North Conway is one of the best outdoor adventure hubs in New England. Situated right in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, there are great places to stay and eat and a variety of activities, mostly centered around being outdoors. In this article I’ll cover the best things to do in North Conway as well as how to plan a visit at any time of the year. I’ve visited more times than I can count, in every season, and there’s always something different to do.
One of the best things about North Conway is its location. From town, you can head north toward Pinkham Notch and Mount Washington, west toward Crawford Notch, or explore the waterfalls, swimming holes, and scenic overlooks along the Kancamagus Highway. Each area offers something different, and you could easily spend a week exploring without running out of things to do.
If you love being outside, North Conway is hard to beat. There are short walks to waterfalls, rivers and swimming holes for hot summer days, beautiful scenic drives, and hikes that range from easy family outings to challenging mountain climbs. In winter, the area transforms into a destination for skiing and other snow adventures.
And while the mountains are the main attraction, there’s plenty to do right in town, too. Families can visit nearby Story Land, explore the shops, or check out seasonal markets and events.
Quick Guide to Visiting North Conway
Location: Mount Washington Valley, New Hampshire
Best for: Hiking, waterfalls, swimming, skiing, scenic drives, family adventures, and exploring the White Mountains
Best time to visit: Year-round, depending on the adventures you’re planning
How long to stay: Two or three days for a weekend getaway, or four to seven days if you want to explore several areas of the White Mountains
Best place to base yourself: North Conway Village or the surrounding Mount Washington Valley
Don’t miss: Black Cap, the Kancamagus Highway, Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, and a waterfall or swimming hole in summer
My top hiking picks:
- Easy: Black Cap
- Moderate: Boulder Loop or Hedgehog Mountain
- Challenging: Mount Washington
Why Visit North Conway?
North Conway is a mountain town in eastern New Hampshire and one of the best places to base yourself for exploring the White Mountains.
The biggest reason to visit isn’t necessarily the town itself. It’s everything you can reach from here.
You can spend one day hiking in Crawford Notch, another exploring waterfalls along the Kancamagus Highway, and a third heading into Pinkham Notch toward Mount Washington. There are also lakes and rivers for swimming, biking opportunities, scenic drives, and plenty of activities for families.
What makes North Conway particularly appealing is the range of adventures. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the area, but if you are looking for a serious mountain challenge, you’ll find plenty of those too.
And because North Conway is a four-season destination, the same trip can look completely different depending on when you visit.
Best Things to Do in North Conway, NH
1. Hike to the Summit of Black Cap
If you’re looking for a relatively easy hike close to North Conway, Black Cap is my top recommendation.
The trail begins off Hurricane Mountain Road, just outside town, and climbs through the woods to open ledges with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
It’s a great choice if you want a rewarding summit hike without committing to a full day in the mountains.
Black Cap is also convenient if you’re arriving in North Conway in the afternoon or want to fit in a hike before heading home.
Best for: A relatively short hike with mountain views.
Know before you go: The trailhead is accessed by a seasonal road, and the trail still has rocks, roots, and uneven footing. Check road access before visiting, especially outside the warmer months.
2. Explore Crawford Notch State Park
Crawford Notch is one of the most beautiful areas of the White Mountains, and it’s well worth setting aside at least half a day to explore.
The drive through the notch is scenic on its own, but the real highlights are the hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain views.
Two hikes I’d particularly recommend are Mount Willard and Arethusa Falls.
Mount Willard is one of the area’s classic hikes. The trail leads to an open viewpoint overlooking Crawford Notch, with mountains rising on either side of the valley.
Arethusa Falls is a different kind of adventure. The trail climbs through the forest to one of New Hampshire’s most impressive waterfalls. It’s a wonderful hike, especially if you enjoy combining a bit of effort with a beautiful destination.
You can easily spend a full day in Crawford Notch if you combine a hike with scenic stops along the road.
3. Drive the Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway is one of New Hampshire’s most famous scenic drives, and for good reason.
The road follows Route 112 between Conway and Lincoln, passing through the White Mountain National Forest with mountain overlooks, waterfalls, rivers, and hiking trails along the way.
It’s especially popular during fall foliage season, but I think it’s worth driving at other times of year too.
Some of my favorite stops and adventures along the highway include:
- Lower Falls: A popular place to enjoy the river and cool off during summer.
- Sabbaday Falls: A short walk to a beautiful waterfall.
- Boulder Loop Trail: A moderate hike with rewarding views.
- Hedgehog Mountain: A longer mountain hike with several viewpoints.
You can drive the highway in a few hours if you’re mainly stopping at overlooks, but I’d recommend setting aside most of a day if you want to hike or swim.
