LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Ellingwood Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Ellingwood Falls
Ellingwood Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked into New Hampshire’s Second College Grant. The falls sit on privately owned land (land owner: PVT) within the Second College Grant land unit and carry a designation of REA; the listed manager is unknown. Because it’s a lesser-visited spot, the setting feels peaceful and woodsy, offering a tranquil escape for hikers who enjoy streamside views away from busier state parks. The hike to the falls is an accessible half-day outing: the route is an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. There is no official USFS trail name or number documented for this access, and surface/management details are not published, so plan for changing footing, bring sturdy shoes, and respect the private land designation and any posted rules or seasonal restrictions.
The Setting
Ellingwood Falls sits at 1,427 feet within Second College Grant, fed by the Diamond River, in the foothills of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back route, approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. There is no documented USFS trail name/number or formal trail-class/surface data available for this approach, and the trail’s official grade and surface type have not been published. Hikers should expect variable footing on natural tread, prepare for typical woods conditions (roots, rocks, and occasional wet sections), and confirm access details before visiting since the falls are on privately owned land (Second College Grant, designation REA).
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a beautiful waterfall. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular destinations, offering a peaceful experience.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ellingwood Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ellingwood Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Trail conditions and hazards are not well-documented. Visitors should exercise caution, especially during wet or icy conditions. Always inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
17 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
1.56 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Diamond River near Wentworth Location, NH (6 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
18 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
19 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
20 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
20 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
22 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
20 cfs
5/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 Beecher Falls 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 33 feet through Ellingwood Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,437 feet.
The ground changes about 23 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 39 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls 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
- 1,437 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 33 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ellingwood Falls is located in New Hampshire, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for precise details.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should plan ahead and check for nearby parking options or trailhead facilities.
Elevation
1,427 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.873383° N, -71.128687° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring appropriate footwear and supplies, as trail conditions and amenities are not well-documented. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Ladd Pond Cabins and Campground, LLC
La Maison Bleue du Lac Wallace
Spa Nature Estrie
Deer Mountain Lodge & Wilderness Resort
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but visitors may explore other natural areas in New Hampshire.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical New Hampshire wildlife, including birds, small mammals, and forest species.
Nearby Waterfalls
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