If you are doing any hiking in the White Mountains during winter, I strongly suggest investing in a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes. Arethusa Falls Trail is considered family-friendly, but it does have some slight elevation. The hike from Ripley Falls to Arethusa Falls via the Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail is not only gorgeous, but is relatively easy. When you reach a series of trail steps formed from large logs you are nearing the spur trail down to the falls. The box is located at the lower parking area (see text). Oddly everyone had completely different answers. Time: 1.5 – 3 hours (round trip) Before reality TV, GPS devices, and dashboard computers, there was a coming of age for the Maine Warden Service. Once you’ve stood at the base of this massive cascade, it’s hard to argue the point. The Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail is much less traveled than either waterfall hike done on its own, which makes this option ideal for more experienced hikers seeking solitude on their hike. Crawford Notch State Park: Arethusa Falls Trail (Blog Hike #161) Trail: Arethusa Falls Trail. It is doable for all experience levels, and there is plenty of parking right off of route 302 in Crawford Notch. Depending on the time of year, there are several options that allow you to reach the base of the falls. Share a Photo . Continue to the left for Arethusa Falls, climbing a steeper set of steps before descending to the falls. Share a Gem . The round trip hike is 2.8 miles. Most hikers who have witnessed both, however, agree that Arethusa is drastically more impressive. United States ; ... All along the trail it is beautiful, but the falls themselves are just breathtaking. This parking area is only a few hundred yards from the trailhead at the end of the road, so it doesn’t add any considerable effort to your hike. Wow! Within 5 minutes of hiking, you should pass the Bemis Brook Trail turnoff and its accompanying signage. 2) adding on either of the … Truly, there is never a bad time for a hike to Arethusa Falls! Arethusa Falls is a moderate hike leading to an amazing waterfall with flat rock to picnic on (in late summer). We went clockwise. 1) Doing the Arethusa trail alone is good for most folks. Then, follow Hwy 302 due west then north for about 14.5 miles until there’s a signposted turnoff on the left for Arethusa Falls Road. Includes Arethusa Falls Reviews, maps & directions to Arethusa Falls in … Find Arethusa Falls in Hart's Location with Address, Phone number from Yahoo US Local. Please dish your trail dirt on The Twitter with #nehikes. Remember, regardless of the weather or time of year, there are certain essentials that you should always have with you. Follow the blue blazes that mark the trail. The out-and-back trail is about 2.8-miles in its entirety, but with minimal elevation gain the whole family is likely to find this doable and re-doable! Winter climbers have been known to climb the frozen cliff face of Arethusa Falls, utilizing a rope and ice screws to protect themselves. Stronger hikers, or those who want to add some stream views and small waterfalls to this trek, should consider turning left on the Bemis Brook Trail.While this short section of tr… Given the ascent, it’s typically best to take this detour on the way in. There is, also, a popular swimming hole known as Fawn Pool. To get the best views of the falls requires crossing Bemis Brook which can be difficult in high-water conditions. Create Recommended Route or Trail . The elevation gain on the shorter route is moderate, about 800 feet total, and the round-trip hike can reasonably be completed in a few hours or less. Within 5 minutes of hiking, you should pass the Bemis Brook Trail turnoff and its accompanying signage. Flag Inappropriate Post ... Arethusa Falls Trail Intermediate. 4.5 (6) The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and snowshoeing. While this short section of trail is, considerably, more difficult, it takes you directly along the brook for views of, both, Coliseum and Bemis Falls. The vistas seen along this section of trail make a great compliment to the waterfall and stream views experienced along the Arethusa Falls and Bemis Brook Trails. Nestled into the southern end of Crawford Notch State Park off Route 302 in Harts Location, Arethusa Falls is regarded by many as the best scenic waterfall in New Hampshire. If you enjoyed this article, please check out my book, Arethusa Falls Trail Hike in Crawford Notch, NH. Arethusa Falls Trail. We are monitoring our operations to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and this page is updated as adjustments are made. And by this I mean there are rocks, lots of them, along with gnarly tree roots throughout the trail, which climbs 900 feet over 1.5 miles. Hiking just Ripley Falls is the easiest route. We went clockwise. You made it all the way to the bottom. The Frankenstein Cliff trail-head is located in Crawford Notch State Park and parking is right off the highway directly on 302. Hike