Best Waterfalls Near North Conway & the White Mountains

Discover the region’s most beautiful and accessible waterfalls

The White Mountains of New Hampshire are home to more than 100 waterfalls, many of which are just a short walk from the road or an easy family-friendly hike. Spring and early summer are especially spectacular, when snowmelt feeds rivers and streams and the falls are at their most powerful.

Whether you’re looking for a quick scenic stop, a photography location, or a short outdoor adventure, the North Conway area offers some of the most accessible waterfalls in New England.

Must-See Waterfalls Near North Conway

Diana’s Baths (North Conway)

Diana’s Baths

One of the most popular waterfall destinations in the Mount Washington Valley, Diana’s Baths features a series of small cascading waterfalls, pools, and smooth granite ledges along Lucy Brook.

  • Easy 0.6-mile flat trail

  • Family friendly

  • Natural pools and cascades

  • Great photography location

Good to know:
Arrive early in peak season as this is one of the region’s busiest natural attractions.

Sabbaday Falls (Kancamagus Highway)

Sabbaday Falls

Located along the famous Kancamagus Highway, Sabbaday Falls is one of the easiest impressive waterfalls to reach in the White Mountains. A short trail leads to a beautiful multi-level waterfall carved into a narrow rock gorge.

  • Short 0.3-mile walk

  • Unique rock formations

  • One of the best quick stops on the Kancamagus

Glen Ellis Falls (Pinkham Notch)

Glen Ellis Falls

This dramatic 64-foot waterfall is just a short walk from Route 16 and makes an excellent stop when exploring Pinkham Notch or heading toward Mount Washington.

  • Only about a 0.2-mile walk

  • Dramatic single drop waterfall

  • Easy roadside access

Arethusa Falls (Crawford Notch)

Often considered the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire, Arethusa Falls drops roughly 140–176 feet depending on measurement. The hike is longer than others on this list but very rewarding.

Why visit:

  • One of NH’s tallest waterfalls

  • Moderate 1.3-mile hike

  • Excellent after rain or spring runoff

Rocky Gorge & Lower Falls (Kancamagus Highway)

Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Lower Falls

These two scenic stops along the Swift River are perfect if you want waterfall views without much hiking.

  • Short paths from parking areas

  • Picnic areas nearby

  • Popular summer swimming spots

Tips for Visiting White Mountains Waterfalls

Best time to visit

  • Spring: Peak water flow

  • Summer: Swimming and exploring pools

  • Fall: Foliage + waterfalls

  • Winter: Frozen waterfall photography

What to bring

  • Sturdy shoes (rocks can be slippery)

  • Water and snacks

  • Camera

  • Bug spray in warmer months

Safety tips

  • Stay off wet rocks

  • Watch children near fast water

  • Respect posted signs and closures

Build Your Own Waterfall Tour

Many of these waterfalls can be combined into a scenic driving loop:

Suggested half-day route:

North Conway → Kancamagus Highway → Sabbaday Falls → Rocky Gorge → Crawford Notch → Arethusa Falls → Return via Route 302.

This makes for one of the best scenic waterfall drives in New Hampshire.

Explore More Outdoor Adventures

Waterfalls pair perfectly with other Mount Washington Valley adventures:

  • Scenic drives

  • Hiking trails

  • Swimming holes

  • Rock climbing

  • Wildlife viewing

North Conway makes the perfect basecamp for exploring the natural beauty of the White Mountains.