Leaf Peeping Season Preview: When to Visit & What to See in New London, New Hampshire

Zoë Norbom
Aug 8
3 min read

There’s nothing quite like Fall in New Hampshire. As Summer fades and the air turns crisp, the hills around Pleasant Lake ignite with vibrant hues of crimson, gold, and amber. For those dreaming of the perfect autumn escape, New London offers some of the best leaf peeping in the state (made even better when paired with the warm hospitality of Inn at Pleasant Lake)!

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a quiet retreat to reconnect with nature, here’s what you need to know to make the most of foliage season in New London.

Front view of Inn at Pleasant Lake in autumn, surrounded by golden trees and a blanket of red and orange fallen leaves. — Fall foliage in full splendor at Inn at Pleasant Lake—where golden leaves and crisp air set the scene for a perfect autumn retreat.

🍂 When to Visit for Peak Fall Foliage

While fall colors begin to show as early as mid-September, peak foliage in the New London area typically occurs from late September through mid-October. For the most vibrant views, we recommend visiting the first or second week of October, but anytime during this window is a safe bet for colorful landscapes, cool breezes, and cozy evenings.

🚗 Scenic Drives Worth the Detour

New London is the perfect jumping-off point for several stunning fall drives. Here are a few of our favorites:

Kearsarge Mountain Road: A peaceful winding road with sweeping views, leading to the entrance of Winslow State Park.
The Sunapee Loop: Travel from New London to Sunapee Harbor, then through the countryside back via smaller backroads—colorful, charming, and dotted with farm stands.

View of Pleasant Lake in autumn, with red maple leaves in the foreground and colorful Fall foliage along the forested shoreline. — A quiet corner of Pleasant Lake framed by fiery red leaves. This is Fall in New London at its most serene.

🥾 Local Hikes with Spectacular Views

If you're up for a little adventure, the trails around New London deliver big rewards:

Mount Kearsarge (via Winslow State Park): One of the best panoramic views in the region, especially in fall.
Morgan Hill Trail: A quiet hike right in town that offers woodland charm and colorful tree canopies.
Pleasant Lake Loop: Take a peaceful walk around the lake to see the foliage mirrored in the water.

Vibrant autumn leaves in the foreground frame a historic white inn under a deep blue sky in New Hampshire. — Through the leaves: a golden glimpse of Inn at Pleasant Lake during peak foliage season.

🍁 Why Stay at Inn at Pleasant Lake During Foliage Season

Here, fall isn’t just something you look at, it’s something you feel. Mornings begin with soft mist rising over the lake. Afternoons are best spent paddling on the still water or reading on the lawn with a cozy blanket. Evenings are perfect for a glass of wine by the fire, followed by dinner at The Oak Room, where seasonal flavors are on full display.

With our lakeside setting, historic charm, and thoughtful hospitality, Inn at Pleasant Lake is a front-row seat to nature’s most spectacular show.

Two guests seated in Adirondack chairs wrapped in blankets, enjoying warm drinks by a firepit with Pleasant Lake in the distance. — Wrapped in blankets and surrounded by nature, guests savor a peaceful moment under the early evening sky.

🍽️ Make It a Full Fall Experience

After a day of leaf peeping, unwind with a locally inspired meal at The Oak Room, featuring seasonal dishes and craft cocktails in a warm, welcoming setting. Whether you're savoring roasted root vegetables, sipping an old fashioned, or finishing the night with house-made crème brûlée, it's the perfect end to a perfect fall day.

Ready to plan your autumn escape? Book your stay now and experience New London in all its fall glory.