The Best Spots for Fall Photography around Laconia, NH

While summer may be the season most often associated with the shimmering waters of Lake Winnipesaukee, those who’ve experienced early fall in New Hampshire know a different kind of magic begins to unfold once the temperatures cool and the leaves begin to turn. At The NASWA Resort in Laconia, the transition into autumn is nothing short of spectacular—where the buzz of summer gives way to a peaceful, golden calm and the Lakes Region becomes a vibrant canvas of crimson, amber, and gold.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, an Instagram enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of nature, autumn in the Lakes Region offers countless opportunities to capture unforgettable images. And with fewer crowds, milder days, and nature at its colorful peak, fall is one of the best-kept secrets of the season.

So grab your camera (or your phone!), and join us as we share our favorite local spots to capture the essence of a New England fall—right here near The NASWA Resort.

1. Lake Winnipesaukee: The Crown Jewel of Fall Colors

Let’s begin with our very own backyard. Lake Winnipesaukee isn’t just the largest lake in New Hampshire—it’s a year-round muse for photographers, and autumn might just be its most photogenic season.

From the private sandy beach at The NASWA to the classic charm of the Weirs Beach boardwalk, every angle offers an opportunity to snap something special. Capture the mirror-like reflections of foliage in the water, or board a sightseeing cruise to experience the full majesty of the surrounding landscape from the middle of the lake.

Photography Tip: Sunrise and sunset are golden hours on the lake—quite literally. The soft, angled light dances across the water and intensifies the colors of the surrounding trees. Bring a wide-angle lens or use your phone’s panorama mode for sweeping lake views.

2. Belknap Mountain: A Hiker’s Panorama

Just a short drive from The NASWA, Belknap Mountain delivers one of the most rewarding autumn hikes in the region. As part of the larger Belknap Range, this relatively easy hike takes you to a summit that boasts breathtaking, 360-degree views of the Lakes Region dressed in fall finery.

Pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots, and enjoy a journey through oak and maple forests ablaze with color. From the top, you’ll have a perfect vantage point to photograph Lake Winnipesaukee nestled among rolling hills of red, orange, and gold.

Photography Tip: Bring a zoom lens or your phone’s portrait mode to capture the contrast between rocky outcrops and bursts of fall foliage at different elevations.

3. Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center: Natural Beauty Meets Community Charm

Located right here in Laconia, Prescott Farm is a hidden gem for photographers who want to explore New England’s fall landscapes on foot. With over 160 acres of preserved land and several miles of trails winding through fields, forests, and wetlands, the photo opportunities are as diverse as they are beautiful.

Prescott Farm is also a great location for family portraits, engagement shoots, or capturing wildlife amidst the color-changing leaves. The rustic barns and historic structures on the property add a nostalgic charm to any fall photography session.

Photography Tip: Use the trails framed by foliage to add depth and perspective to your images. Don’t forget to look down—fallen leaves create beautifully textured foregrounds.

4. Moultonborough: Lakeside Charm and Scenic Splendor

Roughly 30 minutes north of The NASWA Resort, Moultonborough is a delightful destination where history and nature come together against a colorful fall backdrop. Home to Castle in the Clouds and nestled along the northern shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, this town offers quintessential New England charm.

Meander along scenic backroads lined with old farmhouses and sugar maples, or photograph the lakefront where reflections of autumn trees ripple gently in the cool breeze. The nearby Castle in the Clouds estate also offers some of the best panoramic views of the region—perfect for fall foliage photography.

Photography Tip: Visit mid-morning to avoid early morning mist and maximize natural light when photographing architectural details and lakeshore scenery.

5. Lake Winnisquam: Tranquility and Reflections

While Lake Winnipesaukee tends to steal the spotlight, nearby Lake Winnisquam is a quieter alternative that rewards photographers with peaceful waters and fewer interruptions. Just a short drive from the resort, the lake’s calm surface creates postcard-perfect reflections of the fiery foliage lining the shore.

Ideal for sunrise and late-afternoon photography, Winnisquam’s more intimate setting allows for serene nature shots—perfect for anyone looking to escape and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the season.

Photography Tip: Use a tripod or steady surface for long-exposure shots that capture glassy reflections and soft light as it changes throughout the day.

Bonus Tip: You Don’t Have to Go Far

At The NASWA Resort itself, there are dozens of photo-worthy scenes just steps from your room. Whether it’s the colorful cottages set against the lake, an evening by the fire pits with a warm drink, or the golden-hour glow on the NazBar deck, fall at The NASWA is every bit as photogenic as the local trails and mountaintops.

Why Autumn at The NASWA Is the Perfect Time to Visit

While summer will always be a staple at The NASWA, early fall is when our lakeside retreat slows to a peaceful pace and the air becomes crisp with possibility. Guests enjoy all the comfort and amenities of the season—without the summer crowds. It’s the perfect time for cozy breakfasts at the Blue Bistro, tranquil mornings on the dock, or sipping cider wrapped in a blanket on your private balcony.

Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a couple’s retreat, or a family adventure, fall at The NASWA brings with it the charm of old-fashioned hospitality and the wonder of nature’s finest show.

Plan Your Fall Escape to The NASWA Resort

Ready to explore the beauty of autumn in the Lakes Region? Let The NASWA Resort be your home base for leaf peeping, photography, and unforgettable moments on Lake Winnipesaukee. With our wide range of accommodations, pet-friendly options, and lakeside dining, your autumn getaway is just a call—or a click—away.

📞 Call us at 888-55-NASWA
🌐 Visit naswa.com
📸 Don’t forget to tag us in your fall photos using #FallAtNASWA—we love seeing your memories!