Garvin Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
About Garvin Falls
Garvin Falls, set on the Merrimack River in Concord, New Hampshire, is a pleasing cascade that tumbles over a series of ledges and offers a scenic roadside glimpse into the river’s flow. The falls are adjacent to hydroelectric infrastructure, so water levels and the intensity of the cascades can vary with dam operations — a factor that makes visits at different times of day or year noticeably different. The site’s compact, accessible character makes it an attractive short stop for photographers and locals seeking a quick nature break.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Access to Garvin Falls is typically along informal paths and roadside approaches rather than a developed, signed trail. There is no USFS trail name or number associated with this access, so visitors should exercise caution, stay on visible paths where present, and verify land access and any local restrictions before visiting.
What to Expect
Garvin Falls offers a scenic view of cascading water, but the area is not developed for recreational use. The falls are part of a hydroelectric system, so water levels and flow may vary. Visitors should expect a natural setting with limited amenities.
Accessibility
The site is not developed for accessibility, and terrain may be uneven or challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Garvin Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Garvin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the water and respect any signs or barriers related to the hydroelectric facility. Rocks may be slippery, and water levels can change suddenly.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Piscataquog River, 9.1 miles away, not on Garvin Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
22 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 27 years of record
4.93 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 PISCATAQUOG RIVER BL EVERETT DAM, NR E WEARE, NH (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
22 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
28 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
28 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
25 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
22 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
18 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late May, 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 Suncook hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Garvin Falls Frozen?
Updated about 10 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Garvin Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 54°F to 43°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 21 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in New Hampshire.
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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 33 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 219 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 0 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 29 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 219 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 33 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Garvin Falls is located near Garvins Falls Road in Concord, NH. Access to the falls may be limited as the area is near private property and part of a hydroelectric facility. Visitors should research access points and respect any posted signs.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking options are limited and may not be officially designated. Visitors should park responsibly along nearby roads without blocking driveways or access points.
Elevation
213 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.165915° N, -71.509515° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check local regulations and property boundaries before visiting. Wear sturdy footwear if exploring the area, and be cautious near the water as rocks may be slippery.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn by Hilton Concord/Bow
Comfort Inn Concord South End
Tru By Hilton Concord, Nh
Lake Shore Farm Inn
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
ELM BROOK PARK REC AREA
11.1 miles away · 4 sites
Overview Elm Brook Park is a day-use area located on Elm Brook Pool just off State Route 127 near Concord, New Hampshire. Elm Brook Pool is part of Hopkinton-Everett Lakes, where visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including boating, swimming, hiking and fishing. Please note that pets are not allowed in Elm Brook Park from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.Recreation Elm Brook Park offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Many enjoy canoeing and
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Concord, NH offers other outdoor attractions, including trails and parks along the Merrimack River.
Wildlife
The area around the falls may feature local wildlife such as birds and small mammals.
Cities near Garvin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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