Arethusa Falls
Discover Arethusa Falls, NH's tallest waterfall, via a scenic, shaded hike through the White Mountains. A must-see natural wonder!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their peak flow
Arethusa Falls
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their peak flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Arethusa Falls, NH's tallest waterfall, via a scenic, shaded hike through the White Mountains. A must-see natural wonder!
"The waterfall is definitely worth seeing. A wonderful place!"
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail is rocky and can be steep. Good traction is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Go after rain for best flow
Waterfalls are most impressive when water levels are high. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arethusa Falls
Crawford Notch State Park
New Hampshire's tallest single-drop waterfall, a breathtaking 140-foot cascade. The hike is rewarding!
Frankenstein Cliff Loop
Connects to Arethusa Falls Trail
An extension for a more challenging hike, offering stunning views and a longer adventure.
Bemis Brook Trail
Connects to Arethusa Falls Trail
A side trail leading to additional smaller waterfalls, adding more charm to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Timing
Parking & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail is rocky and can be steep. Good traction is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Go after rain for best flow
Waterfalls are most impressive when water levels are high. :droplet:
Pack out all trash
Practice Leave No Trace principles to keep this beautiful spot pristine. :recycle:
Check parking availability
Arrive early on weekends, as parking lots can fill up. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail is rocky and can be steep. Good traction is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Go after rain for best flow
Waterfalls are most impressive when water levels are high. :droplet:
Pack out all trash
Practice Leave No Trace principles to keep this beautiful spot pristine. :recycle:
Check parking availability
Arrive early on weekends, as parking lots can fill up. :car:
Bring water and snacks
It's a moderate hike, so stay hydrated and fueled. :water_bottle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Arethusa Falls for its stunning natural beauty and the rewarding hike to reach it. The waterfall's impressive height and the shaded, scenic trail are major highlights. Some reviewers note the trail's rocky and steep nature, advising visitors to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for a moderate workout. While generally not overcrowded, it can get busy on weekends.
"Great moderate hike, 3.2 miles in n out with ~800 ft elevation gain. Not much water during September.
Terrain can be a bit challenging if you're not used to hiking, bit rocky. The hike was fully shaded - lots of trees. It was not crowded at all."
Vaish “Siso” C
"This is by far the most amazing waterfall I have ever seen. The trail to the waterfall is rocky and goes up steadily for about two miles. It is not an easy route, but we met quite a few people with children and seniors. The weather was dry, so it was not as difficult to walk as in the rain. The waterfall is definitely worth seeing. A wonderful place!"
Olena Maksymenko
"On a recent Saturday morning, my family and friends embarked on a refreshing hike to Arethusa Falls, setting off around 11 AM. We found that while parking spaces can be limited, we were able to secure a spot without too much trouble, after paying the $5 parking fee. The hike itself was moderate, with some steep sections and rocky terrain that added to the adventure. We reached the beautiful waterfalls in about an hour, and the cool, misting spray was incredibly refreshing. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience, and I would highly recommend the Arethusa Falls hike to anyone looking for a rewarding outdoor activity."
Mahaveera Pushparaju
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arethusa Falls is located in Crawford Notch State Park, NH. The trailhead is accessible via Arethusa Falls Road, off Route 302. Search 'Arethusa Falls Trailhead' on Google Maps for directions. There are two parking lots available. 
Public transportation options are very limited in this mountainous region. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the trailhead.
The main trail to Arethusa Falls is well-marked. For more challenging routes like the Frankenstein Cliff Loop, using a trail map or a hiking app like AllTrails is recommended.
Crawford Notch State Park is a natural area. Nearby towns like North Conway offer dining and lodging options. Many visitors enjoy dinner at Moat Mountain Smokehouse after their hike.
Winter access can be challenging due to snow and ice. Trails may be less maintained, and conditions can be hazardous. It's best to check local conditions and be prepared for winter hiking if attempting in colder months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $5 parking fee required at the Arethusa Falls trailhead. This fee helps maintain the park and trails.
