Packers Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Packers Falls
Packers Falls is a small but scenic waterfall located on the Lamprey River in Durham, New Hampshire. It is a popular spot for locals to enjoy the natural beauty of the river and surrounding forest.
The Setting
Packers Falls sits at 56 feet along the Lamprey River, in the coastal lowlands of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Packers Falls is very short and easy, leading directly from the roadside to the falls. The path may be uneven in places but is generally accessible for most visitors.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Packers Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Packers Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Rocks near the falls can be slippery, especially when wet. Exercise caution and supervise children closely.
Current Water Conditions
17 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
0.83 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge LAMPREY RIVER NEAR NEWMARKET, NH (0 km away).
Today
Roaring
19 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
18 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
19 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
19 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
18 cfs
9/10Sat
Roaring
20 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to mid 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 Dover 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 51 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 57 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 24 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 39 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 57 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 50 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
Packers Falls is located off Packers Falls Road in Durham, New Hampshire. The falls are accessible via a short walk from the roadside.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available near Packers Falls Road. Visitors should park carefully to avoid blocking traffic or private property.
Elevation
56 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.103419° N, -70.952003° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after heavy rains for the best water flow. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls, especially after rain.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express Durham-UNH by IHG
Garrison Hotel & Suites Dover-Portsmouth, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites Exeter
Best Western Hampshire Inn & Suites
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
The University of New Hampshire campus and other Lamprey River attractions are nearby.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species and small mammals. Visitors may also see fish in the river.
Cities near Packers Falls
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