The New Hampshire Trail That Leads To A Stairway Waterfall Is Heaven On Earth
Getting outside is great for the mind and body, so imagine just how healthy it is so embark on a fun hike that leads to some of the best scenery in New Hampshire! Today we’re featuring a trail that many people use to access a mountain, but that we like to use for visits to a beautiful waterfall. Rather than taking this route all the way to the end, take your time to explore just a portion of it and you’ll be able to enjoy one of our favorite waterfalls.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Located within Franconia Notch State Park, the Falling Waters Trail leads to the top of 4,700-foot Little Haystack Mountain. While we’re all for hikes leading to epic New Hampshire views, the route is considered difficult and that’s not always what we’re looking for.
The trail gets challenging the further you go, so sticking to the first 1.5 miles offers easier terrain without much elevation gain. And that’s where you’ll find Cloudland Falls. The trailhead can be found off of I-93 North, about 1.5 miles further than the Basin exit.
About a quarter-mile along the trail you’ll reach a footbridge where the route crosses Old Bridle Path. Stay on course and follow Falling Waters Trail.
We’re looking for waterfalls here, but you’ll also want to take in the gorgeous forest surroundings. In the fall the trees are awash in color, which makes the journey just as great as the destination.
The trail will begin following Dry Brook offering some nice water views. You’ll also pass two different waterfalls before arriving at the one we’re looking for. Both are gorgeous so plan on taking some time to enjoy them along the way.
About a mile into the hike you’ll reach Cloudland Falls, which looks just like a series of stairs. The trail will take you right to the top for optimal viewing of the 80-foot drop.
Falling Waters Trail is accessible year-round, but always be careful during the winter when it’s icy or just after rain. Conditions can quickly become slippery on an otherwise simple route. Keep in mind that this trail leads all the way to the top of Little Haystack Mountain and the 5.6-mile route is considered difficult. Be sure to turn around after the waterfall and you’ll have minimal elevation gain. You can learn more about the hike by visiting alltrails.com.
Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
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