My tip: During peak foliage weekends, start early. The highway gets extremely busy, especially around the most popular overlooks and trailheads.
4. Visit Pinkham Notch and Mount Washington
North of North Conway, Pinkham Notch offers access to some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in New Hampshire.
This is where you’ll find trails leading into the Presidential Range, including routes toward Mount Washington.
Mount Washington is my top recommendation for experienced hikers who want a challenging mountain adventure.
But you don’t have to climb Mount Washington to enjoy Pinkham Notch.
One of my favorite shorter stops is Glen Ellis Falls, a beautiful waterfall reached by a short trail with stairs down to a viewing area.
You can also visit the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, enjoy the mountain scenery, or choose one of the many trails in the surrounding area.
Important: Mount Washington is a serious hike. Weather can change rapidly, even in summer, and conditions near the summit can be dramatically different from those in North Conway. Choose your route carefully and carry appropriate equipment.
5. Discover the Best Hikes Near North Conway
One of the hardest things about recommending hikes around North Conway is narrowing down the choices.
There are hundreds of miles of trails within reach of town, ranging from short waterfall walks to difficult mountain climbs.
I’ve hiked extensively in this area, and rather than give you an overwhelming list, these are the hikes I’d start with.
Best Easy Hike: Black Cap
For a relatively short hike with beautiful views, Black Cap is my first choice. It’s close to North Conway, easy to fit into a shorter visit, and gives you a great mountain experience without a huge time commitment.
Best Moderate Hike: Boulder Loop or Hedgehog Mountain
Both of these hikes are along the Kancamagus Highway.
Boulder Loop is a good choice if you want a moderate hike with a rewarding overlook and a shorter time commitment.
Hedgehog Mountain is a longer outing with several excellent viewpoints. I’d recommend it for hikers who want to spend more time on the trail.
Best Challenging Hike: Mount Washington
If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a bigger adventure, Mount Washington is hard to beat.
It’s one of the most memorable mountain hikes in New Hampshire, but it’s also one that requires careful planning. The elevation gain, exposed terrain, and unpredictable weather make it very different from the easier hikes near town.
More Great Hikes to Consider
A few other hikes worth adding to your list include:
- Mount Willard: A classic Crawford Notch viewpoint.
- Arethusa Falls: A rewarding waterfall hike.
- Kearsarge North: A challenging climb near North Conway with excellent summit views.
- Glen Ellis Falls: A short waterfall outing.
If you want to explore even more of the White Mountains, two hiking lists are particularly useful: the New Hampshire 52 With a View and the 48 New Hampshire 4,000-footers.
The 52 With a View list highlights mountains with rewarding scenery that don’t meet the 4,000-foot elevation threshold. The 4,000-footer list is a popular goal for hikers looking to explore New Hampshire’s higher peaks.
Chasing ADVNTR 52 With a View guide
Chasing ADVNTR New Hampshire 4,000-footers guide
10 Easy White Mountain Fall Hikes: 5 Classics and 5 Quiet Alternatives
A note about crowds: Some of the most famous White Mountain hikes can get very busy, particularly on summer weekends and during peak foliage. If you want a quieter experience, consider a less-famous trail, start early, or explore on a weekday. No trail is guaranteed to be quiet, but a little flexibility makes a big difference.
Best Waterfalls and Swimming Holes Near North Conway
One of my favorite things about visiting North Conway in summer is how easy it is to combine hiking with time by the water.
There are beautiful waterfalls throughout the surrounding mountains, along with lakes and river swimming areas that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Arethusa Falls
Located in Crawford Notch, Arethusa Falls is one of my favorite waterfall hikes in the region.
This is more of a hiking destination than a swimming spot, but the waterfall is absolutely worth the walk.
Glen Ellis Falls
Glen Ellis Falls is another beautiful waterfall, located in Pinkham Notch.
The walk is relatively short, although there are stairs and elevation changes. It’s a good stop if you’re exploring the Mount Washington area and want to see an impressive waterfall without committing to a long hike.
Diana’s Baths
Diana’s Baths is one of the most popular waterfall destinations near North Conway.
The relatively easy walk leads to a series of cascades, smooth rocks, and pools. It’s a fun place to explore, particularly with kids, although it can get extremely busy during summer.
Echo Lake State Park
If you want a more traditional swimming destination, Echo Lake State Park is a great choice.
Located close to North Conway, the park has a sandy beach and mountain scenery, making it a good place to spend a summer afternoon.
It’s especially appealing for families who want to swim, relax, and enjoy a picnic without having to hike to a waterfall.
