LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Coosauk Fall
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainTrail Length
0.1 miles
About Coosauk Fall
Coosauk Fall is a tucked-away cascade nestled within the White Mountain National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Framed by lush northern hardwoods, the falls make for a peaceful half-day outing away from busier viewpoints — popular with hikers and photographers looking for a quiet woodland setting. The recommended route includes a short USFS spur (SCAR "LOOP" SPUR A, Trail #31449A) that brings you close to the water and the surrounding rock outcrops. Most visitors reach Coosauk Fall via a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the final approach is a very short 0.12-mile native-surface spur (the USFS #31449A) from the main trail. If you’re making a weekend of it, Barnes Field Campground sits about 4.92 km away and provides convenient nearby camping in the same National Forest.
The Setting
Coosauk Fall sits at 1,644 feet within White Mountain National Forest, fed by the Peabody River, in the hills of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Scar "Loop" Spur A (#31449A), a 0.1-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
SCAR "LOOP" SPUR A #31449A
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.12 miTrail Description
Trail type: out-and-back, total length 2.4 miles, elevation gain ~350 ft, difficulty: moderate. The official USFS spur to the falls is SCAR "LOOP" SPUR A (Trail #31449A), a very short 0.12‑mile segment with a native material surface. Typical grade on the spur is about 10–12% and it’s rated Class 3; expect uneven, natural footing and some short, moderately steep sections. The longer route to reach the spur follows maintained forest trails through White Mountain National Forest; wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for native trail conditions on the final approach.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful waterfall surrounded by forested scenery. The area may be less crowded due to its relative obscurity.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Coosauk Fall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Coosauk Fall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is likely to have the most water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with White Mountain National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked and uneven. Visitors should exercise caution, especially in wet or icy conditions. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
24 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 13 years of record
1.92 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Peabody River at Gorham, New Hampshire (8 km away).
Today
Moderate
26 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
20 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
34 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
33 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
31 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid June, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Berlin hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 119 feet of drop through Coosauk Fall, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,638 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 91 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 93 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,638 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 119 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Coosauk Fall is not widely documented. Visitors may need to consult local maps or guides for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,644 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.362840° N, -71.270631° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Top Notch Inn
Town & Country Inn & Resort
The Glen House
Mount Jefferson View
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
BARNES FIELD CAMPGROUND
3.1 miles away · 11 sites
Overview Located 6 miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire, at the base of New England's tallest peak, the historic Barnes Field Campground provides a scenic and private space for organizations, families and others to gather. The campground is one of a few in the area that remains open in winter, providing first-come, first-served winter camping for individuals or groups. It is adjacent to Dolly Copp Campground. Lush forests, spectacular mountain views and convenience to outdoor recreation and sceni
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Explore other natural attractions in New Hampshire, such as Franconia Notch State Park or the White Mountains.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical New Hampshire wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Coosauk Fall
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