Making a plan to see the panoramic views of the Glen Ellis waterfall plunging into the pool? It is one of the stunning falls of NH in Pinkham Notch. Thousands of vacationers come here to see the distinctive fall, even in the lousiest weather conditions.
The beautiful fall is one mile south of Wildcat Mountain Ski Area and a short hike from Route 16. Despite its beauty, it is not considered New Hampshire’s most famous waterfall. Here, visitors feel a bit offbeat, like they find a hidden gem.
The Granite State has many beautiful waterfalls, such as Arethusa or Ripley Falls in Crawford Notch, Avalanche Falls at the Flume Gorge, and Sabbaday Falls on the Kancamagus Highway. Along the Ellis River, a winding trail leads you to stunning views of the 64-foot fall as you climb stone staircases.
Let’s get complete information about Glen Ellis Waterfall to make your trip memorable.
| Name | Glen Ellis Waterfall |
| Town | Jackson |
| River | Ellis River |
| State | New Hampshire |
| Park | White Mountain National Forest |
| County | Carroll |
| Type | Plunge |
| Public Property | Yes |
| Watershed Size | Large |
| Height | 64 feet |
| Source of Water | Ellis River |
| Swimming | Prohibited |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Access for Handicapped | No |
| Parking Cost | Yes |
| Dogs Allowed | Yes |
| Operational Hours | Closed 10 PM to 6 AM |
FAQs
How long is the hike to Glen Ellis Waterfalls?
The total distance to reach the destination from the parking area is 0.3 miles, and it is a 10-minute walk.
How much does it cost to visit Glen Ellis Waterfalls?
There are no fees to visit the place, but the per-day White Mountain National Forest parking pass costs $5.
Is Glen Ellis Waterfalls accessible?
It is not accessible for disabled visitors due to the few stairs that lead to the destination.
Can you swim at Glen Ellis Waterfalls?
No, it is not an ideal place for swimming and is prohibited.
Are there restrooms at Glen Ellis Waterfalls?
Yes! There is a washroom near a parking area.
Hiking the Glen Ellis Waterfalls Trail
After parking a car on Route 16’s west side, a hiking trail will take you along the Ellis River beneath the highway. It is a 0.3-mile hike toward the fall, around a 10-minute walk for the average adult. Stone and gravel make up the trail, beginning with stairs before going along the river.
While leading toward fall, you will also see a small waterfall, but there is a better destination than this one, so move ahead.
Despite its age, the granite pathway is in good condition. The beautiful fall colors will make your journey more memorable.
Wooden handrails and stone steps enhance its everlasting atmosphere.
After completing a hike, you will reach the fall’s base. There is a tiny place for photographing the falls. Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens (14-35mm) and a standard-angle lens (35-70mm) to capture the waterfall.
However, if you are not a serious photographer, the iPhone’s latest version is enough to capture full waterfall shots. It is recommended to explore the beauty during weekdays.
If you want to view a cascade from a higher angle, a stone staircase from the fall’s base will lead you up to a vantage point. You can consider both photography options, but we recommend the bottom platform.
It is a spectacular spot for a wedding photoshoot because photographers always dream of a photo backdrop with stone steps, falls, and a forest. Due to the inaccessibility, it is not an ideal place to bring your entire family. It is a wise decision if only a photographer and wedding couple come here.
How to Get to Glen Ellis Falls
Along Route 16 in the White Mountains, a waterfall can be found in Pinkham Notch. The parking area is on the road’s west side, south of the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center. The parking area signs are on the small side, so keep an eye on it if you’re visiting for the first time.
It is about a 4-minute away from south of Mount Washington Auto Road, a 15-minute from south of Gorham, a 25-minute from north of North Conway, and a 10-minute from north of Jackson. It is a year-round destination, but you should bring winter hiking equipment when visiting during the winter months.
Fall Foliage in Pinkham Notch
Early October to mid-October is the best time to view the beautiful fall foliage color in the White Mountains. However, you will never simultaneously see the peak colors of the White Mountains.
During our trip in early October to the White Mountains, we noticed that the fall foliage was at its peak in northern areas like Mount Washington Auto Road and Franconia. In contrast, the foliage was not at its peak in southern parts like the Kancamagus Highway at the same time.
You should go to the northern side if you come too early. Otherwise, the southern area is best if you are too late.
However, read the New Hampshire fall foliage article for more information. The article will answer all your questions, like when and where to see the best fall foliage color, along with some tips.
More Things to Do Near Glen, Ellis Falls
Many people think, what should they do before or after visiting Falls? Here are our recommendations.
During foliage season, the Pinkham Notch area is a stunning place to see the red or orange colors of the White Mountains.
Drive up Mount Washington Auto Road is another fun activity in the White Mountains. Never miss the opportunity to see Honeymoon Covered Bridge and White Mountain Puzzles.
Secondly, visit a tiny NH town, Jackson, which has a fantastic waterfall called Jackson Falls. It is a fabulous picnic spot.
Thirdly, in the summer months, you must experience a moose safari. It is run by Gorham Moose Tours, which departs from Gorham, and the per-person ticket cost is $35. Story Land is must must-visit place if you come along with young kids. The ticket price to Story Land, located in Glen near Jackson, is $39.99.
On the other hand, if you are visiting in the winter months, you can enjoy Wildcat Mountain, the best spot for more advanced skiers. You’re also only a short drive from Attitash and Cranmore Mountain in North Conway. The Nestlenook Farm ice skating rink and sleigh rides are Jackson’s best cross-country skiing attractions.
Tips for Visiting Waterfall
Remember to bring the following essentials.
- Bug spray
- Water/sports drinks
- Food
- Hiking shoes
- Trail map
- Snacks
- DSLR camera or smart-phone
- Hiking boots
- Water shoesÂ
More on the White Mountains:
