Brennan Falls, Francestown NH

• 3-star hike
• 2 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 200 feet
• Francestown, NH | Monadnock Region
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The image shows a serene woodland scene with a small waterfall cascading over a rocky slope, surrounded by trees with bare branches. Ice formation at the base of the waterfall indicates cold temperatures, likely late autumn or winter.

Brennan Falls during a winter thaw.

Located within the Schott Brennan Falls Preserve, just north of Francestown, Brennan Falls is a modest 20-foot waterfall that puts on a spectacular show during high-water events.

Found at the end of a pleasant woodland hike just under a mile long, this trail is enjoyable in both summer and winter. Start your hike from Campbell Hill Road, following an unmaintained forest road heading southward, before veering left onto a woodland trail marked by a trailhead kiosk.

The trail winds through a mixed forest, including numerous pines that provide verdant greens even in winter. In the summer, expect to see colourful fungi sprouting amid lush greenery. Descend past Brennan Brook Pond, which resembles more of a grassy wetland than a water body, and cross the brook via a boardwalk. Occasional signs guide your way to Brennan Falls, which marks the trail’s end.

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⬤ 3★ Brennan Falls 1.8 mi out & back, easy, gain 200 ft
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While the trail is pleasant year-round, waterfall enthusiasts should visit after significant rainfall or during a winter thaw. Summer visitors should watch out for tall grasses, which may harbour ticks. Be sure to check yourself periodically and perform a thorough tick check after your hike.

If you’re arriving by car, park considerately on one side of Campbell Hill Road, being mindful of local residents. Although the forest road heading south may seem passable for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles, it saves little time on this short hike and is not necessary.

For a longer hike, consider pairing your visit to Brennan Falls with a trip to the summit of Crotched Mountain. This out-and-back hike from Campbell Hill Road covers 6 miles in total and includes 1,330 feet of elevation gain. More information about Crotched Mountain hiking routes can be found at the links in our 'Trailspotting Nearby' section at the bottom of this page.

The image shows a serene natural landscape at sunset. The scene features a marshy area with tall grasses and a partially frozen pond reflecting the vibrant colors of the sunset sky. The sky is a mix of blue and orange hues, with clouds adding texture to the scene. In the background, there is a dense forest of tall trees, creating a contrast with the open marshland.

A winter sun descending over Brennan Brook Pond.

The image shows a person walking on a narrow wooden bridge in a dense forest. The person is wearing a red shirt and dark pants and carrying some equipment on their belt. The bridge is surrounded by lush green foliage, including ferns and various plants. The forest appears dense with tall trees and a thick canopy, allowing some sunlight to filter through.

Creek crossing on an earlier dry summer hike.

Tangents:
• Official: Francestown Land Trust
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article

Trailspotting Nearby
4★ Crotched Mountain (3-7 mi) · 4★ Frog Rock (1 mi) · 4★ New Boston Rail Trail (5 mi) · Show Map

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