The 4-mile Saco River Trail winds along the upper reaches of the Saco River in Crawford Notch, offering a flat and gentle walk accessible from numerous points. The Saco River Trail is most commonly accessed from its northern end at the historic Willey House. From the parking lot across the road from the Willey House, follow the Sam Willey Trail for 0.5 miles to where it terminates and the Saco River Trail begins. The trail follows the Saco River along the floodplain for 0.7 miles to the junction with the Webster Cliff Trail / Appalachian Trail, an alternative access point via the Webster Cliff Trailhead. Turning left, the Saco River Trail merges with the Webster Cliff Trail for 0.1 miles before diverging to the right and continuing 1.5 miles to the Dry River Trail, where the Saco River Trail ends.
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These trails are managed by NH State Parks. For more information, contact:
New Hampshire State ParksWilley House 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 11.5 miles East on US-302 through Crawford Notch State Park, and park at the historic Willey House. The Saco River Trail is accessed by following the Sam Willey Trail for 0.5 miles to where it ends at the Saco River Trail.
Webster Cliff 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 12.5 miles East on US-302 through Crawford Notch State Park, and park at the Webster Cliff Trail - Appalachian Trail parking area. The Saco River Trail is accessed by following the Webster Cliff Trail for 0.1 miles to the junction with the Saco River Trail.
Dry River 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 14.0 miles East on US-302 through Crawford Notch State Park, and park at the Dry River Trailhead. The Saco River Trail is accessed by following the Dry River Trail for 0.5 miles to the junction with the Saco River Trail.
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