From the Snows Mountain Parking lot, cross Cascade Ridge Road, climb an open hillside and pass the junction for the Boulder Path. Cross Cascade Ridge Road a second time
and head up an old ski run to enter the woods on the left. Cross the Swazeytown XC Trail, pass the junction for Elephant Rock Trail and dead end at Lower Snows XC Trail. Turn right and just before a XC bridge, head right up to the cascades. It is not advisable to cross Cascade Brook. