New Hampshire

Discover Arethusa Falls, New Hampshire’s Amazing 140-Foot Waterfall

Some say Arethusa Falls, the incredible waterfall in the White Mountains region, is the best in New England.

By Cathryn McCann|Aug 18 2017| Print icon

Credit: Cathryn McCann
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.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

A 1.5- mile trail leads visitors to the spectacular Arethusa Falls.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
The Arethusa Falls trailhead can be found off Route 302 on a well-marked side road.
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.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

A 1.5 mile hike leads visitors to the base of Arethusa Falls.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
A 1.5-mile hike leads visitors to the base of Arethusa Falls.
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.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

The hiking terrain can be difficult with its many rocks and roots.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
The hiking terrain can be difficult, given the many rocks and roots here.
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.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

Wander downstream to get a full view of Arethusa Falls.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
Head downstream to get a full view of Arethusa Falls.
Credit: Cathryn McCann Downstream, there are some shallow (but rocky) areas to dip your feet into.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

Some shallow areas afford the opportunity for visitors to dip their feet in the icy water.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
Shallow areas afford visitors the opportunity to splash their feet in the icy water.
Credit: Cathryn McCann
Up close to the falls, get ready to enjoy a cool mist from the rushing water.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Locations, NH

It’s impossible to even see the top of the falls from close up.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
It’s hard to even see the top of the falls from close up.
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.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

Whether 125 or 200 feet, Arethusa Falls is, in mathematic terms, huge.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
Whether 125 or 200 feet, Arethusa Falls unquestionably makes a big impression.
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.
Exploring Arethusa Falls | Hart's Location, NH

The view from Arethusa Falls isn’t bad.

Credit: Cathryn McCann
The view from Arethusa Falls.
Credit: Cathryn McCann
Have you ever visited Arethusa Falls? Let us know!

SEE MORE: Exploring Diana’s Baths, ‘Home of the Water Fairies,’ in Bartlett, NH Sculptured Rocks Natural Area | ‘Little Grand Canyon of New Hampshire’ Doing the Presidential Traverse Hike in New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Cathryn McCann

While on staff as digital assistant editor, Cathryn wrote and promoted 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.

More by Cathryn McCann

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  1. Have been to Arethusa Fall and it is an awesome sight to see. It is well worth the hike to get there. It is difficult, at times, just take it slow.

    Reply

  2. Beautiful. But because there is not a clean fall from top to bottom, we (from the West) refer to this as a slide, not a waterfall. Been to many slides, but this is definitely one of the best.

    Reply

  3. Have been there. Upon arriving to the falls, it was a “wow” moment. Although not a long hike, one does have to watch your step. I only wish dogs were not allowed on the trail.

    Reply

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