Basin Cascade is one of the most popular attractions of the Franconia Notch State Park. Basin Cascade is an easy 4.2km in and out the scenic trail, most of which can be followed by people of all abilities, including wheelchair users. From the trailhead, a wide paved path surrounded by tall trees leads along the Pemigewasset River, passing over a wooden bridge that crosses over the brook.
The Basin is the trail’s most popular attraction and with good reason. This 30 foot wide, 15-foot deep pool, receives water from a curved waterfall, with the water forming a swirl, creating a whirlpool. However, this is by no means the only landmark to visit. The trail features a number of other falls and cascades many of which are still unnamed. Other renowned attractions include Rocky Glen Falls, a two-tiered fall sheltered between a gorge with a close to 35-foot drop. Similarly the 15 foot, Kinsman Falls can be found a mile away from the basin, alternatively, visitors can also visit the smaller 6-foot fall The Flume.
While the trail leading to the Basin is easy to follow, with good signage along the way, visitors can choose their own side paths and find their own private spot. The area’s beauty and ease of access make Basin-Cascade a very popular location, especially among hikers between Spring and Autumn. The trail to The Basin is mostly flat, however, it develops a gradient to 550 feet of elevation to reach Rocky Glen Falls and Kinsman Falls. The area has a parking lot close to the trailhead and is a dog-friendly area.
Basin Cascade is a remarkable natural haven, an ideal spot worth visiting to unwind and find inner peace, with the sound of water flowing clearing the mind. The popularity of this spot is possibly the area’s only downside as it can get annoyingly busy at times, however, it is still easy to stray from the main path and find your own private area. When in the vicinity of Lincoln, New Hampshire a few hours at Basin Cascade is definitely recommended.
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