The White Mountains are the dominant geographical feature of New Hampshire and one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the northeastern United States. The range runs roughly 140 kilometres through the northern part of the state, encompassing the White Mountain National Forest and some of the most rugged terrain east of the Rockies.
Mount Washington, at 1,917 metres (6,288 feet), is the highest peak in the northeastern US and famously holds the record for the highest wind speed ever recorded at a surface weather station. You can drive or take the cog railway to the summit, but the hiking trails — particularly Tuckerman Ravine — are the more rewarding approach.
Beyond Washington, the range offers hundreds of kilometres of trails through dense forest, past waterfalls, and along exposed ridgelines. The Franconia Ridge traverse and the Presidential Range are among the finest day hikes in New England. In winter, several ski areas operate throughout the region, from family-friendly slopes to steeper mountains that challenge experienced skiers.
The towns along the Kancamagus Highway and in the notches (Crawford Notch, Franconia Notch, Pinkham Notch) provide lodging, restaurants, and outfitters. Autumn foliage season, roughly late September through mid-October, draws enormous crowds — book well in advance.