Leaf peeping season is upon us and as the weather cools off and Pumpkin everything takes over the aesthetic, we are here to share some of our favorite fall hikes in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and Maine. Whether you’re looking for a walk in the woods or views in every direction we have something for you. For the next few weeks we will be bringing you a variety of hikes to check out this fall. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles, carry the Ten Essentials, and purchase a copy of the White Mountain Guidebook and maps to refer to for a deep dive on trail conditions and the routes outlined below.

Our Favorite Fall Hikes Under Ten Miles

Franconia Ridge, Franconia, NH

9 Miles, Loop Hike
4,000’ Elevation Gain

We would be remiss if we didn’t start off this series with one of the most popular hikes in the world, the Franconia Ridge. Starting and ending at the same trailhead located off of I-93 North, this uber popular loop should not be underestimated just because of its proximity to the road. What we’re trying to say is, this is a strenuous hike that will take most people, at minimum, 6 hours to complete. The hike can be done counterclockwise or clockwise, but we recommend going counterclockwise because the Falling Waters Trail is oftentimes very wet and more dangerous to descend, especially as we approach colder temperatures that may illicit ice forming. With over 2 miles of the trail above treeline, on a clear day you are guaranteed stunning views in every direction. Be sure to get to the parking lot early because the lot tends to fill up rather fast, especially during fall.

Route: Old Bridle Path to Falling Waters Trail to Franconia Ridge Trail to Greenleaf Trail to Old Bridle Path

Baldface Loop, Chatham, NH

9 Miles, Loop Hike
3500’ Elevation Gain

The Baldface mountains located in Evan’s Notch are some of the most stunning peaks under 4,000’ in New Hampshire. This loop hike takes you over the summit of both peaks. Views from Baldface Circle Trail leading towards the summit of South Baldface are some of the most breathtaking in all of the White Mountains. The contrast between the rock slabs and the alpine vegetation as it turns from green to deep burgundy are not to be missed. For some added bonuses this loop has the optional spur paths to two water features, Chandler Gorge and Emerald Pool. This hike can be done clockwise or counterclockwise, but the steepest portion of trail is found on Baldface Circle Trail after it passes Baldface Shelter going clockwise. This section can be difficult to navigate on the descent because of how steep it is. We recommend ascending this portion of the trail and completing the loop clockwise.

Route: Emerald Pool Trail to Baldface Circle Trail to Bicknell Ridge Trail to Baldface Circle Trail to Emerald Pool Trail

Carter Dome Loop, Jackson, NH

11 Miles, Loop Hike
3500’ Elevation Gain

This loop hike, though just over ten miles, is worth sharing because it will take you through some of the less traveled trails located on the southwestern side of Carter Dome. There is one stream crossing on this hike that was difficult to cross in 2023 when we had a high rain year. This hike can be done clockwise or counterclockwise, but we prefer to do it clockwise to save the best for last (Rainbow Trail). Starting on Wildcat River Trail, the path follows along Bog Brook, ascending very gradually, before making the more legitimate ascent into Carter Notch. From the notch, you will ascend the steep and rocky Carter-Moriah Trail to the summit of the wooded Carter Dome before making the long and stunning descent down Rainbow Trail. Rainbow Trail is one of our favorite trails in the White Mountain National Forest. This trail runs through a massive birch glade and in fall especially the forest is out of this world. From here you will be taking the less traveled and sometimes wet Bog Brook Trail before rejoining with Wildcat River Trail back to the trailhead.

Route: Wildcat River Trail to Carter-Moriah Trail to Rainbow Trail to Bog Brook Trail to Wildcat River Trail

Sawyer Pond Out-and-Back, Albany, NH

8 Miles, Out-and-Back
1,200’ Elevation Gain

This eight mile hike requires fording Sawyer River twice if you complete this as an out-and-back. This fording can be difficult if there has been a lot of precipitation. There is also the option to make this a traverse and continue along Sawyer Pond Trail to Sawyer River Road and spot a car. The forest found in this region of the Whites is stunning despite the fact that it was logged during the early 20th century. Sawyer Pond Trail is, in fact, partially the bed of an old railroad track. We ended this recommended route at Sawyer Pond where there are tent platforms and a three-sided shelter right on the pond. This is the perfect hike if you’re interested in seeing the foliage from below the forest canopy rather than above it.

Route: Sawyer Pond Trail

Red Rock Mountain Loop, Stoneham, ME

9.5 Miles, Loop Hike
2,900’ Elevation Gain

This loop hike is located in a rarely traveled portion of the WMNF. It will require decent navigational skills on seldom-used trails. Whether you do this hike clockwise or counter doesn’t matter, however we recommend going counterclockwise. Ascending Miles Notch Trail and then Red Rock Trail will be much easier than ascending Great Brook Trail because of how deep the fallen leaves can be on Great Brook in the fall (making the ascent tedious). Great Brook Trail runs through beautiful hardwood forests and the leaves can be knee deep or higher. The trail follows Great Brook and there are several water features and short cascades found along the lower portion of this trail before it ends on Hut Road. You will need to follow this dirt road for the remainder of the hike back to the trailhead because it is not drivable. There are no views from the summit of Red Rock Mountain or Butters Mountain, we picked this hike for the foliage in the woods not for views from the summits.

Route: Miles Notch Trail to Red Rock Trail to Great Brook Trail to Hut Road

Our Favorite Fall Hikes Under Ten Miles