Lower Falls
Lower Falls is a popular swimming area along the Kancamagus Highway.
The river flows over broad rocks and through pools, creating a beautiful place to stop on a warm day.
Because it’s easy to reach from the highway, it can be crowded during peak summer weekends.
Water safety: Waterfalls and mountain rivers can be dangerous, particularly after heavy rain. Strong currents, slippery rocks, cold water, and sudden changes in water levels are all concerns. Never assume a pool is safe for swimming simply because other people are in it, and follow posted restrictions.
For more ideas, read our guide to White Mountain waterfalls.
Scenic Drives Near North Conway
You don’t have to hike to enjoy the scenery around North Conway.
Some of the best mountain views are accessible from the road, making scenic drives a great option for families, rainy days, or visitors who want a more relaxed adventure.
Kancamagus Highway
This is the classic scenic drive from the North Conway area, with river stops, overlooks, and hiking trails.
Crawford Notch
Follow Route 302 through Crawford Notch for dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls, and access to some of the region’s best hiking trails.
Pinkham Notch
Route 16 north of North Conway takes you through Pinkham Notch, with views of the Presidential Range and access to Glen Ellis Falls, Wildcat Mountain, and hiking trails near Mount Washington.
Mount Washington Auto Road
For an entirely different experience, the Mount Washington Auto Road offers a seasonal driving route toward the summit.
This is a steep mountain road with specific vehicle restrictions, weather considerations, and operating conditions, so check the official information before planning your trip.
Things to Do in North Conway in Winter
North Conway is one of my favorite places in New Hampshire for a winter adventure.
With several ski mountains nearby, excellent cross-country skiing, and miles of trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking, there’s no reason to spend the entire season indoors.
Go Downhill Skiing
One of the best things about staying in North Conway is having several different ski mountains within easy reach.
Cranmore Mountain is located right in North Conway and is a convenient option, especially for families or anyone who wants to stay close to town.
Attitash Mountain Resort, in nearby Bartlett, is another great choice for a day on the slopes.
Wildcat Mountain, farther north in Pinkham Notch, is particularly memorable for its fantastic views toward Mount Washington and the Presidential Range.
You can stay in North Conway and choose your mountain based on the weather, snow conditions, and the kind of skiing you enjoy.
Try Cross-Country Skiing
The Mount Washington Valley is also a wonderful place for Nordic skiing.
Three established options to research are Jackson Ski Touring, Great Glen Trails near Mount Washington, and the Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring network.
These areas offer groomed trail systems, with options for different abilities.
Go Snowshoeing or Winter Hiking
You don’t need a lift ticket to enjoy North Conway in winter.
Snowshoeing and winter hiking are great ways to explore the mountains when the trails are covered in snow.
Many of the area’s trails can be visited in winter, although conditions are very different from summer. Depending on the trail, you may need snowshoes, microspikes, crampons, or more specialized winter mountaineering equipment.
For a more relaxed outing, look for lower-elevation trails and avoid exposed summits when conditions are poor.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in North Conway
While the mountains are the biggest attraction for me, there are plenty of activities around North Conway for families who want to mix outdoor adventures with something different.
Visit Story Land
Located in nearby Glen, Story Land is a classic New Hampshire family attraction, especially for younger children.
It’s a good option if you’re traveling with kids who aren’t quite ready for long hikes or want a day away from the trails.
Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad
The Conway Scenic Railroad offers scenic train experiences departing from North Conway Village.
Depending on the excursion, you can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside and mountain landscape without doing the driving.
Check the current routes and schedules before booking.
Take the Mount Washington Cog Railway
The Mount Washington Cog Railway is another memorable experience, taking passengers up Mount Washington on a historic mountain railway.
It’s a good alternative for visitors who want to experience the mountain without hiking to the summit.
The Cog Railway departs from the Bretton Woods side of Mount Washington, not North Conway itself, so plan for the drive.
Explore North Conway Village
North Conway Village is worth visiting for its shops, coffee houses, and small-town atmosphere.
It’s also worth checking the local events calendar. Depending on when you visit, you may find markets, festivals, or community events around town.
This is an easy activity to combine with a morning hike or a rainy afternoon.
Go Biking or Explore the Saco River
The Mount Washington Valley also offers opportunities for mountain biking and other cycling adventures.
In warmer weather, the Saco River is a popular place for paddling and tubing, with local outfitters offering rentals and trips.
Saco River Tubing, NH: A Complete Guide to a Relaxing Day on the Water
Where to Stay in North Conway
North Conway has a wide range of lodging, from simple motels and family-friendly hotels to upscale mountain resorts and glamping accommodations.
