Arethusa Falls in New Hampshire 2024
Nestled in the White Mountains, this waterfall is one of the tallest and most beautiful in New England
Best time: mid-April–October
The sight of this waterfall cascading from granite cliffs is incredible! The scenic Arethusa Falls is located in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, and is considered to be one of the tallest in the state, with a height of 140 ft (43 m). Arethusa Falls s fed with Bemis Brook, which plunges from the western slope of Crawford Notch. The waterfall can be reached by a 1.5-mi (2.4-km) Arethusa Falls Trail, accessible from Route 302. The trail that features about 800 ft of elevation gain goes along the train tracks of the scenic railway, especially popular during fall months.
When is the best time to visit Arethusa Falls
The Bemis Brook looks the fullest during spring runoff in April and May. In the summer, the stream gets weaker, but it rains quite a lot in New Hampshire so it never goes completely dry. Fall is the most beautiful time of the year in the White Mountains, especially when fall foliage reaches its peak colors in October. In the winter, the waterfall usually freezes and can be used for ice-climbing.
Things to do at Arethusa Falls
In addition to Arethusa Falls, there are a few smaller waterfalls in Crawford Notch that are worth checking out. If you take a short detour from the main trail along Bemis Brook, you can visit tiny Bemis Falls and Coliseum Falls. The trailhead for Ripley Falls is also nearby. Other popular hikes in the area include Frankenstein Cliffs and Frankenstein Trestle. White Mountain National Forest offers many picturesque hiking trails, fishing lakes, and scenic bicycle trails in the summer. In the winter, there are snowshoeing trails, cross-country, and downhill skiing.
Where to stay at Arethusa Falls
Dry River Campground is the closest camping site to Arethusa Falls. It operates from Memorial Day to Columbus Day (from June to late November). The campground located in a beautiful woodland setting of Crawford Notch State Park has restrooms and showers. Dogs are welcomed in the camping area but must be kept on a leash.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Arethusa Falls?
April to May is the ideal season to experience the stream at its fullest. One can marvel at the peak fall colors during autumn, and the frozen waterfall serves as an ice-climbing spot during winters. Summer is equally pleasant, which attracts many visitors due to scenic trails to explore.
Things to do at Arethusa Falls?
Arethusa Falls' surroundings offer picturesque views worth exploring, including Bemis Falls, Coliseum Falls, Ripley Falls, Frankenstein Cliffs, and Frankenstein Trestle. Visitors can indulge in activities like hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, skiing - cross-country and downhill depending on the season and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
What is the distance of the Arethusa Falls hiking trail?
The Arethusa Falls hiking trail is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long, with an average round trip of two hours. Actual hiking time varies depending on speed and the total time spent admiring the waterfall.
Can you swim in Arethusa Falls?
Swimming and climbing are strictly prohibited, considering the rocks surrounding the waterfall are slippery, and the water flow is unpredictable, making it hazardous for both swimming and climbing. Visitors are advised to appreciate the natural beauty of the area from a safe distance.
What are the nearby attractions to Arethusa Falls?
Few nearby attractions in Crawford Notch State Park, besides the stunning Arethusa Falls, are Bemis Falls, Coliseum Falls, Ripley Falls, Frankenstein Cliffs, and Frankenstein Trestle. The place has got takeaways for everyone- trekking routes, fishing lakes, and scenic bicycle paths attracting plenty of tourists from all around.
