If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure in New England, New Hampshire’s Flume Gorge trail in Franconia Notch State Park is the perfect natural wonder to add to your New Hampshire trip. The Flume NH has a waterfall, granite walls, cave, and covered bridges that are the “wow” moments that kids will remember from your New England road trip.
The Flume Lincoln NH exit is near the western end of Kancamagus Highway. Combine these New Hampshire hikes for a perfect day exploring the beauty of the White Mountain of New Hampshire.
This post help you plan the perfect Flume visit including what to expect on the gorge trail, how to dress, what to take, best time to go, Flume Gorge visitor center information, and how to make the most of your time on the Flume trail. If you’re deciding whether Flume Gorge NH is right for your trip or want to know how to do it “right”, keep reading for the must-know details I wish I’d known before our family Flume Gorge trip.
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History of Flume Gorge
Flume Gorge was accidentally discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old “Aunt” Jess Guernsey while she was fishing. Imagine her surprise stumbling upon an 800-foot-long granite gorge with walls rising up to 90 feet high! The gorge was carved thousands of years ago by glaciers, and today it remains one of the most dramatic natural features in New England.
Kids especially love hearing about how giant boulders were once wedged inside the gorge, only to be washed away by a massive flood in 1883. This sudden rush of water also made the gorge deeper. It’s a living history lesson in geology and the power of nature – perfect for a homeschool trip!
Why is Flume Gorge Unique?
What makes Flume Gorge stand out is how close you can get to the natural features. The wooden walkways allow families to safely climb through narrow passageways that are otherwise inaccessible, walk directly beside waterfalls, and peer up at massive granite walls dripping with moss and ferns. With peaceful sections and loud, wet sections, Flume Gorge has something for every adventurer.
Looking to break up your New England road trip? Flume Gorge will get your butt out of the car, let the kids burn some energy, and let you check out one of the best of New Hampshire attractions. This isn’t just a New Hampshire hike — it’s an adventure playground built by nature itself.
Flame Gorge Location
Flume Gorge is located at the south end of Franconia Notch State Park, and an easy stop if you’re driving the Kancamagus Highway. In fact, pairing the Kancamagus with Flume Gorge makes the perfect New Hampshire road trip (just look at the photos here!): drive the scenic highway with its mountain overlooks, waterfalls, and hiking stops. Then, end your journey at Flume Gorge for a family-friendly adventure on foot.
~~~> If you have extra time in the area, plan to spend several hours driving the beautiful Kancamagus Highway across New Hampshire. Learn how to plan your day at “Kancamagus Highway: How to Spend a Day in New Hampshire’s Best.”
It’s also conveniently close to other popular New Hampshire destinations—about 20 minutes from Lincoln, 45 minutes from North Conway, and just over an hour from the Lakes Region. For families road-tripping through New England, Flume Gorge is a central highlight worth working into your itinerary.
Flame Gorge Trail Highlights
Here are the must-see sights your family will find along the Flume Gorge loop:
- Avalanche Falls – A 45-foot waterfall crashing at the top of the gorge; wet stairs to climb.
- Table Rock – Although you can’t slide down this expanse of smooth rock, the force of the water over time to smooth it out is impressive!
- Granite walls of Flume Gorge – Narrow passageway bordered with towering wet walls rising up to 90 feet, covered in moss and ferns
- Flume Covered Bridge – One of the oldest covered bridges in New Hampshire, built in 1886
- Bear Cave – A shallow, lit cave ready for even the most timid explorer. It isn’t very deep, so even your more timid explorers can conquer this cave.
- Wolf Den – More intense, favorite narrow passage to a cave; this one includes some tight places, squeezing between, and crawling on your hands and knees! This is a great Dad and kid adventure while mom waits nearby 🙂
- Glacial boulders – Giant rocks left behind by the movement of ancient glaciers. They’re too tall to climb but so impressive to imagine being moved only by ice!
- Scenic forest path – After the roar of Avalance Falls, the rest is a peaceful walk through the woods. Also, you can spread out more from the crowd if needed.
Flume Gorge FAQs: Know Before You Go
How long is the Flume Gorge trail?
The Flume Gorge trailhead starts at the left side of the parking lot. The Flume Gorge Trail is a circular two-miles long trail and takes 1.5–2 hours. Expect about 400 wooden steps in the gorge section, but sturdy boardwalks and handrails make it safe for families. Of note, while you can stay away from the light mist coming off the water, the boardwalk might be slippery. Wear some grippy hiking boots or hiking sandals; definitely don’t wear your flip flops!
Is Flume Gorge kid-friendly?
Yes! Most school-aged kids can handle the climb in Flume Gorge easily. As typical, they will probably be able to go up the stairs and the slight incline of the pea gravel trail with more energy than you. The Flume Gorge features will feel like a natural playground as they can look down into the gorge from the covered bridge and climb into the small cave. Not to mention, the towering gorge walls are very impressive.
