Glen Ellis Falls | Northern NH

Glen Ellis Falls is a striking waterfall located in Crawford Notch State Park within the White Mountains of New Hampshire. With a drop of approximately 64 feet, it is one of the region’s most photographed and accessible waterfalls, attracting hikers, families, and photographers seeking the natural beauty and soundscape of cascading water amid a forested mountain setting. The falls are fed by Glen Ellis Brook, which flows from higher elevations of the surrounding mountains before plunging into a rocky pool below.

Geography and Landscape

Glen Ellis Falls is nestled in a steep, wooded ravine along the Saco River watershed. The surrounding terrain includes a mix of northern hardwoods and conifers, with birch, maple, and fir trees lining the trail and framing the falls. The waterfall itself plunges dramatically over a granite ledge into a rocky basin, creating mist, rainbows, and the constant roar of rushing water, especially after spring snowmelt or heavy rainfall.

The area around the falls is relatively steep, with boulder-strewn paths and scenic outlooks providing visitors with both close-up views and broader perspectives of the waterfall within its forested context.

Trails and Accessibility

Glen Ellis Falls is known for its easy-to-moderate hiking access, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors:

Glen Ellis Falls Trail: A short, well-maintained trail of roughly 0.8 miles round trip leads from the parking area to the base of the falls. The trail includes gentle inclines, wooden footbridges, and sections with stone steps to navigate the rocky terrain.

Observation Platforms: Several viewing areas allow visitors to see the waterfall from different angles, including a platform at the base where the full height of the falls is visible and a vantage point slightly above for panoramic views.

Extended Hikes: For those seeking longer treks, Glen Ellis Falls can serve as a starting point for trails heading further into Crawford Notch, such as connections to the Ripley Falls Trail or backcountry routes toward Mount Webster and the higher Presidential peaks.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Snowmelt and seasonal rains swell Glen Ellis Brook, making the waterfall at its most powerful and dramatic. The surrounding forest is lush, and early wildflowers bloom along the trail.

Summer: Warmer temperatures and dense foliage create a shaded, cooling environment. The falls are accessible for casual hikers and families, and the water remains active and visually striking.

Autumn: Fall foliage transforms the surrounding forest into a vivid tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a striking contrast to the gray granite and white water.

Winter: Snow and ice create a frozen spectacle, with icicles and snow-covered rocks framing the falls. Access is more challenging, requiring caution due to icy paths, but the scene is uniquely serene.

Visitor Experience

Visiting Glen Ellis Falls is a sensory and photogenic experience. The sound of rushing water, the spray of mist on the rocks, and the surrounding forest create an immersive natural setting. The combination of accessibility and dramatic scenery makes it ideal for families, photographers, and casual hikers, while still appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful mountain waterfall.

The falls’ proximity to Route 302 and other Crawford Notch attractions, such as Arethusa Falls and Ripley Falls, makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the White Mountains. The well-maintained trail and observation platforms allow visitors to appreciate the falls safely, while the natural setting preserves a sense of wilderness and serenity.

Glen Ellis Falls exemplifies the rugged beauty of the White Mountains, combining powerful water flow, forested surroundings, and accessibility. Its dramatic drop, scenic trail, and seasonal variations make it a must-see natural landmark within Crawford Notch State Park.