Drive the Kancamagus Scenic Highway, beginning in Lincoln’s tiny New Hampshire town. Get a glimpse into the history of the town and the Old Man in the mountain as you start your journey into the beautiful landscape of the White Mountains.

Hear the traditional Pennacook legend of a great celestial bear and the hunt which changes the seasons; then, you’ll stop by Otter Lake and get some helpful tips about moose spotting and birdwatching in this vibrant wilderness.

As you head toward the jaw-dropping views from Hancock Overlook, we’ll fill you in on how these staggering mountains formed in the first place and tell you all about Chief Osceola, a cultural hero around these parts and the namesake for Osceola Mountain.

You’ll get your first good look at the famous Mount Washington shortly after that and learn the significance of this mountain to the Pennacook tribe. Continuing, more overlooks will offer unbeatable views of the mountains and the blazingly beautiful fall foliage if it’s the right time of year.

On your way to the glittering Sabbaday Falls, you’ll hear about the astonishing accomplishment that was the Pennacook Confederacy and the chief who made it all happen. You’ll also pass by the Russell-Colbath House, a perfectly preserved bit of history and the site of a mysterious disappearance.

Next on the Kancamagus Scenic Byway self-guided tour, you’ll stop at the lovely cascading falls within the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area and drive across a 200-year-old wooden bridge that’s just begging to be photographed.

Finally, you’ll get the juicy details on an unlikely war between the Rockefellers and a bunch of beavers, the decline of the Pennacook, and the Saco River Curse. You’ll end up at the Saco Ranger Station in Conway with a carload of new memories and plenty of history!

Starting Point Address: White Mountains Visitor Center, 200 NH-112, North Woodstock, NH 03262