Flume Gorge is one of those places that feels like it shouldn't exist—an 800-foot chasm with granite walls rising 70-90 feet on either side, a stream rushing through the bottom, and boardwalks that let you walk right through the heart of it. Discovered in 1808 by a local woman searching for trout, it's been drawing visitors ever since.
This isn't wilderness hiking—it's a developed attraction within Franconia Notch State Park, with a visitor center, admission fee, and well-maintained paths. But don't let that deter you. The gorge itself is a genuine natural wonder, and the 2-mile loop delivers waterfalls, covered bridges, and mountain views alongside the main attraction.
The Flume Gorge Experience
Trail Details
- Distance: 2.0-mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Time: 1.5-2 hours
The loop begins at the visitor center and can be walked in either direction (most people go counterclockwise). You'll follow a series of boardwalks, bridges, and trails through the forest before entering the gorge itself.
Inside the gorge, the boardwalk hugs the walls above Flume Brook, passing moss-covered rocks, ferns, and the rushing water below. It's a sensory experience—the sound of the water, the cool air, the sheer scale of the granite walls.
The trail continues past Avalanche Falls (a 45-foot cascade), through a covered bridge, and past several viewpoints before returning to the visitor center.
Highlights Along the Loop
- The Gorge: The main attraction—800 feet of towering granite walls with boardwalks through the middle
- Avalanche Falls: A beautiful 45-foot waterfall where a side stream drops into the gorge
- Covered Bridges: Two picturesque covered bridges on the trail
- The Pool: A deep glacial pothole where the river churns 40 feet below
- Sentinel Pine Bridge: A 200-year-old pine tree forms a natural bridge
- Liberty Gorge: A smaller but equally dramatic section
Planning Your Visit
Tickets and Admission
Flume Gorge is a paid attraction:
- Adults: $18
- Children (6-12): $16
- Children under 6: Free
- NH residents receive a discount with proof of residency
Tickets can be purchased at the visitor center or online in advance (recommended during peak season).
Hours
Typically open mid-May through late October:
- May-June: 9 AM - 5 PM
- July-August: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
- September-October: 9 AM - 5 PM
Hours vary; check the state park website before visiting.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (May-June): Best waterfall flow; can be muddy; fewer crowds
- Summer: Most accessible; expect crowds, especially on weekends
- Fall: Spectacular foliage; peak weekends are very busy
Tips for Your Visit
Avoiding Crowds
- Arrive when the park opens
- Visit on weekdays if possible
- Consider shoulder season (late May, early October)
What to Bring
- Sturdy footwear (stairs, boardwalks, some rocky sections)
- Water
- Camera (photos are fantastic here)
- Rain jacket (the gorge can be damp)
Accessibility
The full loop includes stairs and uneven surfaces. A shorter wheelchair-accessible path leads to viewpoints of the covered bridge and some forest scenery, but the gorge itself requires navigating stairs.
Nearby Attractions
Flume Gorge is one of several attractions in Franconia Notch State Park:
- Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
- Echo Lake Beach
- Basin (glacial pothole)
- Hiking trails to nearby peaks
Quick Reference
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Trail Distance | 2.0 miles |
| Elevation Gain | 500 feet |
| Time | 1.5-2 hours |
| Adult Admission | $18 |
| Season | Mid-May to late October |
Flume Gorge is a rare thing: a natural wonder that's genuinely accessible to almost everyone. Yes, it's developed and touristy, but the gorge itself is spectacular—a place where you walk through the heart of the mountain and emerge with a real sense of geological wonder. It's a perfect complement to more strenuous hikes in Franconia Notch.
