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Beede Falls

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Beede Falls: Discover the Hidden Gem of Sandwich

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, Beede Falls promises an enchanting journey into the realm of waterfalls and serene natural beauty. With a modest hike length of just 0.9 miles for the round trip, Beede Falls is an ideal outing for nature lovers and hikers of all ages. It’s not an adventure that requires an extreme level of fitness; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Beede Falls invites everyone to savor its charms, making it a top choice for an easy and delightful day out.

The reward for your modest effort is a sight to behold. Beede Falls is a marvel in its own right. The Bearcamp River gracefully slides down a long, sloping ledge before making a small but picturesque drop at the end. The water spreads out like a delicate sheet over the smooth rock surface, creating a breathtaking spectacle. At the base of the slide, a generous pool awaits, where the sandy bottom offers a comfortable spot for sunbathing and relaxation. In low-water conditions, a small beach even emerges on one side of the water, a delightful place to lounge. And when the river is in a more exuberant mood, the pool becomes an ideal spot for swimming, though it may be a tad shallow. Adventurous swimmers can even find refuge underneath or behind the cascading water of Beede Falls, adding an extra layer of excitement to their visit.

The trail was impeccably maintained, and taking a dip in the swimming hole was incredibly rejuvenating! It was unquestionably a splendid and picturesque hiking experience.

What sets Beede Falls apart and earns it its well-deserved reputation is the all-encompassing outdoor experience it provides. The main falls beckon with a generously sized, clean, and sandy pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a scorching summer day. The unhurried waters swirl around the pool before continuing their journey down the lazy river below. This natural playground is a haven for children, who can often be spotted frolicking in the waters. But it’s not just youngsters who revel in this natural wonder; whitewater kayakers are known to test their mettle by navigating the falls when water levels are robust.

Beede Falls, the pièce de résistance of the area, is a majestic 35-foot wide horsetail waterfall that gracefully cascades down a smooth rock face before plunging into a sprawling 50-foot wide pool below. The pool’s depth typically ranges from calf- to knee-deep, making it a welcoming spot for visitors of all ages. For the adventurous souls, it’s even possible to sneak behind the waterfall, adding an extra layer of mystique to your visit. The pool is drained by two languid rivers that merge a short distance downstream, where more small pools and falls eagerly await exploration. The spacing of the trees provides ample room for both upstream and downstream adventure, making it a simple and enjoyable experience for all who embark on this nature-filled journey.

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A brief jaunt below the main falls at Beede Falls leads you to the lower falls and an intriguing natural alcove known as Cow Cave. The lower Beede Falls gently meander down a 20-foot descent across broad, sun-kissed ledges, creating a mesmerizing sight. Cow Cave, a small but remarkable cave in the heart of New Hampshire, is worth a quick visit, offering a few minutes of captivating exploration. To truly relish all the wonders this local park has to offer, it’s best to allocate several hours for your visit.

The path to Beede Falls leads you through classic deep, dark, boreal forest, where moss and glacial erratics line the trail, offering a glimpse of the rich natural heritage of the region. Along the way, you’ll encounter vernal pools and streams, serving as a reminder of the vibrant ecosystem that thrives here. The path, well-trodden by previous explorers, is your reliable guide through this verdant wilderness. Stick to the trail, and you’ll soon hear the distant hiss of the falls before they come into full view.

Beede Falls Pond 1600

In the realm of New Hampshire’s waterfalls, Beede Falls holds a unique distinction. It’s one of the quieter options, tucked away in the middle of nowhere, away from the bustling crowds that often flock to more well-known destinations. The simplicity of the trek allows you to bundle up for a brief foray into the wilderness, and in the colder season, the falls may be frozen solid or concealed beneath a snowy blanket, presenting a captivating sight that’s sure to leave you in awe.

What makes Beede Falls truly stand out is its accessibility, even in the heart of winter. Despite the cold, this trail remains easily navigable, offering a unique perspective of the falls, whether they’re frozen solid or concealed beneath a glistening layer of snow. The beauty of the falls remains undiminished, and you’ll find yourself in the midst of a winter wonderland that’s a photographer’s dream.

