Fall Foliage Tours in New Hampshire's Monadnock Region

As winter ends with the last frost, autumn begins with the first. New England's fall foliage is unlike any other region's in the world, with some of the finest being found in New Hampshire. The sheer multitude and intensity of colors is unmistakable - the apotheosis of the transient fall season. Autumn creeps slowly down from the Great North Woods, enveloping all in its path in a cacophony of crimson, brick, gold and auburn. Some of the best fall foliage can be seen in New Hampshire's Monadnock region. Dress in layers or pack an overnight bag if you feel like staying at one of the region's many cozy bed and breakfasts. Whatever you do, hop in the car and try one - or all - of these scenic driving tours. Try for early to mid-October to catch the fall foliage in its peak.

Keene to Monadnock

This circular tour begins in Keene, best known for its yearly pumpkin festival and small liberal arts college. After having a delicious breakfast at either Lindy's Diner or Timoleon's, follow Main Street to NH-101 east. Proceed down for a few miles until turning right at NH-124 in Marlborough. If you're feeling ambitious,after approximately 8 miles, turn left into Monadnock State Park and climb one of the world's most climbed mountains. You can always just explore the nice base area. On a clear fall day, be prepared to see as far as Boston. If a steep hike is not what you had in mind, proceed down NH-124, taking in the views along the way. After about 4 miles you will be in Jaffrey. For lunch, try either Athens Pizza House or Lilly's on the Pond. After you've given yourself time to explore the quaint town, proceed north up NH-137. After about 7 miles, turn left back on NH-101 east. Follow for approximately 15 miles until you are back in Keene. On the way you will pass the gorgeous Dublin pond, complete with a spectacular view of Mount Monadnock. Be sure to stop for pictures of the gorgeous fall foliage. Back in Keene, try dinner at the award winning Luca's on Main Street or the Elm City Brewery in the Colony Mill shopping plaza off of West Street. If you're planning to spend the night, try the Colony House bed and breakfast or The Carriage Barn, both on Main Street.

Marlow to Winchester

This 30 mile drive will take you through the heart of New Hampshire's Monadnock region and through a tour of its wonderful fall foliage. Follow route 10 all the way down from Marlow to Winchester. There are 5 covered bridges in the area. Be sure to keep an eye out for signs.

Keene to Walpole

This drive will bring you from Keene to the picturesque town of Walpole. Head north on Court Street for about 3 miles, continuing onto Old Walpole Rd. After 12 miles, you will be in the town of Walpole. Be sure to stop at the Walpole Creamery for a few scoops of home-grown, organic ice cream and to take in the fall foliage. From the center of town, turn left onto route 12. Head south for about four miles until turning right at River Road. Follow River Road down the curve of the Connecticut River for about 8 miles at the New Hampshire and Vermont border until you are brought to route 9. Turn left and follow route 9 back to Keene, passing the scenic town of Spofford on the way.

While most consider the Great North Woods the epicenter of fall foliage, New Hampshire's Monadnock region has just as much to offer, if not more.

Sources:
"Fall Foliage Drives." Newhampshire.com.
"Foliage Tours in the Monadnock Region." Southwestnh.com.
"New Hampshire Foliage Report 2008." VisitNH.gov.