Flume Gorge
A breathtaking natural gorge with towering granite walls, cascading waterfalls, and scenic boardwalks in New Hampshire's White Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Flume Gorge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking natural gorge with towering granite walls, cascading waterfalls, and scenic boardwalks in New Hampshire's White Mountains.
"Absolutely stunning... unlike anything I’ve ever seen before."
Book Online & Save
Purchase tickets online for a discount and to secure your spot. :ticket:
Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Get there at opening for a more serene experience. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Flume Gorge
Main gorge trail
Walk through towering 800-year-old granite walls, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and cross charming bridges.
Avalanche Falls
Along the Flume Trail
A stunning 45-foot waterfall crashing into crystal-clear pools, a highlight for many visitors.
Glacial Boulder
Along the Flume Trail
A massive boulder precariously balanced, showcasing the powerful geological forces that shaped the area.
Avalanche Bridge
Overlooking Avalanche Falls
A picturesque covered bridge offering a unique vantage point to admire Avalanche Falls and the surrounding gorge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Online & Save
Purchase tickets online for a discount and to secure your spot.
:ticket:Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Get there at opening for a more serene experience.
:clock:Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 2-mile loop involves stairs, inclines, and boardwalks.
:athletic_shoe:Bring Your Camera
The scenery is breathtaking and perfect for photos.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
Book Online & Save
Purchase tickets online for a discount and to secure your spot.
:ticket:Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Get there at opening for a more serene experience.
:clock:Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 2-mile loop involves stairs, inclines, and boardwalks.
:athletic_shoe:Bring Your Camera
The scenery is breathtaking and perfect for photos.
:camerawithflash:Check Water Levels
Water levels can be lower in late summer; spring offers fuller falls.
:droplet:No Open Food Allowed
To prevent attracting bears, do not bring open food.
:noentrysign:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Flume Gorge for its breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as a stunning geological wonder and a real-life postcard. The well-maintained trail, featuring boardwalks and stairs, offers an enjoyable and accessible hike for most skill levels. Some note that water levels can be lower in late summer, and crowds can be significant, especially on weekends and during fall.
"Absolutely stunning… unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Even though the water level was low, it was still amazing and highly recommended. Kids are able to do the trail pretty easily. About 2.75-3 miles depending on what side trails you explore along the way. Lots of stairs (watch claims 30+ flights) but it doesn’t seem bad because it’s so great to look at."
Chase Smith
"Very beautiful place , it's a natural wonder! Its about 2 miles back and forth and takes almost 2 hrs to enjoy but you can spend more time if you like. Don't bring any open food or plan to eat there, it will attract bear. Lot of stairs and good hike with awesome views. Must see!"
Manny Arora
"Breathtaking views and an enjoyable hike! Flume Gorge is absolutely stunning! The trail is well-maintained and perfect for most skill levels—easy enough to enjoy without too much effort, but with just enough stairs and inclines to keep it fun. The waterfalls, moss-covered granite walls, and scenic boardwalks through the gorge were like walking through a real-life postcard. The glacial boulder was a cool bonus, and the entire loop was a great mix of nature and light adventure. Highly recommend for anyone visiting the White Mountains—don’t forget your camera!"
Trevor Daneker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Flume Gorge is located in Lincoln, New Hampshire, approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Boston. Take I-93 North directly to Franconia Notch State Park. The Flume Gorge Visitor Center is well-marked.
Yes, there is a large parking area at the Flume Gorge Visitor Center. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak fall foliage season. Arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options to Flume Gorge are very limited. It is best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are traveling from a nearby town, but direct public transit from major cities is not readily available.
From Boston, take I-93 North. The Flume Gorge Visitor Center is located at 852 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH. Look for signs for Franconia Notch State Park.
The main parking lot at the Visitor Center can accommodate larger vehicles, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions during peak times. The roads leading to the gorge are generally well-maintained.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but adults typically pay around $18-$21, with discounts for children. Booking online in advance can save you about $3 per ticket.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during the busy fall season and on weekends, to guarantee entry and save money.
Flume Gorge is typically open from mid-May to mid-October. Hours vary slightly by season, generally from 9 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM, with last entry about an hour before closing. Always check the official website for current hours.
While the main Flume Gorge trail is closed in winter, parts of Franconia Notch State Park are accessible for winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing. The gorge itself is typically only open seasonally.
Yes, booking tickets online in advance offers a discount compared to purchasing them at the window. Check the official Flume Gorge website for any other potential group or seasonal discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main trail is a 2-mile loop that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It features boardwalks, stairs, bridges, and some inclines, making it a moderate hike with stunning natural features.
Yes, the trail is generally considered family-friendly and manageable for children, though there are stairs and some uneven terrain.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours completing the 2-mile loop, but you can spend more time if you wish to explore side trails or simply soak in the views.
Service dogs are permitted on the trails. For other pets, it's best to check the specific park regulations, as many natural areas have restrictions to protect wildlife and the environment.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, as the trail involves stairs and uneven surfaces. Layers are recommended, as mountain weather can change quickly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food service areas directly within the gorge trail itself. The Visitor Center has a gift shop and may offer some snacks, but it's best to plan for meals before or after your visit.
You cannot bring open food into the gorge area to prevent attracting bears. Pack any snacks or meals to consume before or after your hike, or in designated areas outside the gorge.
The town of Lincoln, NH, located near Flume Gorge, offers various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. You can find places to eat before or after your visit.
While open food is restricted within the gorge, there may be designated picnic areas within Franconia Notch State Park. It's advisable to check with the park for specific locations.
Expect typical New England fare, including diners, pubs, and cafes offering sandwiches, burgers, and local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a photo opportunity! Key spots include the base of Avalanche Falls, the covered bridges, the moss-covered granite walls, and the boardwalks winding through the gorge.
Absolutely! Flume Gorge is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows contrasting with the granite and water.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Avoid midday sun for more dramatic shots.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the park management or visitor center upon arrival. During busy periods, tripods might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge and waterfalls. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on wet surfaces and enhance colors. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, but be mindful of the 'no open food' rule to prevent attracting wildlife. Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center. The stunning waterfalls and unique rock formations are sure to captivate young imaginations.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the unique ecosystem and the opportunity to witness the powerful forces of erosion firsthand. Consider visiting in early spring for higher water levels or during fall for spectacular foliage. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you pack in.
📸 Photographers
During the fall, the vibrant foliage adds another layer of beauty, making it a prime location for landscape and nature photography. While tripods might be restricted during peak times, a good wide-angle lens and a polarizing filter will help capture the grandeur and detail of this natural wonder.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Flume Gorge
The glacial boulder, a massive rock perched precariously, is a testament to the ice ages that shaped New England. The unique ecosystem within the gorge, with its lush mosses and ferns clinging to the damp rock faces, adds to the enchanting atmosphere. It's a living museum of natural history, offering a glimpse into the forces that sculpted the White Mountains.
Navigating the Flume Gorge Trail
While the loop is manageable for most, be prepared for a significant number of stairs, which some reviews mention as equivalent to climbing many flights of a building. The elevation gain is around 456 feet, so comfortable footwear is essential. The trail can get crowded, especially during peak hours and seasons, so arriving early is highly recommended for a more peaceful experience.
Best Times for Visiting Flume Gorge
While beautiful year-round in its surrounding landscape, the gorge itself is most spectacular when the water levels are high, which is often in early spring as snowmelt occurs. However, the fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) is incredibly popular due to the vibrant colors that transform the landscape, making it a must-see for many. Be aware that this peak beauty also brings the largest crowds, so booking tickets and arriving early are crucial during this time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit