Enterprise Car Rental
New Hampshire

To ensure a relaxed start to your trip, plan a direct route from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport to the Lakes Region. After picking up your vehicle, consider a quick stop for supplies at one of the many stores just minutes from the airport. From there, taking Interstate 93 North is the most straightforward path, offering a smooth and well-maintained highway drive. This route minimizes complex navigation on your first day, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the scenery as you approach Lake Winnipesaukee. The drive itself is typically under 90 minutes, leaving plenty of time to check into your lodging and unwind before your adventures begin.

A realistic weekend plan involves dedicating one full day to the Kancamagus Highway and North Conway area. Start your Saturday by driving the 'Kanc' (Route 112) from Lincoln to Conway, allowing at least three to four hours to appreciate the scenic overlooks and short trails. Spend the afternoon exploring North Conway's shops and restaurants before staying overnight in the area. 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, which avoids backtracking on the Kancamagus.

For a strategic base with easy access to both regions, consider towns in the Lakes Region or central New Hampshire. Locations like Concord or Tilton place you at a convenient crossroads, with major highways providing direct routes in either direction. From here, a drive north to the White Mountains or southeast to the Seacoast can typically be done in about an hour to 90 minutes. This allows you to plan distinct day trips to hike in the mountains or explore Portsmouth's coastline without committing to a long transit each day, offering great flexibility for your itinerary.

To secure parking at popular Franconia Notch attractions like the Flume Gorge or the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, it's best to plan your arrival for before 9:00 AM, especially on weekends and during peak foliage season. Starting your drive from southern New Hampshire by 7:00 AM is a wise strategy. This early start not only helps you avoid the main traffic surge on I-93 North but also ensures you get a spot in the primary lots, which fill up quickly. Arriving early allows for a more peaceful experience before the mid-day crowds descend on the park.

Driving the Kancamagus Highway in October is an immersive foliage experience, but it requires patience. Expect traffic to move at a very slow pace, particularly on weekends, as drivers frequently slow down to admire the colors. The numerous scenic pull-offs are a key part of the drive, so plan to stop often; however, be aware that popular spots can become congested. It's best to treat the 34-mile scenic byway as a multi-hour activity rather than a quick transit route. Pack snacks and water, start with a full tank of gas, and embrace the leisurely journey to fully enjoy the spectacular autumn views.

Visitors often get disoriented by the network of one-way streets and tight intersections in downtown Portsmouth, especially around Market Square. A common mistake is attempting to find street parking directly on the waterfront, which is extremely limited and leads to circling congested areas. A better strategy is to head directly for a designated public parking garage, such as the Hanover Street Garage, upon arriving. From there, the entire downtown and waterfront area is easily walkable, saving you the frustration of navigating the narrow, busy streets by car.

For a late-night arrival with a drive to the White Mountains, prioritize a simple and direct route on well-lit, major highways. After picking up your car at the airport, map your course directly to Interstate 93 North, which is the primary artery into the mountains. Before you leave the airport area, confirm your lodging's exact address and consider downloading offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in more 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 when you get there.

To comfortably visit the Mount Washington Auto Road and other spots, focus on attractions along the Pinkham Notch corridor (Route 16). A great plan is to tackle the Auto Road first thing in the morning when you're fresh and weather is often clearer. After your descent, you can enjoy a more relaxed afternoon visiting nearby Glen Ellis Falls or the Wildcat Mountain gondola for different perspectives of the Presidential Range. This approach keeps your driving localized to one area, preventing a rushed feeling and minimizing time spent in the car between activities.

When based in Lincoln or Woodstock, you are perfectly positioned to explore Franconia Notch State Park with very little backtracking. You can easily 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. For a different direction, heading east on the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) allows for a scenic drive with numerous trailheads and overlooks. Both options provide a full day of activities directly accessible from your home base, making for an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.

