The White Mountains are a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering not just stunning peaks to conquer but also countless waterfalls to discover. Having spent my entire life exploring this incredible region, I’ve put together the ultimate list of the best waterfalls in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. So, if you’re ready to chase some waterfalls, keep scrolling to find the best waterfalls in the White Mountains.
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Best Waterfalls in the White Mountains
Rocky Gorge
A must-see stop on the Kancamagus Highway is a stunning narrow gorge, carved by glaciers and constantly flowing with water, no matter the season. It’s easily accessible for all ages and abilities, with just a short walk leading to the gorge. A beautiful spot to appreciate nature’s power and capture some great photos!
Lower Falls
Lower Falls is located right off the Kancamagus Highway—you can literally see it as you drive by! While the cascades aren’t massive, this spot is famous and incredibly popular because of its swim-friendly pools and cascades. On a hot summer day, it’s the perfect place to cool off. Be sure to arrive early to claim your spot, and try to avoid weekends if you can—it gets crowded! It has bathrooms, picnic benches and a few grills.
Sabbaday Falls
Sabbaday Falls is right off the Kancamagus Highway, and it’s truly a stunning waterfall, dropping 45 feet. The gentle trail with some uphill path to the falls is packed gravel making it friendly for nearly every ability and follows the water. Honestly, the walk is just as gorgeous as the falls. There are some wooden stairs and railings around the waterfall. It’s one of the most popular spots along the Kanc, so it can get pretty busy, especially midday. I’d recommend going early in the morning to beat the crowds! I recently visited in Autumn and it is a stunner for foliage.
The Basin
The Basin is a classic stop in Franconia Notch with a very short walk to reach the waterfall. There’s also an ADA-friendly path, making it accessible for all. As the Visit White Mountains site explains so well: “This large pothole in the Pemigewasset River, 30 feet in diameter and 15 feet deep, had its beginning some 25,000 years ago as the Ice Age came to a close. Water flowing from the melting glacier that filled Franconia Notch eroded the solid granite bedrock. During the thousands of years that followed, sand and stones were whirled around by the force of the river, causing a boring action that left the sidewalls smooth.”
This is a wonderful stop for all ages and a must-visit. While you can’t swim in the Basin, everyone will marvel at this natural beauty!
Check out our top Foliage spots in the White Mountains.
Kinsman Falls
This waterfall is just a short, easy hike from the Basin and well worth the visit. The trail is lined with root ladders and follows the stream, offering plenty of smaller falls, cascades, and rocks to explore. It’s a beautiful walk that leads to an equally beautiful waterfall, making it well worth the small effort.
The Flume Gorge
The Flume Gorge is absolutely breathtaking. This natural granite gorge, with walls towering over 70 feet, is a true marvel. The wooden walkways and stairways lead you through stunning cascades and waterfalls, and at the top, you’re rewarded with the impressive 45-foot-tall Avalanche Falls. The 2-mile loop offers so much more than just the gorge, too—you’ll pass through a covered bridge, explore Liberty Gorge, see the Pool, and marvel at massive glacial boulders along the way. It’s a must-see in the White Mountains, no question about it.
That said, while this experience is suitable for all ages, be prepared for plenty of stairs and some uphill sections. If mobility is a concern, it might be a bit challenging, but for those who can manage, it’s absolutely worth every step!
Pro Tips: The foliage at the Flume is always a knockout! Also, book in advance. It is a timed paid ticket (one of the few pricier outdoor attractions).
Diana’s Baths
Diana’s Baths is a beautiful 75-foot-long series of falls with rock pools, small cascades, and ledges. It’s absolutely stunning year-round. You can swim in the small pools, sunbathe, or just snap some great photos. It’s perfect for all ages, and there’s a beautiful, flat trail that leads right to the Baths. (Another picture of it is at the top of the page.)
Pro Tip: This spot gets insanely busy on weekends during summer and peak foliage. The parking lot is small, and if you can’t get a spot, you’re out of luck. I recommend visiting during off-peak times and avoiding weekends.
Glenn Ellis Falls
Glen Ellis Falls is an absolutely stunning waterfall with a 64-foot drop. You’ll take a short 0.4-mile walk along a beautiful river to reach the falls. There are some stairs along the way, so it might not be the best fit for everyone, but aside from that, it’s an easy walk.
Silver Cascades
This waterfall is incredibly easy to access, located right off Route 302 in Crawford Notch—you’ll literally drive by it! There’s a small parking lot directly across the street from the falls. After a heavy rainfall, the plunges and cascades are absolutely stunning, making it a perfect rainy day stop.
Arethusa Falls
Arethusa Falls boasts the tallest single drop in New Hampshire, and it’s absolutely stunning—a must-see when you’re in the area. This is a moderate hike so make sure to research if the trail fits your needs and abilities. Once you reach the falls, there are plenty of spots to sit, relax, and take in the majestic scenery. You can follow the well-marked Arethusa Trail, or for a quieter experience, take the Bemis Brook Trail. It’s less crowded and treats you to extra cascades along the way. Because of its popularity, try to avoid visiting on weekends or midday to skip the crowds!
If you are looking for a longer and more difficult hike you can add in the Frankenstein Cliffs Trail.
After a hike, why not get a cold and refreshing beer? Check out our favorite local breweries and wineries.
Jackson Falls
Jackson Falls is a beautiful and easily accessible spot, making it perfect for everyone. There are plenty of parking spots nearby, so you can simply pull over and hop out to enjoy the stunning cascades. You can climb along the rocks and even dip your feet in the water if you’d like—it’s a lovely way to experience the falls!
Pro Tip: Grab a coffee at Autumn Nomad and walk over to the falls.
Your Thoughts…
This post is all about the best waterfalls in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. What are your favorite waterfalls to visit while in the White Mountains? Which ones are you excited to enjoy? Comment below.
