Ammonoosuc Ravine Waterfalls

The trailhead and parking area are located on Base Station Road in Chandler’s Purchase, New Hampshire, while the cascades themselves are located in Sargent’s Purchase. Base Station Road, marked with a sign for the Cog Railway, branches off Route 302 about 4.4 miles east of Route 3.

A spacious parking lot can be found on the right side of the road after traveling approximately 5.5 miles uphill. This parking area serves as the starting point for the hike to the Ammonoosuc Ravine waterfalls.

Trail Overview

Although these waterfalls do not have an official name, the 100-foot cascades along the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail are among the most impressive natural attractions in New Hampshire. Located near the headwaters of the Ammonoosuc River, the falls display the dramatic beauty of a wild mountain stream flowing through a rugged landscape.

The hike also features several other scenic highlights, including the Gem Pool, a beautiful green-colored pool fed by a charming waterfall. For hikers interested in completing the entire Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail, the route continues toward Mount Washington.

Beginning the Hike Through the Forest

Starting from the far left side of the parking area, follow the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail as it begins with a gentle climb through a beautiful forest filled with ferns. After about 0.3 miles, the trail curves left and descends to cross Franklin Brook.

The path then turns back toward the right and continues its peaceful journey through thick, green woodland. After another 0.7 miles, a side trail leading to the Cog Railway Base Station appears on the left as the route approaches the Ammonoosuc River.

At this point, hikers are greeted by the sound and sight of rushing whitewater cascades. The trail continues alongside the river for much of the hike, offering numerous spots where visitors can step closer to the water and enjoy the remote wilderness atmosphere.

Following the River to Gem Pool

Along the river route, hikers will pass a memorial plaque dedicated to one of the many people who have lost their lives on Mount Washington. As the trail continues upstream, the hillside reveals glimpses of the waterfalls that mark the final destination.

The terrain gradually becomes more rugged, and after passing an open section of the river, the trail turns left to cross Monroe Brook about 0.7 miles after beginning the river walk.

Roughly 0.3 miles farther, the path crosses a log bridge above a steep drop toward the river before arriving at the Gem Pool. From this viewpoint, hikers can enjoy a nice view of the waterfall flowing into the pool, although finding the best viewing angle may be necessary to fully appreciate the pool’s distinctive green color.

The Final Climb to the Cascades

After crossing the river at the pool’s outlet, the trail becomes much steeper and rockier. Continue climbing the challenging path for another 0.2 miles until reaching an obvious but unsigned side trail on the right.

This short path leads down to a rocky overlook positioned high above another emerald-colored pool. Here, two impressive waterfalls cascade through narrow channels separated by a rock wall covered with rhodora flowers during the spring season.

The Beauty of the Twin Waterfalls

The southern waterfall is the larger and more dramatic of the two because it follows the main branch of the river. As it drops downward, the water divides into multiple streams, creating a beautiful fan-like pattern across the rocks.

The northern waterfall is smaller but equally fascinating. It flows diagonally along the rock face that separates the two falls, adding another layer of beauty to the scene.

The combination of rushing water, green pools, rugged cliffs, and surrounding forest makes these hidden cascades a remarkable destination. Many visitors find it difficult to leave such a peaceful and captivating natural setting.