Mileage: about 4 miles
Type: loop
Location of Trailhead: Arethusa Falls Road, Hart’s Location, NH – Trailhead parking is just off of U.S. 302 about a half mile south of Dry River Campground in Crawford Notch State Park.
Approximate Duration: 2-3 hours (make sure to allow time to stop and enjoy Arethusa Falls)
Highlights: Frankenstein Cliff, Frankenstein Trestle, Arethusa Falls
Suggested Maps: A free trail map of Crawford Notch State Park can be found at various locations throughout the park or downloaded online here. For more detailed mileage and topography we also recommend AMC White Mountains Map 1: Presidential Range or AMC White Mountains Map 2: Franconia – Pemigewasset

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This hike is a four mile loop in Crawford Notch State Park that includes a visit to Arethusa Falls and a climb to the top of the 2451 foot Frankenstein Cliff. I recommend hiking this loop counterclockwise because I prefer to visit the falls towards the end of the hike. This does, however, mean that you will begin the hike with a steep climb up Frankenstein Cliff. Parking is free at the trailhead and there are bathroom facilities available.

From the trailhead parking area, begin on the Frankenstein Cutoff which runs between U.S. 302 and the railroad tracks of the Conway Scenic Railroad.

At the end of the cutoff you will continue to the left on Frankenstein Cliff Trail, passing beneath the Frankenstein Trestle. The steel trestle was built in 1893 to replace a previous iron trestle.

You will gain over 1000 feet of elevation as you continue towards Frankenstein Cliff. Be sure to stop at the top to catch your breath and take in the gorgeous views of Crawford Notch.

Leaving the viewpoint on Frankenstein Cliff, hike about 1.5 miles to a short side trail leading to Arethusa Falls. At 200 feet, Arethusa Falls is the highest waterfall in the state of New Hampshire. The Falls is a popular destination and certainly a must-see landmark in Crawford Notch. Plan to spend some time here taking pictures and exploring the area around the falls.

When you are through viewing the falls, continue east on Arethusa Falls Trail. In just over one mile you will cross the railroad tracks and return to the parking area.

Alternative Hikes

Many hikers complete this loop in the opposite direction. By going clockwise you can visit the falls earlier in your hike and you will be headed downhill on the steepest sections of trail.
It is also common to visit Arethusa Falls as an out-and-back hike of less than three miles. The falls are located 1.4 from the trailhead on Arethusa Falls Trail.
While you are in the area be sure to also check out Ripley Falls. The trailhead for the quick out-and-back hike to this smaller waterfall is only about 2.5 miles down the road from the Arethusa Falls trailhead. You can read my post about the Ripley Falls hike by clicking here.