Hiking in New Hampshire is one of the best ways to enjoy the state. Trails throughout the state offer beautiful scenery, fresh air, and a great way to learn more about the nature and ecology around us. There are so many options it can be hard to choose, but we love the routes that are simple to find, easy to follow and lead to special features. This hike to waterfalls in New Hampshire is one of our favorites!
Located in Franconia Notch State Park, Falling Waters Trail is best known as a challenging way to reach the summit of Little Haystack Mountain.
Frank Allen / alltrails.com The trailhead can conveniently be found off of I-93N. Pass the Basin exit by about 1.5 miles and you’ll be there.
The portion of the hike that allows access to these three waterfalls is relatively flat, though the first section is a bit sloped. After walking about a quarter-mile expect to see a small footbridge. The trail will pass Old Bridle Path here, but continue on Falling Waters Trail.
Zack Littleson / alltrails.com
As you walk be sure to be mindful of exposed roots and rocks which are more plentiful at the beginning of this journey.
Tiffanie Young / alltrails.com
As you make your way to the falls, enjoy the forest and brook views. This is a special part of New Hampshire!
Meyyappan Meyyappan / alltrails.com
This hike is beautiful throughout the year, especially in autumn!
Zhiyou Deng / alltrails.com
Less than one mile into the hike you’ll come to Stairs Falls, which is gorgeous from the top.
Zack Littleson / alltrails.com
Follow the Dry Brook and the next waterfall you’ll find is Swiftwater Falls.
Jeep Atkinson / alltrails.com
Spend some time here before continuing to follow the trail towards Cloudland Falls. This beauty features a magnificent 80-foot drop.
Declan Faulkner / alltrails.com
The trail leads to the top of Cloudland Falls, which means you’ll have the chance to see just how strong it is. From here, when you’re done taking it all in, you’ll simply turn around and head back to the trailhead the same way you came.
Paul Garland / alltrails.comf If you’re up for the challenge, continue on for the full 5.6-mile hike to the summit of Haystack. But remember that this is considered a challenging hike so only undertake it if you’re truly prepared.
The Falling Waters Trail in Franconia Notch State Park can be explore year-round. You can learn more about the route and see photos by checking out this page on alltrails.com. Dogs are welcome, but be sure to keep them on a leash while you explore.
Frank Allen / alltrails.com
The trailhead can conveniently be found off of I-93N. Pass the Basin exit by about 1.5 miles and you’ll be there.
Zack Littleson / alltrails.com
Tiffanie Young / alltrails.com
Meyyappan Meyyappan / alltrails.com
Zhiyou Deng / alltrails.com
Jeep Atkinson / alltrails.com
Declan Faulkner / alltrails.com
Paul Garland / alltrails.comf
If you’re up for the challenge, continue on for the full 5.6-mile hike to the summit of Haystack. But remember that this is considered a challenging hike so only undertake it if you’re truly prepared.
If you have some time to spend in the area, consider another trail in the park. National Geographic named this New Hampshire trail one of the best in the world!
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Address: Falling Waters Trail, Lincoln, NH 03251, USA
