Arethusa Falls Loop via Frankenstein Cliff Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate to difficult loop trail to Arethusa Falls in White Mountain National Forest.

The trail is not as rocky as some others in the area, and only has a few steep sections.

This trail goes by Frankenstein Cliff and Arethusa Falls.

This hike is popular on the weekends, especially the 1.5 mile hike that goes directly to the falls. Arrive in the early morning or afternoon to get a parking spot.

Getting Started

From the Parking area, you can choose to start hiking North, which will take you along Frankenstein Cliffs first, or West to the Waterfall.

If heading North, you will cross a small creek in the first quarter mile. The trail will continue to your right. Do not continue over the train tracks - this is not the trail and will lead uphill to nowhere. This trail never crosses the train tracks, but does cross underneath them a bit later on.

Heading along Frankenstein cliffs will present most of the elevation gain towards the beginning of your hike. Stop at the first viewpoint for amazing views of Crawford Notch.

Continue uphill a bill further from here before you start descending towards the falls, which will be at the 3.5 mile mark. Turn right at the junction for the falls where you can find a few small pools of water to soak on a hot day, or stand right beneath the falls for a photo op.

After you're done relaxing, head .2 miles back to the trail junction, and stay right to continue back down to the parking lot (1.2 miles).

Taking Children

This hike is good for children, but a bit long. For younger children, skip the loop and head directly West for a short 1.5 mile hike to the Falls.