Flume Gorge: Enjoy Cascading Water in New Hampshire

Flume Gorge may be perpetually popular, but a few hours spent surrounded by cascading water, moss-covered cliffs, and mysterious caves will make you glad that you braved the crowds. Located in Franconia Notch State Park near Lincoln, New Hampshire, Flume Gorge offers easily accessible panoramic views.

Flume Gorge charges a moderate entry fee. It is best to book a reservation online at least a week in advance of your visit if you want to ensure that you are not turned away in the parking lot. Visiting early in the morning or in the late afternoon are tried and true ways to skirt large crowds. Flume Gorge features a two-mile trail that takes roughly an hour and a half to complete.

Visitors can begin their Flume Gorge journey by viewing a series of giant glacial boulders with spindly tree roots wrapped around them. Next up is a red covered bridge perched atop a rushing river. Nearby Boulder Cabin hosts exhibits about the history of Flume Gorge.

Once the flume—a narrow, naturally occurring slot canyon with water cascading through it—begins, you can expect waterfalls and pools galore. A wooden boardwalk allows visitors to safely explore a stunning 800-foot gorge with moss-encrusted walls. As you ascend the boardwalk, you can expect to feel cool mist on your face as water rushes by.

Avalanche Falls is widely considered to be the grand highlight of Flume Gorge. A wooden boardwalk towers over a tiered 45-foot waterfall. The cascading water is so close that you can virtually reach out and touch it—though leaning towards the waterfall is not recommended.

A small, dark cave labeled Bear Cave always attracts the attention of Flume Gorge hikers. No one is entirely sure if Bear Cave actually hosts a resident bear, but the snug cave is too small for human exploration. The interior of the cave is best left to the imagination.

If you’re feeling adventurous enough to explore a small cave, Wolf Den is a compact tunnel that requires a bit of crawling and squeezing. Those who are claustrophobic or adverse to getting dirt on their clothes should probably skip Wolf Den.

Flume Gorge is a lovely spot to enjoy surround sound rushing water, even if there is a good chance that you will be greeted by sizable crowds. Sometimes natural wonders are popular because they truly are breathtaking and worth seeing. Such is the case with Flume Gorge.

UnusualPlaces Field Notes

Location

Flume Gorge, Franconia Notch State Park, Lincoln, New Hampshire, USA

Coordinates

44.10013, -71.66965

Access

The 2026 ticketed season ended October 25; as of October 26 the gorge trail is closed. New Hampshire State Parks says the boardwalks are removed off-season, the gorge is closed to hikers, and gates may be closed. Do not enter the gorge during the seasonal closure. In season, reserve a dated arrival window online; the only route is the full two-mile loop with uphill walking and many stairs. Check the operator’s 2027 schedule before planning a visit.

Admission

The 2026 season rates were $18 online or $21 at the window for ages 13+, $16 online or $19 at the window for ages 6–12, and free for ages 5 and under; advance booking saved $3 per ticket. These are past-season rates and do not establish 2027 prices. Check the current booking page when next season opens.

Time needed

When the gorge is open, New Hampshire State Parks estimates about 1.5 hours for the self-guided two-mile loop. Allow extra time for stairs and stops. The trail is closed for the 2026 off-season as of October 26.

Best season

The ticketed gorge walk is seasonal. New Hampshire State Parks listed May 8–October 25 for 2026; the season has ended and the boardwalk is removed off-season. No 2027 opening date is posted in the current park schedule. Check weather and the official schedule before booking.

Opening hours

The Flume Visitor Center and gorge trail closed for the 2026 season after October 25. The last listed fall hours were 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. October 13–25. In the off-season the park may be unstaffed, gates may be closed, and the gorge itself is closed to hikers. Call the park at (603) 745-8391 to confirm current status.

Location checked

2026-10-20

Facts checked

2026-10-26

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