Where you stay depends partly on what you want to do.
If you want to walk to restaurants and shops, staying near North Conway Village is convenient. If you’re planning a family vacation, you might prefer a hotel with a pool or kitchen. And if you want a quieter mountain setting, there are good options outside the village center.
Here are four places to consider, including one we’ve personally stayed at.
Budget: Kearsarge Inn
For a relatively affordable stay near North Conway Village, Kearsarge Inn is worth considering.
This smaller inn is located just off the main street, making it convenient for walking to shops, coffee houses, and restaurants.
It’s a good option for travelers who want a comfortable place to sleep and plan to spend most of their time outside.
Rates vary considerably by season, so compare prices before assuming it’s the least expensive choice.
Mid-Range: Residence Inn by Marriott North Conway
Residence Inn is a practical choice for families and longer stays.
The suites have kitchens, and the hotel offers an indoor pool and breakfast. Those amenities can be particularly useful if you’re traveling with kids or planning several days of hiking and outdoor adventures.
It’s located along White Mountain Highway, so you’ll generally drive to the village and surrounding trailheads.
Luxury: White Mountain Hotel & Resort
For a more upscale mountain getaway, White Mountain Hotel & Resort is worth considering.
Located near Whitehorse Ledge, the resort has a quieter setting than the busy main road through North Conway, along with mountain views, on-site dining, and resort amenities.
It’s a good option for couples or travelers who want a more relaxing place to return to after a day in the mountains.
Best Unique Stay: Huttopia White Mountains
If you love the idea of camping but want a real bed and a few more comforts, Huttopia White Mountains is a great option just south of North Conway.
We’ve stayed at Huttopia, and what I particularly like is that it feels like a campground rather than a traditional hotel.
There are several different lodging options, so you can choose the setup that works best for your trip while still enjoying the shared outdoor spaces.
With a lake, swimming pool, and wooded campground setting, it’s a fun place to spend time even when you’re not out exploring the White Mountains.
I especially like this option for families or anyone who wants to spend their days hiking and exploring but come back to a comfortable place to sleep at night.
Explore my full guide to Huttopia.
Where to Eat in North Conway
North Conway has plenty of places to eat, from coffee shops and breakfast spots to casual restaurants where you can refuel after a day outside.
We tend to spend our time exploring the surrounding mountains, so most of my personal food recommendations are coffee stops rather than sit-down dinners.
Here are a few places to consider.
The Met Coffeehouse
The Met is one of my favorite coffee stops in North Conway.
Located right in the village, it’s a convenient place to grab a coffee before heading out for the day or to stop after exploring town.
Frontside Coffee Roasters
If you’re looking for another coffee option, Frontside Coffee Roasters is a popular spot near the village.
It’s a good place to consider for espresso drinks and a quick stop before heading into the mountains.
Peach’s Restaurant
For a sit-down breakfast, Peach’s is a longstanding North Conway favorite.
It’s known for breakfast dishes and a casual atmosphere, making it a good choice before a day of exploring.
Flatbread Company
Flatbread Company is a good option for a casual meal after hiking or skiing.
The menu focuses on wood-fired flatbreads, and the restaurant is conveniently located in North Conway.
May Kelly’s Cottage
For a heartier dinner, May Kelly’s Cottage is another well-reviewed option.
This Irish-style pub serves comfort food in a cozy setting and is worth considering for an evening meal.
Suggested North Conway Itineraries
One Day in North Conway
If you only have one day, I’d focus on one good outdoor adventure and a little time in town.
Morning: Grab coffee at The Met and hike Black Cap.
Afternoon: Visit Echo Lake State Park in summer, or explore North Conway Village and nearby scenic stops.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in town.
This is a good introduction to the area without spending most of the day driving.
Two Days in North Conway
With two days, you can explore farther into the White Mountains.
Day 1: North Conway and the Kancamagus Highway
Start with Black Cap or a short adventure near town, then drive the Kancamagus Highway. Stop at waterfalls and overlooks, or hike Boulder Loop if you want a longer outing.
Day 2: Crawford Notch
Spend the day exploring Crawford Notch. Hike Mount Willard or Arethusa Falls, enjoy the scenic drive, and return to North Conway for dinner.
Three Days in North Conway
With a third day, add Pinkham Notch.
Day 3: Pinkham Notch and Mount Washington
Visit Glen Ellis Falls, explore the Pinkham Notch area, and choose a hike that matches your experience.
Experienced hikers may want to devote a full day to Mount Washington, but that requires a separate early start and appropriate weather conditions.
For a less strenuous adventure, enjoy the scenery, shorter walks, and nearby attractions.
