Usually, when fall arrives, it's the main streets and back roads that are lined with colorful foliage. It's not often, however, where an entire town is surrounded by the vibrancy of autumn. The town of Waterville Valley is just such a place, as its unique location puts it in a valley surrounded by mountains on just about all sides. These mountain slopes are more commonly seen as green in summer and white in winter, but for a brief period during the fall, they display some of the best New Hampshire fall foliage colors.
Waterville Valley is located at the far western end of Rt. 49 where the highway ends. The topography of the area prevents it from continuing further.
The town is a four-season community and turns into a skiing and winter sports mecca once the snow arrives. Until then, autumn takes hold strongly but briefly.
Leaf peepers can enjoy the patchwork of gold, orange, and red that takes over the valley by keeping an eye to the trees or by looking down at the ground.
Typically, the peak color for the Waterville Valley area happens from the last week in September through the first half of October.
The Mad River is a perfect place to enjoy the fall color. Pull up a boulder and sit for a while to soak it in.
Waterville Valley is home to one of the first organized networks of hiking trails in the country and these footpaths are a perfect way to experience autumn's splendor.
Fall doesn't last long around these parts so to catch the best New Hampshire fall foliage, jump in the car and head on over to Waterville Valley. You can also use this map as a guide for when peak foliage color will be hitting the valley. You can also make a weekend out of it with an Airbnb stay.
Want to experience the glory of autumn on foot? Check out these eight fall hikes. I heartily recommend Dixville Notch! It's a beautiful spot.
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