Kancamagus Scenic Byway Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour
Drive 35+ miles of one of New Hampshire’s most famous scenic routes with a hands-free audio guide that narrates geology, history, and local lore. Download the tour before you go and plan 2–3 hours with stops for falls, overlooks and wildlife spotting.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download the tour before you leave
The Action Tour Guide tour must be downloaded while you have cell or Wi‑Fi; it works offline afterward.
Buy one tour per vehicle
The pass is per car, not per person—share the audio and split the cost.
Bring a day‑use pass or interagency pass
Many developed parking areas require a fee; the America the Beautiful pass is accepted at fee sites.
Watch for wildlife at dawn and dusk
Moose and deer are most active at low light—slow down and use pullouts for viewing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hancock Overlook for a quieter panorama of the Pemigewasset drainage
- •Granite slabs near Otter Rock—great for picnics and possible otter sightings
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •River otter
Conservation Note
The byway runs through federally managed forest—stay on designated pullouts, pack out waste, and keep a safe distance from wildlife to reduce human impact.
The Kancamagus corridor follows lands long used by Abenaki peoples; the route’s name honors Chief Kancamagus, a historic leader who resisted colonial pressures.
What to Bring
Smartphone or tablet with GPSEssential
Required to run the Action Tour Guide app and play the downloaded audio.
Car charger / power bankEssential
Keeps your device powered for GPS, audio playback, and emergencies.
Park day‑use or interagency passEssential
Needed at many developed trailheads and overlooks along the byway.
Binoculars
Helps with moose-spotting, birding, and scanning mountain ridgelines from overlooks.
Common Questions
How long does the tour take?
The full audio route covers about 35+ miles and typically runs 2–3 hours without extended stops; plan extra time for hikes and viewpoints.
Do I need to buy a ticket per person?
Purchase one tour per car—everyone in the vehicle can listen together; separate tickets aren’t required for each rider.
Is there cell reception along the Kancamagus?
Cell signal is intermittent in sections; download the tour and offline maps before you lose reception.
Are parking fees required?
Yes—many day‑use areas and trailheads along the byway charge a day‑use fee unless you have an America the Beautiful or White Mountain annual pass.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Lincoln, New Hampshire
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated driving with optional short walks at stops
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