Enterprise Car Hire
New Hampshire

To ensure a relaxed start, plan a direct route from Manchester–Boston Regional Airport to the Lakes Region. After collecting your hire car, consider a quick stop for supplies at one of the shops just minutes from the airport. From there, taking Interstate 93 North is the most straightforward option, offering a smooth, well‑maintained highway drive. This route reduces complicated navigation on your first day, letting you settle in and enjoy the scenery as you approach Lake Winnipesaukee. The drive is typically under 90 minutes, leaving plenty of time to check in to your accommodation and unwind before your activities.

A realistic weekend plan is to devote one full day to the Kancamagus Highway and the North Conway area. Start on Saturday by driving the 'Kanc' (Route 112) from Lincoln to Conway, allowing at least three to four hours to appreciate scenic overlooks and short trails. Spend the afternoon exploring North Conway’s shops and restaurants and stay overnight locally. On Sunday you can enjoy a leisurely morning—perhaps visiting Diana’s Baths or Echo Lake State Park—before taking Route 16 South for a direct and efficient return to southern New Hampshire, avoiding a backtrack on the Kancamagus.

For a strategic base with easy access to both regions, consider towns in the Lakes Region or central New Hampshire. Places like Concord or Tilton sit at convenient crossroads, with main roads providing direct routes in either direction. From there, a drive north to the White Mountains or southeast to the Seacoast is typically about an hour to 90 minutes. That lets you plan distinct day trips to hike in the mountains or explore Portsmouth’s coastline without committing to long daily transits, offering good flexibility for your itinerary.

To secure parking at popular Franconia Notch sites such as the Flume Gorge or the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, aim to arrive before 9:00am, especially at weekends and during peak foliage season. Leaving southern New Hampshire by around 7:00am is a sensible approach. This early start not only helps you avoid the main surge on I‑93 North but also increases your chances of getting a space in the primary car parks, which fill quickly. Arriving early provides a more peaceful experience before the mid‑day crowds.

Driving the Kancamagus Highway in October is an immersive foliage experience, but it requires patience. Expect traffic to move very slowly, particularly at weekends, as drivers often slow to admire the colours. The numerous scenic pull‑offs are part of the attraction, so plan to stop frequently; be aware that popular spots can become congested. Treat the 34‑mile scenic byway as a multi‑hour activity rather than a quick transit. Pack snacks and water, start with a full tank of fuel, and embrace the leisurely journey to enjoy the spectacular autumn views.

Visitors often become confused by the network of one‑way streets and tight junctions in downtown Portsmouth, especially around Market Square. A common mistake is trying to find on‑street parking directly on the waterfront, which is extremely limited and leads to circling congested areas. A better strategy is to head straight for a designated public car park, such as the Hanover Street Garage, on arrival. From there the whole town and waterfront are easily walkable, saving you the frustration of navigating narrow, busy streets by car.

For a late‑night arrival with a drive into the White Mountains, prioritise a simple, direct route on well‑lit main roads. After collecting your car at the airport, set your course for Interstate 93 North, the primary artery into the mountains. Before leaving the airport area, confirm your lodging’s exact address and consider downloading offline maps, as mobile signal can be patchy in remote locations. It’s also wise to have your check‑in instructions handy and to notify your accommodation of your late arrival to ensure a seamless process on arrival.

To comfortably visit the Mount Washington Auto Road and nearby attractions, focus on sites along the Pinkham Notch corridor (Route 16). A good plan is to tackle the Auto Road first thing in the morning when you’re fresh and weather is often clearer. After descending, spend a relaxed afternoon visiting nearby Glen Ellis Falls or taking the Wildcat Mountain gondola for other views of the Presidential Range. This keeps driving localised to one area, preventing a rushed feeling and minimising time in the car between activities.

When based in Lincoln or Woodstock you’re well placed to explore Franconia Notch State Park with very little backtracking. You can drive a short distance north on I‑93 to visit the Flume Gorge, the Basin and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway in a logical sequence. Heading east on the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) offers a scenic drive with numerous trailheads and overlooks. Both options provide a full day of activities directly accessible from your base, making for an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.

