LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Hitchcock Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainTrail Length
0.1 miles
About Hitchcock Falls
Hitchcock Falls is a quiet, scenic cascade tucked into the forested hills of the White Mountain National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls sit in a leafy, peaceful setting that rewards a short walk from the main approach — an ideal stop for hikers who enjoy a bit of solitude and the sound of tumbling water without a long backcountry commitment. The U.S. Forest Service maintains a short spur — SCAR "LOOP" SPUR A (Trail #31449A) — that provides the final access to the cascade; for campers, Barnes Field Campground is nearby about 4.78 km away. Check current White Mountain National Forest conditions before you go, and plan for a native-surface tread and moderate grades on the approach.
The Setting
Hitchcock Falls sits at 1,837 feet within White Mountain National Forest, 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
Primary access includes USFS SCAR "LOOP" SPUR A (Trail #31449A), a short 0.12-mile spur (GIS miles) to the falls. Trail class: 3. Surface: native material (natural tread). Typical grade on the spur: 10–12%. Expect an uneven, natural tread and moderate grades on the approach; the route is managed within White Mountain National Forest by the U.S. Forest Service. Barnes Field Campground is the nearest overnight option at about 4.78 km away.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural environment with a small waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in New Hampshire.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hitchcock Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hitchcock 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 higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
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
Trail conditions may be uneven or slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting during severe weather.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Peabody River, 5.2 miles away, not on Hitchcock Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
46 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
2.22 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 Peabody River at Gorham, New Hampshire (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
47 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
40 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
42 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
41 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
55 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 105 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,817 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 130 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 77 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
- 1,817 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 105 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
Hitchcock Falls is located in New Hampshire, but specific directions to the site are not widely documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local maps or guides for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Hitchcock Falls is unclear. Visitors should plan ahead and check for nearby parking options or trailheads.
Elevation
1,837 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.359784° N, -71.271187° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially uneven or unmarked trails. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
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 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
Other natural attractions in New Hampshire, such as Franconia Notch State Park and the White Mountains, are worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may host typical New Hampshire wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Hitchcock Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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