Arethusa Falls Hiking Guide

Arethusa Falls is New Hampshire's tallest single-drop waterfall, a ribbon of water falling roughly 140 feet down a cliff in Crawford Notch. The walk to it climbs steadily through hardwood forest along Bemis Brook, with an optional side path past smaller cascades. It is a moderate outing with a big payoff, and one of the most popular waterfall hikes in the White Mountains.

no permit neededdog-friendly
Difficulty
moderate
Distance
2.8 mi
Elevation gain
800 ft
Trailhead
Hart's Location
tallest single-drop falls in NHCrawford Notchcascades side loopforest walk
springsummerfall

The Hike

The out-and-back is about 2.8 to 3 miles with roughly 800 feet of gain from the lower trailhead off US-302 in Crawford Notch State Park. The Arethusa Falls Trail climbs steadily on a rocky, rooty path that is slippery when wet. The optional Bemis Brook Trail runs parallel for a stretch past smaller cascades before rejoining the main trail.

The Falls

Arethusa was once measured at 176 feet and is now generally given as about 140 feet, still the tallest single drop in the state. It is at its most impressive in spring and after heavy rain; by late summer the flow can shrink considerably. In winter it freezes, and the approach needs microspikes.

Longer Loop

For a bigger day, continue from the falls on the Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail and return via Frankenstein Cliff, which has one of the best views over Crawford Notch. That loop runs about 4 miles or more with extra climbing, and the descent from Frankenstein Cliff is steep. Carry a map if you plan to link them.

Crawford Notch

Crawford Notch State Park runs along US-302 through one of the most dramatic mountain passes in New England. Leashed pets are allowed in the park, except inside the Willey House. The notch is busy during fall foliage, and parking at the lower Arethusa lot can fill on autumn weekends.

Practicalities

Trail guides list no parking fee at the Arethusa trailhead. Wear shoes with good grip for the rocky, rooty trail and bring water. In winter, microspikes are essential. Never walk out onto the frozen falls.

Hiking tips for Arethusa Falls

  • Take the Bemis Brook Trail side loop on the way up for extra cascades.
  • Come in spring or after rain for the strongest flow.
  • Wear grippy shoes — the trail is rocky, rooty and slippery when wet.
  • Carry microspikes in winter and stay off the frozen falls.
  • Add Frankenstein Cliff for a bigger loop with a notch view.

Nearby trails to explore

  • Mount Willard
  • Diana's Baths
  • Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine

Hike this trail with TrailMates

Arethusa Falls is a Crawford Notch classic and a great hike to share. Use TrailMates to find White Mountains hikers heading to the notch. Download the TrailMates app to connect.