Driving the Mount Washington Auto Road is a unique experience that demands the driver’s full attention because of steep grades, narrow sections and limited guardrails. It can be challenging for those uneasy with heights or mountain driving. The Cog Railway, by contrast, is a guided experience that lets everyone relax and focus on the views. For either option, plan for rapidly changing weather: dress in layers and bring a jacket, as it can be cold and windy at the summit even on warm days.

A practical and scenic route is to drive from New Hampshire’s Seacoast region towards Portland, Maine, for an overnight stop. From Portsmouth take I‑95 North to Portland, which offers a good selection of dining and accommodation. The next day continue north on I‑295 and then rejoin I‑95 before taking Route 3 towards Mount Desert Island. This two‑day approach breaks the journey into manageable segments of roughly one and three hours respectively, allowing you to arrive at Acadia refreshed and ready to explore.

To ensure access to amenities, plan routes along New Hampshire’s main corridors such as I‑93, I‑89 and Route 16. These highways connect larger towns like Concord, Lincoln, North Conway and Littleton, which are reliable hubs for petrol stations, restaurants and grocery stores. Before venturing onto scenic but remote roads like the Kancamagus Highway, make a habit of topping up your fuel and using facilities in a gateway town. This simple strategy lets you enjoy the state’s natural beauty without worrying about your next stop.

During peak times in North Conway the most stress‑free parking strategy is to use the large, free public lots located just behind the main village shops on Route 16. Look for signs directing you to these lots near the scenic railway and Schouler Park. Parking here lets you leave your car for the day and explore the village on foot, from independent shops to the nearby outlets. Arriving earlier in the morning, before 10:00am, gives you the best chance of finding a convenient spot without circling.

For a great family day, start at Story Land right when it opens to enjoy the rides before the biggest crowds arrive. After a few hours of fun, take a short drive to Jackson Falls for an easy walk and a chance for children to splash in shallow pools. Alternatively, Diana’s Baths near North Conway offers another gentle, scenic trail. For an early dinner both Glen and Jackson have several family‑friendly restaurants used to serving guests coming from the theme park, making for a relaxed end to an eventful day.

A good strategy is to focus on a region with a high concentration of covered bridges, such as the area around Cornish and Plainfield. Here you’ll find the Cornish‑Windsor Bridge, the longest in the US, along with several others within a short driving radius. Another option is to plan a route that naturally incorporates them, for example exploring bridges near the Kancamagus Highway or in the Swift River Valley. By clustering stops geographically you can appreciate several historic structures while still having time for other activities.

From Concord an efficient loop is to take I‑93 North to the Lakes Region in the morning. Exit around Tilton or Meredith to explore the western side of Lake Winnipesaukee. You can then follow scenic routes such as 109 or 28 along the lake’s edge before heading south. To avoid potential return traffic on I‑93, consider taking Route 28 South through towns like Alton and Pittsfield for a more relaxed, rural drive back towards Concord. This creates a pleasant loop combining highway efficiency with charming back roads.

If you arrive during a winter storm, flexibility and caution are key. Monitor weather and road conditions closely using the New Hampshire Department of Transportation’s resources. Stick to main highways like I‑93, as they are prioritised for ploughing and treatment. Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel before heading into the mountains and allow significant extra time for your journey. If conditions are severe, be prepared to delay your drive until the ploughs have had a chance to clear the roads.

For a straightforward weekend ski trip from the Boston area, towns located just off Interstate 93 are your best bet. Lincoln is home to Loon Mountain and is a direct, easy drive up I‑93, making it extremely popular. Waterville Valley is also a short drive off the highway near Campton. For options further south, Pats Peak in Henniker and Crotched Mountain in Bennington are even closer and offer a very manageable drive for a quick getaway without a longer trip north.

First‑time drivers on I‑93 through the White Mountains should be prepared for the stretch through Franconia Notch State Park. Here the highway narrows to a single lane in each direction with a lower speed limit, which can cause significant backups on busy days. Another tricky spot is the exit for Lincoln (Exit 32), which often becomes congested with traffic heading to Loon Mountain and the Kancamagus Highway. Approach these areas with patience and be ready for sudden slow‑downs.

