Wildcat Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Loop
About Wildcat Falls
Wildcat Falls tumbles in a series of scenic cascades along the Souhegan River in Merrimack, New Hampshire, set amid a quiet, forested stretch that makes it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. The waterfalls offer close-up views of tumbling water over rocky ledges and are especially pleasant during spring runoff and autumn foliage season. The falls are reached via a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike that climbs roughly 350 feet and is rated moderate in difficulty. The well-maintained route follows the river through woods and includes a short spur to the best viewpoints; hikers should expect a few steeper sections and plan for sturdy footwear. The trail’s moderate length and rewarding water views make it a popular day hike for visitors seeking a taste of New Hampshire’s riverside scenery.
The Setting
Wildcat Falls sits at 141 feet along the Souhegan River, in the coastal lowlands of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The route is a well-maintained natural footpath that runs along the Souhegan River and leads to a short spur for direct views of Wildcat Falls. The tread is primarily a wooded hiking path with steady but manageable climbs; no technical climbing is required, though there are a few steeper sections that contribute to the moderate rating. Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness—bring proper footwear and water.
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 Wildcat Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Wildcat Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit, as the falls are most impressive during the snowmelt. Summer and fall are also great for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions, as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
40 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
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 SOUHEGAN RIVER AT MERRIMACK, NH (0 km away).
Today
Moderate
47 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
50 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
52 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
52 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
52 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
50 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
52 cfs
8/10Best window: Wed — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February 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 East Merrimack 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 38 feet through Wildcat Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 131 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 61 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 67 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northwest, the falls 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
- 131 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 38 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Wildcat Falls is located in Merrimack, New Hampshire, and can be accessed via the Wildcat Falls Conservation Area. The trailhead is located off Currier Road, with clear signage leading to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking lot available at the trailhead on Currier Road. Parking is free, but spaces may be limited during peak times.
Hours
Elevation
141 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.855364° N, -71.503679° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or holidays to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes, as some sections of the trail may be muddy or uneven. Bring bug spray during the summer months.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Manchester Bedford
Homewood Suites by Hilton Manchester/Airport
Best Western PLUS Executive Court Inn & Conference Center
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
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
24.5 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 Horse Hill Nature Preserve and Wasserman Park, both offering additional hiking and outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of birds, small mammals, and occasional deer sightings. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Wildcat Falls
Other waterfalls named Wildcat Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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