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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 awareyou 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 PondLost 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 carefulSquare
Ledge has steep drop-offs!
Return to White Mountain Hiking

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