Zealand Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
650 ft
About Zealand Falls
Zealand Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It is part of the Zealand Trail and is a popular destination for hikers due to its scenic beauty and proximity to the Zealand Falls Hut, operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club.
The Setting
Zealand Falls sits at 2,480 feet within White Mountain National Forest, in the hills of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Zealand (#31015), a 5.6-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 650 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
ZEALAND #31015
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
2.54 miTrail Description
The trail to Zealand Falls follows the Zealand Trail, which is well-maintained and relatively flat for much of the way. The trail passes through beautiful forested areas, wetlands, and offers views of the surrounding mountains. The final section near the falls involves a moderate incline.
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 Zealand Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Zealand Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when Zealand Road is open, and the trail is easily accessible. Fall offers stunning foliage, while spring and summer provide lush greenery and flowing water.
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
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the White Mountains. Carry a map, water, and appropriate gear. In winter, use caution as the trail may be icy or snow-covered.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Ammonoosuc River, 8.5 miles away, not on Zealand Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
91 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 87 years of record
1.63 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 AMMONOOSUC RIVER AT BETHLEHEM JUNCTION, NH (14 km away).
Today
Strong
91 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
93 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
93 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
91 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
94 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
91 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
90 cfs
10/10Best window: Tue — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid June, peaking in May.
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 North Woodstock hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Zealand Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately 2 more freezing days forecast
Zealand Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 42°F to 32°F. 2 freezing days are forecast, so ice may start to form.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 2 of the next 7
- Flow
- 92 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 85 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,479 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 143 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 23 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,479 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 85 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
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
Zealand Falls is accessed via the Zealand Trail, which begins at the Zealand Trailhead off Zealand Road. Zealand Road is typically open from late spring to late fall, but it may be closed in winter, requiring additional hiking from the winter parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Zealand Trailhead. A White Mountain National Forest parking pass or day-use fee is required.
Elevation
2,480 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.198399° N, -71.489523° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Bring bug spray in the summer as the wetlands can attract mosquitoes. In winter, be prepared for additional hiking if Zealand Road is closed. Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be muddy in spring or after rain.
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With 5.6 miles and 650 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
Profile Deluxe Motel
Allegory Inn
Inn 32
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Lincoln East - White Mountains by IHG
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
RADEKE CABIN
15.2 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Radeke Cabin once served as a summer camp for School of Forestry students at the University of New Hampshire until the mid 1960s. It was purchased by the Forest Service in 1969. The cabin is just off the Kancamagus Scenic Byway and easily accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to bring most of the gear and supplies needed to make their stay comfortable. Radeke Cabin offers an ideal year-round getaway for families or small groups.Recreation A trailhead for the UNH Trail is locat
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Zealand Falls Hut, the Zealand Trail, and the Appalachian Trail. The area also offers access to other hiking trails in the White Mountains.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, moose, and small mammals. Be cautious and respectful of wildlife during your visit.
Cities near Zealand Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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