No, tickets are not required. You pay the parking fee upon arrival. It's advisable to have cash on hand for the fee, though some lots may have card readers.
Arethusa Falls and its trails are generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The park itself doesn't have strict closing times, but it's best to hike during daylight for safety.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. The parking fee is a standard rate for day use.
While there isn't a specific 'Arethusa Falls pass,' New Hampshire State Parks may have general passes that could potentially cover parking fees. It's best to check with the New Hampshire State Parks system for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The out-and-back hike to Arethusa Falls is approximately 3.2 miles roundtrip, with about 974 feet of elevation gain. The Frankenstein Cliff Loop is longer, around 5.3 miles.
The hike is generally considered moderate. It has steep and rocky sections, especially in the first mile, making it challenging for those not accustomed to hiking.
Yes, the Bemis Brook Trail offers a side path to several smaller, picturesque waterfalls, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
The trail is almost entirely shaded due to the dense forest canopy, offering a cool respite, especially on warmer days.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, and a camera. A small backpack is ideal for carrying essentials.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the falls offers dramatic shots, but also explore viewpoints along the trail and the Frankenstein Cliff Loop for varied perspectives. The surrounding forest also provides beautiful fall foliage backdrops.
Morning light can be beautiful, especially if you can catch some sunbeams through the trees. Midday can be harsh, but the mist from the falls can create interesting effects. Fall colors are spectacular in the afternoon.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the specific regulations for Crawford Notch State Park or New Hampshire State Parks before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light conditions.
The Frankenstein Trestle, a historic railway bridge, offers a unique photographic element near the Frankenstein Cliff Loop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a slightly easier experience, focus on the main out-and-back trail to the falls and skip the more challenging Frankenstein Cliff Loop. The Bemis Brook Trail with its smaller waterfalls can also be a delightful detour for younger explorers. Remember to emphasize Leave No Trace principles to teach children about respecting nature.
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Adventure Seekers
+1 Combining this loop with the main Arethusa Falls trail creates a substantial day hike that will test your endurance. Consider exploring off-season conditions for a different kind of adventure, but be prepared for potential ice and snow, especially on the steeper sections.
The remote feel of the White Mountains, especially if you venture onto less-trafficked parts of the trail system, offers a true wilderness experience. Remember to always hike prepared with appropriate gear, navigation tools, and knowledge of the area.📸 Photographers
Beyond the main falls, the surrounding forest provides excellent opportunities for capturing fall foliage in vibrant colors during autumn.
+1 The Frankenstein Trestle offers a unique architectural element to incorporate into your shots. For landscape photographers, consider the early morning or late afternoon light to enhance the mood and depth of your images. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and long exposures. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Arethusa Falls
For those seeking a more extensive trek, the Frankenstein Cliff Loop offers a challenging 5.3-mile option that incorporates the Arethusa Falls trail. This loop provides a more strenuous workout and varied scenery.
Another option is to explore the Bemis Brook Trail, a side path that leads to a series of smaller, charming waterfalls, adding extra points of interest to your visit. Pro Tip: While the hike is rewarding year-round, visiting after a good rainfall can result in a more powerful and impressive waterfall display.
Experiencing Fall Foliage at Arethusa Falls
+2 The contrast between the fiery autumn colors and the cascading water creates a truly magical scene, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. +1Many visitors combine a hike to Arethusa Falls with other fall activities in the region, such as visiting nearby North Conway or taking a scenic drive through Crawford Notch.
The crisp mountain air and the soothing roar of the waterfall provide a perfect backdrop for enjoying the autumn splendor. Primitive camping options are also available in the White Mountains, allowing for an immersive experience surrounded by nature's autumn palette. Photography Tip: To capture the best fall colors, aim for mid-morning or late afternoon light, which can enhance the saturation and depth of the foliage.
Consider bringing a polarizing filter to reduce glare and deepen the colors of the leaves and water. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit