Okay, let's talk North Conway. Nestled in New Hampshire's White Mountains, this place isn't just another pretty mountain town. I've lost count of how many times I've driven up Route 16, that familiar mix of excitement and relaxation hitting me as the mountains come into view. If you're wondering what to do in North Conway, you're not alone. Seems like half of New England heads here when they need to breathe real air. It packs a punch whether you're dragging hyper kids, escaping with your partner, or just needing solo mountain time.
Getting Your Bearings: North Conway's Vibe
First thing – North Conway isn't just one spot. You've got the bustling village center with its iconic red train station (more on that later), outlets that'll drain your wallet, and then those jaw-dropping mountain accesses beckoning just minutes away. The Saco River winds through it all. This mix means your day can flip from sipping fancy coffee to scrambling up a granite slab within 15 minutes. The pace? Depends entirely on you. Some folks treat it like a theme park, rushing from attraction to attraction. Others (like me last fall) park themselves at a riverside spot with a book for three days straight. Both approaches work.
The Heavy Hitters: Must-Do Activities
Let's cut to the chase. You want the meaty stuff – the things that make people say "You went to North Conway and DIDN'T do that?"
Conway Scenic Railroad: More Than Just a Train Ride
That red station in the village center? It's the real deal. The Conway Scenic Railroad operates vintage trains on routes that've been running since 1874. Important Tip: Book ahead, especially for the longer routes. Seriously. I learned this the hard way on a crowded October weekend.
- Valley Train: Short & sweet (55min-1hr 25min). Great for families with antsy kids. Runs to Conway ($23 adult/$16 child) or Bartlett ($27/$19). Runs multiple times daily spring-fall, limited winter schedule.
- Notch Train: The star. 5-hour round trip through Crawford Notch. Jaw-dropping scenery, but prepare for steep drops if heights bother you. ($67/$47). Runs May-October, 1-2 departures daily.
- Station Address: 38 Norcross Cir, North Conway, NH 03860
Honest opinion? The Notch Train is fantastic, but if you're short on time or cash, the shorter rides still give you that nostalgic train vibe without eating half your day. The open-air cars in summer? Pure magic.
Diana's Baths: Waterfall Magic Without the Death March
This spot gets busy for a reason. A super easy 0.6-mile hike (mostly flat, packed gravel) leads to a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools. Perfect for kids to splash safely and adults to soak tired feet. Pro Tip: Go early (before 9am) or late (after 4pm) during peak season (July-Oct weekends). The parking lot fills fast and it gets crowded midday.
- Cost: $5 per adult (16+), kids free (National Forest Recreation Fee). Cash or card accepted.
- Hours: Dawn to dusk, year-round (access road closed in winter, add 1.5 miles snowshoe/ski).
- Address: West Side Road (off River Road), Bartlett, NH 03812 (about 10 mins drive from N.Conway village).
I once brought skeptical teenagers here – they groaned about "a walk to some water." Two hours later, I practically had to drag them away from climbing the rocks and exploring every cascade. Pack a picnic!
Echo Lake State Park: Postcard-Perfect & Chill
Want that iconic view of Cathedral Ledge reflecting in calm water? This is it. Echo Lake is small, pristine, and nestled right under the cliffs. Great for swimming (lifeguards in summer), kayaking (rentals available), or just chilling on the beach. The 1-mile loop trail around the lake is flat and easy. You can also drive up Cathedral Ledge Auto Road (separate fee) for insane panoramic views.
- Cost: $5 adults, $2 kids (6-11), NH seniors free (weekdays). Separate fee for Auto Road ($20/car summer). Hours: Park: 9am - 7pm peak summer (shorter hours spring/fall). Auto Road: Generally mid-May to late Oct, weather dependent.
- Address: 68 Echo Lake Rd, North Conway, NH 03860
Outdoor Adventures: Beyond the Basics
If sitting still isn't your thing, North Conway delivers. Seriously. This is mountain central.
Hiking: Trails for Every Leg Muscle
Whether you want a paved path or a leg-burner, it's here. Don't underestimate the trails though – weather changes fast.
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Time (RT) | Distance (RT) | Parking & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral Ledge Trail | Moderate | 1.5-2 hrs | 2.6 miles | Park at Echo Lake SP. Steady climb to iconic summit views. Popular with rock climbers too. |
| Black Cap Trail | Easy-Moderate | 1-1.5 hrs | 2.4 miles | Hurricane Mountain Rd, Intervale (10 mins N of N.Conway). Reliable 360° views, great sunrise spot. |
| Mount Willard | Moderate | 2-3 hrs | 3.2 miles | Crawford Depot, Route 302 (25 mins drive). Famous "gateway to the notch" view. Worth the drive. |
| Kearsarge North | Strenuous | 4-6 hrs | 6.2 miles | Hurricane Mountain Rd. Fire tower summit with insane views. Prepare for a workout! |
Trust me, wear good boots, bring way more water than you think, and check Mountain-Forecast.com before you go.
Rock Climbing & Guided Adventures
Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge are world-class climbing destinations. Don't know a cam from a carabiner? No sweat. Local guide services like International Mountain Climbing School (IMCS) or Synnott Mountain Guides offer intro classes and guided climbs starting around $125-$175 per person for a half-day. Even tried a family intro day once – way less scary than I imagined.
Water Adventures: Saco River Bliss
Flatwater paddling, lazy tubing, or even gentle fly-fishing – the Saco River defines summer here. Multiple outfitters rent kayaks, canoes, and tubes. Saco Bound is a major one offering shuttles. Prices roughly $30-$50/day for a kayak/canoe, $20-$30 for a tube including shuttle. Put in points vary; Conway is popular for shorter floats. Want solitude? Head further upstream towards Bartlett.
Winter Wonderland: Snowy Things to Do in North Conway
Summer gets the hype, but winter? Pure magic. And packed with activities.
Downhill Skiing & Riding
Cranmore Mountain Resort dominates the skyline right in the village. It's convenient, family-friendly, and has night skiing. But here's the local scoop...
Cranmore Pros: Walkable from village lodging, great views, good mix of terrain parks & groomers. Night skiing! Tickets ≈ $85-$105 adult/day peak.
Cranmore Cons: Can get crowded weekends/holidays. Smaller vertical than others. Parking fills fast.
Wildcat Mountain (25 mins away on Route 16 towards Pinkham Notch) is the real deal. Steeper, wilder, insane views of Mount Washington. Feels more "big mountain." Tickets ≈ $100-$120. Worth the drive on a clear day. Attitash (20 mins away in Bartlett) is bigger, more varied terrain. Tickets similar to Wildcat. King Pine (30 mins East) is smaller, cheaper, fantastic for beginners/families ($65-$75).
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
My personal favorite winter escape. Quiet forests, frozen rivers... bliss.
- Great Glen Trails (Base of Mt Washington Auto Rd): Groomed XC paradise. 45km trails. Stunning scenery. $29 adult trail fee. Rentals available.
- Jackson XC (20 mins North): World-class network. Over 150km trails. $30-$40 trail fee. Rentals. Worth the trip.
- Free Options: Moose Pond Loop (Bartlett), Saco River paths near Schouler Park (N.Conway), fields off West Side Road. Just need your own gear!
Rented snowshoes from Joe Jones Ski & Sport in the village last Feb ($25/day). Wandered behind Diana's Baths. Saw moose tracks bigger than my hand. Didn't see the moose though – maybe next time.
Food Fuel: Eating & Drinking Your Way Through Town
You'll work up an appetite. North Conway punches above its weight food-wise. Here's the lowdown from many meals:
| Spot | Type/Vibe | Must-Try | Price Range | Hours & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Co. 3378 White Mountain Hwy (Rt 16 N) |
Brewpub / Casual | Pulled Pork BBQ, Czech Pilsner, Mountain Ale | $$ ($15-$30 entrees) | 11:30am - 9pm Sun-Thurs, 11:30am - 10pm Fri/Sat. Gets LOUD. Great rooftop patio. |
| Flatbread Company 2760 White Mountain Hwy (Rt 16 S) |
Pizza / Eco-Friendly | Pepperoni, Sausage & Mushroom, any seasonal special | $$ ($14-$24 pizzas) | 11:30am - 9pm daily. Organic, wood-fired, community vibe. Expect a wait. |
| Peach's Restaurant 2506 White Mountain Hwy (Rt 16 S) |
Breakfast/Lunch Diner | Cornerstone Hash (huge!), Cinnamon Swirl French Toast | $ ($8-$15) | 7am - 2pm daily. Classic greasy spoon. Cash only! Lines out door weekends. |
| Frontside Grind 149 Main St (Village) |
Coffee / Pastries | Maple Latte, Giant Cinnamon Roll | $ ($3-$7) | 6am - 5pm daily. Best coffee in town. Chill spot to regroup. |
| May Kelly's Cottage 3002 White Mountain Hwy (Rt 16 N) |
Irish Pub | Shepherd's Pie, Guinness Stew, Live Music | $$ ($18-$28 entrees) | 4pm - 9pm Mon-Thurs, 12pm - 10pm Fri-Sun. Authentic Irish, lively atmosphere. |
Skip the generic chains – the local joints have way more character.
Retail Therapy & Souvenir Hunting
North Conway is a shopper's paradox – rugged outdoors mixed with outlet bargains.
Settlers Green Outlet Village
Love it or hate it, it's huge. Over 60 stores (Nike, Polo, Le Creuset, etc.). Practical Stuff: Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm. Hours shorten slightly off-season. Parking is massive but chaotic weekends. Strategy: Hit it early or late. Weekdays are calmer. The "Green" has free concerts summer evenings.
Local Gems & Gear Shops
- Zeb's General Store (2675 White Mtn Hwy): Old-fashioned candy, local goods, kitschy fun. Worth a browse.
- Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) (149 Main St): Flagship outdoor gear store. Great for last-minute rentals or gear needs.
- White Mountain Cupcakery (Main St): Tiny spot, amazing cupcakes ($3.75 each). Worth the calories.
- Mountain Wanderer Map & Book Store (Settlers Green Rd): Hidden gem for trail maps, hiking books, local history. Knowledgeable owner.
Seasonal Shifts: What to Do in North Conway All Year
| Season | Top Activities | Atmosphere & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Late April-May) | Mud season! Lower elevation hikes opening (Diana's Baths, Black Cap), Saco River starts flowing (kayaking later), waterfalls peak, Conway Scenic starts running. Fewer crowds. | Trails are MUDDY. Wear waterproof boots. Some attractions/hotels reopen gradually. Can be chilly. Great deals on lodging. |
| Summer (June-August) | Hiking, swimming (Echo Lake, Saco), train rides, paddling, climbing, shopping, scenic drives (Kancamagus!), festivals. | Peak season. BOOK EVERYTHING AHEAD (lodging, train, guides). Crowded weekends. Warm days, cool nights. Mosquitoes exist. |
| Fall Foliage (Late Sept-Oct) | Peak foliage viewing (drives, hikes, train), apple picking nearby, corn mazes, crisp hiking weather. | THE busiest time. Expect traffic jams on Rt 16 & Kancamagus Hwy. Book a year ahead if possible. Weather unpredictable – layers essential. |
| Winter (Dec-March) | Downhill skiing (Cranmore, Wildcat, Attitash), XC skiing/snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating (Schouler Park), cozy pubs, scenic snow-covered views. | Snow dependent (check reports!). Weekends busy at ski areas. Quieter midweek. COLD. Seriously cold (& windy!). Dress appropriately. Holiday weeks packed. |
I made the mistake once of visiting Columbus Day weekend without bookings. Ended up staying 45 minutes away and sitting in traffic for hours. Learn from my fail.
Getting Here & Getting Around
North Conway isn't on a major interstate. That's part of the charm... and the challenge.
- Driving: Most practical. From Boston ≈ 2.5-3.5 hrs (I-95N to Rt 16N). From Portland, ME ≈ 1.5 hrs. Rt 16 is the main artery.
- Parking: Village center has meters (free after 6pm & Sundays). Outlets have massive free lots. Trailheads fill early.
