Tucked away within the Crawford Notch State Park in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, a waterfall from the headwaters of Bemis Brook plunges nearly 140 feet to a rocky pool beneath. This is Arethusa Falls, and while not the tallest in New Hampshire (that would be Dryad Fall), it is still a spectacular sight, with its rushing waters seeming to drop elegantly from the sky. At the height of the afternoon the sun shines just above the fall, casting its bright rays into the water cascading over the granitic cliff, highlighting the blue-gray of the water and the orange and brown tones of the rocks. Some say it’s the best waterfall in New England, but leaving personal preferences aside, Arethusa Falls is nonetheless a must-see for visitors from near and far.
The Arethusa Falls trailhead can be found off Route 302 on a well-marked side road. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
This magical place remains largely undiscovered, in part because of the moderate-to-difficult (but certainly doable) hike required to get there. From the parking area off Route 302 in Hart’s Location, hikers can take the Bemis Brook Trail to the Arethusa Falls Trail and out to the waterfall, for a total distance of one and a half miles (one way). There is also the option, before or after checking out the waterfall, to hike the Frankenstein Cliff Trail, which forms a loop with the Arethusa Falls Trail, for a total distance of about five miles.
EXPLORING ARETHUSA FALLS | HART’S LOCATION, NH
There’s a large parking area located on a side road off Route 302 in Crawford Notch State Park from which the Arethusa Falls and Frankenstein Cliff trails can be reached. The shortest trek to the falls is via the Arethusa Falls Trail; you can also take the Bemis Brook Trail to the Arethusa Falls Trail.
A 1.5-mile hike leads visitors to the base of Arethusa Falls. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
The hike is rated as moderate to difficult, due to its steepness and tricky terrain. Although the Arethusa Falls Trail is on the shorter side, proper hiking equipment and footwear is still necessary, especially if you plan to go on to the Frankenstein Cliffs.
The hiking terrain can be difficult, given the many rocks and roots here. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
Upon arriving at the base of the waterfall, you quickly realize why Arethusa Falls is regarded as one of the best waterfalls in New England. Although estimates of the falls’ height vary from 125 to 200 feet, the water rushing from the top seems to be coming right out of the sky. To get a full view, visitors must clamber downstream.
Head downstream to get a full view of Arethusa Falls. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
Downstream, there are some shallow (but rocky) areas to dip your feet into.
Shallow areas afford visitors the opportunity to splash their feet in the icy water. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
Up close to the falls, get ready to enjoy a cool mist from the rushing water.
It’s hard to even see the top of the falls from close up. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
Although it’s obvious upon arrival that Arethusa Falls is no small cascade, that fact is most clear when you view the fall from the side.
Whether 125 or 200 feet, Arethusa Falls unquestionably makes a big impression. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
And in case waterfalls don’t leave you spellbound, the beauty of the surrounding area — with its mountains and lush forest — still makes the trip worthwhile.
The view from Arethusa Falls. Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann
Have you ever visited Arethusa Falls? Let us know!
As Digital Assistant Editor, Cathryn writes, manages, and promotes content for NewEngland.com and its social media channels. Prior to this role, she lived and worked on Martha’s Vineyard as a newspaper reporter, covering everything from environmental issues and education to crime and politics. Originally from New Hampshire, Cathryn spends most of her time out of the office on the trails, slopes, or by the water.
