Day Trips from Portsmouth
← All Portsmouth day tripsDay Trips from Portsmouth: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Portsmouth, NH. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
9 waterfalls near Portsmouth
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 40 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Lower Falls
Albany, NH 03818
Just 1 hr 37 min from Portsmouth, 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 24 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Doane's Falls
Royalston, MA 01368
Just 1 hr 48 min from Portsmouth, rated 4.8 stars by 428 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.
Diana's Baths
NH 03812, USA
Just 1 hr 43 min from Portsmouth, rated 4.7 stars by 3,850 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 37 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Enders State Forest
CT 06035, USA
Just 2 hrs 47 min from Portsmouth, 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.
Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside (park and ride)
Spofford, NH 03462
Just 1 hr 57 min from Portsmouth, rated 4.6 stars by 112 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.
Livermore Falls State Forest Pemi River Access
Holderness, NH 03245
Just 1 hr 37 min from Portsmouth, rated 4.5 stars by 222 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 Portsmouth
What are the best waterfalls near Portsmouth, NH?
The best waterfalls near Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
Some waterfalls near Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
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.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me