5 Best Natural Wonders To Visit In New Hampshire This Year

The state of New Hampshire is home to an expanse of rugged and wild terrain spread throughout, making it a hotspot for wonderful natural landmarks in New England. From towering waterfalls to dramatic gorges and surprisingly tall alpine summits, this state offers landscapes that boldly show off both its geological history and seasonal beauty in many amazing ways. The destinations we will be discussing below are not only visually impressive but also offer numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing, and other forms of outdoor exploration throughout the year.

Whether you're here during the spring runoff, the area's sun-soaked summers, the peak of autumn, or the dead of winter, New Hampshire’s diverse natural wonders remain essential for travelers seeking memorable things to see and do in the great outdoors this year.

Mount Washington

Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States at 6,288 feet, is an obvious and defining natural landmark of New Hampshire. Known for its extreme and unpredictable weather, the mountain has long been a site of scientific study and outdoor adventure, recording one of the fastest wind speeds ever in 1934 at a whopping 231 miles per hour!

Today, you have options to get to the summit, as you ascend by hiking the challenging Tuckerman Ravine Trail, driving the Mount Washington Auto Road, or riding the historic Cog Railway, which has been operating since 1869. From the summit, views extend across the Presidential Range and, on clear days, into Vermont, Maine, and even Canada. The summit is also home to the Mount Washington Observatory, which has documented some of the harshest weather conditions ever recorded, as mentioned before.

In winter, snow and ice make it a more challenging, yet fun, destination for mountaineers and backcountry skiers, while summer brings hikers seeking alpine landscapes. Its reputation as both a natural wonder and a formidable environment makes Mount Washington an essential stop for anyone exploring New Hampshire’s remote northern wilderness, regardless of time of year.

Franconia Notch

Franconia Notch, located in the White Mountains, is one of New Hampshire’s most awe-inspiring, yet accessible, natural attractions. Franconia Notch State Park extends through a mountain pass between the Franconia and Kinsman ranges, offering breathtaking views from high above, as well as a mix of other geological features to explore.

For one, the Flume Gorge is a natural chasm carved by glaciers and is a key highlight, with its towering granite walls and waterfalls that can be accessed via a well-maintained boardwalk. Nearby, the "Basin," a 25-foot-wide granite pothole formed by the Pemigewasset River, is another notable formation that ought to be checked if you're in the area.

Besides simple sightseeing, a variety of exciting outdoor recreation is also central to the park's appeal, with trails like the Franconia Ridge Loop taking you to alpine summits and 360-degree vistas of the White Mountain National Forest. Furthermore, Echo Lake, situated at the park's northern end, offers space for swimming, canoeing, and stunning views of Cannon Mountain.

Many are familiar with the area for the Old Man of the Mountain, an iconic rock formation that resembled an old man's face. It was so iconic that its silhouette is still featured on New Hampshire Road signs. Unfortunately, it collapsed in 2003, but its legacy is preserved at a nearby memorial site.

Sabbaday Falls

Sabbaday Falls can be found along the Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountain National Forest and is among the state's most visually distinct waterfalls. Formed during the Ice Age by glacial meltwater, the falls feature a series of drops and pools that beautifully showcase the erosive power of water over rock.

The main cascade plunges into a narrow gorge before spilling into emerald-colored basins, creating a layered effect that makes the site really pop. A short, well-maintained trail leads directly to viewing platforms, also making it a suitable destination for visitors of all ages. Various interpretive signs along the path explain the geological history of the falls and the surrounding forest ecosystem, and in the fall, this site becomes particularly eye-catching as local maple and birch trees frame the rushing waters with vibrant foliage.

While smaller in scale compared to other natural wonders in New Hampshire, Sabbaday Falls is perfect for nature lovers who want a quick taste of the state's geology, waterways, and forests. Be sure to add it as a stop if you're travelling on the state's scenic highway system.

Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves

Lost River Gorge, situated in Kinsman Notch near North Woodstock, is yet another incredible geological site formed by glaciers over 300 million years ago. The gorge is defined by massive granite boulders, caves, and the fast-flowing waters of the Lost River, the latter of which amazingly disappears beneath the rocks and reemerges again downstream.

Here, you can follow a wooden boardwalk system that winds through the narrow chasm, offering close-up views of a series of waterfalls, lofty granite walls, and moss-covered stone formations. The boulder caves are another sure highlight. With names such as the “Bear Crawl” and “Devil’s Kitchen,” each offering a unique passage to explore for those who aren't claustrophobic. Those who do not wish to squeeze through can remain on the elevated walkways, making the area accessible to a wide range of visitors. In addition to its cool natural geology, the site hosts a collection of educational displays on the fascinating glacial history of the White Mountains.

Arethusa Falls

Diana’s Baths, situated close to the Maine border, is a series of cascading waterfalls and rocky ledges along Lucy Brook. This attraction is one more spot within the White Mountain National Forest and is easily accessible via a short, flat trail, making it a popular stop for families and casual hikers alike.

The falls drop in multiple stages over wide, smooth rock surfaces, creating shallow pools that many come to wade in during the warmer months of the year. On the other hand, in spring, while not warm enough for most people to delve into, snowmelt brings perhaps the most dramatic/scenic flow, while autumn complements the site with colorful foliage all around.

Formed through many centuries of erosion, it shows how water can often sculpt granite into rounded basins and ledges, which are now generally safe to walk and swim around without worry of sharp edges. Diana’s Baths also has some historical significance, as remnants of an old water-powered sawmill can still be seen along the brook.

See the Beauty of New Hampshire this Year

New Hampshire’s plethora of natural wonders showcases the state’s very intriguing landscapes. Each site, from mountain summits to hidden gorges, provides both educational value and outdoor adventure for all who know where to look.

Together, the locations mentioned above comprise a variety of roadside stops that are accessible yet endlessly varied, often earning repeat visits from many travelers. Above all, for anyone seeking dramatic scenery and meaningful experiences in nature, these spots remain among the best in New England that you may witness!