Beede Falls Log 1600

To sum it up, Beede Falls is an enchanting natural escape that welcomes adventurers of all kinds. It’s a short and sweet journey, perfect for a leisurely day outdoors. So whether you opt for a refreshing dip, an exploration behind the falls, or a leisurely moment on the rocks, this easy and nature-infused trail in New Hampshire is an absolute must-visit.

Beede Falls Trails

Venturing further down this road less traveled, the Beede Falls Trail, you’ll uncover the hidden gem that is Beede Falls. While the journey to this captivating spot might be a tad tricky by road, the adventure itself is refreshingly simple and suitable for everyone. As you set foot on the graded gravel trail, keep your eyes peeled for park signs and follow the path that heads left. Another trail veers right, leading to the lower Beede Falls, but let’s continue our exploration of the main attraction. This well-maintained path will guide you 0.1 miles to an improved area featuring a blend of rock steps and charmingly crooked wooden railings, all surrounding the outlet of the pool at the base of the waterfall.

Once you’ve had your fill of the main Beede Falls, follow the Bearcamp River Trail as it meanders alongside the gentle waterway, eventually leading you to a sturdy bridge that crosses over to the other side. Here, you’ll encounter a junction. Opt for the left path for a brief detour to Cow Cave, a fascinating natural alcove that’s well worth a visit. For those who choose to go right at the junction, you’ll find yourself on a looping path back to the trail’s beginning.

For those seeking a family-friendly adventure, Beede Falls and the Cow Cave, with their inviting sandy shallow swimming pool and lower Beede Falls area at Mead Base, offer an idyllic quarter-mile walk. This trail is accessible to people of all ages, from 2 to 82, and it’s even possible for those in wheelchairs to embark on this journey with the assistance of at least two individuals to help navigate the terrain.

What’s Nearby Beede Falls

The Beede Falls trail is not just a solitary oasis of natural wonder; it’s surrounded by a wealth of equally breathtaking destinations waiting to be explored in the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire. Close by, you’ll find Sabbaday Falls, a renowned spot for its stunning cascades and striking rock formations. For those seeking more waterfall adventures, Champney Falls offers a captivating trek through the forest to reach its namesake waterfall. Nearby, Echo Lake State Park is a serene locale with its pristine lake, perfect for swimming or enjoying a lakeside picnic. The expansive White Mountain National Forest, with its vast wilderness and extensive trail system, invites hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts to explore its beauty. Basin Cascade is another natural gem in the vicinity, featuring lovely waterfalls nestled in the heart of the forest. And don’t forget the Walter Newton Natural Area, an educational and environmental treasure where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. All of these remarkable places combine to create an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering endless opportunities for adventure and appreciation of nature’s splendors.

Beede Falls Parking Information

The journey to Beede Falls takes you on a scenic drive through Center Sandwich. Along the way, you’ll pass centuries-old farmhouses, open fields with panoramic views of Squam Lake, and pastures where cattle leisurely graze. The turnoff from Sandwich Notch Road, about 3.5 miles from town, leads to the trail’s endpoint, where you’ll find a parking area adjacent to an old house and a shed proudly bearing the name of the Boy Scouts of America. This location boasts 11 acres of White Mountain National Forest, situated on the edge of a vast wilderness area. The main attraction, of course, is the splendid set of falls. Additionally, there’s a tent camping area for those who wish to extend their stay and immerse themselves further in this natural wonderland.

Parking at the old farmhouse, you’ll make your way toward the kiosk adorned with maps and information about the area. The trail is conveniently located just behind the kiosk, a mere two-tenths of a mile away, and the surface remains pleasantly flat as you journey toward Beede Falls.

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Beede Falls Photos

Check out Carefree Creative’s photos of Beede Falls

Beede Falls Address & Directions

Beede Falls, Sandwich, NH 03227

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