Start with breakfast at White Mountain Bagel Co. in Lincoln—budget about $8–15 per person and allow 45–60 minutes. Check its hours before setting out, especially if you’re hoping for a later breakfast. Then drive east on NH Route 112, the Kancamagus Highway, to Lincoln Woods Trailhead for an easy riverside forest walk of about an hour. The parking area can fill on busy fall days; a White Mountain National Forest day-use fee may apply, so bring a pass or check the current fee and payment arrangements before you go.
Continue east along the Kanc to Lower Falls, where the Swift River tumbles over smooth rock—give it 30–45 minutes, but take care around the water, which can be slippery and fast after rain. Next, stop at Albany Covered Bridge and its riverside picnic area for about half an hour. From there, continue toward Hancock Overlook, pausing at pull-offs when it’s safe, then retrace the highway to Lincoln. Allow 2–2.5 hours for this scenic round trip beyond your stops; autumn color can be lovely, but late October weather may bring cold, rain, or early snow. Check road conditions before leaving, and fill up in Lincoln: services on the highway are limited.
Back in town, settle in at Black Mountain Burger Co. for burgers and comfort food; plan on 1–1.5 hours and roughly $18–30 per person. Check its current Thursday hours before heading over, as schedules can change seasonally.
No packing list attached yet.