Red Hill, located in Moultonborough, NH, is one of my favorite smaller mountains to hike in New Hampshire. I may be a little biased on this one because my lake house is only a mile away from it, but it truly has some amazing views from the top. It is about a 2 mile hike to reach the top of this mountain and is great for beginner hikers. I have to warn you about the rocks on the trail, because, especially after a rainstorm, it can be very slippery. At the top of the mountain not only are there some great views but you can also climb up the fire tower to get a better look at everything. Depending on the day, they will even let visitors climb to the very top which you will then get to sign a book with your name saying you’ve been there. Pack a lunch and some snacks and this is a perfect day trip! This year a small coffee shop was added at the beginning of the trail where you can also get fun little snacks and jams.