Hike-in Required
No
Open Year-round
Yes
ADA accessible
Yes
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Rocky Gorge Scenic Area is located on the Kancamagus Highway, 8 miles west of Conway, New Hampshire. This beautiful scenic area can be accessed via a paved walkway from a large parking area. You do need a parking pass to visit, and there is self-pay station in the parking lot. There are also restrooms available in the parking area.

Rocky Gorge features a 15-foot waterfall, and there are plenty of rapids along the Swift River as it narrows into the gorge. There is a pedestrian footbridge crossing the gorge for better viewing of the falls, and a small picnic area. There is ample room on the rocks for picnicking, and you will no doubt see plenty of people because this is one of the most popular spots along the Kancamagus Highway.

Swimming is strictly prohibited in the gorge, but there are swimming holes further up and downstream. If you cross over the pedestrian bridge across the river, you will come to a loop trail that circles Falls Pond. This is an easy, pleasant walk through a mixed forest, and the views of the pond are beautiful.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

National or state forest pass

Pros

Easy access. Hiking trails.

Cons

Very crowded.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Features

ADA accessible
Vault toilet
Waterfalls
Picnic tables
Near lake or river

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

10/12/2013
I usually photograph scenes that require a greater investment in foot travel but jeesh, the Kanc Hgwy provides such wonderful access to the beautiful Swift River and its various cascades, rapids, and waterfalls. The autumn foliage is world class, I can't say I've ever been disappointed by the colors here.
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