Published September 17, 2018 10:53PM

'Dan Waters'
Take the express route into the alpine via the 2.9-mile Edmands Path, which
leads to the domed summit of 4,769-foot Mt. Eisenhower, and gaze over the red-and-orange valleys that split the Presidential Range.
Make the easy, 3-mile trek into the Pemi Wilderness to 25-foot Zealand Falls, tucked in stands of bright hardwoods.

Franconia Ridge is a mind-bending classic with extended ridgetop views, but the foliage will fill it with leaf-peepers. Instead, cross the road and take the 1.8-mile trail to the top of quieter Mt. Pemigewasset.
Hike the 3.4-mile out-and-back to Cathedral Ledge to look down on picturesque North Conway, tucked into the colorful forest floor.