Chesterfield Gorge

Description

Chesterfield Gorge is a beautiful waterfall located in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. The waterfall has a total height of over 120 feet and it can be found along Wilde Brook. Wilde Brook flows strongest during spring when the snow melts and after heavy rainstorms. Although it is best to explore the waterfall in the spring, Chesterfield Gorge is a great spot to visit year-round.

The waterfall itself drops in a unique formation consisting of horsetails, plunges, slides, and cascades. There are upper and lower waterfall sections. The upper falls consist of a 10-foot tall narrow horsetail. The lower falls are the prettiest as they consist of 75 feet of horsetails along with some plunges, slides, and cascades.

Accessing the waterfall is easy and simple. The waterfall is located in the Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area which features a well-marked and well-maintained trail system. Visitors can park along NH Route 9 at the paved parking lot for the gorge. The upper falls are just steps from the parking area and the lower falls can be seen after a 0.40-mile one-way hike. Getting to the base of the lower falls will require some athleticism as the hill is very steep and often slippery. That said, the falls can be enjoyed right from the trail too!

The waterfall trail is family-friendly and a great way to get some exercise in. Dogs are also allowed on the trail and through the entirety of the Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area. Don’t miss out on this true NH gem!

If you’re looking for more great waterfalls in New Hampshire to explore, check out goxplr.com/map/new-hampshire

Waterfall Specs

Height: 120-foot total drop with the tallest horsetail being 20 feet
Type: Horsetails, plunges, slides, and cascades
Water Source: Wilde Brook
Swimming: Not allowed