Granite peaks, the Kancamagus highway, and dispersed camping in dense northern hardwood.
The White Mountains hold the most dramatic peaks in the eastern US — including Mt. Washington, with the worst weather on the continent. Dispersed camping is allowed across much of the WMNF following standard backcountry rules.
Why it's special
Big rugged mountains with above-treeline alpine zones — rare in the East. Fall color rivals Vermont and is one week earlier in the high country.
Best time to go
Late June through early October.
Getting there
I-93 north to Lincoln, NH; the Kancamagus Highway (NH-112) is the scenic spine.
Know before you go
- Dispersed must be 200 ft from any trail, water, or road.
- Mt. Washington weather changes in minutes — even in summer.
- WMNF parking pass ($5/day or $30/year) at most trailheads.
- Bears active.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Pull-offs along the Kancamagus are NOT camping spots — head to side forest roads.
- Tripoli Road has multiple dispersed-style sites (small fee).
- North Conway has serious gear shops and food.
- Train up before tackling Presidential Range — it's bigger than it looks.
Combine with
Mt. Washington, Franconia Notch, Acadia (4 hours east).