Local Natural Wonders - Day 63

Local Natural Wonders - Day 63 - Arethusa Falls in Crawford Notch, New Hampshire

Arethusa Falls is New Hampshires tallest and most impressive waterfall. Estimated to be 200 feet tall, this waterfall is well worth the 1.5 mile hike to reach it. The trail gains about 900 feet in elevation and is manageable for families and unexperienced hikers.
Edward Tuckerman discovered Arethusa Falls in the late 1800s. The falls get their name from the poem, “Arethusa,” written by Percy Bysshe Shelley, about a nymph whose name means “the waterer.”

Trail Information From The Hiking Project:
The trail starts at the top of a short road off Route 302, across railroad tracks. Right from the beginning, it's very easy to follow the blue blazes that mark the trail. Expect a fairly consistent and steady uphill over plenty of rocks and roots. At 0.1 miles, you have the option to take the Bemis Brook Trail, which rejoins the Arethusa Falls Trail at 0.6 miles. At 1.3 miles, the trail intersects the Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail. Continue to the left for Arethusa Falls, climbing a steeper set of steps before descending to the falls. 

The trail is challenging no doubt, but it's also short enough that families and kids can accomplish it. It's also a good trail for hiking with dogs. Dogs are recommended to be leashed, but not required. 

Driving Directions:
Trailhead and parking area are on Arethusa Falls Road in Harts Location, NH. Arethusa Falls Road leaves the west side of Rt. 302 14.5 miles from its junction with Rt. 3. The road is well marked. There are two parking areas a short distance up this road. The lower parking area is larger. The Arethusa Falls Trail begins at the upper parking area.  Click here for a Google map.