Waterfall Watching Is Mesmerizing!

The sight and sound of a sparkling waterfall tumbling down a rocky slope is always a thrill, but especially so in the spring during snow melt-off when the cascading water is at its height. We have many to choose from in the White Mountains region, some close to the road and others that involve a short walk or a longer hike. These are some of our favorites.

Situated roadside on Route 302 in Crawford Notch, a few miles east of the Omni Mount Washington Resort, are Silver Cascade and Flume Cascade. A parking lot across the highway from the twin falls gets you off the busy road, but use caution when crossing.

The Flume in Franconia Notch is a two-mile loop along a boardwalk through a natural gorge with lots of features, including 45-foot high Avalanche Falls and the 70-foot Liberty Falls cascade. The Flume is one of New Hampshire most highly visited attractions, and well worth a stop.

Ripley Falls in Crawford Notch State Park is one of the steepest slides in New England, where the 100-foot sheet of water flows over a smooth rock wall.

At 160 feet, Arethusa Falls, off Route 302 just east of Crawford Notch, is believed to be the tallest accessible waterfall in New England. The 1.5-mile hike to get to the falls may challenge the endurance of first time hikers, but you won't be disappointed if you persevere, as Arethusa is outstanding!

Bridal Veil Falls in Franconia has an 80-foot drop, including the 35-foot main plunge that resembles a bridal veil. Although it is a 5-mile round trip to see the Falls, the hike is worth the effort as Bridal Veil Falls is truly spectacular.

New England Waterfalls is the source to learn more about all of New Hampshire's cascades.