White Mountains Trail is in central New Hampshire. It begins in North Woodstock and heads north to Twin Mountain. From Twin Mountain it travels south to Conway. The byway is approximately 70 miles long and follows US 3, I-93, US 302, and NH 16. The roads are two- and four-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles. White Mountains Trail is usually open year-round.
White Mountains Trail travels across central New Hampshire among the beautiful White Mountains. Travelers are treated to views of mountains, valleys, gorges, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. Several turnouts provide scenic views of the surrounding mountains. In Bretton Woods, visitors can take the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway to the summit of the highest mountain in the Northeast. Rail excursions of varying length are offered from the Conway Scenic Railroad in Conway.
The byway is never far from the White Mountains National Forest where outdoor recreation opportunities abound. Hikers can access the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Numerous other trails accessed from the byway range from short, easy walks to wilderness adventures. There is only one national forest campground located directly along the byway. Zealand Campground, between Twin Mountain and Bretton Woods, has a total of 11 campsites. The small campground is open May to October.
White Mountains Trail passes through two state parks: Franconia Notch and Crawford Notch. Franconia Notch State Park is 6,440 acres situated between Franconia and Kinsman mountain ranges. It contains several interesting natural features including “Old Man of the Mountain.” The campground here has 97 sites. Crawford Notch State Park is 5,775 acres and contains two beautiful waterfalls, among other natural features. It has a primitive, 30-site campground. Both campgrounds are open May through October.