Sara

My husband and I are taking a quick two day trip to the White Mountains next week for some leaf peeping. We plan to drive the Kancamagus Highway, and aren't sure what else we will do. I'm wondering whether it is worthwhile to go to either Lost River or the Polar Caves - and if so, which is more interesting (we'll probably only have the time and inclination for one). We'll probably hike to Diana's Bath in North Conway, and maybe either take a ride on the Conway scenic railroad, or rent kayaks on the Saco River if they are still renting them this time of year and it's not too cold. Any feedback on these options would be appreciated.

dfrostnh

I would consider the Flume instead of Lost River or the Polar Caves. I have actually only been to Polar Caves and didn't care for it. It's more a jumble of rocks and not true caves. If you have been to a real cave such as Luray Caverns, I think you will be very disappointed. You might consider a visit to Castle in the Clouds overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee.

Molly2

I thought that the flume was picturesque, but not worth the hefty admission charge - I've seen equally scenic areas for free. On the other hand, a narrated van trip to the top of Mount Washington was amazing. On a clear day, the scenery is spectcular, and it's a whole other world at the top. The weather museum in North Conway offers an excellent introduction.

I haven't been on any of the tramways, but have heard that they also offer spectacular views.

On the way to the van tour site, my husband and I stopped for a picnic at a lovely short trail leading to a waterfall. I can't recall the name ???, but we enjoyed this more than the flume.

The train and/or kayaking sound like enjoyable experiences. I don't think that you can go too wrong with whatever you choose to do in the White Mountains.

dfrostnh

You may be thinking of Arethusa Falls on Bemis Brook in Livermore. It was rated as an easy hike with children. It was a hot day and I only made it to the falls. After a picnic I let my teen son and his friends continue up the more difficult trail to see the views. I remember it as a shady but pretty trail.

Sara

Thanks for the replies. I guess we will skip the Polar caves; I've been to Lauray Caverns a couple of times, and, yes, they are really neat.

I had forgotten about Castle in the Clouds; I've wanted to go there for years, so we'll probably stop there on our way up to the North Conway area where we're staying.

The Flume looks like it could be interesting. Does anybody else know anything about Lost River? Thanks.

djkbooks

Here's another recommendation for Castle in the Clouds.

The Conway Scenic Railway is terrific as well, especially the long ride through Crawford Notch. Best to make reservations ahead of time, though (they have a website). Now that you can book ahead on the web, many trains are booked for the entire day by the time you get to the ticket booth.

If you run out of things to do, drive west over Route 2 and east on Route 302. This takes you through several notches. To me, far more scenic than the Kancamagus.

muffin

I live less than ten minutes from Lost River and I enjoy going once a year. I think it is worth it, very pretty and get a little bit of light excercise while you are at it.