Pinkham's Grant, New Hampshire

Nestled in Pinkham's Grant, New Hampshire, within the White Mountain National Forest, Thompson Falls is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Location Added By:

Tom Riley (GoXplr Account)

About This Location

Nestled in Pinkham's Grant, New Hampshire, within the White Mountain National Forest, Thompson Falls is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This enchanting waterfall was a closely guarded secret for many years, its existence first recorded and named by the renowned landscape artist Benjamin Champney during the mid-19th century. It remained a scarcely explored wonder during the 20th century, shrouded in mystery until the creation of the Thompson Falls Trail in 2011. Prior to this trail's establishment, only a handful of intrepid adventurers had glimpsed the falls, venturing through the wilderness via bushwhacking.

Thompson Falls is a natural marvel, boasting a mesmerizing total drop of 150 feet, which gracefully descends in several sections, forming a picturesque blend of plunges and cascades. The focal point of this cascade is the lower falls, a breathtaking spectacle in itself, cascading from a height of 25 feet with a width of approximately 30 feet, its unique clamshell shape a rarity in the New Hampshire landscape.

Upstream from the lower falls, the trail leads to two distinct falls, each with its distinct charm. The middle falls, with a 30-foot drop, captivate with a mesmerizing blend of cascades, slides, horsetails, and plunges, although they pose a photography challenge. Further upstream, the upper falls, standing at 18 feet, flow into a captivating flume before cascading through the remainder. In the right lighting conditions, these falls can be an enchanting sight. Ultimately, these upstream drops and overlooked by visitors to the lower falls.

Thompson Falls draws its life from Thompson Brook which surges most powerfully during the spring. Its spring flow is driven by snowmelt and it can also be particularly impressive after significant rainstorms. While spring offers the most robust display of nature's forces, the waterfall remains a year-round attraction. The fall season, with its legendary foliage, provides a splendid backdrop for the falls, inviting visitors to experience its beauty in various seasons.

Accessing Thompson Falls is a relatively straightforward endeavor. A well-marked and meticulously maintained trail, adorned with informative plaques, guides visitors to the falls. Parking is conveniently available at the Wildcat Mountain Parking lot, just off Route 16, providing easy access to the trailhead. The waterfall trail is family-friendly and welcomes dogs, ensuring an enjoyable hiking experience for all.

Beyond its visual appeal, Thompson Falls has also earned recognition as a suitable swimming spot. The pool at the base of the main drop is expansive, deep, and typically clear. Depending on the year, it can serve as an ideal location to cool off during the summer months. However, it's essential to exercise caution when swimming at waterfalls, given the potentially slippery terrain and variable water depths.

Thompson Falls, with its captivating beauty and serene surroundings, promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New Hampshire's natural wonderland.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
542 NH-16, Pinkham's Grant, New Hampshire

GPS Coordinates:
44.266917, -71.231111
Directions to location:
Click here for location directions
Directions to parking area:
Click here for parking directions
Parking Notes:
The best parking lot for the waterfall is the Wildcat Mountain lot of NH-16. The parking area is extremely large. Parking is free.

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