Historic Flume Trail
Walk through a majestic granite gorge, marvel at Avalanche Falls, and explore unique natural tunnels on this iconic New Hampshire trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open season for exploration
Historic Flume Trail
Best Time
Open season for exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through a majestic granite gorge, marvel at Avalanche Falls, and explore unique natural tunnels on this iconic New Hampshire trail.
"You need to add this to your Family Adventure List! "
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save $3/ticket by booking online ahead of time! Essential for securing entry.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Loose gravel and some steep sections mean good footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flume Gorge
Franconia Notch State Park
Walk through a natural gorge with towering granite walls and cascading waterfalls. A truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Avalanche Falls
Within Flume Gorge
Witness the powerful beauty of Avalanche Falls as it plunges into the gorge. A highlight of the Flume experience.
The Tunnels
Along the Flume Trail
Experience unique natural tunnels carved into the rock, offering a different perspective of the gorge's geology.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online for Savings
Prepare for Moderate Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save $3/ticket by booking online ahead of time! Essential for securing entry.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Loose gravel and some steep sections mean good footwear is a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water as you hike the trails.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the stunning gorge and falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save $3/ticket by booking online ahead of time! Essential for securing entry.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Loose gravel and some steep sections mean good footwear is a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water as you hike the trails.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the stunning gorge and falls.
🐶 Pet Policy Check
Check current pet policies; some trails may have restrictions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of the Flume Gorge, particularly Avalanche Falls and the unique rock tunnels. The well-maintained trails offer a moderate and enjoyable hiking experience. Some find the terrain more challenging than expected, with loose gravel and steep sections, and recommend sturdy footwear.
"Flume Trail, Calumet trail, Centennial 89 trail Spring Creek trail--- I like to call it the Sheridan Lake trail.
A short (just over a mile one way) out-and-back and very straight trail that runs parallel to Sheridan lake with some stunning views.
When you get to the end the Centennial Trail continues to the left along the lake and the Flume Trail goes up and the Spring Creek trail continues straight to the trailhead parking lot."
Jeffrey Cutler
"Love this hike! It says easy, I would say moderate, there are spots with really loose gravel and steep drops. Stay hydrated and be prepared to cross small wooden bridges over the creek, and if you get scared in small spaces, like my Lab/Shepherd dog apparently is, there are trails that avoid the tunnels. Happy hiking! There are 3 mile, and I think 9 mile trails. Beautiful!!"
Jessica Carter
"We thoroughly enjoyed our out and back 3.5 mile hike on Centennial Trail 89. A wide, mostly flat trail which followed the lake for a couple miles, then crossed a dam and meandered through the woods. The dogs got to swim in the lake too!"
Lori Cope
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Historic Flume Trail is located in Franconia Notch State Park, NH, at 852 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH. It's accessible by car, and parking is available at the visitor center.
Public transport options are limited in Franconia Notch. Driving is the most common way to reach the Flume Trail.
The park is well-signed. Once at the Flume Visitor Center, you'll follow marked paths to the gorge entrance.
Typically, a shuttle operates from the main parking area to the Flume Gorge entrance, making the walk easier.
While possible, it's a significant distance. Driving to the designated parking area is highly recommended for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply. Booking tickets online in advance can save you about $3 per ticket compared to purchasing on-site.
The Flume Gorge is typically open from mid-May to mid-October. Hours vary by date, with last entries usually an hour before closing. Check the official website for exact times.
It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance to save money and guarantee your entry time, especially during peak season.
Yes, booking online offers a discount. Check for potential group rates or special offers on the official park website.
No, there are specific operating hours and last entry times. It's crucial to check these and book your ticket for an available slot.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main loop through the Flume Gorge is about 2 miles long, offering a moderate and scenic experience.
The trail is generally considered moderate. It involves stairs, wooden bridges, and some sections with loose gravel and steep drops.
Restrooms are available at the Flume Visitor Center and at various points within the park.
Pet policies can vary. It's best to check the official park website for the most current information regarding dogs on the trails.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots due to uneven terrain. Layers are recommended as weather can change.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a photo opportunity! Key spots include the base of Avalanche Falls, the wooden bridges, and the natural tunnels.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience.
Tripod usage might be restricted in certain areas to ensure smooth visitor flow. Check park regulations if planning extensive photography.
Avoid using flash photography near wildlife if encountered, and always respect signage regarding restricted areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Book your tickets online in advance to save money and ensure entry.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Solo traveler tip: Consider visiting on a weekday morning to enjoy the tranquility of the gorge with fewer people around.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Flume Gorge Experience
Beyond the main gorge, the trail leads through natural tunnels carved into the rock, providing a sense of adventure and a different perspective. While the main loop is around 2 miles, the terrain can be moderate with stairs and uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is essential.
It's important to note that the Flume Gorge is a seasonal attraction, typically open from May to October. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry and potentially save money.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
Be prepared for stairs and sections with loose gravel, which can make the footing challenging for some. Redditors have noted that while it's manageable for most, it's not a stroll in the park. If you have mobility concerns or are afraid of confined spaces, there are alternative trails that bypass the narrower sections or tunnels.
Comfortable, sturdy footwear is non-negotiable. Hiking boots or supportive walking shoes are ideal. Bringing water is also a good idea, especially during warmer months, as you'll be actively hiking.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit