Exploring Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves in New Hampshire
Ever since our love of National Parks began over a decade ago, we have started to enjoy hiking a little bit more, especially anytime hiking involves exploring water features like waterfalls and lakes. So, when I recently heard about Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and saw its close proximity to a family event we were attending, I knew we had to stop and explore the area.
Lost River Gorge and Caves, in Kinsmans Notch in North Woodstock New Hampshire, was formed millions of years ago during the Ice Age. Glaciers moved rocks that created notches and mountain ranges and melting ice helped to form Lost River, aptly named because the water flow often goes below the ground. The area was discovered by locals in the mid 1800s and later protected from the logging industry by conservationists in the early 1900s. Over the 20th century the path through the gorge, including wooden boardwalks, handrails, 1,000 steps, a suspension bridge, and access to 11 caves, expanded and was opened to the public to enjoy. The gorge was expanded in 2013-2014 to lengthen the boardwalk and build additional structures.
The one mile boardwalk trail follows along Lost River and includes over 1,300 steps down 300 vertical feet into the gorge and then slowly weaves and transverses back up to the Visitor Center. Along the way, take note of all eleven caves and several spots to sit and enjoy the serene beauty of nature. Make sure to walk across the suspension bridge and covered bridge, and enjoy the stunning views of the White Mountains at the various viewing points.
General Travel Tips:
Our Tips and Recommendations:
- Purchase tickets online ahead of time: During peak summer season, there can be large crowds at Lost River and the staff does limit the number of people who can be on the trail at one time. Purchasing tickets online does guarantee an entrance time and saves a few dollars per ticket (and no service fees!).
- Dress Appropriately: Sturdy sneakers (or hiking boots) are a must. Layers when hiking are also a good idea- the caves are cool and damp- and a hat will provide shade. Several caves involve crawling on hands and knees (and sometimes even “army crawling”) so consider whether you prefer your knees to be covered or not.
- Apply bug spray and sunscreen before entering: There are tons of bugs (we’re on their home turf!) and while most sections of the boardwalk are in the shade, there is still plenty of sun. Apply bug spray and sunscreen before starting the trail so you don’t have to bring any tubes or canisters with you.
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- Leave everything else in the car: You’ll want your hands free to crawl through the caves and a backpack may limit your ability to fit through the openings. Strollers are not allowed and the trail is not handicap accessible.
- Eat before or after your visit: Food is not allowed on the trail (food will attract animals and bugs, and there is nowhere to throw away trash), so it’s best to eat before or after you complete the trail. The gift shop does sell snacks and drinks and there are picnic tables under a tent near the Visitor Center.
- Use your camera’s phone: Again, if you’re planning on climbing through the caves, you don’t want a lot of extra items to bring with you, nor would I want to risk getting an expensive camera wet or damaged by the mist or sharp edges of rocks. Most phones’ cameras will take great photos.
- Great Photo Spots: Lookout Point, Paradise Falls, Valley Viewpoint, Forest Treehouse, Covered Bridge, Suspension Bridge, and end with the Giant Bird Nest.
- First aid: There are first aid stations near several of the caves that include supplies like bandages and creams.
- Read the signage: There are placards in front of every cave that explain the historical formation and discovery of the cave, as well as the meaning behind the cave’s name. There are also several signs that describe the local wildlife, birds, trees and their ability to grow all around rock formations, and other unique natural formations like the Giant Pothole and Granite Bowls.
Looking for our list of hiking supplies? Check out our recommendations here. Looking for other adventures in New Hampshire? Kids will love StoryLand and everyone will love exploring historic sites in Concord and Portsmouth.
