Woodstock to North Conway

Franconia Notch plays host to a number of fascinating topographical and geological sites. Since The Old Man of The Mountain collapsed in 2003, one of the most popular attractions is The Flume gorge, where the Flume Brook flows between high granite walls. A lovely boardwalk winds through the ravine. It’s a 2-mile loop with quite a few stairs. Pay and register at the visitor's center.

Littleton is a lively town tucked into a bend of the Ammonoosuc River. There are plenty of great eats along Main Street, but the star of the show is Schilling Beer Co. This brewpub, housed in an 18th-century grist mill building near the covered bridge, is known for its European-inspired beers and wood-fired pizzas. Take a tour of the brewery, or simply take in a drink from the shaded outdoor patio.

Continue along the Ammonoosuc to the base of Mount Washington to catch a ride on the famous Mount Washington Cog Railway. This historic train to the top of the northeast’s highest peak was deemed “The Second Greatest Show on Earth!” by ringmaster P.T. Barnum. Even if your legs are resting, there’s plenty of thrill in traveling up the 25% grade and taking in the incredible views from the infamously windy summit.
Be sure to bring warm clothes! The temperature and wind chill at elevation are often significantly colder than conditions in the valley. It's recommended to arrive 45 minutes before departure. For tickets and schedule information, visit the website.

Flatbread Company, which originated in Amesbury, Massachusetts, has locations across North America, but it’s hard to top a spot amidst the high wooden beams and cozy hearths of the North Conway location. The inventive pizza combinations always include a veggie and a meat special, and gluten-free crusts are available. These savory strips of carbs are the perfect way to refuel after a day outdoors.

The Red Elephant Inn has that classic B&B feel you’d expect from a recreational hub like the White Mountains. The outside is storybook perfect with high pitched roofs and red trim overlooking the valley near Pudding Pond. Inside, you’ll find modern furnished rooms, a fantastic library, and breakfast awaiting you in the morning.