The Beauty of Fall in Waterville Valley
Celebrate autumn in the White Mountains with the perfect blend of crisp foliage and craft brews! Stay with us for three midweek nights (Sunday–Thursday) and enjoy a 20% discount on your lodging at Town Square Condos & Silver Fox Inn. This package is designed for leaf peepers and beer lovers alike—pair your scenic drives through fiery reds, golden yellows, and brilliant oranges with stops at some of New Hampshire’s finest local breweries within the White Mountains. Pick up your Fall Foliage Brew Tour Map at check-in!
While staying in the Valley, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the crisp, refreshing air and vibrant colors of fall in the White Mountains. The same hiking and biking trails that lead to cool swimming holes in the summer now wind through forests ablaze with brilliant foliage, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Whether you're on foot or two wheels, it’s the perfect time to explore the natural beauty of the region.Town Square has great views of Mt. Tecumseh, as well as the other panoramic views. Whether you are stopping by for a bite to eat, renting a bike at the Adventure Center, or relaxing and listening to Live Music by the gazebo, the vibes and views are unbeatable, and will steer you to explore the endless miles of trails easily accessible from anywhere in Waterville. Here is an itinerary to maximize your stay and hit the best fall activities we have to offer:
Scenic Drives
When you get off Exit 28 and head toward Waterville Valley, you're instantly surrounded by a burst of fall color that takes your breath away. Route 49 becomes a red, orange, and yellow carpet, guiding you straight into serenity and autumn adventure. Along the way, you’ll find several pull-off spots—many of which lead to summer swim areas that might be too chilly now, but still offer incredible views, with the Mad River flowing peacefully alongside. You'll also come across a variety of hiking trails, ranging from quick, easy strolls to more challenging climbs.
Looking to explore beyond the Valley? Take a scenic drive along Tripoli Road, a lesser-known gravel route that winds through the mountains and connects Waterville Valley to the Lincoln/Woodstock area. Far from the busier highways, this peaceful backroad offers a quiet escape into nature, with limited cell service and minimal traffic—perfect for those craving a more serene foliage experience. Along the way, don’t miss the East Pond Trailhead, where a moderately challenging hike rewards you with incredible views and leads to a crystal-clear, secluded mountain pond surrounded by vibrant autumn colors.
Hiking, Biking and Chairlift Rides
When staying in Waterville, you’ll have access to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails showing off the stunning beauty of fall foliage. A great place to kick off your adventure is the Snow’s Mountain Chairlift, open on weekends throughout the fall season. Rent a bike from the Adventure Center, take it up the lift, and ride down the Upper Snow’s Mountain Trail, which leads you straight to the scenic cascades. For an easier way down, follow Livermore Road Trail for a gentle downhill ride. As you coast down the trail, breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy the vibrant colors all around you.
Also on Snow’s Mountain, the 18-hole disc golf course offers fun for the whole family! Wind your way down the mountain as the course takes you in and out of the woods, eventually bringing you back along the chairlift line. For an easier, more casual round, check out the 9-hole disc golf course located in the field next to Town Square—a perfect spot to test your skills or enjoy a laid-back game with breathtaking views surrounding you.
Many of the same biking trails double as excellent walking and hiking routes, especially in the Snow’s Mountain area, where you'll find some of the best foliage views around. The following three hikes all start from the Livermore parking lot, right next to the Snow’s Mtn. Chairlift, and range from easy to moderately difficult. Each hike can be done in under three hours, making them perfect for a half-day adventure.
The Scaur: Start at the Livermore parking lot and head left onto Livermore Road. Hike north for about 25 minutes, then turn left at the Kettle’s Path/Irene’s Path sign. Follow Irene’s Path uphill for about a mile until you reach the Scaur spur trail on your right. Follow the yellow sign up to stunning views of Waterville Valley, Mt. Tecumseh, and the Sandwich Range. Return the way you came, or continue on to the Waterville Flume for a longer hike.
Goodrich Rock: Begin at the Livermore parking lot and follow the gravel path past the info stand. Continue through a meadow, cross a bridge, and turn left onto Greeley Ponds Trail. After a gentle incline along the Mad River, turn left onto Goodrich Rock Trail. Climb steadily to a ladder leading up the massive rock for views of Waterville Valley, Mt. Tecumseh, and the Sandwich Range. Please tread carefully—this area supports delicate lichen and balsam communities.
Big Pines: From the Livermore parking lot, head left onto Livermore Road and follow it through the woods. After crossing a couple of bridges and passing Boulder Path (a quick detour reveals a massive glacial boulder), continue uphill to the Big Pines Path on your left. This narrow trail winds through a peaceful pine forest and descends two steep hills to reach towering white pines and a scenic riverside spot—perfect for a quiet break.