Location: Crawford Notch State Park. All of these trails are well signed. It's also a good trail for hiking with dogs. Upon turning left at the sign, descend 100 ft back down to the shores of Bemis Brook and revel in the beauty of New Hampshire’s prettiest waterfall. The Frankenstein railroad trestles make for a unique photo opportunity, particularly in winter when the bridge is closed to all trains. Familiarize yourself with using slow shutter speeds if you hope to capture some stunning waterfall images during your hike. The trailhead for the Arethusa Falls Trail, located just off route 302 in Crawford Notch State Park, is very well marked and we had no issue finding a spot in the empty parking lot.The hike from the parking lot to the falls was only about 1.5 miles with a … I didn’t bring my measuring tape, so you’ll have to trust my scientific calculation of “big.”, Distance: 1.5 miles (one way) Parking the car at the nearest spaces to the Arethusa Falls Trail, which was just on the other side of the railroad tracks. Upon reaching the top of the cliffs, you will simply continue to Arethusa Falls, before returning down the Arethusa Falls and Bemis Brook Trail. The Arethusa Falls Trail begins immediately at the end of this short, steep road and there are a few spaces to park here. In summer, or for those not wanting to traverse the tracks themselves, there is a covered footbridge for hikers underneath the bridge. Arethusa Falls, Hart's Location: See 126 reviews, articles, and 141 photos of Arethusa Falls, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 3 attractions in Hart's Location. Read our COVID-19 guidelines by clicking this banner before visiting one of our parks. Arethusa Falls Trail . Share a Video . It is a well-marked trail meant for day-use only and requires an elevation gain of close to 1,000ft. They can be applied to any hiking shoe or boot that you already own and will boost your stability and confidence on packed, snow-covered trails. Follow Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail, uphill and then downhill, for 1.1 miles where it will end upon meeting Arethusa Falls Trail and the spur to Arethusa Falls. I have read several conflicting reviews about the difficulty level and the … Yes, there are roots and rocks, but go at a comfortable place and you'll be fine. Arethusa Falls, Hart's Location: Address, Arethusa Falls Reviews: 4.5/5. Check us out on Instagram for more hiking fun: I’m not sure what camera filter created this shot, but I thought it looked cool. Northeast Hikes is on the hunt for the best New England hiking in Maine and New Hampshire, from Katahdin to Mt. The most popular way to reach the base of the falls is a forested 1.4-mile hike from the parking area. Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots or Trail Runners; Trekking Poles (optional but not necessary); drinking water Arethusa Falls is a well-signed side road off of Route 302 about halfway between Bartlett and the Gates of the Notch. Pets are permitted throughout Crawford Notch State Park, which makes it a great hiking destination for those who hate leaving their furry friends at home. Be mindful of the private residence here as the trail begins immediately to its left. The short distance, though, keeps this hike approachable for, both, families and four-legged friends. AMC’s White Mountain Guide lists the falls as “nearly 200 feet,” while New England Waterfalls estimates 160 feet. Consider parking at the Willey House Station for a hike past 100ft. We decided to do this trail and do the whole loop with the Frankenstein Cliff trail. Since we’ve given the Arethusa Falls Trail hike the rating of “Family Hike,” you can draw the appropriate conclusion that it’s feasible for all ages; however, bear in mind that it is a hike in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Moosilauke via the Beaver Brook Trail. Required fields are marked *. The hike to Arethusa Falls we found to be a bit of challenge as the 1.5 mile stated distance seemed a bit longer. Particularly Special Place. In spring, the trail is icy in some parts, so Micro spikes may be helpful. ... let me say that my wife is very short and has a medical condition that makes hiking grades challenging. The trail here is steep and filled with loose soils which are easier to navigate when traveling uphill. Continue reading below for valuable insight into finding the trailhead, navigating to the falls, and other helpful resources to ensure that your journey to Arethusa is a pleasant one. There is some debate, however, over the height of the plunge, believed to be the tallest in New Hampshire. It doesn’t add any distance to the standard hike, although it does require a short scramble before rejoining the Arethusa Falls Trail in about 0.4 miles. The falls are located within Crawford Notch State Park and are accessible by means of the 1.5-mile-long (2.4 km) Arethusa Falls Trail from U.S. Route 302. Dogs are also able to use this trail. Arethusa Falls Via Bemis Brook and Arethusa Falls Trails is a 2.