Fall Foliage Preview: Scenic Drives & Hikes Starting from Mountain Club on Loon

As summer fades into autumn, the White Mountains of New Hampshire begin to transform into a canvas of crimson, gold, and amber. For travelers eager to witness this seasonal spectacle, there’s no better place to start than Mountain Club on Loon. Nestled directly on Loon Mountain, The Club offers the perfect home base for exploring some of the region’s most breathtaking scenic drives and hikes. Whether you’re a casual leaf peeper or a seasoned adventurer, fall here is nothing short of magical.

The Beauty of New Hampshire’s Fall Foliage

New England is famous worldwide for its fall colors, and the White Mountains are at the heart of that reputation. Starting in mid-September and peaking in early October, the region’s forests erupt with fiery reds, brilliant oranges, and glowing yellows. The crisp mountain air, paired with panoramic vistas, makes this one of the most sought-after destinations for autumn travelers. Staying at Mountain Club on Loon means you’re not just observing the season from afar — you’re immersed in it, with trails and byways right outside your door.

Scenic Drives from The Club

A fall foliage trip wouldn’t be complete without a scenic drive, and the White Mountains are home to some of the best in the country. The famous Kancamagus Highway, just minutes from The Club, stretches for 34 miles through the White Mountain National Forest and offers dramatic overlooks of valleys, rivers, and fiery treetops. Another can’t-miss drive is Franconia Notch Parkway, a shorter but spectacular route through Franconia Notch State Park that showcases lakes, waterfalls, and towering cliffs painted in autumn tones. For those who want to venture farther, Route 302 to Crawford Notch provides breathtaking views of covered bridges, rushing streams, and dramatic peaks surrounded by foliage. Each drive offers a different perspective of the season’s beauty and is easily accessible from The Club.

Hiking Trails for Every Level

For travelers who prefer to experience fall color on foot, the area around Loon Mountain offers trails for every type of hiker. Guests can set out directly from Mountain Club on Loon to enjoy peaceful mountain walks framed by autumn leaves. Families often choose the Lincoln Woods Trail, a gentle riverside path lined with vibrant foliage. More adventurous hikers gravitate to the Franconia Ridge Loop, where the payoff is panoramic views of the White Mountains at their most colorful. From short strolls to all-day treks, the region provides countless opportunities to see fall foliage up close.

Relax & Reconnect at The Club

After a day of exploring, retreat to the comfort of Mountain Club on Loon. Guests can unwind at the Spa & Wellness Center, treating themselves to a massage or enjoying the pools, saunas, and hot tubs with mountain views as a backdrop. Dining on-site adds to the sense of ease, with hearty New England cuisine served in a setting that feels both welcoming and refined. Spacious accommodations – from rooms to suites – offer a cozy place to rest, whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends.

Plan Your Fall Foliage Escape

This autumn, make your getaway more than just a drive through the mountains. By staying at Mountain Club on Loon, you place yourself in the center of New Hampshire’s most iconic foliage routes and hiking trails while also enjoying the luxury of spa treatments, on-site dining, and ski-in/ski-out style convenience. Book your stay today and discover why travelers return each year to experience the brilliant beauty of fall in the White Mountains.