- Walkability: The village core (Main St, Schouler Park, train station) is very walkable. Outlets and trailheads require driving.
- Public Transit: Limited. Conway Scenic runs vintage buses seasonally on a loop (village to outlets). Mountain Explorer shuttle runs winter only (links ski resorts/village). Don't rely on it.
Seriously, you need a car or a strong willingness to use taxis/Uber (which exist but aren't abundant).
Sleeping in the Mountains: Where to Crash
Accommodations range from historic inns to motels to cabins. What fits your vibe & wallet?
- Village Proximity: Cranmore Inn (historic B&B, walk everywhere, $$$), Green Granite Inn (large hotel, indoor/outdoor pools, easy walk to village, $$). Staying here means ditching the car sometimes – nice perk.
- Mountain Views/Seclusion: Fox Ridge Resort (condos with kitchens, views, short drive to village, $$-$$$), Cabins at Lopstick (≈30 mins away near First Connecticut Lake, remote log cabins, $$$). Perfect disconnect.
- Budget-Friendly: North Conway Grand Hotel (indoor pool/hot tub, basic rooms, $$), numerous older motels along Rt 16 (some surprisingly clean). Read recent reviews!
Booked a cheap motel on Rt 16 once based solely on price. Thin walls, highway noise... lesson learned. Spending a bit more for location or quality walls matters.
Your North Conway Questions Answered (The Real Stuff)
Based on what people actually wonder when planning things to do in North Conway:
Is North Conway worth visiting?
Absolutely yes, if you like mountains, outdoor activities, or charming small towns. It's not a glitzy resort. It's authentic New England mountain life with great access to adventure. If you hate crowds, avoid peak foliage weekends.
How many days do I need for North Conway?
Minimum? A long weekend (3 days) lets you hit major highlights. Five days is better to relax, explore side areas (Jackson, Bartlett, Crawford Notch), and not rush. You can easily fill a week, especially if hiking/skiing intensely.
What is the best time to visit North Conway?
Depends! Foliage (late Sept/early Oct): Most spectacular scenery, but MOST crowded & expensive. Summer (June-Aug): Best for warm water activities, long days, busy. Winter (Dec-Mar): Snow sports magic, cold, busy weekends/holidays. Spring (May)/Late Fall (Nov): Quietest, cheapest, muddier/limited activities.
Is North Conway good for families?
Yes, it's fantastic. Easy hikes (Diana's Baths, Echo Lake), the train, Story Land nearby (classic kid theme park, ≈15 mins away), swimming holes, Cranmore Mountain's adventure park (summer) & easy skiing. Lots of casual eateries.
Can you get around North Conway without a car?
It's tough. The village core is walkable, but for trailheads, Echo Lake, Settlers Green, or exploring outside the immediate area, you really need a car. Taxis/Uber exist but aren't always readily available. Shuttles are limited/seasonal.
What should I pack for North Conway?
Essentials: Layers! (Temps swing), waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear (hiking boots NOT sneakers for trails), backpack, water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray (summer), map/compass/GPS (don't rely solely on phone signal). Winter: Serious insulated boots, thermal layers, heavy coat, hat/gloves.
Are there bears/moose?
Yes, especially moose. They are large, unpredictable wild animals. You likely won't see one in the village, but on trails or driving remote roads (particularly dusk/dawn), it's possible. Admire from a VERY FAR distance. Secure food while camping. Bear encounters are rarer.
Making it Happen: The North Conway Mindset
Planning what to do in North Conway is half the fun. My final advice? Build in flexibility. Weather changes plans (a rainy day means museums or cozy pubs instead of hiking). Book key things (lodging, train tickets, popular restaurants) early. Embrace the mountain pace – things sometimes move slower. Pack your sense of adventure (and good boots). And honestly? Don't try to cram everything in. Pick a few core things to do in North Conway that match your energy, then leave room for discovering that hidden river spot or lingering over coffee watching the world go by. That's often where the best memories happen.
Last summer, we ditched our itinerary after finding a perfect swimming hole near Lower Falls (off the Kancamagus). Spent the whole afternoon there. Zero regrets. Sometimes the best plan is no plan.
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