NH 116 is a scenic rural highway stretching from Haverhill, which lies along the Connecticut River, to Jefferson, in the White Mountains Region.

Entering the town of Sugar Hill, NH 116/NH 18 curves gently towards the north while sandwiched between the Gale River to the west and I-93 to the east.

Crossing the historic Rocks Estate, the two routes join US 302 westbound along Main Street, just to the east of an interchange with I-93 (exit 40).

Following the Ammonoosuc closely along the river's northern bank, NH 116 enters Bethlehem for a second time near the town's northwestern corner, where it is known locally as Whitefield Road.

Following the north bank of the Johns River out of the main village, NH 116 curves to the northeast for several miles then turns back east and enters the town of Jefferson.