There's no better time to get outside than now and there's no better place to do it than New Hampshire! With so many places to disappear and escape in the Granite State, you could have a long list of hikes to take and still not come close to completing them. That's why you'll need to prioritize and we vote putting this one at the top of your list.
This short hike to Thompson Falls leads through the woods and ultimately to a seemingly secret area with a waterfall and lots of rocks.
It can be found near the Wildcat Ski Chalet parking lot. The trailhead is just between the chalet and the gondola.
The route itself is just over 1 mile, but the elevation gain is minimal which means this is a fairly simple hike to complete.
The route will take you through the woods, but the views are also beautiful. This is one of the most scenic areas of the state, so be sure to take it all in.
When you first begin the walk you may hear traffic, but rest assured that this dissipates as you continue towards the falls.
And, of course, once you're close you'll hear the waterfall in the distance. There are also a number of areas where you can see and hear the stream.
Once you arrive, plan on spending some time here. Kids will like exploring at the base of the falls where there are a few pools and rocks.
You can continue on past the waterfall to explore a bit more, or turn around and head back to the parking lot the same way you came.
This is a great outdoor activity for a solo trip or for families with kids. There's enough to keep everyone interested and the length is just long enough without risking boredom.
Thompson Falls can be access via trail any time of year, but folks say it's best from March through October. Always be careful around water, as conditions on rocks and the ground might be slippery. You can learn more about the route and how to access it here.
And for more, check out this ultimate bucket list for anyone in New Hampshire who loves waterfall hikes.
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