South Arkansas Arboretum | El Dorado

Information

Landmark: South Arkansas Arboretum
City: El Dorado
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

South Arkansas Arboretum, El Dorado, USA Arkansas, North America

Flume Gorge is a natural gorge located in Franconia Notch State Park, near Lincoln, New Hampshire, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The gorge is a 800-foot-long natural chasm with granite walls reaching up to 90 feet high. The walls are composed of Conway granite. A narrow path follows the base of the gorge, with a boardwalk section allowing passage over the Flume Brook. Waterfalls, including the 50-foot Avalanche Falls, are present within the gorge.

Location & Access Logistics

Flume Gorge is situated off Interstate 93, Exit 34A. It is approximately 10 miles north of the town of Lincoln. Parking is available at the Flume Gorge Visitor Center. From the visitor center, a shuttle bus (fee applies during peak season) transports visitors to the gorge entrance, or it is a 0.5-mile walk. Public transport options directly to the gorge are limited; visitors typically drive.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The gorge was formed by erosion from the Flume Brook over millions of years. It was discovered by a local resident, Mrs. Nathaniel Baker, in 1808. The area was preserved and opened to the public in 1908.

Key Highlights & Activities

Walk the 2-mile loop trail that includes the gorge boardwalk, the covered bridge, and Avalanche Falls. Observe the granite formations and the cascading water. The trail includes stairs and inclines.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center. There are covered picnic areas and benches along the trail. Cell phone signal is intermittent within the gorge itself but generally available at the Visitor Center. Food and beverages are sold at the Visitor Center cafe.

Best Time to Visit

The gorge is typically open from late May to mid-October. The best time of day for photography is mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid direct overhead sun, which can reduce contrast on the granite walls. Autumn offers foliage viewing opportunities.

Facts & Legends

Legend has it that the gorge was once inhabited by a hermit named "Old Man of the Mountain," though this is a misattribution to the now-fallen Old Man of the Mountain rock formation located further north in the park. A unique feature is the "Boulder," a 700-ton granite boulder precariously balanced at the gorge's narrowest point.