North Conway vacation rentals

Bordered by a section of the Appalachians known as the White Mountain National Forest, this historic town draws visitors with its brightly colored downtown storefronts, tidy streets, and proximity to landscapes that have been inspiring painters since the 19th century. The gentle Saco River that winds through the town and over the Maine state line has formed a mix of sandy and stone beaches to explore. One of the most striking landmarks outside town is Cathedral Ledge, a sheer granite cliff face popular with climbers.

Inside North Conway, you’ll find antique malls brimming with treasures and local restaurants serving up cozy American favorites like burgers and all-day breakfast. Crafts are a point of pride here, so make sure you check out the resident artisans’ paintings, fiber art, pottery, and glassware. In a few minutes’ drive, you can reach Settlers Green for an all-day shopping excursion at more than 60 big-name retail outlets.

North Conway gets at least one week of rain per month, so it’s best to come prepared with a rain plan and an umbrella. Warm, slightly humid summer weather that’s ideal for outdoor adventure makes this season the most popular one to book vacation rentals in North Conway. The area’s fall foliage is famous around the world, and mild temperatures throughout September and October make for wonderful hiking. Wildlife like white-tailed deer, moose, and foxes can also be spotted in the woods at this time. Winter brings plenty of snow through early April, making this one of the best ski towns in the country, with 300 trails and glades for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides. As spring arrives and the warm temperatures encourage fresh blooms, you can hop on the ski lifts or gondolas for bird’s-eye views of the mountains.

Conway Scenic Railroad

In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the bright yellow North Conway train station, which has been standing since 1874. Hop on one of the historic trains for a ride showcasing the valley and White Mountain Peaks — there are three different routes to choose from. The cars include glass compartments, lookout domes for maximum views, screening rooms, and, if you pick the right car, wicker chairs that face windows.

Cathedral Ledge

The best scenic views of the valley are found at the top of Cathedral Ledge, a granite rock face located inside the Cathedral Ledge State Park. The lookout point is accessible via a mile-long paved road, and there’s plenty of parking available at the top, but hiking trails from Echo Lake State Park also lead up to this point. Be aware of safety if you’re visiting during icy winters, since there aren’t any rangers on site in the off season.

Saco River

When the weather is warm, the sandy beaches along the clear waters of the Saco River open to the public. The river’s gentle current is ideal for relaxing tubing trips, and local outfitters rent out kayaks, canoes, and rafts. You can swim at the beaches around the Beach Camping Area, and embrace your inner child with a turn on one of the rope swings.