The Frankenstein Cliff Trail is a popular 1.5-mile hike up Frankenstein Cliff to an impressive cliff-top overlook of Crawford Notch. Additionally, hikers can complete a 4 mile loop over the cliffs by connecting to the Arethusa Falls Trail, featuring an impressive view of Arethusa Falls.
Beginning from the Arethusa Falls Trailhead, the Frankenstein Cliff Trail parallels the Conway Scenic Railroad for 0.4 miles before crossing the tracks and climbing sharply uphill. The trail continues 0.75 miles steeply uphill to a junction for the 0.25 mile spur trail to the cliff-top overlook. After returning on the spur trail from the overlook, hikers can either retrace their route back to the trailhead, or continue uphill on the Frankenstein Cliff Trail to complete a 4-mile loop back to the trailhead. In 0.5 miles, the Frankenstein Cliff Trail ends at a junction with the Arethusa - Ripley Falls Trail. Turn left to follow the trail 1.0 miles downhill where it ends at the spur trail for Arethusa Falls. From there, the Arethusa Falls trail leads 1.0 miles downhill back to the Arethusa Falls Trailhead.
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
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These trails are managed jointly by NH State Parks and the White Mountains National Forest and maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club. For more information, contact:
Appalachian Mountain ClubArethusa Falls Trailhead: From Interstate 95, take Exit 35 for US-3 N, just north of Franconia Notch. Take US-3 10.4 miles to Twin Mountain, then turn right to head East on US-302 towards Crawford Notch. Continue 14.5 miles on 302 through Crawford Notch, and the trailhead will be on your right.
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