Flume Gorge Visitor Center

Overview

Also called the Gilman Visitor Center, this is your launch point for the Flume Gorge experience. Inside you’ll find clean restrooms, an info desk, exhibits on the area’s geology and history, a gift shop, and a small cafeteria. It’s free to enter the building, but you’ll need a ticket for the gorge walk.

What You’ll Find Here

• Tickets and check‑in for the timed‑entry Flume Gorge walk.
• Restrooms, water refill, exhibits, gift shop, and a simple food court (typically daytime hours).
• Direct access to the 2‑mile self‑guided loop that features Table Rock, Avalanche Falls, Liberty Gorge, the Flume Covered Bridge, the Pool and Sentinel Pine Bridge, glacial boulders, and the kid‑favorite Wolf Den.

Hours, Season & Fees (2025)

• Flume Trail: May 9–Oct 13, 9 am–5 pm (last entry 5 pm); Oct 14–Oct 26, 9 am–4 pm (last entry 4 pm).
• Visitor Center: May 9–Oct 26, 9 am–5 pm.
• Tickets: Adults 13+ $18 online ($21 at window); Kids 6–12 $16 online ($19 at window); ages 5 & under free. Booking online saves $3 and secures your arrival window.

How It Works

Reserve a specific arrival window online; walk‑up availability isn’t guaranteed and popular slots sell out. Check in at the Visitor Center, then follow the signed path to the start of the boardwalks and stairs. Surfaces can be wet near the falls—wear shoes with traction. Note: the short “Rim Path” is closed, so plan on the full loop.

Food & Services

The on‑site food court keeps it simple—think quick snacks and drinks during the day (typical hours around 10 am–4 pm, subject to change). Gift shop stock is solid for souvenirs and last‑minute layers.

Best Time to Visit

If you want elbow room, be at the doors at 9 am or book a late‑afternoon slot after 3 pm. Midday, especially Fridays through Sundays and peak foliage, is the crunch time (11 am–2 pm is busiest). Weekdays are calmer than weekends.

Seasonal/Off‑Season Notes

After the operating season, the boardwalks in the gorge are removed, the gorge is closed to hikers, and the park is typically unstaffed—comfort stations aren’t available and gates may be closed. Plan accordingly.

Wildlife

Around the center and along the loop you’re likely to see songbirds and chipmunks. Keep food secured and enjoy wildlife from a distance.

Rules Worth Knowing

Pets aren’t allowed on the Flume Gorge walk (dog‑walk areas exist in the parking lots). Drones can’t take off or land within state park boundaries.