Once a route marked by swift-moving rivers flowing through the mountain valley, the Grafton Notch scenic byway begins in Newry, just north of the Sunday River Ski Area, and travels along Route 26 to Grafton Notch State Park and Lake Umbagog, which crosses the New Hampshire border. This byway follows along the Bear River for much of the trip.

Travelers along this route should be sure to stop at Grafton Notch State Park for a picnic and a walk along the river, or a short hike to Screw Auger Falls and Mother Walker Falls.