Day Trips from Manchester
← All Manchester day tripsDay Trips from Manchester: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Manchester, NH. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Manchester
Brewster River Gorge Trailhead
Jeffersonville, VT 05464
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 131 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lower Falls
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 51 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 1,642 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Step Falls Preserve Mahoosuc Land Trust
Newry, ME 04261
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 305 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Warren Falls
Warren, VT 05674
Just 2 hrs 18 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 880 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Tannery Falls
Savoy, MA 01256
Just 2 hrs 41 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 140 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 48 min from Manchester, rated 4.8 stars by 1,327 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Big Falls State Park
North Troy, VT 05859
Just 2 hrs 48 min from Manchester, rated 4.7 stars by 150 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Huntington Gorge
Richmond, VT 05477
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Manchester, rated 4.7 stars by 178 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lower Falls Recreation Site
Conway, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 52 min from Manchester, rated 4.7 stars by 108 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Buttermilk Falls
Ludlow, VT 05149
Just 1 hr 56 min from Manchester, rated 4.7 stars by 115 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Wahconah Falls State Park
Dalton, MA 01226
Just 2 hrs 46 min from Manchester, rated 4.7 stars by 471 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Enders State Forest
CT 06035, USA
Just 2 hrs 33 min from Manchester, rated 4.7 stars by 823 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Manchester
What are the best waterfalls near Manchester, NH?
The best waterfalls near Manchester range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Manchester?
Some waterfalls near Manchester have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Manchester?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Manchester are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Manchester?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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