Groveton, New Hampshire: 10 Short Road Trips for Scenic Getaways

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10 Easy Road Trips Near Groveton, NH: Fun Things To Do Just Outside Coös County

If you’re living in or visiting Groveton, New Hampshire, you might be wondering, “What else is there to do without driving all day?” The good news: you’re surrounded by small towns, mountains, lakes, and covered bridges in nearby counties. With just a short drive, you can explore some of the best parts of northern New England. Below are 10 short out-of-county road trips from Groveton that take you into:
  • Carroll County, NH
  • Grafton County, NH
  • Oxford County, ME
  • Essex County, VT
All of them are perfect for a laid-back day trip, a weekend adventure, or a last-minute “let’s just drive and see something new” kind of day.

1. Chase Waterfalls in Jackson, NH (Carroll County)

Jackson, New Hampshire feels like a postcard come to life. It’s about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Groveton, depending on your route, and it’s packed with classic White Mountains charm. Things to do in Jackson:
  • Diana’s Baths – A short, mostly flat walk (about 0.6 miles) leads to a series of small waterfalls and smooth rock ledges. Kids can splash around, and adults can relax on the warm rocks.
  • Jackson Covered Bridge (“Honeymoon Bridge”) – A photogenic red covered bridge right in town. It’s popular for photos year-round, especially in fall when the leaves explode with color.
  • Scenic drives – Cruise along Route 16 and nearby backroads for mountain views and photo stops.
If you like peaceful walks, waterfalls, and old New England charm, a Jackson day trip from Groveton is an easy win.

2. Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway, NH (Carroll County)

North Conway is one of the most popular mountain towns in New Hampshire, roughly 2 hours from Groveton. It’s a great choice if you want more shops, restaurants, and things to do in one place. Highlights in North Conway:
  • Conway Scenic Railroad – Take a historic train ride through the valleys and along the foothills of the White Mountains. You can choose shorter rides or longer excursions depending on your schedule.
  • Outlet shopping – Tax-free outlets and small local shops make it easy to combine nature and retail therapy.
  • Echo Lake State Park – A pretty little lake surrounded by cliffs, perfect for swimming, picnics, and short hikes.
North Conway is ideal if you’re traveling with mixed interests—some people can shop, others can explore trails—and everyone meets up for dinner afterward.

3. Cruise the Kancamagus Highway from Conway, NH (Carroll County)

If you’ve heard locals talk about a “must-do drive” in New Hampshire, they’re probably talking about the Kancamagus Highway (often just called “the Kanc”). It officially starts near Conway in Carroll County and runs west into the heart of the White Mountains. Why the Kanc is perfect for Groveton road trippers:
  • Epic views – Mountain overlooks, river valleys, and endless forest. In fall, it’s one giant sea of red, orange, and gold.
  • Easy stops – Pull-offs with short walks to overlooks, covered bridges, and the Swift River.
  • Flexible trip – You can drive just a section or spend all day stopping at trailheads and picnic spots.
Tip: Bring snacks, water, and a full tank of gas. Cell service can be spotty, and you’ll want to take your time.

4. Explore Franconia Notch State Park in Franconia, NH (Grafton County)

About 1–1.25 hours southwest of Groveton, Franconia Notch in Grafton County is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic mountain passes. It’s right off I-93, which makes it surprisingly easy to get to. Top things to do in Franconia Notch:
  • Flume Gorge – A boardwalk trail leads you through a narrow, dramatic gorge with waterfalls and towering granite walls.
  • Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway – Ride the tram to the summit of Cannon Mountain for sweeping views of the White Mountains.
  • Echo Lake Beach (Franconia) – A small, scenic lake right under Cannon Mountain, ideal for a swim or paddle on hot days.
If you only have one day to see “classic New Hampshire mountains” from Groveton, this is hard to beat.

5. Stroll the Quintessential New England Town of Littleton, NH (Grafton County)

Littleton is about an hour from Groveton and makes a great low-key day trip, especially if you enjoy small-town main streets. Why you’ll enjoy Littleton:
  • Walkable Main Street – Independent shops, cafes, and a friendly, small-town feel.
  • Riverwalk – A short path behind Main Street follows the Ammonoosuc River, with benches and views of historic bridges.
  • Public art + photo spots – Murals, sculptures, and fun photo ops around town.
You can easily combine Littleton with Franconia Notch in the same day: hike or sightsee in the morning, then unwind in town in the afternoon.

6. Discover Woodsville & the Connecticut River Valley (Haverhill, NH – Grafton County)

For a quieter, more “local” feeling trip, head south along the Connecticut River toward Woodsville, in the town of Haverhill. It’s roughly 1.5 hours from Groveton, mostly along scenic backroads. What to check out:
  • Historic bridges and old village centers – This area has that “frozen in time” New England look: old buildings, sleepy streets, and river views.
  • Riverside drives – The roads along the Connecticut River offer pretty views in every season, especially with morning mist or fall color.
  • Local diners and cafes – Grab a stack of pancakes or a burger at a family-run spot; it’s a simple pleasure, but it hits the spot after the drive.
If you enjoy slow, scenic drives more than big attractions, this route offers exactly that.

7. Head Over the Border to Island Pond, VT (Essex County)

Looking for something a little different, but still close? Cross into Vermont and aim for Island Pond in Essex County. It’s about an hour or so from Groveton, and it has a remote, peaceful vibe. Things to do around Island Pond:
  • Lakeside relaxation – Sit by the water, watch the loons, or bring a kayak or canoe if you have one.
  • Forested backroads – The surrounding roads feel wild and quiet, especially if you’re used to busier tourist areas.
  • Simple small-town charm – A few local spots to eat, walk, and soak up a slower pace of life.
This is the kind of place where you bring a book, a camera, and a thermos of coffee, and let the day unfold.

8. Explore the Northeast Kingdom Around Canaan & Beecher Falls, VT (Essex County)

Northern Essex County, Vermont—part of the state’s “Northeast Kingdom”—offers a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience. From Groveton, the drive is about 1–1.5 hours depending on your route. What makes this trip special:
  • Remote scenery – Rolling hills, farms, and forests that feel far from the crowds.
  • Border town curiosity – Places like Beecher Falls sit right on the Canadian border, which gives the area a unique character.
  • Backroad exploring – If you enjoy just driving and seeing where the road goes, this is prime territory.
This trip suits travelers who prefer quiet, nature-focused exploring instead of busy attractions and big shops.

9. Enjoy Lake Time in Bethel, ME (Oxford County)

Drive east from Groveton into Maine, and you’ll reach Bethel in Oxford County, roughly 2 hours away. Bethel is known as a four-season adventure town, but you can enjoy it even if you’re not a hardcore skier or hiker. Bethel day trip ideas:
  • Scenic village – A walkable downtown with classic New England homes, local eateries, and a relaxed pace.
  • Nearby lakes and rivers – Depending on the season, you can paddle, fish, or just sit by the water and enjoy the view.
  • Mountain backdrop – The surrounding hills make even a simple drive feel special.
Bethel is a nice change of scene for Groveton locals: it feels familiar, but with a distinct Maine flavor.

10. Take a Mountain Drive to Mexico & Rumford, ME (Oxford County)

Another Oxford County option is the Mexico–Rumford area, about 2–2.5 hours from Groveton. This route takes you across the state line into a classic mill-and-mountain region of western Maine. What to do there:
  • Scenic Androscoggin River views – The river winds through town, framed by forested hills.
  • Short walks and photo ops – Pull over at riverside spots or small parks to stretch your legs and snap pictures.
  • Local eats – Stop into a roadside diner or family restaurant for hearty, no-frills comfort food.
This trip is more about the journey than packed attractions—a good pick if you enjoy cruising backroads, listening to music, and seeing a slice of everyday Maine.

Tips for Road Trips from Groveton, NH

To make your day trips from Groveton smoother and more enjoyable:
  • Check the weather – Mountain weather can change fast, especially in fall and winter.
  • Fill up on gas in advance – Some stretches, especially in Vermont and Maine, don’t have many gas stations.
  • Pack layers – Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool in the mountains and near lakes.
  • Bring snacks and water – It’s nice not to rely on finding a store right when you get hungry.
  • Download maps – Cell service can be spotty in the notches and along backroads.
A little prep goes a long way when you’re exploring rural New England.

Where Will You Go Next From Groveton?

Living in or visiting Groveton, NH means you’re in a perfect spot to explore Carroll County, Grafton County, Oxford County, and Essex County without long, exhausting drives. From waterfalls in Jackson to trains in North Conway, from the dramatic walls of Franconia Notch to the quiet shores of Island Pond, you’ve got a whole menu of short road trips waiting. Now it’s your turn:
  • Which of these day trips near Groveton sounds best to you?
  • Do you have a favorite hidden gem in Carroll, Grafton, Oxford, or Essex County?
Share your thoughts in the comments—and if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are planning a New Hampshire or northern New England getaway. Your ideas and experiences can help other travelers make the most of their own road trips from Groveton.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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