Rocky Gorge is a powerful narrow gorge where water is almost always rushing through, even during droughts. Carved by glaciers, you will find Rocky Gorge a breathtaking scenic area. Rocky Gorge offers a 10′ drop and rapids through the gorge.
Getting to Rocky Gorge is simple and accessible to those with disabilities.
From the parking lot, it is a short and easy walk along the Swift River that takes you over a over a foot bridge across the Swift River. You can stand directly above the gorge for viewing and photos. Be sure to read the interesting informational postings here about how Rocky Gorge was formed.
Be sure to continue on the path after viewing Rocky Gorge for yet an entirely different experience. Just up the trail from the footbridge is Falls pond. Falls Pond is a picturesque pond surrounded by the dense White Mountain National Forest. There is a nice viewing area there. This part of the path is not as well maintained at the time of the posting. Anyone with disabilities may have a hard time getting to this area.
Note: Swimming is not allowed at Rocky Gorge. Picnic area and bathrooms located near parking area.
Parking area GPS coordinates are: N44° 00.127 | W071° 16.656
(elevation – 1145′)
I am planning to come on oct 14-17,is it best time to see fall foilage?And also the mentioned 4 falls are along the highway or should we hike?
thank you
Yes, that time should be either peak foliage or just past peak. As far as water features that can be seen easily, these would include Rocky Gorge, Sabbaday Falls, and Lower Falls. Champney Falls does require a bit of a hike, approximately 2-1/2/ hours to the falls and back to the parking area.
We came to New England in late September and it was all incredibly beautiful. The Kancamagus Highway was the highlight for me. It was one gorgeous site after another. I wanted to sit on the rocks and delight in the sounds and sights. Even with cold and drizzly weather, it was hard to leave each stop and go to the next.
We have been going to Rocky Gorge/Lower Falls for several years now and I must comment on our trip there back in Early August. The bathrooms were utterly disgusting.
The amount of flies were unbelievable, and the smell was so bad. I am so glad I am not a parent who has to take their child in there to clean them up.