Best Ways to See Peak Foliage
Trees are getting brighter and bolder up in the White Mountains, meaning Peak Foliage is right around the corner! Many residents and guests prefer Autumn in the White Mountains when compared with other seasons. When asked for their reasoning, many cite quiet trailheads, others enjoy the serenity of Town Square following a busy summer season. But everyone loves fall in Waterville simply because of its magnificent scenery.
When peak foliage hits, Waterville Valley can feel almost cinematic. The drive down Route 49 is a leaf-peeping paradise, with a plethora of vivid autumnal locales. Footpaths and hiking trails are cloaked with crisp & colorful leaves, with plenty of picturesque bridges and brilliant foliage tunnels. The mountains boast a striking mosaic of orange, red, and gold hues, leaving you with a sense of wonder and amazement. Here are the best ways to admire our leaf-peeping paradise:
Hike
Whether you're looking for a strenuous hike or a leisurely stroll - there's an abundance of hiking trails and footpaths throughout Waterville Valley. Take a promenade along the Pond Loop and admire golden birch trees and fiery red maples. Or if you're looking to admire the vibrant Valley from above, Welch & Dickey Loop provides immaculate views of the White Mountain and Sandwich Notch range. If you're looking for a moderate hike, we recommend checking out The Scaur or Snow's Mountain - you get fabulous views of the Valley below!
Bike
Explore the brilliant foliage of the White Mountains on two wheels. Fall biking is a great way to explore Waterville Valley's natural features as they make their autumnal transformation. Cruise up to the Cascades waterfalls or pedal up to the summit of Snow's Mountain! Explore deep into the forest and you'll be rewarded with serene trails brimming with stunning foliage and the chance to see a wild critter or two!
Boat
One of the best ways to admire Town Square in its autumnal glory is from Corcoran's Pond. Rent a boat from the Waterville Valley Rec. Department and experience New England foliage like never before! The contrast between the colonial-style architecture of Town Square and the radiant mountain backdrop is simply stunning. Open weekends only.
Chairlift
Get a bird's eye view of the mountainous foliage by taking a ride up Snow's Mountain Chairlift. Admire stunning aerial views of Mount Tecumseh, Mount Osceola, and the valley below by taking a scenic chairlift ride. Or take a ride up and play some disc golf on your way down! Open weekends only.
Play
Winter will be here soon: now is the time to play outdoors! In Waterville Valley, there are plenty of ways to play and leaf-peep. Play a round of golf at Waterville Valley Golf Club and admire panoramic views of the White Mountain range. Or practice your forearm among the golden, red, and orange leaves at the Waterville Valley Tennis Center. Or cast your line on Corcoran Pond while admiring the surrounding mountains in their fall colors.
Attend
Attend our Annual Fall Foliage Festival, taking place October 7th-October 10th. From foot races to ski swaps, the Sport Thoma Tent Sale and the Next Level Food Truck - the Fall Foliage Festival is a chance to celebrate the brilliant autumnal season while snagging some fabulous deals. Plus, you can take in the scenic locales of exquisite foliage directly from Town Square!