White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America? If you're planning to go to White Mountain National Forest, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to White Mountain National Forest
  2. Important essentials for White Mountain National Forest
  3. Activities for White Mountain National Forest
  4. White Mountain National Forest in January: weather and what to pack
  5. White Mountain National Forest in February: weather and what to pack
  6. White Mountain National Forest in March: weather and what to pack
  7. White Mountain National Forest in April: weather and what to pack
  8. White Mountain National Forest in May: weather and what to pack
  9. White Mountain National Forest in June: weather and what to pack
  10. White Mountain National Forest in July: weather and what to pack
  11. White Mountain National Forest in August: weather and what to pack
  12. White Mountain National Forest in September: weather and what to pack
  13. White Mountain National Forest in October: weather and what to pack
  14. White Mountain National Forest in November: weather and what to pack
  15. White Mountain National Forest in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in White Mountain National Forest, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America by month

January

In January, White Mountain National Forest can be bitter cold. Temperatures routinely are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for White Mountain National Forest, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

February

In February, White Mountain National Forest is very cold. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for White Mountain National Forest, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you go to White Mountain National Forest in March, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Expect it to rain or snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you go to White Mountain National Forest in April, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain or snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

May

Traveling to White Mountain National Forest in May, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you are traveling to White Mountain National Forest in June, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in White Mountain National Forest during July, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

August

If you vacation in White Mountain National Forest during August, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you go to White Mountain National Forest in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

In October, White Mountain National Forest is relatively cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for White Mountain National Forest, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

November

If you go to White Mountain National Forest in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain or snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December here is freezing. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains or snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in White Mountain National Forest. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, United States of America

White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire is a stunningly beautiful destination that's renowned for its natural splendor and abundant recreational opportunities. With over 800,000 acres of protected land, the forest offers an endless array of attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to see in the White Mountain National Forest:

1. Mount Washington: As the highest peak in the northeastern United States, Mount Washington (6,288 feet) boasts unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can drive, hike or take the cog railway to the summit, where they can explore the mountain's weather observatory and museum, or simply bask in the natural beauty that surrounds them.

2. Franconia Notch State Park: Located in the heart of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch State Park offers stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the park's various geological formations, including the famous Flume Gorge.

3. Kancamagus Highway: This scenic byway offers stunning views of the White Mountains and the surrounding forests. The road winds through the heart of the forest and offers many opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

4. Crawford Notch State Park: This park offers some of the most scenic vistas in the White Mountains. It's home to many hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks, as well as a number of picnic areas and campgrounds.

5. Wildcat Mountain: This ski resort offers some of the best downhill skiing in the region. With over 2,100 feet of vertical drop and a variety of different ski runs, Wildcat Mountain is a must-visit destination for any winter sports enthusiast.

6. White Mountains National Forest Scenic Byway: This 100-mile byway takes visitors on a drive through the heart of the forest, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Along the way, visitors can stop at scenic overlooks to take in the views or explore the area's various hiking trails.

7. Mount Washington Cog Railway: This historic railway takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Washington. The cog railway has been in operation for over 150 years and remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.

8. Bretton Woods Ski Area: Another popular ski resort in the White Mountains, Bretton Woods offers over 90 ski trails and a variety of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowmobiling.

In conclusion, White Mountain National Forest is a true natural wonderland that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, skiing devotee, history buff, or simply looking to soak in the area's natural beauty, the forest is sure to exceed your expectations. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that you'll never forget!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Mahajanga Province, Madagascar, Rumson, New Jersey, United States of America, Cimahi, Indonesia, La Mesa, California, United States of America, Cabot, Arkansas, United States of America, Battle Mountain, Nevada, United States of America, Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Canada, Salton Sea, California, United States of America, Suffolk, England, United Kingdom, Mangamuka Bridge, New Zealand, and Calitri, Italy.