The "Kanc"

A drive along the Kancamagus Highway is a must if ever you find yourself in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire.

A 34.5 mile stretch from the Pemigewasset River in Lincoln to the Saco River in Conway, it is some of the best scenery that New England offers. Officially completed in 1959, the Kanc was named after Kancamagus or "the Fearless One", who ruled as the third and final sagamon of the Panacook Confederacy of American Tribes.

The highway follows the Swift River and offers many overlooks and short hikes. Scenic areas are well marked and maintained by the White Mountain Forest Service. A parking pass is required, but honesty boxes are available at the parking areas with permits to display on your dashboard.

Half day hikes include Sawyer Pond and Greeley Pond accessible through the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area. But the Rocky Gorge might sidetrack you for a while. Pretty amazing what a river can do over time. Sabbaday Falls can be viewed by following the Sabbaday Brook Trail. Lilly Pond is another camera moment and is right off the road.

If you're pressed for time, take a fresh air break at the Lower Falls near the Covered Bridge Campground. Relax or play on the rocks near the shoreline or in the middle of the Swift River. Be sure to stop by the Albany covered bridge while you're there. Spanning the Swift River, this bridge is a 'picture perfect' New England photo opportunity.