As the air turns crisp and forests come alive with vibrant fall colors, North Conway becomes a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who love hiking. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic stroll or a more challenging climb with rewarding views, North Conway offers a variety of hiking trails perfect for experiencing autumn in the White Mountains. Here are some of the best local trails to check out as you’re enjoying your vacation in the area – all just a short journey from the Buttonwood Inn!
Diana’s Baths
This gentle, family-friendly trail leads to a series of beautiful waterfalls and cascades. The trail to Diana’s Baths is short and easy (about 1.3 miles round trip), making it perfect for all ages and abilities. The falls are also surrounded by autumn foliage, creating a magical scene that’s great for photos or simply relaxing in nature.
Cathedral Ledge from Echo Lake
Cathedral Ledge is a popular spot for both hikers and rock climbers. Roughly 3 miles round trip, the trail starts near Echo Lake and climbs steadily to the top of the ledge, where you’re rewarded with sweeping views over the surrounding valley and mountains. For those who prefer an easier option, you can also opt to drive to the summit – but hiking lets you truly immerse yourself in the fall scenery!
Black Cap Trail
For a relatively short and easy hike with spectacular rewards, Black Cap Trail is a local favorite. The trail is particularly beautiful in the fall, as it winds through forests filled with spots of red, orange, and yellow. The summit also offers an epic panoramic view of the Mount Washington Valley. Expect to cover around 2.5 miles during this trek.
Boulder Loop
Located off the Kancamagus Highway, the Boulder Loop Trail is a must-visit during the fall. This moderately challenging trail winds through a forest rich with tall, towering trees, offering a beautiful, kaleidoscopic experience of autumn colors as you ascend. It’s a great hike for families and offers incredible photo opportunities, but expect to walk around 3 or so miles total.
Arethusa Falls
Arethusa Falls is one of New Hampshire’s tallest and most stunning waterfalls, so if you’re a fan of cascading, roaring water, you’ll marvel at this sight. The moderate hike (2.8 miles) takes you through a beautiful forest; the contrast between the vibrant leaves and the rushing water makes this a popular spot year-round, but especially during the fall months.
North Conway’s hiking trails offer something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a memorable challenge or someone simply hoping to enjoy the natural, fall beauty of the region. Whenever you decide to hike, just don’t forget to bring your camera!
About the Buttonwood Inn
The Buttonwood Inn on Mt. Surprise has proudly served guests in the North Conway area for over 75 years, and we’d love to host you if you’re planning to visit the area this upcoming autumn. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to book a visit, please visit us online or call us at (603) 810-0642 for assistance; we can’t wait to hear from you!