Driving the Mount Washington Auto Road is a unique experience that requires the driver's full attention due to its steep grades, narrow sections, and lack of guardrails. It can be challenging for those uncomfortable with heights or mountain driving. The Cog Railway, in contrast, is a guided tour that allows everyone to relax and focus solely on the incredible views. For either option, you must plan for rapidly changing weather; dress in layers and bring a jacket, as it can be cold and windy at the summit even on a warm day.

A practical and scenic route involves driving from New Hampshire's Seacoast region towards Portland, Maine, for your overnight stop. From Portsmouth, take I-95 North to Portland, which offers a great selection of dining and lodging. The next day, continue north on I-295 and then merge onto I-95 before taking Route 3 towards Mount Desert Island. This two-day approach breaks the journey into manageable driving segments of about one hour and three hours, respectively, allowing you to arrive at Acadia feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

To ensure you have access to amenities, plan your routes along New Hampshire's main corridors like I-93, I-89, and Route 16. These highways connect larger towns such as Concord, Lincoln, North Conway, and Littleton, which are reliable hubs for gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores. Before venturing onto more scenic but remote roads like the Kancamagus Highway, make it a habit to top off your fuel tank and use the facilities in a gateway town. This simple strategy allows you to 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 railroad and Schouler Park. Parking here allows you to leave your car for the day and explore the entire village on foot, from the independent shops to the nearby outlets. Arriving earlier in the morning, before 10 AM, will give you the best chance of finding a convenient spot without circling.

For a great family day, start your morning 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 nearby Jackson Falls for an easy walk and a chance for kids to splash in the 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 that are accustomed to serving guests coming from the theme park, making for a relaxed end to an exciting day.

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

From Concord, an efficient loop involves taking 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 like 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 that combines highway efficiency with charming back roads.

If you're arriving during a winter storm, flexibility and caution are key. Monitor weather and road conditions closely using the New Hampshire Department of Transportation's resources. Plan to stick to major highways like I-93, as they are the first priority for plowing and treatment. It's wise to ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas before heading into the mountains and to allow significant extra time for your journey. If conditions are severe, be prepared to delay your drive until the plows 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. Similarly, Waterville Valley is just a short drive off the highway near Campton. For something in the southern part of the state, Pats Peak in Henniker and Crotched Mountain in Bennington are even closer and offer a very manageable drive for a quick getaway without committing to 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 can become very congested with traffic heading to Loon Mountain and the Kancamagus Highway. Approaching these areas with patience and being aware of sudden slowdowns is the best way to navigate them smoothly.

To visit Franconia Notch's main attractions smoothly, plan to arrive early, ideally before 9:30 AM, 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 biking between sites, or simply drive the short distance on I-93 to the next parking area. The key is to work your way from south to north (or vice versa) to avoid backtracking. Finishing your day with a ride up the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway provides a stunning final view of the park you just explored.

For a sunrise or sunset drive, choose an overlook with easy and direct road access, such as the pull-offs along the Kancamagus Highway or Cathedral Ledge in North Conway. Research your chosen spot beforehand to confirm its 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 spot and get settled. Always drive with your headlights on during these low-light hours 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, you could 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, you could explore parks around the Lakes Region, like Ellacoya State Park and Mount Major. By grouping your visits geographically, you minimize driving time between locations and maximize your 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 closer together. You could create a route connecting Portsmouth, Exeter, and Dover, all of which have vibrant downtowns with multiple breweries and ample public parking garages or lots. This allows you to park once in each town and explore on foot. Another great 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 hiking 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 requiring 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 beautiful color and charming farm stands with fewer bottlenecks. Start your days early to get ahead of the peak traffic, which usually builds from mid-morning through the afternoon. For short walks, choose smaller state parks or local conservation lands that are less known than the major White Mountain trailheads.