To visit Franconia Notch’s main attractions smoothly, plan to arrive early, ideally before 9:30am, to secure parking at your first stop, such as the Flume Gorge. After your visit you can use the well‑marked Franconia Notch Recreation Path for walking or cycling between sites, or simply drive the short distance on I‑93 to the next car park. The key is to work your way from south to north (or vice versa) to avoid backtracking. Finishing the day with a ride up the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway provides a stunning final view of the park.

For a sunrise or sunset drive choose an overlook with easy, direct road access, such as the pull‑offs along the Kancamagus Highway or Cathedral Ledge in North Conway. Research your chosen spot in advance to confirm accessibility and gate hours, as some park entrances close after dusk. Plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the event to find a good parking place and get settled. Always drive with your headlights on in low light and be extra watchful for wildlife, which is more active at dawn and dusk.

A great approach is to focus on a cluster of parks within a single region each day. For example, dedicate a day to Franconia Notch State Park where you can park once and use the Recreation Path to access multiple trailheads and attractions. On another day explore parks around the Lakes Region, like Ellacoya State Park and Mount Major. By grouping visits geographically you minimise driving time between locations and maximise time enjoying the parks themselves, creating a more relaxed and efficient itinerary.

For an easygoing brewery tour focus on the Seacoast or southern New Hampshire where towns and breweries are close together. You could create a route linking Portsmouth, Exeter and Dover, all of which have vibrant town centres with multiple breweries and ample public car parks or lots. This lets you park once in each town and explore on foot. Another good option is the Monadnock Region, visiting towns like Peterborough and Keene, which offer a charming, rural feel with less traffic and straightforward main‑street parking.

From the Seacoast a wonderful day trip is to drive inland to the Pawtuckaway State Park area for walking or kayaking, offering a complete change of scenery from the coast. Another excellent option is to explore the historic towns of Exeter and Dover, both rich with New England character and local shops. For a slightly longer drive you can head towards the southern edge of the Lakes Region around Wolfeboro. These destinations provide a true New Hampshire experience without a long journey to the White Mountains.

To avoid the biggest foliage crowds consider visiting mid‑week or exploring less‑trafficked scenic roads instead of the famous Kancamagus Highway on a Saturday. Plan a route through the Monadnock Region or the Lakes Region which offer great colour and charming farm stands with fewer bottlenecks. Start your days early to get ahead of peak traffic, which usually builds from mid‑morning through the afternoon. For short walks pick smaller state parks or local conservation lands that are less known than the major White Mountain trailheads.

The most practical approach is for one person to navigate while the other drives, then swap roles at each major stop or hotel change. For example, one person can handle the morning drive to the day’s main destination and the other take over for the afternoon leg to the next hotel. This keeps both drivers fresh and engaged. Before setting off, make sure any additional drivers are properly listed on your rental agreement so everyone is authorised to drive.

When travelling with winter sports gear, hire a vehicle with ample cargo space, such as an SUV. This allows you to keep equipment securely inside the car, protected from the elements and out of sight during quick stops for food or supplies. In ski resort car parks try to park so you have space to open the boot and doors fully to access kit easily. Keeping a small tarp or mat in the car is also helpful for changing in and out of boots without wetting the interior.

On rural roads at night your primary concerns should be wildlife and road conditions. Drive at a moderate speed and use your main beams whenever there is no oncoming traffic to better illuminate the road edges where animals like deer or moose may appear. Be aware these roads can have sharp, unannounced bends and possible frost heaves or potholes that are harder to see in the dark. Staying alert and reducing speed are the most effective ways to ensure a safe journey.

To combine the two regions efficiently, treat them as a continuous journey rather than separate destinations. You could start in the Lakes Region, staying in Meredith or Wolfeboro, then drive north on scenic Route 25 or Route 16 directly into the White Mountains near Conway. The drive between the areas is attractive and takes about an hour, making it a pleasant part of the day rather than a lost travel day. This lets you enjoy one region in the morning and be settled in the next by the afternoon.

