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Arethusa Falls Crawford Notch State Park

Arethusa Falls is located in the White Mountains in Crawford Notch State Park and has become not only a popular summer hike but a popular spot for ice climbing in winter.

Follow the Arethusa Falls Trail to and from the falls, but to access the other falls on the way, bear left at the trail junction to follow Bemis Brook Trail. The trail closely parallels Bemis Brook and you’ll pass Fawn Pool, Coliseum Falls, and Bemis Falls. The terrain is fairly easy on this first section of the trail. After Bemis Falls, though, the trail becomes very steep and challenging for a few hundred yards. The terrain levels off a bit after connecting again with the Arethusa Falls Trail. From the trail junction, it’s about a mile hike on moderately difficult terrain to reach Arethusa Falls. Return via the Arethusa Falls Trail for a less difficult descent.

Measuring in at about 176 feet, these are the highest single falls in New Hampshire. A bonus here is Bemis Brook Falls, Fawn Pool and Coliseum Falls can all be visited at the same time. It's about 1.3 miles to the falls, or two miles if you take the trail to see the other falls.

Pets are allowed on the trail but are required to be on leashes.

Take Route 302 toward Bretton Woods and look for Crawford Notch State Park entrance. Turn onto a paved road just beyond the park and park on the short side road below the railroad tracks. The trail starts to the left of the private road above the RR tracks.

New Hampshire State Parks
Visit White Mountains

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Arethusa Falls Crawford Notch State Park

These falls are the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire, with a drop of almost 200 feet.

Attraction Advice

This park is always open for recreation, but during the offseason, there might not be any staff available. Although there is no day use fee for this state park, parking may cost visitors $3 per day. Check the lot for self-serve permit stations.



Allison Herreid

Arethusa Falls becomes a popular ice-climbing spot during the winter.
Wikipedia

Spring run-off presents the fullest falls.
Trip Advisor

Take in the stunning reflection at Willey Pond and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the picnic tables with a view.
Visit New Hampshire

Arethusa Falls is a moderate hike with steep sections. Allow at least an hour for a hike to and from.

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