Champney Falls Trail is a scenic and popular hiking trail located in the White Mountain National Forest of New Hampshire.
The trail offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and an optional extension to the summit of Mount Chocorua, one of the most picturesque peaks in the region.
Things to do: Champney Falls Trail
Trail Overview
- Distance: 3.1 miles round trip to Champney and Pitcher Falls; 7.6 miles round trip if continuing to Mount Chocorua’s summit.
- Elevation Gain: 1,150 feet to the falls; 2,300 feet to the summit of Mount Chocorua.
- Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights of Champney Falls Trail
- Champney Falls: Named after 19th-century landscape artist Benjamin Champney, these falls are a series of cascades that are particularly impressive during the spring melt or after heavy rain. The falls drop in multiple tiers, creating a picturesque and refreshing stop along the hike.
- Pitcher Falls: Located near Champney Falls, these falls add to the scenic beauty with their unique, narrow cascade.
- Mount Chocorua: For those looking for a more challenging hike, continuing past the falls leads to the summit of Mount Chocorua. The peak offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Forest and Wildlife: The trail winds through beautiful mixed hardwood and evergreen forests. Hikers may encounter various wildlife, including birds, deer, and occasionally black bears.
Trail Details
- Trailhead Start: The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a hardwood forest, crossing several small streams.
- Falls Spur: At about 1.4 miles, take the spur trail to the left to reach Champney Falls and Pitcher Falls.
- Continuing to Mount Chocorua: To reach the summit, return to the main trail after visiting the falls and continue ascending. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you approach the summit, with some scrambling required near the top.
Tips for Hikers
- Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, as the trail can be slippery near the falls and rocky on the way to the summit.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the summit.
- Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
- Seasonal Considerations: The best times to hike Champney Falls Trail are late spring through early fall. The trail can be icy and treacherous in the winter, requiring additional gear such as microspikes.
Nearby Attractions
- Kancamagus Highway: A scenic drive renowned for its stunning foliage, covered bridges, and vistas.
- Rocky Gorge Scenic Area: A beautiful spot along the Swift River, perfect for a picnic and short walk.
- Sabbaday Falls: Another beautiful waterfall hike located along the Kancamagus Highway.
Getting There
The trailhead for Champney Falls is located off the Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112), a scenic byway renowned for its stunning foliage and mountain views.
- Trailhead Address: Kancamagus Highway, Albany, NH 03818
- GPS Coordinates: 44.0080° N, 71.2529° W
- Parking: There is a parking lot at the trailhead, and a parking fee is required (currently $5 per day, or a valid White Mountain National Forest parking pass).
Conclusion for Champney Falls Trail
Champney Falls Trail offers a delightful hiking experience that showcases the natural beauty of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Whether you choose to enjoy the picturesque waterfalls or take on the challenge of summiting Mount Chocorua, this trail provides a memorable adventure for hikers of all levels. Be sure to bring your camera, as the scenic vistas and lush forests provide ample opportunities for stunning photography.
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