This New Hampshire area is one of the best places for leaf-peeping in 2025

Peak leaf peeping time is right around the corner! Here’s why Bretton Woods, NH is one of the top fall foliage destinations in the US.

USA Today released a list of the Top 10 destinations for fall foliage in the US, and New Hampshire’s own Bretton Woods came in at No. 5. Granite Staters won’t be surprised by the news, as the area’s scenic White Mountain trails are well-traveled, and much beloved, during leaf peeping season. For visitors putting together a list of places to check out for some genuine autumnal magic, though, I’ll give you some helpful hints to make the most of your trip.

Here are some of the best places in Bretton Woods to view fall foliage, and the timeline we’d recommend for your visit. Bear in mind that thousands of people travel to New England during peak leaf peeping times, so make sure you’re accounting for an influx of visitors when you’re pacing out your trip.

Best places to view fall foliage in Bretton Woods

One of the best ways to take in Bretton Woods’s fall foliage is by booking a trip on the Mount Washington Cog Railway. The historic train takes you to the summit of Mount Washington, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding trees in full transitional bloom. There are specific 90-minute Fall Foliage Steam Special journeys scheduled throughout the season as well. These provide you with equally impressive views, though you won’t be taken to the summit of the mountain on these trips. For more information on both train journeys, click here.

While you’re in the Mount Washington area, pop over to the Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa (which, yes, is haunted) for a zipline canopy tour, or to simply sit on its sweeping lawn to enjoy the breathtaking views.

If you want to get outside and hike or walk through the area to see the changing leaves that way, Crawford Notch State Park is located close to Bretton Woods, as is Franconia Notch State Park. You can also ride the Bretton Woods Gondola for another elevated view of the changing leaves.

Given that Bretton Woods is a resort town, there’s also plenty of things to do and places to stop to catch some scenic views as you have breakfast or grab coffee. Once you get there and find somewhere to park, explore the town and chat with locals to see if they can recommend any secret spots that other leaf peepers don’t know about.

Best time to go leaf peeping

The best time for leaf peeping in New Hampshire typically varies a bit each year, as weather patterns impact when trees start to transition. Late September through mid-October is generally considered the best time to visit New England for fall foliage. New Hampshire often peaks first, though, so plan to be here by late September or early October to really enjoy the leaves before they’re gone.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Related: Brace yourself: Farmers’ Almanac says early snow is likely in NH