Crystal Cascade, Pinkham Notch NH

• 4-star hikes
• 1 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 150 feet
• Gorham, NH | White Mountains
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The image shows a scenic waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff, surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfall is framed by a rugged rock face on the left and dense forest on the right, with a clear blue sky visible through the tree branches.

Crystal Cascade viewed from the overlook.

The Tuckerman Ravine Trail from Pinkham Notch is a popular route to the summit of Mount Washington, but you don't have to hike that far to find a spectacular view. Crystal Cascade is a two-tier waterfall that sends a picturesque torrent of whitewater down 100 feet of rock face.

Crystal Cascade is less than a half mile trek from Pinkham Notch Visitor Center along a moderately easy trail. You're close once you reach the trail bridge that crosses the Ellis River, but after admiring the small tiered falls below, continue on to the main attraction. The trail gets a little rockier as it approaches the falls, but soon you'll find yourself at a well-constructed overlook that provides great views and photo opportunities.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Crystal Cascade 0.8 mi out & back, easy, gain 150 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

Hiking Mount Washington on the Tuckerman Ravine Trail beyond the waterfall on a whim is not something we would recommend. For a detailed review of the challenging 7.7 mile Tuckerman Ravine out-and-back hike, check out our separate trail review linked in the 'Trailspotting Nearby' section below. This rocky and difficult hike is achievable but requires careful preparation, as well as an understanding of potential hazards and your personal abilities before proceeding.

Just south of the town of Gorham, the trailhead is located at the Appalachian Mountain Club's Pinkham Notch Visitor Center with a large, free parking lot. The lodge features a shop, restaurant, equipment rental and even overnight lodging; all staffed by local experts that can help guide you on your White Mountain adventure.

The image shows a scenic outdoor landscape featuring a wooden bridge on the left side, crossing over a rocky stream with small waterfalls. The stream flows through a forested area with a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, some of which are showing autumn colors. The water cascades over rocks, creating white water and adding a dynamic element to the serene natural setting. The bridge appears to be well-constructed with wooden railings and beams.

Crossing Ellis River, approaching the falls.

The image shows two people hiking on a rocky trail through a forest. The trail is surrounded by tall trees with green and yellow leaves, indicating a possible autumn setting. The hikers are carrying backpacks and are dressed in outdoor gear suitable for hiking.

Beyond, the Mt Washington trail gets much harder.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Crystal Cascades
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Trailspotting Nearby
5★ Mount Washington (8-9 mi) · 4★ Mount Hayes (6-7 mi) · 5★ Presidential Rail Trail (19 mi) · Show Map

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