New Hampshire is full of beautiful waterfalls, but many of them require quite a bit of hiking. That’s all well and good – but sometimes you just want the views without the work (and time commitment). If you don’t have all day to go exploring, check out Glen Ellis Falls, where you’ll get all of the drama after just a short walk. After experiencing this waterfall many times we can confidently say that this is an easy hike down to the falls where the journey is just as fun as the waterfall itself.
You'll find Glen Ellis Falls just past Pinkham Notch on Route 16 in Jackson.
You will notice a pull-off to the parking lot and it should be noted that there is a gate blocking the parking lot during the off-season. You can still park before the gate and just walk in and since this is a popular trail you will most likely see other cars there as well.
Pass through a pedestrian tunnel under the highway and you'll only need to walk about a quarter mile to the falls.
There is a fork in the road before the tunnel and to the right you will find plenty of other longer trails to enjoy as well. The trail to the waterfall is pretty straightforward from there but it is always handy to have a map with you. We also use the AllTrails app and here is a like to the Glen Ellis Falls page.
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Once you traverse the tunnel, you'll soon reach the rushing water at the top of the falls, part of the Ellis River.
Follow the trail while enjoying the peaceful sound of the rushing water. We have seen it during every season and in the spring is one of the best times to see it, as the water flows nicely over the rocks and if you look carefully you will notice small waterfalls filtering into the river.
You will eventually find a stone overlook with views of the top of the waterfall. For the best vantage point, head down the stone steps to see the 65-foot-high falls in their full glory.
When the trail splits again near the bottom of the river take the path to the left up for an overlook then head back down to take the other path leading you to the base of the falls. The mighty rush of this waterfall does create quite a mist so be sure to stay on the other side of the railing because the rocks can be very slippery.
The falls are peaceful, majestic, and a true New Hampshire treasure.
As previously stated spring is a great time to visit the falls when the snow starts melting and the water flow is at an all time high. Check out this Adventuring in the Moment video of that time of year to know before you go yourself.
Make a note to go back in the winter, too - ice and snow will make you see the falls in a whole new way.
After going in the winter a couple of times, we would suggest bringing along microspikes. If you take it slow and are careful then seeing the waterfall in the winter can be a wild and fun adventure! Check out this Adventuring in the Moment video during the winter.
Glen Ellis Falls is one of those amazing gems within the White Mountains and something we would highly recommend to visit. It should also be noted that the hike does have several sets of stairs leading down so if you have issues with mobility just know your limits and check out the video for a fuller picture of the trail before deciding to see this waterfall.
Can’t get enough waterfalls? Check out this New Hampshire waterfall road trip!
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