The Best NH Hiking Trails with Waterfalls

Hiking towards an incredible view is its own reward. Yet, hiking trails with waterfalls offer even more rewards along the way in the form of spectacular scenery. There’s something about watching water cascade down a mountain, that is exhilarating and relaxing. If you really enjoy this type of hiking these are some of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

One of the best of NH’s waterfall trails, and also popular for its stunning views, is Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop. The trail crosses several streams and there are great views from Haystack Mountain, the first of three 4,000 footers in the hike. The ridge between here and Mount Lincoln, the second 4,000 footer, is challenging and fun. The trailhead originates off  of 93, north of Lincoln NH before the notch. There is parking here for a fee. It’s a very popular hike so on weekends expect a crowd but if you can go through the week for a very nice day hike!

The Flume Gorge is another great waterfall hiking trail in NH’s White Mountains! It’s a very easy hike at just over 2 miles so it can be completed in an afternoon. The waterfalls are just amazing and the views impressive. Just plan ahead, it’s a very popular hike so you need reservations.

Another popular waterfall hike in NH is Arethusa Falls north of Bartlett on route 302. It’s less than 3 miles and a bit more challenging but there may be fewer folks out hiking here so you can enjoy some solitude during your hike.

Diana’s Baths are another waterfall hike in North Conway, NH. Just about 15 minutes from town, it’s a short half hour hike you can enjoy in a morning or afternoon.

Mount Willard Trail is another option that’s slightly longer. It starts at Crawford Station and is a good afternoon hike with a view of Crawford Notch from the summit.

The Presidential Traverse Trail is quite a bit longer at over 20 miles. From this trail you can summit Mount Madison, Mount Adams, Mount Jefferson and Mount Washington, the 4 highest peaks in the White Mountains, along with Mount Monroe, Eisenhower and Pierce.

All along the trail, even in the first few miles, there are beautiful waterfalls cascading beside trail. The trailhead is right off of Route 2 in Randolph, NH, and it is a very popular hike so be prepared for crowds on the weekend. Hiking this waterfall trail during the week will give you a bit more serenity and scenery.