Glen Ellis Falls – A Hidden Gem in the White Mountains of New Hampshire

Discover the 19.5‑meter cascade that’s quickly becoming a favorite stop for hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to soak up New England’s rugged beauty.

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Introduction

If you’ve ever trekked through the White Mountains and felt the mist of a waterfall on your face, you’ll know the thrill of stumbling upon a secret plunge that feels like it belongs in a storybook. Glen Ellis Falls, tucked away just outside the charming town of Gorham, New Hampshire, offers exactly that—a 19.5 m (64 ft) drop that tumbles over granite cliffs into a crystal‑clear pool, all set against a backdrop of dense forest and mountain air. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a weekend road‑tripper, this waterfall delivers a perfect blend of easy access, stunning scenery, and a touch of New England wilderness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

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About Glen Ellis Falls

What Makes It Special

• Height & Altitude – The waterfall plunges 19.5 m (about 64 ft) from a cliff that sits at roughly 559 m (1,834 ft) above sea level. The elevation gives the surrounding forest a cooler, moister micro‑climate, which helps keep the water flow robust even in late summer.
• Location – Nestled at latitude 44.244226 and longitude ‑71.252474, Glen Ellis Falls lies in the heart of the White Mountains, just a short drive from the historic mill town of Gorham. The coordinates place it within a protected forest area, meaning the site is relatively untouched and free from heavy commercial development.
• Geology – Like many New Hampshire waterfalls, Glen Ellis Falls was carved out of ancient granite by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago. The resulting plunge pool is framed by smooth, moss‑covered rocks that create a natural amphitheater for visitors.

A Brief History

While there isn’t a dedicated Wikipedia entry for Glen Ellis Falls, local lore tells us the name likely honors an early settler or landowner from the 19th‑century logging era. The falls have long served as a gathering spot for loggers who would pause to wash tools and cool off during the sweltering summer months. Over time, the area transitioned from an industrial waypoint to a recreational haven, especially after the establishment of nearby trail networks in the mid‑20th century.

Why It Matters

Glen Ellis Falls may not be as famous as the iconic Flume Gorge or Arethusa Falls, but its modest size makes it an ideal destination for families, photographers, and anyone looking to experience New Hampshire’s waterfall culture without the crowds. The site also contributes to local biodiversity, supporting a variety of mosses, ferns, and amphibians that thrive in the moist, shaded environment.

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How to Get There

By Car

1. Start in Gorham, NH – From downtown Gorham, head west on U.S. Route 2 (the “Maine‑New York Highway”).
2. Follow the signs – Look for the small, green “Waterfall” sign that points toward Glen Ellis Falls. The turnoff is roughly 2–3 miles from the town center.
3. Local road – After the turn, a paved forest road leads you to a modest parking area at the trailhead. The road is well‑maintained year‑round, but winter snow can make it slick, so a vehicle with all‑season tires is recommended.

By Public Transportation

Gorham is served by the Amtrak Downeaster line, which stops at the Gorham train station. From there, you can rent a bike or use a rideshare service to reach the trailhead. While there’s no direct bus to the falls, the short drive from the station makes a day trip feasible.

Parking & Accessibility

The parking lot holds about 15–20 cars and includes a couple of handicap‑accessible spots near the trailhead. The path from the lot to the viewing platform is a gentle, well‑marked gravel walk—ideal for strollers and wheelchairs, though the final approach to the pool may involve a few uneven stones.

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Best Time to Visit

Season	What to Expect	Why It’s Ideal
Spring (April‑May)	Snowmelt boosts water flow; surrounding foliage is fresh and vibrant.	The waterfall is at its most powerful, creating dramatic spray and rainbows.
Summer (June‑August)	Warm days, comfortable hiking temperatures, full canopy shade.	Ideal for picnics and cooling off in the plunge pool.
Fall (September‑October)	Brilliant foliage (red, orange, gold) frames the cascade.	Photographers love the contrast of colorful leaves with the water’s sparkle.
Winter (November‑March)	Ice‑covered rocks and possible frozen waterfall.	A quieter, mystical experience for adventurous souls—just bring traction devices.

Overall, late spring through early fall offers the most reliable water flow and comfortable trail conditions. If you’re chasing foliage, aim for mid‑October; for the biggest splash, plan for late April.

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What to Expect

The Hike

The trail from the parking lot to the viewing platform is a short, 0.5‑mile (≈0.8 km) loop that meanders through mixed hardwood and conifer forest. Expect a mild elevation gain of about 30 m (100 ft), which is easily manageable for most visitors. The path is marked with occasional “Waterfall” signs and features a few wooden boardwalk sections to protect delicate moss.

The View

Upon reaching the overlook, you’ll be greeted by a wide‑angle vista of the 19.5 m drop. The water thunders over a sheer granite lip, creating a fine mist that often catches the sunlight in a delicate rainbow. Below, a rocky pool glistens, inviting swimmers on warm days (check local safety notices before diving).

Photography Tips

• Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) casts a warm glow on the surrounding trees, enhancing the waterfall’s texture.
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water surface and bring out the rich greens of the forest.
• For a silky‑smooth water effect, set your camera to long exposure (1–2 seconds) on a tripod.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for white‑tailed deer, red squirrels, and a variety of songbirds that flit among the canopy. The moist environment also supports spring peepers and other amphibians, especially during the early evening chorus.

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Nearby Attractions

Exploring the area around Glen Ellis Falls opens up a mini‑tour of New Hampshire’s most photogenic water features. Here are the top spots within a short drive:

1. Crystal Cascades Falls – Just 1.9 km away, this series of tiered cascades offers a tranquil setting perfect for a quick detour.
2. Thompson Falls – Approximately 3.0 km from Glen Ellis, Thompson Falls drops over a rugged boulder field and is popular among local anglers.
3. Unnamed Dam – Roughly 6.1 km away, this historic dam creates a small reservoir ideal for kayaking and picnicking.
4. Unnamed Waterfall #1 – About 6.2 km distant, this hidden plunge is a favorite among hikers seeking solitude.
5. Unnamed Waterfall #2 – Also 6.2 km away, this lesser‑known cascade is accessible via a short forest trail.

(While the three “Unnamed” sites currently lack official names, they are well‑marked on local trail maps and worth a visit for waterfall enthusiasts.)

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Travel Tips

Tip	Details
Pack Light, Pack Smart	Bring a water‑proof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, and a small daypack. A reusable water bottle and snacks are essential, especially if you plan to explore nearby falls.
Leave No Trace	Stay on marked paths, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife. The area’s delicate mosses can take years to recover from trampling.
Check Trail Conditions	Seasonal snow, ice, or heavy rain can make sections slippery. The New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources posts updates on their website.
Timing	Arrive early (7–8 am) during peak summer months to beat the crowds and capture the waterfall in soft morning light.
Safety	The pool at the base is deep in places, but rocks can be slippery. Keep an eye on children and never swim alone.
Photography Gear	A lightweight tripod, a circular polarizer, and a lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8–f/4) work well for both landscape and close‑up shots.
Nearby Food	Gorham’s Main Street offers several cafés and diners. Grab a coffee before you head out, or pack a picnic to enjoy near the falls.
Accommodation	For an overnight stay, consider the historic Gorham Inn or one of the cozy B&Bs in town. Both are within a 10‑minute drive of the falls.
Pet Policy	Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be leashed at all times. Bring waste bags to keep the area clean.

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Final Thought

Glen Ellis Falls may not have the fame of New Hampshire’s larger waterfalls, but its intimate setting, easy access, and pristine natural beauty make it a standout destination for anyone traveling through the White Mountains. Pair it with a short drive to Crystal Cascades or Thompson Falls, and you’ve got a full day of waterfall‑hopping that showcases the best of Gorham’s rugged charm.

So lace up your boots, charge your camera, and let the mist of Glen Ellis Falls refresh your spirit—New England’s hidden cascade is waiting.

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