The Best Places To See Fall Foliage This Season

Did you know that in some areas, fall foliage becomes so vibrant it can actually be seen from outer space? With vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow filling the landscape, the trees certainly haven’t disappointed this season. Luckily, you don’t have to travel quite that far to find an incredible view! Here in Waterville Valley, there are plenty of places to take in the colors from every angle.

Surrounded by the White Mountains, there are plenty of ways to experience the season from every angle—whether you’re on the mountains with a scenic overlook, hiking through colorful trees, riding a chairlift above the foliage, or enjoying the views right from Town Square. No matter how you choose to explore, some of the best fall views are waiting right here in the Valley. Keep reading to discover a few of our favorite spots to take them all in!

1) Snow’s Mountain Chairlift

Some things are much better to look at from a different perspective. Foliage might just be one of those things. Being able to take in all of the changing trees from above gives you a whole new appreciation for the season.

Get views above the tree line with Snow’s Mountain Chairlift while it’s still available for the season! Start planning your visit soon, because the chairlift closes for the season on October 12th. The ride takes visitors to the top of Snow’s Mountain, offering expansive views of the Valley and surrounding mountains along the way. From the top, take in the colorful fall foliage from a whole new perspective, take a few pictures, and enjoy the crisp mountain air before heading back down. It’s an easy way to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and make the most of the final days of fall chairlift rides in the Valley.
>> Check Out Snow’s Mountain Chairlift

2) Corcoran Pond

Experience some of the best foliage right in Town Square! Corcoran Pond sits beneath some of the Valley’s most vibrant trees, creating a colorful backdrop for everything Town Square has to offer. With the changing leaves surrounding the water and reflecting across the pond, it’s one of the perfect spots to slow down and take in the fall scenery.

Make the most of the views by renting a boat and getting out on the water, grabbing lunch and enjoying it by the pond, or simply taking a walk around Town Square. Whether you’re spending the afternoon exploring or finding a spot to sit back and relax, Corcoran Pond puts you right in the middle of the fall colors.

3) Hiking Trails

Hiking might just be one of the best ways to take in fall! The higher you climb, the more vibrant the foliage becomes, making the views from the top well worth the hike. Lace up your boots, hit the trail, and see the fall colors from a whole new perspective! Need a trail recommendation? Here are some of our fall favorites!

Elephant Rock Trail
A short 1 mile trail that brings hikers to the top of Snow’s Mountain and brings full views of Mount Tecumseh and Mount Osceola. This is an easy trail, appropriate for all level hikers.
>> Check out Elephant Rock Trail

Big Pines
This short and easy 1.8-mile round-trip hike winds through the forest beneath massive pine trees. Don’t forget to look up along the way—you’ll find plenty of changing leaves and pops of fall color overhead!
>> Check out Big Pines

Goodrich Rock Trail
Looking for a more challenging hike with a rewarding view? Check out Goodrich Rock Trail, a 4 mile, moderate hike that rewards you with sweeping views of the Sandwich Mountain Range and ski trails of Mount Tecumseh!
>> Check out Goodrich Rock Trail