Flume Gorge, NH

In mid-March, I finally got to Flume Gorge in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and it did not disappoint. This has been a dream trail for a while (with Watkins Glen) because of how unique the boardwalks, and mossy, wet rock walls are. The photos I’ve seen over time online lured me in.

Surprisingly, it was a very hot day for May. The hike isn’t bad but I would consider it moderate and not accessible because of the inclines, declines, and stairs. The whole thing took just under two hours and was a loop. I’m not sure if this is due to COVID or if it’s always a one-way loop. The pace was set by the people around us for the most part, though everyone was very patient about taking photos and keeping distance between groups. It’s a short trail before getting to the actual gorge and as soon as we hit the wet, mossy area, the temperature dropped at least 15 degrees. It was breezy and so nice to walk in. Apparently, every winter season the boardwalk is removed in pieces and stored so the snow doesn’t ruin it. How crazy! The trail and other parts of the park are closed at this time.

The trail had so many fun things to see like the covered bridges and lookout points. I hadn’t hiked in a while so it was really nice to get out in nature but it also kicked my ass a bit! For experienced hikers, it is absolutely mild I would assume. The White Mountains in general are so so gorgeous. Franconia Notch State Park has a lot to do and both the Franconia and North Conway areas have a lot going on in their little towns/surrounding towns. Heavy ski resort and mountain town vibes. Last year we got weathered out of camping at the Lafayette Campground in the park and we passed it on our drives through the park. It’s a great location if you’re looking for a camping area! I’m hoping to book again in the future.