Spring is a great time to seek out waterfalls, as the rivers are running strong from snow melt and “April showers”. I have a weak spot for waterfalls, so on a beautiful spring day I set out in search of waterfalls in the White Mountains. I wanted to incorporate a short hike since it’s no fun if you just pull off the side of the road to see a waterfall, and I found both options on the Kancamagus Highway (lovingly known as “The Kanc”), a beautiful scenic drive stretching between Conway and Lincoln, NH and most well-known as a leaf peeping destination in the fall. May is still early for tourists so it’s an excellent time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
I had a 2+ hour drive ahead of me so I kicked off the day with a Tim Ferriss-inspired breakfast of scrambled eggs, chicken, salsa and beans that would carry me through to lunch. With coffee, water and lunch in tow, I pointed my car towards the Kanc.
I started on the Conway end, taking a left off Rt. 16N to enter the White Mountain National Forest. The road winds along the Swift River, which originates from Mt. Chocorua and eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean. My first stop was at the Albany covered bridge where I got my first glimpse of how “swift” the river was running. A moderately easy hiking trail, the Boulder Loop Trail, can be accessed by taking a right after crossing the bridge and is about 3 miles long.
After taking a few minutes to enjoy the views and breathe in the fresh mountain air I drove on to my first waterfall at the Lower Falls Scenic Area. This is the first scenic area you’ll see if traveling from east to west and it’s a very popular spot so get there early or be prepared for crowds if visiting during peak season. It’s a great spot to stop for lunch, as there are picnic tables overlooking the river and the falls. Cool off after a hike on a hot summer day with a refreshing dip in the river, as long as the water is low and not rushing strongly. As you can see below, with the water rushing swiftly over the rocks it was definitely not a day for swimming!
My first two stops were just off the side of the road, which is certainly convenient but I wanted to get in some exercise so I continued heading west and stopped at the Champney Brook/ Bolles Trail to start my hike.
I arrived around 11:00 and since the lot was full I parked on the side of the road (saving the parking fee). A ranger was onsite to greet me which came in handy given I had never hiked there before. Be sure to speak with the rangers, as they’re experienced hikers and can help with any questions you have. Since the brook was more like a river the ranger recommended a different starting point so I wouldn’t have to cross the brook at the beginning of the trail and risk getting soaking wet before I even started.
The trail was definitely wet from the still melting snow and recent rains and there were several spots on the trail requiring crossing small streams but nothing a good pair of waterproof hiking boots can’t handle (love my Salomon hiking shoes!) The Champney Falls trail is a fairly easy hike and it generally follows the brook so it’s easy to follow. It took me about 45 minutes to reach Champney Falls, a small series of small cascades, and just a few additional minutes to hit the larger Pitcher Falls. Be aware that during dry season these falls are quite meager. From a waterfall perspective, this is best saved for a spring hike.
Pitcher Falls is a perfect place to stop for lunch. There are several large, flat rocks to sit on that are just beside the brook and the sun warms your back as you rest. Had I not spoken to the ranger before starting my hike I would have turned around after lunch and gone back the way I came. The ranger recommended the loop so I continued on up the trail and came upon an “intersection” serving as the turn-around point. If you choose, you can continue up the trail another 2.1 miles and summit Mt. Chocorua. It’s been a while since I’ve summited that mountain but I remember the 360 degree views being gorgeous.
I didn’t have enough time to keep going to Chocorua so I followed the loop trail back to the highway and continued west on the Kanc towards Lincoln. At this point the road moves away from the Swift River and into the mountains and you’ll see beautiful scenic vistas along the way, so be sure to stop at the various scenic view points along the way into Lincoln.
Lincoln is a bustling town popular year round and a good base camp for exploring the White Mountains. In addition to hiking there are lots of nearby activities, ranging from skiing to zip lining. I zip lined with Alpine Adventures several years ago and loved it. Definitely give it a try if you’re going to be in the area for a few days.
I highlighted just a couple of waterfalls you’ll find in the White Mountains. There are so many more to enjoy throughout Crawford Notch, Franconia Notch and Jackson, NH, and I’m up for the challenge of finding them all. Who else is with me? I’d love to hear your comments about your favorite White Mountains waterfall!
Bonus Tips:
- The Champney Brook trail, like many trails in the White Mountains, is quite rocky so take your time and wear appropriate shoes. Should you decide to summit Mt. Chocorua, the top of the mountain has exposed rock ledge to cross so take extra caution if it’s wet. You may want to avoid it if you’re afraid of heights.
- Follow Rt. 112 west into quaint North Woodstock and visit the The Woodstock Inn Brewery for a fresh microbrew or to stay the night.
- The Flume Gorge is a short drive from Lincoln and a must-see. Plus there are more waterfalls!
- Visit Moosejaw for a great selection of hiking boots for your trip. I love my Salomons! Waterproof, sturdy, very comfortable and I’ve never had a blister.