Sabbaday Falls
A stunning, multi-tiered waterfall accessible via a short, easy trail off the scenic Kancamagus Highway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Sabbaday Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, multi-tiered waterfall accessible via a short, easy trail off the scenic Kancamagus Highway.
"Easy hike to spectacular waterfall on the Kancamaugus highway."
🚗 Cash for Parking
Bring exact cash for the paid parking lot; overflow parking is free along the road. :moneybag:
👟 Easy Stroll
The 0.3-mile trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, perfect for a quick and easy hike. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three-Tiered Cascade
Main waterfall
Witness a spectacular 40-foot waterfall cascading in three distinct tiers, a truly mesmerizing natural wonder.
Scenic Gorge Views
Around the falls
Explore the gorge with wooden bridges and stone steps offering unique perspectives of the rushing water.
Short, Accessible Trail
Trailhead to falls
An easy, 0.3-mile walk on a well-graded gravel path makes this waterfall accessible for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Easy Access, Big Reward
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Cash for Parking
Bring exact cash for the paid parking lot; overflow parking is free along the road. :moneybag:
👟 Easy Stroll
The 0.3-mile trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, perfect for a quick and easy hike. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Tiers
Wooden bridges and stone steps offer multiple angles for stunning waterfall photos. :camerawithflash:
🚫 No Swimming
Enjoy the views, but swimming is prohibited at Sabbaday Falls. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Cash for Parking
Bring exact cash for the paid parking lot; overflow parking is free along the road. :moneybag:
👟 Easy Stroll
The 0.3-mile trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, perfect for a quick and easy hike. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Tiers
Wooden bridges and stone steps offer multiple angles for stunning waterfall photos. :camerawithflash:
🚫 No Swimming
Enjoy the views, but swimming is prohibited at Sabbaday Falls. :noentrysign:
💧 Restrooms Available
There are restrooms at the trailhead, but no running water. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sabbaday Falls for its stunning beauty and incredibly easy access. The short, well-maintained trail leads to a spectacular three-tiered waterfall, making it a perfect stop for families and casual visitors. While parking requires cash and can fill up, the overall experience is highly rewarding for the minimal effort involved.
"Short, well maintained trail to a very interesting waterfall... perfect first hike for the day to get going. Very easy incline, and steps around the waterfall to see it from multiple angles."
Person N Cary
"Even during the recent droughts, the falls were amazing. There weren’t many people this morning, so I was able to enjoy the sound of the falls rather than the noise of others. I highly recommend checking this out — it’s a simple hike that leaves plenty of time to explore other areas of the Kancamagus."
Laurie _
"Easy paved trail to walk there and back in minutes from the parking lot. Plenty of shaded areas and places to sit. Great for kids as there are guard rails along the way."
Karilyn Pyle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sabbaday Falls is conveniently located off the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Look for the well-marked trailhead and parking area.
Yes, Sabbaday Falls is easily accessible by car via the Kancamagus Highway. The parking lot is directly off the road.
The Kancamagus Highway itself is a scenic route, and Sabbaday Falls is one of its major highlights. Enjoy the drive!
Sabbaday Falls is a popular stop along the Kancamagus Highway, which features numerous scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and other natural attractions.
While the Kancamagus Highway is generally open year-round, winter conditions can make access challenging. It's best to check road conditions before visiting in colder months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a paid parking lot at Sabbaday Falls. The fee is typically exact change cash only.
Sabbaday Falls is a natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The parking lot may have specific hours.
No, advance booking is not required for Sabbaday Falls. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
If the main parking lot is full, free overflow parking is available along the side of the Kancamagus Highway.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the Sabbaday Falls trailhead, though they do not have running water.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Sabbaday Falls is very short, approximately 0.3 miles (about 10 minutes) from the parking lot to the falls.
Yes, the trail is considered very easy, with a well-maintained gravel path and gentle incline, making it suitable for most visitors.
No, swimming is prohibited at Sabbaday Falls to preserve the natural environment.
The trail features wooden bridges and stone steps that provide excellent viewpoints of the multi-tiered waterfall from different angles.
Absolutely! The short, easy trail and the beautiful waterfall make it a great spot for families. Guardrails are present along the path.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the falls' beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A tripod can help with longer exposures in shaded areas.
The multiple tiers of the waterfall and the gorge setting provide diverse and interesting compositions. Experiment with different angles from the bridges and steps.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. It's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Try shooting from the wooden bridges for a unique perspective, or use the stone steps to get closer to the water's flow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring cash for the parking fee and be aware that restrooms are available but lack running water. The easy access and impressive waterfall make it a memorable stop for a family road trip along the Kancamagus Highway.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Road-Trippers
You can easily spend just 30-60 minutes here, enjoying the falls and taking photos, before continuing your scenic drive. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, enjoy the refreshing sound of cascading water, and capture some beautiful photos without dedicating a large portion of your day. The well-marked trailhead and parking make it a hassle-free experience for travelers on the go.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people, which can significantly enhance your shots. While the trail is short, the photographic potential is high. A wide-angle lens will help capture the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding forest. Be prepared for shaded areas, where a tripod might be beneficial for longer exposures to smooth out the water's flow.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Formation of Sabbaday Falls
The surrounding area also holds historical intrigue. TikTok videos have touched upon the local folklore, including the story of Ruth Priscilla Colbath, a woman who famously kept a lamp burning in her window for 39 years, signaling for her husband who never returned. While not directly part of the falls' natural formation, these historical anecdotes add a layer of mystique to the region.
Understanding the geological history enhances the appreciation for Sabbaday Falls. It's not just a beautiful cascade; it's a natural sculpture shaped by ancient forces, offering a glimpse into the dynamic past of the White Mountains. The accessibility of this geological wonder makes it a must-see for anyone traveling the Kancamagus Highway.
Navigating the Kancamagus Highway
Travelers often use Sabbaday Falls as a perfect first stop or a refreshing break during their journey along the Kancamagus. The trail's ease and the waterfall's beauty mean you can experience a significant natural wonder without a strenuous hike, leaving ample time to explore other points of interest on the highway.
When planning your trip along the Kancamagus, remember that cell service can be spotty. It's advisable to download offline maps and have a physical map on hand. The highway is also subject to seasonal closures, particularly in winter, so always check current road conditions before your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit