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.
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.
Frank Allen / alltrails.com
That’s why we love that this trail also leads to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.
Nabil Al Nahin Chowdhury / Google
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.
Pauline Feng / alltrails.com
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.
Zack Littleson / alltrails.com
While still considered easy, the trail here does have some exposed rocks and roots so be sure to watch your step.
Tiffanie Young / alltrails.com
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.
shilong liu / alltrails.com
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.
Pradeep Prabhu / Google
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.
J.T. Martin / alltrails.com
Once you’ve enjoyed the view for a while you’ll want to head back to the trailhead.
Paul Garland / alltrails.com
You can do this by simply turning around and heading back the exact same way you came.
Gregory Rosic / Google
Stick to the out-and-back waterfall portion and you’ll be happy and satisfied!
Gregory Rosic / Google
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.
Frank Allen / alltrails.com
Nabil Al Nahin Chowdhury / Google
Pauline Feng / alltrails.com
Zack Littleson / alltrails.com
Tiffanie Young / alltrails.com
shilong liu / alltrails.com
Pradeep Prabhu / Google
J.T. Martin / alltrails.com
Paul Garland / alltrails.com
Gregory Rosic / Google
This adventure is just one example of how to enjoy the great outdoors. For more, check out the ultimate bucket list for anyone in New Hampshire who loves waterfall hikes.
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Address: Falling Waters Trail, Lincoln, NH 03251, USA
