Kancamagus Highway Hairpin Turn

Over the past few years with the rise of Instagram and drone photography, the Kancamagus Highway Hairpin Turn has become a legendary spot. The turn was created so that the slope to get up to the Kancamagus Pass would be less steep. The Kancamagus Pass, also known as the “Height of Land”, is the tallest point on the highway at 2,855 feet. Many drivers are anxious about the turn but it is completely safe when the drivers go at or below the posted speed limit.

The Kancamagus Highway is an iconic section of NH Route 112 that runs east to west from Lincoln to Conway. The 34.5-mile highway is a designated National Scenic Byway, with amazing history and stunning beauty. It is ranked as one of the best places in the world to see fall foliage. Along the highway, there are breathtaking vistas of the White Mountains. There are also many spots to see just off the highway.

The closest parking area to the Kancamagus Highway Hairpin Turn is the Hancock Overlook Parking Lot. It is located just a few hundred feet from the turn.

If you are looking to take a drone photo of the Kancamagus hairpin turn, you will have to walk a quarter-mile away from the highway (as if 2020). Many photographers opt to hike the Hancock Notch Trail to find a takeoff spot. Huge fines and penalties are given to drone pilots illegally taking off from the parking lot or close to the highway. Full drone rules and restrictions can be read HERE.

Location

• Address: Kancamagus Hwy
• Town: Lincoln
• State: New Hampshire
• GPS: Lat 44.04149 Lng -71.52400
• Parking notes: There are about 20 parking spots located at the Hancock Notch Trailhead Parking, which is right next to the Kancamagus Hairpin Turn. The lot does fill up quickly. Unless you have a White Mountain National Forest yearly permit, which costs $30, a $5 day pass per car is required at parking spots and trailheads along the Kancamagus Highway. Yearly passes can be purchased online or at a number of local businesses. Pass info HERE.
• Parking directions: HERE
• Location directions: HERE

External Website: https://kancamagushighway.com/