Arethusa Falls and Bemis Brook Trail

The trailhead for the Arethusa Falls and Bemis Brook Trail is conveniently located in Crawford Notch State Park, near a railroad track. Parking is available at the trailhead. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as this is a popular destination.

Yes, the trail is located within Crawford Notch State Park. There is typically an entrance fee required to access the park, which helps maintain the trails and facilities. Check the official New Hampshire State Parks website for current fee information and regulations before your visit.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Arethusa Falls and Bemis Brook Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Given the challenging sections, especially on the Bemis Brook portion, ensure your dog is capable of handling varied terrain, including steep, rocky, and root-filled areas.

This trail is popular year-round. Spring offers gushing waterfalls due to snowmelt, though trails can be wet and muddy, with residual snow at higher elevations even in May. Summer provides lush greenery. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, offering a different, often serene, experience, but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

The full loop, incorporating both the Arethusa Falls Trail and the Bemis Brook Trail, typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete, covering a distance of approximately 4.6 kilometers (2.8 miles). This duration can vary based on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the waterfalls.

The main Arethusa Falls Trail is generally considered moderate and more straightforward, making it suitable for beginners with some hiking experience. However, incorporating the Bemis Brook Trail significantly increases the difficulty. The Bemis Brook section is much narrower, with eroded parts, overgrowth, and challenging footing due to roots and rocks, including very steep sections that may require hand-over-hand climbing. Beginners should consider sticking to the main Arethusa Falls Trail for an easier experience.

The primary draw is Arethusa Falls, New Hampshire's tallest single-drop waterfall. The Bemis Brook section also features several smaller, picturesque cascades, including Coliseum Falls, Bemis Falls, and Fawn Pool. You'll also experience classic White Mountain scenery, and from the trailhead, you can see the towering Frankenstein Cliffs.

The terrain varies significantly. The main Arethusa Falls Trail is generally well-graded but includes uphill climbs and can be muddy in spots. The Bemis Brook Trail, however, is much more rugged, featuring narrow paths, eroded sections, overgrowth, and challenging footing with numerous tree roots and rocks. Expect very steep sections on Bemis Brook, potentially requiring careful navigation and even hand-over-hand climbing.

This route offers the option to create a diverse loop. You can hike the main Arethusa Falls Trail as an out-and-back, or combine it with the more challenging Bemis Brook Trail to form a loop that showcases multiple waterfalls before reaching Arethusa Falls. The loop is a popular choice for a varied experience.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Arethusa Falls Trail and the Bemis Brook Trail. It also intersects with sections of the Arethusa Falls Spur Trail and the Arethusa-Ripley Falls Trail. For a longer, more challenging adventure, you can extend your hike to include the Frankenstein Cliff Trail, which can offer additional scenic overlooks.

While the main Arethusa Falls plunges into a rocky pool, the smaller cascades along the Bemis Brook Trail, particularly Fawn Pool, are sometimes noted for offering opportunities for wading or a refreshing dip during warmer months. Always exercise caution when swimming in natural bodies of water.