No. 1 Leaf Peeping Spot in New Hampshire is a Short, Easy 1.5 Mile Trail Up
Hiking and camping spots are kind of like your favorite bar or happy hour deals.
Part of you wants the world to know (they deserve to know the best of the best) - but the other part of you wants to keep it a secret so it does not become a tourist trap.
Well, this spot is too good to hide - especially as we approach the leaf-peeping season.
Mt. Willard is a 3 mile total (out and back) trail in New Hampshire with the best leaf peeping views in the entire state.
I know, I know - bold statement cotton. But look at this view...
When it comes down to it, this hike is the best bang for your buck.
What I mean by that is, sure, Mount Washington or the entire Presidential Ridge has some spectacular views when the leaves change; however, those are incredibly difficult hikes.
This 1.5-mile trail to the top is suitable for toddlers, Grammys, and families of all kinds.
I have done this hike and it is very reasonable with outrageous views of Crawford Notch.
It is under 900 feet of elevation gain, so it is easy for most, but when you get to the top it feels like a full NH 4,000-footer.
Other great perks of this trail:
It is right off of Rt. 302 - so easy to get to.
The trailhead starts at the AMC (so plenty of parking at any time of day).
The trail up and down takes about an hour and 45 minutes - so you can bang it out in the afternoon, morning, or whenever you have an extra two hours!
For directions to the trailhead, or to see the current conditions, click here.
Look: 28 Popular Maine Mountain Hikes
Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka
Avid Hikers Rank 25 of Maine's Most Beautiful Hiking Trails
Gallery Credit: Jadd