LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Dryad Falls
New Hampshire • 300 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Hard
Trail Length
4.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Dryad Falls
Dryad Falls sits tucked into the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where a series of multi-tiered drops tumble through mossy ledges and quiet northern hardwoods. The cascade plunges roughly 300 feet, creating a photogenic set of veils and plunge pools that feel pleasantly remote despite being a moderate day hike from nearby trailheads. The combination of layered falls and a forested setting makes it a rewarding destination for hikers looking for scenic solitude rather than a short roadside stop. Reaching the falls requires a bit of effort: the route is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. The path threads through classic White Mountains terrain—roots, rocks, and stretches of steeper grade—and often offers several small viewpoints as you approach the base of the falls. Plan for variable footing after rain and bring footwear suited for rocky, sometimes muddy tread.
The Setting
Dryad Falls sits at 1,644 feet along the Androscoggin River, in the hills of New Hampshire. At 300 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in New Hampshire.
Height: 300 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back; distance: 2.4 miles; elevation gain: ~350 ft; difficulty: moderate. The trail follows natural dirt-and-rock tread through forest, with several short steep sections and intermittent rocky or muddy stretches, especially after wet weather. Non-technical hiking—no special gear required beyond good boots and standard day-hiking supplies. Waterfall height: ~300 ft at the endpoint.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 300 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Dryad Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Dryad Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Dryad Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of the frozen falls, though the trail can be icy and hazardous.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous hike and changing weather conditions. The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or during winter. Carry a map or GPS device, as the area is remote and cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
1,100 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 106 years of record
2.76 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 Androscoggin River near Gorham, NH (9 km away).
Today
Moderate
1188 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1212 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
1132 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
1071 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
1175 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
1132 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
1088 cfs
8/10Best window: Wed — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early June, peaking in May.
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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 304 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. It lines up with the 300 feet the falls are usually credited with. Elevation at the pin is about 1,701 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 151 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 225 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southeast, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,701 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 304 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Dryad Falls is located near the town of Berlin, New Hampshire, within the White Mountain National Forest. The trailhead can be accessed via the North Road, and visitors typically use the Dryad Falls Trail to reach the waterfall.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead along North Road. Spaces may be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
1,644 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.442282° N, -71.077576° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail can be slippery after rain. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Where to Stay
Top Notch Inn
Town & Country Inn & Resort
White Mountains Getaway with amazing views!
The Glen House
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
HASTINGS CAMPGROUND
7.8 miles away · 25 sites
Overview Hastings Campground is located on Route 113 near the shore of Evans Brook in western Maine. It is situated in a rustic and remote part of White Mountain National Forest, not far from the towns of Gilead Me and Gorham, New Hampshire. Activities include fishing, hiking and mountain biking. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and i
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the White Mountain National Forest, Mount Washington, and the town of Gorham, which offers dining and lodging options.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and occasionally moose. Be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Dryad Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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