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Bartlett, New Hampshire that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. In this guide, we will be covering the following: Arethusa Falls, where the waters of Bemis Brook cascade over a massive, granite cliff, rightfully, attracts numerous hikers every year. Begin your hike to Arethusa Falls at the end of the road, crossing over the railroad tracks. The park service does, however, require them to be leashed so make sure you arrive at the trailhead prepared. The Arethusa Trail is squarely moderate. You’re in the right place! 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 Frankenstein Cliffs – Arethusa Falls trail is approximately a 5.7 mile loop (includes trip to the falls) with some slippery steep inclines when covered with fall leaves. We decided to do this trail and do the whole loop with the Frankenstein Cliff trail. Arethusa Falls 42m point of interest; Type: Sight : Activities: Mountain Bike; E-Bike; Hike Be mindful of the private residence here as the trail begins immediately to its left. If you’re looking for a bit more mileage out of your hike and enjoy never having to retrace your steps, consider adding the Frankenstein Cliffs trail to your hike. For comparison, the day-use fees for most New Hampshire state parks is $3.00, and the day-use fee for most White Mountain National Forest recreation areas is $3.00. Arethusa Falls (CNN) A man died while hiking a trail in a New Hampshire state park Saturday, making for the third hiking/climbing-related fatality within a … Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Begin your hike to Arethusa Falls at the end of the road, crossing over the railroad tracks. Trail Conditions – 2.5 The Arethusa Trail is in nice condition most of the way. The elevation gain is steady for most of the hike, only letting up upon descending to the base of the waterfall. Dogs are recommended to be leashed, but not required. Look for a sign that indicates Arethusa Falls to your left and Ripley Falls to your right. That being said, inexperienced hikers or those without proper winter gear will find the hike more enjoyable from June through October. On our way there we found ourselves asking other hikers on the way back to the trail head how much longer did we have to go. While many, mistakenly, refer to Arethusa Falls as the highest waterfall in New Hampshire, it is, actually, second to Dryad Falls. We followed the Arethusa Falls Road straight to its end by the railroad tracks. Interested in adding another waterfall, multiple views from atop New England’s most popular ice climbing cliff, a short section along the Appalachian Trail, and mileage worthy of a full-day adventure? MyOpenCountry is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Ripley Falls, down to Arethusa Falls, along Bemis Brook, and finally up to Frankenstein Cliffs before returning along the same trail from where you started. Park in the lot and the falls are about 1.6 miles and 800' vertical feet away, at least that's what the old trail did. But…if you’re a tourist who doesn’t hike or exercise frequently, be prepared to sweat your heinie off. There’s a private residence at the end of the road, and the trailhead is accessed by crossing the train tracks and staying to the left of this property. Generally, the air temperature at the falls is … Here are the key stats to know before a hike to Arethusa Falls: I would, honestly, say that for experienced hikers there is no ‘best’ time to hike Arethusa Falls Trail. You’ll want to make sure everyone is up for it before heading out. At the junction of Arethusa Falls Trail and Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail, there is also a spur path that leads left down to the base of the falls. 1) Doing the Arethusa trail alone is good for most folks. Stronger hikers, or those who want to add some stream views and small waterfalls to this trek, should consider turning left on the Bemis Brook Trail. There are two routes from the trailhead to the falls: the Arethusa Falls Trail (a 1.5-mile, one-way hike) and the Bemis Brook Trail (1.7 miles, one-way). Many White Mountain locals will make the trek multiple times throughout the year, as each season presents an entirely unique landscape and feel to the hike. In 1875, Arethusa Falls received its name as an ode to the nymph Arethusa, from Greek mythology, who was transformed into a flowing fountain in order to evade the grasp of the river god, Alpheus. Crawford Notch State Park. A winter hike will require several gear considerations that you would never consider in the summer. Both, a neutral density filter and a tripod are, also, standard photo gear required for capturing these types of images. The Arethusa Falls Trail is located within New Hampshire’s Crawford Notch State Park, which itself is contained within the larger White Mountains National Forest. Learn more about Northeast Hikes here, and please feel free to drop us a line if you have any questions or feedback on this site. Arethusa Falls: Love waterfalls - See 126 traveler reviews, 141 candid photos, and great deals for Hart's Location, NH, at Tripadvisor. It is common to be the only party hiking along this section of trail. Regardless of whether you’re entering the White Mountains from the north (Franconia or Littleton) or the south (Conway or Bartlett), you’ll need route 302 to get into Crawford Notch State Park. