Guide
Roadside waterfalls in New Hampshire
Last checked 2026-11-01 · How we check
These are the falls where the managing agency describes no hike, or only a short walkway from the lot. "Roadside" here means short, not necessarily level or accessible: we only call a site accessible when the agency says so.
At the parking lot
- Lower Falls on the Kancamagus Highway: the Forest Service lists no hike; the falls are at the recreation site. Open mid-May to mid-October.
- Beaver Brook Falls Wayside in Colebrook: a roadside view of the falls, always open unless posted.
A short walkway
- Rocky Gorge: a short paved walkway to a footbridge over the gorge. Swimming and jumping are prohibited.
- Sabbaday Falls: an easy 15-minute walk on a graded gravel trail (a little longer than roadside, but the closest thing to it).
Not on this list: Goodrich Falls, which is near a road but where we haven't confirmed public access.
Falls in this guide
Lower Falls (Swift River)Albany · White Mountains
Beaver Brook Falls (Colebrook)Colebrook · Great North Woods
Rocky GorgeAlbany · White Mountains
Sabbaday FallsWaterville Valley · White MountainsSafety
- Wet rock near waterfalls is very slippery, even when it looks dry. Stay back from edges and off the tops of falls.
- High water after rain or snowmelt makes crossings and pools dangerous. Turn back if a crossing looks deep or fast.
- Daylight is not a safety guarantee. Plan your time around the route, the weather and your group, and carry a light.
- Check the managing agency for closures and current conditions.
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