Arethusa Falls

Arethusa Falls is the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire, plunging 160 feet in a single dramatic drop over a granite cliff face in Crawford Notch State Park. The falls are named after the nymph Arethusa from Greek mythology, and the setting feels appropriately mythical — a towering column of white water framed by dark granite walls and old-growth spruce forest in the heart of the White Mountains. The pool at the base is ringed by massive boulders, creating a natural amphitheater.

The trail to Arethusa Falls is 1.5 miles one way, gaining roughly 700 feet of elevation through a beautiful mixed forest of birch, spruce, and hemlock. The path follows Bemis Brook upstream, passing two smaller waterfalls — Bemis Brook Falls and Coliseum Falls — along the way. The trail is well-marked but moderately challenging, with some rocky sections and stream crossings that can be tricky during high water. For a longer adventure, a loop trail connects to Frankenstein Cliff, adding dramatic views of Crawford Notch.

Late spring and early summer offer the most impressive water volume, as snowmelt feeds the falls. Fall foliage in Crawford Notch is among the finest in New England, typically peaking in early October. The trailhead parking lot on US-302 requires a White Mountain National Forest parking pass. Arrive early on weekends — this is one of the most popular hikes in the White Mountains.