A one‑way itinerary is a great way to see more of the state without backtracking. The simplest way to do this is to book a one‑way car hire, picking up the vehicle at an airport such as Manchester–Boston Regional Airport (MHT) and arranging to drop it off near your departure point, for example Portsmouth or even Portland, Maine (PWM). This allows a linear trip—perhaps starting in the Monadnock Region, travelling through the White Mountains and finishing with a few relaxing days on the Seacoast before flying home.

Visiting during mud season, typically from late March to May, means adjusting your driving and walking plans. Many unpaved roads, trailhead access roads and parking areas can be very soft, muddy or even closed to prevent damage. It’s essential to stick to paved roads and choose trailheads with paved car parks. Before heading out check state park or forest service websites for current road and trail conditions. This is a good time to explore lower‑elevation walks and attractions that are more easily accessible.

The most convenient places to stock up are the larger towns you’ll pass on the main highways just before you reach your destination. If you’re heading to the White Mountains via I‑93, Plymouth and Lincoln have large supermarkets right off the highway. For those travelling to the eastern White Mountains or the northern Lakes Region via Route 16, Rochester and Conway are your best bets for major grocery stores. Stopping in one of these hub towns is far easier than searching for supplies in small villages.

To avoid the worst Saturday turnover traffic, plan to arrive either well before or after the typical 2:00pm to 5:00pm check‑in window. You could travel up in the morning, enjoy a local attraction or have a leisurely lunch, and then head to your accommodation later in the evening after the rush has subsided. Alternatively, if coming from the south, consider taking scenic back roads for the final leg instead of the main highways, which tend to bear the brunt of congestion.

A great day trip from western New Hampshire is to cross the Connecticut River to explore Vermont towns like Woodstock and Quechee. From the I‑89 corridor in New Hampshire it’s a short, scenic drive. Spend the morning in Woodstock, known for its attractive village green, and then visit Quechee Gorge in the afternoon. This creates a manageable loop that offers a distinctly Vermont experience, with covered bridges and charming shops, without spending the whole day in the car.

The most notorious bottlenecks during peak foliage are the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) and the stretch of I‑93 through Franconia Notch. North Conway’s main street also becomes very congested. If you find yourself stuck, a good mid‑day reroute strategy is to use parallel roads—where available—such as Bear Notch Road (if open) to bypass traffic near the Kancamagus, or Route 3 to get around Franconia Notch. Having offline maps downloaded on your phone is crucial for finding these alternative roads when cell service is weak.

New Hampshire offers many accessible options for enjoying nature. Focus on parks with drive‑up locations, such as the summit of Mount Kearsarge or Pack Monadnock. Plan visits to waterfalls with very short, paved or flat gravel paths, like Diana’s Baths or the lower cascades of Sabbaday Falls. Franconia Notch State Park also has the paved Recreation Path, which offers great views with minimal effort. Always check park websites for specific accessibility information before you go to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The most reliable method is to download offline maps of the whole New Hampshire region to your smartphone before your trip. GPS navigation apps can use these downloaded maps to pinpoint your location even without a mobile signal. As a foolproof backup, carry a physical copy of a detailed state road atlas, such as the DeLorme New Hampshire Atlas & Gazetteer. This ensures you can always find your way, regardless of technology or service availability, especially on remote back roads.

The decision depends on your travel style. If you prefer to unpack once and enjoy a more relaxed pace, choose a single, centrally located base like Concord or the Lakes Region, from which you can make day trips to both the mountains and the coast. If your goal is to maximise time in each distinct area and minimise driving on activity days, then splitting your stay is the better option. You might spend two nights in a mountain town such as Lincoln or North Conway and one night in Portsmouth to fully experience both environments.

Before setting out on a long drive, especially in unpredictable weather, do a quick walk‑round of your vehicle. Check that the tyres appear properly inflated and have good tread, which is crucial for traction on wet or icy roads. Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the location of the controls for the headlights, windscreen wipers and demister. It’s also good practice to ensure the windscreen washer fluid is topped up, as road salt and grime can quickly obstruct your view during winter drives.