The Flume

Activity Overview

At the base of Mount Liberty, in New Hampshire's Franconia Notch State Park is a natural 800 feet horizontal gorge known as The Flume. Granite walls surrounding the Gorge rise up to 90 feet high and spread up to 20 feet apart at their widest point. Today you can pay to hike up to the Gorge and see it for yourself. There is now a boardwalk which runs alongside the Gorge which gives you a safe place to view the nature and wildlife it is home to.

Things to Do

• The Flume was discovered in 1808 quite incredibly by a 93 year old woman named Jess Guernsey who simply stumbled upon it whilst fishing. It has seen some changes over the years due to natural forces like storms which have removed a giant boulder that used to be suspended between the granite walls and by further deepening the gorge itself. It is still a wonder of nature however as it is quite easy to get up close to it if you don't mind the entrance fee. Visitors can take a trail that leads straight to the gorge or opt for a two mile trail instead.
• The Visitor's Center, which marks the start and end of both trails, is free to enter. Here you can watch a 20 minute video on Franconia State Park, buy tickets to head up to the gorge, ask questions at the information center or buy souvenirs at the Gift Shop. Make sure you take in the scenery too. The Center has a great view of both Mt. Liberty and Mount Flume.
• If you have young kids a cool way to keep their attention could be to take them on a Scavenger Hunt of the Gorge.

The Flume Insider Tips

• Children under the age of 5 can enter for free.
• The trails are well maintained so you shouldn't need anything more heavy duty than a normal pair of walking shoes with good support to tackle the trails.