Avalanche Falls

Overview

Avalanche Falls is the thundering finale of Flume Gorge—a 45‑foot plunge where Flume Brook roars out of the narrow chasm. It formed after a massive June 1883 storm that also swept away the gorge’s famed suspended boulder. Expect spray, mossy walls, and plenty of photo ops.

What You’ll See

The Flume is an 800‑foot natural chasm with Conway granite walls rising 70–90 feet and narrowing to just 12–20 feet apart. Boardwalks thread through the gorge, leading you to Avalanche Falls near the far end. You’ll first view the falls from below, then loop around to look down from above; there’s a covered rest area with seating above the cascade.

Route & How to Visit

Start at the Flume Gorge (Gilman) Visitor Center off I‑93 Exit 34A. Check in and follow the signed, one‑way 2‑mile loop (plan ~1.5 hours). It’s packed gravel, boardwalks, and lots of stairs with moderate uphill. Avalanche Falls sits just beyond the tightest boardwalk section—save a few minutes to linger.

Geology & History

The gorge slices through Jurassic‑age Conway granite cut by basalt dikes. The softer basalt eroded faster than the granite, helping carve today’s deep slot; glaciers later left debris and stripped weathered rock. After the Ice Age, frost and flowing water kept working the rock. The 1883 deluge both deepened the gorge and created Avalanche Falls—nature’s recent handiwork in a very old landscape. The Flume was first documented in 1808 by 93‑year‑old “Aunt” Jess Guernsey.

Services, Rules & Practicalities

Park in the large lots by the Visitor Center; restrooms, a food court, and a gift shop are on site, plus a picnic area nearby. Pets aren’t permitted on the Flume Gorge trail (including Avalanche Falls). Stay on the boardwalks—rocks are slick—and pack out your trash. Drones may not take off or land in New Hampshire State Parks.

Best Time to Visit

In 2025 the Flume operated May 9–Oct 26 (9:00 am–5:00 pm through Oct 13; 9:00 am–4:00 pm Oct 14–26). Reserve a timed entry—walk‑up spots aren’t guaranteed and online tickets save a few dollars. For fewer people and softer light, go early or in the last hour before final entry; late‑day laps can feel quieter. If you love sunbeams, midday light can reach the mossy walls on clear days. Off‑season, the boardwalk is removed and the gorge is closed to hiking.

Nature Notes

Look for lush ferns, mosses, and seasonal wildflowers thriving in the cool, damp microclimate. Scan the skyline across the notch—raptors like hawks and falcons are sometimes seen near the cliffs.