Strollers aren’t allowed on the trail, so bring a carrier for younger children. Prepare yourself though, those steps with the extra weight of a toddler in a carrier might be brutal!
How difficult is the Flume Gorge trail?
Although there is a steep section in the gorge section, this is only a portion of your Flume Gorge visit. The rest of your visit will be through the forest. Older adventurers may even benefit from bringing their hiking sticks for the wet steps and to help on some of the steeper sections.
If you cannot do stairs, you should NOT hike this trail. The trail goes directly through the gorge.
Can I get lost on the Flume Trail?
As the Flume Trail follows a specific one-direction path and you receive a Flume Gorge trail map at the entrance, getting lost would be difficult. There are not other paths from outside that intersect the Flume Trail. You will enter the gorge at the ticket booths and exit through the visitor center.
It is one direction. However, we saw some people coming down the “wrong way”. If you have to turn around, it is possible.
What should we wear and bring?
Once you start the Flame Gorge, you will not be able to get back to your car as the trail is a big circle. Make sure you take everything with you. Dress in layers since the Flume Gorge weather and temp with fluctuate during the hike. Although many parts of the trail are in the shade, others are in the sun – expect a temperature variation. Although you might get some spray in the gorge from the waterfall, it isn’t enough that you will need a poncho or rain jacket.
- Light-weight back pack
- Sturdy, slip-grip walking shoes
- Water bottles – Make sure you fill up at the Flume Gorge Visitor Center (or buy a water bottle) as there is not a place to refill later.
- Light snacks – There are snacks at the Visitor Center if you want to grab before starting the trail.
- Rain jacket or sweatshirt. Dress in layers!
- Camera or phone for photos
- Hiking sticks – if you need extra help with the mild elevation or stairs; but not necessary!
How much are Flume Gorge tickets?
Tickets at Flume Gorge are $18 for adults, $16 for kids ages 6–12, and free for under 5. You can purchase online in advance during busy months to save time and money. This also guarantees you a reserved entrance time, and lets you avoid waiting in line for tickets. Additionally, with many Flume Gorge RSVPs online, you aren’t guaranteed that you will be able to get a ticket in person upon arrival.
Simply show your digital ticket at the kiosk to the side of the main building. You also save $3 per ticket if you buy online!
When is the best time to visit Flume Gorge?
The entrance to hike Flume Gorge is open from late May to late October. Although the visitor center is accessible from the parking lot, there is a specific entrance to the left of the Flume Gorge Visitor Center to get to the Flume Trail. If the park is closed, you will not be able to see the gorge at all as it is far behind the entrance.
- Best season: Late spring and early fall are less crowded, while Flume Gorge fall colors would be breathtaking with views across the mountains. The visitor center is closed in the winter.
- Best time of day: 9 a.m. at opening is quietest; afternoons are busiest.
- Make sure you book enough time. Even if the entrance closes while you’re on the trail, the visitor center will stay open long enough for a last bathroom break before getting back in the car.
- As the trail is one direction and the gorge stairs are narrow, crowds will greatly increase how long your hike will last. If it’s the summer, allow for three hours on the trail.
How many people visit Flume Gorge each year?
Flume Gorge welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually, with July and August being the most crowded months. Try to make an gorge reservation in the morning to limit the visitors in the gorge.
Can I bring my dog on the trail?
Sorry. No pets on the gorge trail. Those stairs aren’t safe for little paws!
Where do I park at Flume Gorge?
Flume Gorge parking lots are huge, free, and right at the entrance for the trail. If you’re on a road trip and don’t plan to even hike the trail, this is a great potty stop to get information, maps, New Hampshire souvenirs, and snacks!
What is at the Flume Gorge Visitor Center?
Start your hike inside the visitor center for a water fill up and potty break. This is also a great place to grab a quick snack at the Flume Gorge snack bar as well. Check out the small museum before the hike to learn some history. The visitor desk staff can answer all your questions about the trail as well as nearby destinations and travel questions. Super helpful people working here!
The end of the Flume Gorge trail ends at the rear entrance of the visitor center. If you’re hiking later in the afternoon, grab your souvenirs before starting as the gift shop may be closed on your return. Take this opportunity to refill the water and use the restroom before driving to your next New England destination.
What is near Flume Gorge?
For area information, make sure you ask at the visitor center where the helpful staff can supply you with maps for the gorge, but also highway and destination maps for nearby attractions. Flume Gorge sits inside Franconia Notch State Park.
Our family New Hampshire travel day started as we left Maine, enjoyed a morning driving the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, and ended with a Fume Gorge hike in late afternoon. Only a few minutes from the Kanc exit, it was a quick drive to the Flume Gorge for our family gorge hike.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Flume Gorge with kids is like stepping into a natural wonderland. With a hidden world of the waterfall in the gorge, caves, covered bridges, and towering granite walls, there’s something to keep every age engaged. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and family learning, making it a must-stop on any New Hampshire road trip.
Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.
I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places, experience amazing road trips across the United States, and create a homeschool life along the way.
Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat. Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.
Want to work with me? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.
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