A Winter Weekend in North Conway
Day 1: Spend the day downhill skiing at Cranmore, Attitash, or Wildcat.
Day 2: Try Nordic skiing or a lower-elevation winter hike, followed by coffee and time in North Conway Village.
Best Time to Visit North Conway
North Conway is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience.
Spring
Spring brings waterfalls and rushing rivers as the snow melts.
It’s a beautiful time to visit, although hiking trails can be muddy, icy, or still snow-covered at higher elevations. Some seasonal roads and attractions may not yet be open.
Summer
Summer is one of the best times for hiking, swimming, paddling, and exploring the White Mountains.
The longer days make it easy to combine several activities, although popular trailheads and swimming areas can get busy.
Fall
Fall is spectacular around North Conway.
The surrounding mountains are covered in color, and scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway are especially beautiful.
It’s also one of the busiest times to visit. Book lodging early and plan popular activities for weekdays or early mornings whenever possible.
Winter
Winter transforms North Conway into a skiing and snow adventure destination.
Downhill skiing, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking are all excellent reasons to visit.
Just remember that mountain weather can be severe, and winter hiking requires more preparation than a summer outing.
How to Get to North Conway
North Conway is located in eastern New Hampshire, along Route 16.
Most visitors arrive by car, and having your own vehicle is the easiest way to explore the surrounding mountains.
From Boston, plan on roughly two and a half to three hours of driving, depending on your route and traffic.
From Portland, Maine, the drive is generally around an hour and a half.
North Conway is also a convenient destination to combine with other White Mountain towns, including Jackson, Bartlett, and Lincoln.
There is often traffic coming and going from North Conway on route 16, especially during fall weekends!
Tips for Planning a North Conway Trip
Don’t underestimate the driving. North Conway is a great base, but Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, and the western end of the Kancamagus Highway are different destinations. Group activities geographically instead of driving back and forth across the mountains.
Start popular hikes early. Trailhead parking can fill quickly on summer and fall weekends.
Have a backup plan. Mountain weather changes quickly. Keep a waterfall walk, scenic drive, or town activity in mind if summit conditions aren’t good.
Check seasonal road access. Some trailheads and mountain roads close or have limited access in winter.
Plan ahead for fall foliage. October is one of the most popular times to visit, and lodging can book up well in advance.
Bring appropriate hiking gear. Even relatively short White Mountain hikes can have rocky terrain, slippery roots, and changing weather.
Leave room for spontaneous stops. Some of my favorite White Mountain days involve combining a hike with a waterfall, swimming hole, or scenic overlook rather than rushing between attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About North Conway
Is North Conway worth visiting?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy outdoor adventures. North Conway is one of the best bases for exploring the eastern White Mountains, with easy access to hiking, waterfalls, scenic drives, skiing, and family attractions.
How many days do you need in North Conway?
Two or three days is a good starting point. If you want to explore Crawford Notch, Pinkham Notch, and the Kancamagus Highway without rushing, four or five days is even better.
What is North Conway best known for?
North Conway is known for its location in the White Mountains, outdoor recreation, scenic mountain views, ski resorts, shopping, and family attractions.
Can you visit North Conway without hiking?
Yes. Scenic drives, the Conway Scenic Railroad, Mount Washington attractions, shopping, restaurants, and seasonal activities make it possible to enjoy the area without doing major hikes.
Is North Conway good for families?
Yes. There are easy hikes, swimming areas, family attractions like Story Land, ski resorts, and plenty of activities for different ages.
Is North Conway a good place to stay for Mount Washington?
Yes, particularly if you want to combine Mount Washington with other adventures in the eastern White Mountains. Just remember that the trailheads, Auto Road, and Cog Railway are in different locations, so plan your route accordingly.
More New England Adventures
If you’re planning a trip to North Conway, these guides will help you explore even more of the White Mountains:
- 10 Gorgeous White Mountain Waterfalls
- 10 Easy White Mountain Fall Hikes
- How to Plan a Trip to New England
And if you’re looking for more ideas throughout the region, download our free guide: 50 New England Adventures to Do at Least Once.
North Conway is a place you can visit again and again without having the same trip twice. Whether you’re climbing a mountain, swimming in a river, skiing through the woods, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, there’s always another corner of the White Mountains waiting to be explored.
Author: gstuppy
Gretchen is a New Hampshire-based travel writer, outdoor adventurer, and founder of New England Uncovered. With over 20 years of experience in outdoor education and a passion for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, she shares firsthand guides to New England's best hikes, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures. When she's not writing, you'll find her hiking, paddling, or exploring somewhere new with her family.