C.L. Graham Wangan Overlook
A Forest Service–maintained roadside overlook on the eastern stretch of the Kancamagus Highway (NH-112) in Bartlett, just beyond Kancamagus Pass at roughly mile 20 from the Conway side. The overlook provides wide views of the Swift River Watershed and the mountains to the north and east, with a generous paved parking area that accommodates large groups of motorcycles. Maintained restrooms are available at the site. The overlook is one of the most visited scenic stops on the Kanc and is especially popular during fall foliage season.
The overlook sits just below the summit of Kancamagus Pass on NH-112, within the White Mountain National Forest, and the paved parking area is large enough to accommodate buses and Class A motorhomes — which means a full group of bikes fits comfortably without scrambling for space. That practical detail alone makes it a logical place to regroup after the push up to the pass.
The view opens onto the Swift River Watershed and the mountains to the north and east, with interpretive signs on-site explaining the vegetation zones and the watershed itself. The name Wangan comes from the area's prior use as a meeting place by Native Americans who lived and hunted here; in the early Forest Service era it also served as a lumbering supply camp. That layered history is readable in the landscape if you're paying attention.
One practical note: the parking area is not plowed in winter, so the stop is a warm-weather and fall proposition. The Kancamagus is a designated National Scenic Byway through the White Mountains, and the overlook draws heavy traffic during fall foliage season — earlier in the day means a quieter lot and better light on the watershed below.
This overlook has the largest parking area on the Kancamagus and sits in the most elevated section of the highway, just past the pass. It's a natural regrouping spot for group rides, with restrooms — rare on a stretch where facilities are widely spaced. The Swift River valley view is at its best in the golden hour of morning.
Shot by the riders who've run it.
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