The Fourth of July is right around the corner and we’re stoked to share some of our favorite places to go to avoid the crowds and hit the trails in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and Maine. If you’re willing to battle the northbound traffic then we’re willing to give you some epic places to hike that won’t be overcrowded. From hidden waterfalls to beautiful mountaintops, this series has something for everyone. Lengths range from under a mile to over ten. There are easy to follow trails and navigational challenges so be sure to break out your map and guidebook before heading out on some of these hikes.

Before hitting any trail we encourage everyone to refer to the White Mountain Guidebook and map to read about the hike. Carry the Ten Essentials, practice Leave No Trace, and make sure you are sharing your plans with a trusted individual(s) before heading out into the woods. Check the weather where you are intending to hike the day of your hike (if possible) and be prepared to turn around if necessary. But most of all, have fun!

Water Feature Hikes

The following are a list of some of our favorite waterfall and water feature hikes that can be found throughout the White Mountains of New Hampshire and in Maine. Every one of these hikes is described in the White Mountain Guidebook and we recommend purchasing a copy of this book so that you are prepared for the conditions you may encounter on trail. Rather than rehashing the descriptions found within the guidebook, we will share basic information about each waterfall hike. Enjoy!

Garfield Falls

Pittsburg, New Hampshire
.3 Miles one way to start of falls
100’ Elevation gain

Garfield Falls is a 40’ waterfall that plummets into a deep pool of water before continuing downstream. There are plenty of spots to swim in the stream downriver from the falls. Garfield Falls is located along the east branch of the Dead Diamond River.

Blue Brook

Gilead, New Hampshire
1.5 Miles one way
250’ Elevation gain

Blue Brook runs parallel to the Basin Trail from the Wild River Campground. Along this trail you will pass a series of small waterfalls, swimming holes, and waterslides. Although this is not a named waterfall, we highly recommend heading out to check out the water features found along this stretch of trail. There are plenty of spots to stop and swim or sunbathe on the rocks.

Mossy Glen

Randolph, New Hampshire
.2 Miles one way
75’ Elevation gain

Nestled in a beautiful grove, Carlton Brook runs through what can only be described as a hidden amphitheater. The moss covered steps along a hill lead down to pools of water along Carlton Brook. Further upstream from the amphitheater is a Nepalese bridge that crosses to the other bank of Carlton Brook. On both banks there are fantastic spots to cool off in the shade and have a picnic.

Brook Path

Wonalancet, New Hampshire
1 Mile one way
70’ Elevation gain

Brook Path is one of the most stunning trails that we have found in the White Mountains. Running parallel to the Wonalancet River, this path meanders through the forest following the river downhill to the former site of a dam at Locke Falls. Prior to the descent to the falls there are a myriad of spots along the river to swim or just relax in the shade.

Rattlesnake Pool

Stow, Maine
.5 Miles one way
200’ Elevation Gain

Rattlesnake Pool is a large emerald colored pool of water that is located along Rattlesnake Brook. The pool is tucked into a small gorge that requires a short scramble down to the bank. Both the trail to the water feature and the feature itself is on private land to please respect the landowner’s property and park only at the designated parking lot found on Shell Pond Road.

Thompson Falls

North Conway, New Hampshire
.3 Miles one way
150’ Elevation Gain

Thompson Falls is found along Moat Brook in a beautiful Hemlock forest. There are a series of cascades found along the trail as it meanders uphill from Forest Road 379. There are several spots along the trail where you can relax along the brook and even hop in to cool off. One of the things we love most about this waterfall is that it is so close to North Conway so for those looking to spend the weekend in this popular tourist town the falls is the perfect place to go to have an afternoon dip sans crowds.

Next week we will share some of our favorite hikes to avoid the crowds Fourth of July weekend. What are some of your favorite water feature hikes? Comment below!

Fourth of July Hikes to Avoid the Crowds in the White Mountains Part One: Water Feature Hikes