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PARKS
White Mountain National Forest -
Pinkham Notch

These short hikes, suitable for families and beginning hikers, are all located near Rte. 16 in Pinkham Notch, approximately 10 miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire. The distances and times listed are one way.

Waterfalls

Glen Ellis Falls: (0.3 mi. - 20 min.) Park in the Glen Ellis Falls parking area on the west side of Rte. 16. Go through the tunnel under Rte. 16 and down the stone walkway and stairs constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. After passing several overlooks, you will reach the falls, which drop 66 feet. Please be aware—you will climb down more than 150 rock hewn steps on your way to the falls. Crystal Cascade: (0.4 mi. - 20 min.) This easy hike for families with young children leads to a beautiful volcanic vent. Park at the AMC's Pinkham Notch Visitor Center parking area. Follow the Tuckerman Ravine Trail (which leaves from behind the Visitor Center) until you see steps on your right leading to the overlook for Crystal Cascade.

Thompson Falls: (0.8 mi. - 1/2 hr.) Starting at the Wildcat Ski Area parking lot, cross the bridge on the left side of the building. Turn left and follow the self-guided nature trail to the Service Road. After crossing the road, walk along the side of Thompson Brook to the falls; this series of cascades will be on your left.

A Hidden Woodland Pond

Lost Pond: (1 mi. - 1/2 hr.) This short walk takes you past beaver ponds along a mountain stream and through the forest. Park at the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center lot. Cross Rte. 16 and look for the sign for the Lost Pond Trail. After crossing a small bridge near the beaver pond, the trail curves to the right. As you climb uphill, take a short break to admire Mt. Washington across the road. Continue until you see the pond on your right.

Great Views

Square Ledge: (1/2 mi. - 1/2 hr.) If you stand in the AMC's Pinkham Notch Visitor Center parking lot, look across Rte. 16 and slightly to your left. The large rocky outcropping you see is Square Ledge. Starting on the Lost Pond Trail, just after you cross the bridge look for the sign to Square Ledge. Follow the Square Ledge Trail as it gradually climbs to the base of the ledge. After climbing steeply for a short distance along the right side of the ledge, turn to your left and continue along the back of the ledge. When you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with excellent views of Mt. Washington and Pinkham Notch. Be careful—Square Ledge has steep drop-offs!

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[from Outside magazine]