Cranky? Drive the Kanc(amagus Highway)

Andi Marie Tisdell

She/Her

Staff Writer

9/19/24

When I set out to drive the Kancamagus Highway, the 34.5 mile scenic byway connecting Lincoln and Conway, I was in a bad mood. By the end of my drive I felt at peace with the world. I attribute much of that to my favorite part of the Kanc: the Pemigewasset Overlook. I caught the view a few minutes after the sun had set. The last reds were settling against the horizon. The only sounds were the rustling of the grass in the breeze and the occasional car cruising the Kanc. It was supremely calm.

I sat there for half an hour absorbed by the view. As the sun continued setting it got cooler and cooler but the view was worth it. I didn’t even feel the pull to look at my phone (except to take a couple pictures). I thought about all the people who had contributed over the years so that I could sit and stare. I felt simultaneously insignificant and loved (no promises you’ll feel the same).

The drive itself is similarly serene. After getting off I93 at exit 32, civilization swifty gives way to the White Mountain National Forest. The delightfully curvy road is lined with trees, trailheads, lookouts, campgrounds, and water access. It is peak New Hampshire. I’m shocked it wasn’t mobbed by tourists (not at 8:00 PM on a Tuesday anyway).

I have only one gripe. The eastern half of the road, beginning around the Sabbaday Falls trailhead, is rather bumpy. I might not have noticed if the rest of the pavement was not pristine. Such a nice road so far from any businesses is rare in New England. I was disappointed, though not surprised, that the full length was not as nice.

Awe: 10/10 – The view gave awe new meaning.

Thrill: 4/10 – Though fun, the drive wasn’t thrilling.

Novelty: 6/10 – There are lots of great places to watch the sunset; this one is especially nice.

I would recommend visiting the Kanc to anyone who likes driving, sunsets, or hiking. That said, unless you’re driving all the way to Conway, there isn’t really a need to go past the Pemigewasset Overlook.