Welton Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Welton Falls
Welton Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the woods of Cardigan Mountain State Forest in New Hampshire. The falls tumble through a series of drops into a scenic gorge, surrounded by lush forest that makes the site a favorite for hikers and photographers looking for a tranquil, close-to-nature outing. The route to the falls is approachable enough to be a half-day outing and rewards visitors with a classic New England waterfall setting. Access is via the Manning Trail from the AMC Cardigan Lodge, and the hike is an out-and-back that covers a modest distance with steady elevation. Managed within the Cardigan Mountain State Forest, the area feels wild but is served by a clearly marked trail, making it a great choice for hikers seeking a moderate, scenic excursion without a long commitment.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Welton Falls begins at the AMC Cardigan Lodge and follows the Manning Trail. This out-and-back route is 2.5 miles in length with approximately 400 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The tread is primarily natural with rocky sections and some uneven footing; the grade is moderate and the trail is well marked. Expect slippery conditions on rocks and near the falls after rain or during spring thaw; trail class information beyond this description was not provided in the available data.
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 Welton Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Welton Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Welton Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen falls, though the trail may be more challenging.
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 after rain or snow. Visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the gorge. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Cockermouth River, 3.6 miles away, not on Welton Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 18 years of record
1.30 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 COCKERMOUTH RIVER BELOW HARDY BROOK, AT GROTON, NH (6 km away).
Today
Low
6 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
6 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
8 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Best window: Mon — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early 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 Franklin hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Welton Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Welton Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 48°F to 37°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 5 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 100 feet of drop through Welton Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,023 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 89 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 92 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast 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
- 1,023 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 100 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Welton Falls is located near the town of Alexandria, New Hampshire. The trailhead can be accessed via the AMC Cardigan Lodge, which serves as a starting point for several trails in the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the AMC Cardigan Lodge. Visitors should check for any parking fees or restrictions before arriving.
Elevation
1,024 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.652851° N, -71.850081° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak seasons. Bring sturdy footwear, as the trail can be rocky and uneven. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail may be slippery after rain or snow.
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With 2.5 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
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Plymouth White Mountains
The Lakeview Inn & Cottages
Newfound Lake Studio: BBQ, Fire Pit & Beach Access
Baker Rocks
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.
Nearby Campground
CAMPTON CAMPGROUND
18.9 miles away · 91 sites
Overview Campton Campground is a large and accommodating facility near the southern edge of White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. With many kid-friendly activities nearby such as hiking and nature programs, the campground is especially popular with families. It is convenient to U.S. Highway 93, which travels through the middle of the state, and is just two hours from Boston. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the North
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Mount Cardigan, AMC Cardigan Lodge, and other hiking trails in the Cardigan Mountain State Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Welton Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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