Exploring the Road from Bethel, Maine to Thornton, New Hampshire

Are you ready to embark on a road trip through the beautiful countryside of Maine and New Hampshire? This route is full of spectacular landscapes, quaint towns, and unique experiences. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top five popular attractions that you shouldn't miss along your journey.

Road Trip Highlight: Bretton Woods, NH

Before we dive into the top five places to see on our road trip, we must highlight the stunning midway point – Bretton Woods in New Hampshire. This charming town is an ideal place to stop, stretch your legs, and explore the beauty that surrounds you. Take a peaceful stroll through the town's beautiful gardens, hit some mountain biking trails, or tantalize your tastebuds at any of the local eateries.

1. Bethel Hill, Maine

The top attraction in Bethel Hill is the sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The Bethel Hill Common, located just west of the town's center, provides a petite park where you can enjoy these captivating views for hours. Don't forget to take your camera with you, the sunsets over the mountains are especially breathtaking.

2. Tuckerman Ravine, New Hampshire

Tuckerman Ravine is a world-famous attraction that’s worth the drive. The ravine is an alpine snowfield with awesome panoramic views of the eastern face of Mt. Washington. This New Hampshire gem offers a perfect hiking trail of moderate difficulty for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Tuckerman Ravine is a must-see attraction for any mountain lover.

3. Jackson Falls, New Hampshire

If you are looking for a peaceful oasis, then Jackson Falls is the place for you. This is a peaceful retreat, with quiet ponds and gentle waterfalls making for a serene and stunning environment. It is an excellent location to sit and relax, read a book or even take a dip in the sparkling water. Jackson Falls is an idyllic spot to rejuvenate the soul.

4. Echo Lake State Park, New Hampshire

Next on the list is Echo Lake State Park. Echo Lake has an enchanting landscape of white sandy beaches and sparkling clear waters. This location is ideal for anyone looking to swim, sunbathe, or take a hike around the picturesque nature trails. Visitors can enjoy a family picnic or even rent kayaks and paddleboats for an unforgettable day on the lake.

5. Polar Caves Park, New Hampshire

Just a short drive from Thornton, the Polar Caves Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s fun for all ages. The park features an astounding granite boulder cave system that is an adventure for the whole family. Climb, crawl and slide your way through the narrow cave system, get a glimpse of highland lynx, arctic foxes, and other wildlife, and even pan for gemstones.

Best Route for the Trip

To make the most out of your road trip, we recommend starting in Bethel and taking the scenic Route 2 past White Mountains National Forest. The highway will take you through the stunning Franconia Notch State Park offering captivating views along the way. Don't forget to detour off the highway to explore the nearby attractions that we have highlighted in our Top Five List. From Bretton Woods, make your way towards Thornton on Route 302 where you can uncover hidden treasures like the Polar Caves Park and more.

Now it is obvious that this road trip has something for everyone – whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or just looking for some simple pleasures. This year, take the time to explore all that Maine and New Hampshire have to offer. So pack your bags, put the windows down and experience the trip of a lifetime.