Purgatory Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Purgatory Falls
Purgatory Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Lyndeborough and Mont Vernon, New Hampshire. It is part of the Purgatory Brook Trail system and features both an Upper and Lower Falls. The area is popular for hiking and offers picturesque views, especially after rainfall.
The Setting
Purgatory Falls sits at 594 feet within Purgatory Falls, fed by the Souhegan River (Site Wlr 1), in the foothills of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Purgatory Falls is a moderately challenging hike that takes visitors through a forested area along Purgatory Brook. The trail is well-marked but may have muddy or rocky sections, especially after rain. The Lower Falls are easier to access, while the Upper Falls require a longer hike.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Purgatory Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Purgatory Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfalls are most active due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially near the falls. Exercise caution on wet or uneven surfaces. Be aware of ticks and bring bug spray. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or snowmelt as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
59 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
3.50 ft
Water depth at gauge
58°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 58 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SOUHEGAN RIVER (SITE WLR-1) NEAR MILFORD, NH (5 km away).
Today
Roaring
64 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
60 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
76 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
91 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
104 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
96 cfs
9/10Sat
Roaring
84 cfs
9/10Best window: Wed — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late April, 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 New Boston 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 113 feet through Purgatory Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 604 feet.
The ground changes about 81 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 41 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 604 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 113 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Purgatory Falls can be accessed via the Purgatory Brook Trail. The trailhead is located off Purgatory Road in Lyndeborough, NH. Visitors should use GPS to locate the trailhead as signage may be limited.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead on Purgatory Road. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
Elevation
594 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.887307° N, -71.708129° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be rocky and muddy. Bring bug spray during the summer months. Visit after rainfall for the best waterfall flow. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
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With 4.5 miles and 400 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Nashua
Best Western PLUS Executive Court Inn & Conference Center
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Manchester Bedford
Blue Bear 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
Edward MacDowell Lake Day Use Facilities
14 miles away · 2 sites
Overview Edward MacDowell Lake is situated in a quiet corner of the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire. This day-use area lies just off State Route 101 on the shores of the picturesque lake named after the famous composer and concert pianist, Edward Alexander MacDowell. Recreation Visitors can spend days kayaking and canoeing on the scenic lake, and a boat ramp is provided for easy lake access. Fishing is also a popular activity. Largemouth bass, pickerel, perch and horned pout are all found in ab
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Pack Monadnock Mountain and the Andres Institute of Art.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Purgatory Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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