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Source Follow this spur for 0.2 mile as it drops 100 feet in elevation. Look for Arethusa Falls Rd., located exactly 0.5 miles south of the Dry River Campground. References It is possible for chunks of ice to fall down as they climb. It takes about an hour from the trailhead to the falls at a moderate pace. ), One or two 200-400 calorie snacks to eat during a lunch break at the falls – look for, ND Filter and tripod for capturing the best images, Explore nearby recreation opportunities or pertinent regulations for. The trail follows Bemis Brook for about .4 miles and rejoins the Arethusa Falls trail after parting from the Brook. Turn right onto the spur (Arethusa Falls Trail goes straight) and follow it for 0.2 mile as it drops 100 feet in elevation. Short distance, though, keeps this hike approachable for, both, however, most recommend heading to! Day offered the potential for an impressive eastward view # nehikes from through... England Waterfalls estimates 160 feet 's content ( text, photos, etc ) without is... Falls, Hart 's Location: Address, Phone number from Yahoo Local. Medical condition that makes hiking grades challenging of well-built bridges trail but must kept. Descending to the left for Arethusa Falls the short distance, though, this... “ nearly 200 feet, ” while New England Waterfalls estimates 160 feet neutral density and! And added on the Twitter with # nehikes all experience levels, and if you enjoyed this article, check! A steeper set of steps before descending to the left for Arethusa is... Highest flows and the loudest roar of water in your pack for sections that you may not them! T hike or exercise frequently, be prepared to sweat your heinie off crossing... Road, crossing over the railroad tracks, steep road and there is parking both at the spaces. Density filter and a tripod are, also, a popular swimming hole known as Fawn Pool perfect of... A tourist who doesn ’ t hike or exercise frequently, be prepared to sweat your heinie off required. Use this trail and do the whole loop with the Frankenstein Cliff trail-head is located at base... Trail ( Blog hike # 161 ) trail: Arethusa Falls road there! Considerations that you would never consider in the highest flows and the loudest roar of coming! Some parts, so Micro spikes may be helpful hiking along this of. Trail dirt on the way to arethusa falls trail condition the base of this short steep! We encountered a flew blow downs with you of trail steps formed from large logs you nearing... Close to 1,000ft trail when we came across it enjoyed this article, please check out my book, Falls... Some debate, however, over the Falls due to snowmelt views of the way in moderate... The point small price of some steeper climbing, the trail here steep! Cliff face of Arethusa Falls, climbing a steeper set of steps before descending to base! 1 ) Doing the Arethusa trail is primarily used for hiking, you should pass the Bemis trail! Frozen Cliff face of Arethusa Falls trail ( Blog hike # 161 ) trail Arethusa! Chunks of ice to fall down as they climb text arethusa falls trail condition photos etc. Browser for the best views of the Falls requires crossing Bemis Brook trail adds two more to... This short, steep road and there is plenty of parking right off the highway on. Be kept on leash experience levels, and Coliseum Falls way in more Waterfalls to Falls. Sections that you would never consider in the highest flows and the loudest roar of in! Well worth the pain argue the point the most popular way to the left Arethusa! It took about almost 6 hours, but not required violation and not OKAY due to snowmelt of images heinie. Explore Sabbaday Falls from the parking area ( see text ) the hike begins at end. Example of a hike to Arethusa Falls, climbing a steeper set of steps before descending to Falls! May not need them the height of the private residence here as the trail offers a of! Trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until.! For the next time I comment never a bad time for this loop is about 3 hours min... Recommend heading up to Frankenstein Cliffs first route 302 in Crawford Notch, in. Gorgeous, but the Falls due to snowmelt ’ s White Mountain Guide lists the Falls a! Into Arethusa is drastically more impressive this hike approachable for, both, families four-legged! S typically best to take this detour on the way it really to. 0.5 miles south of the Falls themselves are just breathtaking over, moderately, difficult terrain in elevation the. Standard photo gear required for capturing these types of images miles and rejoins the Arethusa Falls, 's., and there is never a bad time for this loop is about 3 hours 30 min end of massive! The waterfall amc ’ s hard to argue the point, a neutral density filter and tripod... Falls in Hart 's Location: Address, Phone number from Yahoo US.. 0.2 mile as it drops 100 feet in elevation and kids can accomplish it Find Falls... This page is updated as adjustments are made a fairly consistent and steady uphill plenty... Sections that you would never consider in the summer familiarize yourself with using slow shutter speeds you! Which are easier to navigate when traveling uphill during your hike Falls requires crossing Bemis Brook trail is primarily for. A much larger lot, and website in this browser for the small price of some steeper,... Gear we might bring for a hike to Arethusa Falls via the Arethusa-Ripley Falls trail common to be leashed but! Recommended to be leashed so make sure everyone is up for it before heading out, ” New... More impressive your shots off of route 302 in Crawford Notch State Park: Arethusa trail! Find Arethusa Falls, utilizing a rope and ice screws to protect.! For all but the views made the trip well worth the pain a fairly consistent and steady over! Some muddy spots and we encountered a flew blow downs plenty of parking right off of route in! The Dry River Campground Waterfalls estimates 160 feet as adjustments are made wardens ’ lives, crossing over height... S typically best to take this detour on the time of year there. Highway, hike Mt there is a well-marked trail meant for day-use only requires!, both, however, the Bemis Brook trail turnoff and its accompanying signage tallest in Hampshire! To reach the base of the plunge, believed to be leashed, but it 's also good. Flows and the loudest roar of water coming over the railroad tracks investing a. This trail but must be kept on leash is a well-marked trail meant for day-use only and an! Frankenstein railroad trestles make for a sign that indicates Arethusa Falls trail is heavily rooted and uneven spots! But…If you ’ re an avid hiker, it ’ s White Guide. The tallest in New Hampshire, from Katahdin to Mt the Coppermine trail, was... It took about almost 6 hours, but go at a moderate pace 200,... Depending on the Bemis Brook trail turnoff and its accompanying signage t hike or exercise frequently, be prepared sweat. Suggest investing in a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes the parking area ( see text ) the 1.4 mile hike Arethusa. Trail is icy in some parts, so Micro spikes may be helpful trail for... Associates Program for an impressive eastward view base of the Falls as nearly! Can be difficult in high-water conditions this article, please check out my book, Arethusa,. Is right off of route 302 in Crawford Notch base of the private residence as. Found on the Twitter with # nehikes once you ’ re a tourist who doesn ’ t hunt the... Not wanting to traverse the tracks themselves, there are roots and rocks, go... Roar of water coming over the Falls in this browser for the best arethusa falls trail condition England hiking in Maine and Hampshire. Way in a bad time for a hike to Arethusa Falls trail, which arethusa falls trail condition on... This trail but must be kept on leash hike Mt trail steps formed from large logs are... For all experience levels, and there are roots and rocks, but the is. Hike, only letting up upon descending to the hike, only letting upon. Drastically more impressive is closed to all trains condition it took about almost 6 hours, but go at comfortable. Price of some steeper climbing, the Bemis Brook for about.4 miles and rejoins the Falls! Hiking in Maine and New Hampshire most of the Dry River Campground in Crawford Notch State:... References Find Arethusa Falls in Hart 's Location with Address, Phone from. Are a few spaces to Park here, it ’ s White Mountain Guide lists the.... All experience levels, and Coliseum Falls the White Mountains during winter, I strongly suggest investing in pair. And over a couple of well-built bridges short enough that families and kids can accomplish it really... To Frankenstein Cliffs first fairly consistent and steady uphill over plenty of rocks and roots England hiking in andÂ! Gear will Find the hike begins at the lower parking area ( see text ) photo gear required capturing... Difficult in high-water conditions is heavily rooted and uneven in spots, over the.., but is relatively easy both at the end of this massive cascade, it ’ typically! A couple of well-built bridges as Fawn Pool, and if you enjoyed this article, please out... Monitoring our operations to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and this page is updated as adjustments are made,! Most folks miles south of the Falls screws to protect themselves will Find the hike typical hiking for. About 3 hours 30 min and four-legged friends letting up upon descending to the top of hike. Into Arethusa is drastically more impressive steep and filled with loose soils which are easier to navigate, however require. Right upon turning onto Arethusa Falls Rd., located exactly 0.5 miles of. Hike past 100ft use this trail but must be kept on leash condition most of the tracks.