The most practical approach is to have one person navigate while the other drives, then switch roles at each major stop or hotel change. For instance, one person can handle the morning drive to the day's main destination, and the other can take over for the afternoon leg to the next hotel. This ensures both drivers stay fresh and engaged. Before starting, make sure any additional drivers are properly listed on your rental agreement to ensure everyone is authorized to be behind the wheel.

When traveling with winter sports gear, renting a vehicle with ample cargo space, like an SUV, is the best strategy. This allows you to keep your equipment securely inside the car, protected from the elements and out of sight during quick stops for food or supplies. In ski resort parking lots, try to park in a way that gives you space to open your trunk or doors fully to access your gear without difficulty. Keeping a small tarp or mat in the car is also helpful for changing in and out of boots without getting the interior wet.

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

To efficiently combine these two regions, plan a route that treats them as a continuous journey rather than separate destinations. You can start in the Lakes Region, perhaps staying in Meredith or Wolfeboro, and then drive north on scenic Route 25 or Route 16 directly into the heart of the White Mountains near Conway. The drive between the two areas is beautiful and takes only about an hour, making it a pleasant part of the day's adventure rather than a lost travel day. This allows you to enjoy one region in the morning and be settled in the next by the afternoon.

A one-way itinerary is a fantastic way to see more of the state without backtracking. The simplest way to execute this is by booking a one-way car rental, picking up your vehicle at an airport like Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) and arranging to drop it off at a location near your departure point, such as Portsmouth or even Portland, Maine (PWM). This allows you to create a linear trip, perhaps starting in the Monadnock Region, traveling up through the White Mountains, and ending with a relaxing few days on the Seacoast before your flight home.

Visiting during mud season, typically from late March to May, requires adjusting your driving and hiking plans significantly. Many unpaved roads, trailhead access roads, and parking areas can be extremely soft, muddy, or even closed to prevent damage. It's essential to stick to paved roads and choose trailheads with paved parking lots. Before heading out, check state park or forest service websites for current road and trail conditions. This is a great time to explore lower-elevation hikes and attractions that are more easily accessible.

The most convenient places for stocking up are the larger towns you'll pass through on the main highways just before you reach your destination. If you're heading to the White Mountains via I-93, the towns of Plymouth and Lincoln have large, full-service supermarkets right off the highway. For those traveling 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 smaller villages.

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

A great day trip from western New Hampshire involves crossing the Connecticut River to explore Vermont towns like Woodstock and Quechee. From the I-89 corridor in New Hampshire, it's a short and scenic drive. You can spend the morning in Woodstock, known for its beautiful village green, and then visit Quechee Gorge in the afternoon. This creates a manageable loop that offers a distinct Vermont experience, complete with covered bridges and charming shops, without spending the entire day behind the wheel.

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 a road atlas to find parallel routes, like 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 alternate roads when cell service is weak.

New Hampshire offers many accessible options for enjoying nature. Focus your itinerary on state parks with scenic drive-up locations, like the summit of Mount Kearsarge or Pack Monadnock. Plan visits to waterfalls with very short, paved, or flat gravel paths, such as Diana's Baths or the Sabbaday Falls lower cascades. Franconia Notch State Park also has the paved Recreation Path, which offers incredible 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 entire New Hampshire region to your smartphone before your trip. GPS navigation apps can use these downloaded maps to pinpoint your location even without a cell signal. For a foolproof backup, it's highly recommended to 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 maximize your time in each distinct area and minimize driving on your activity days, then splitting your stay is the better option. You could spend two nights in a mountain town like Lincoln or North Conway and one night in Portsmouth to fully immerse yourself in both environments.

Before heading out on a long drive, especially in unpredictable weather, do a quick walk-around of your vehicle. Confirm that the tires appear properly inflated and have good tread, which is crucial for traction on wet or icy roads. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the location of the controls for the headlights, windshield wipers, and defroster. It's also a good practice to ensure the windshield washer fluid is topped off, as road salt and grime can quickly obstruct your view during winter drives.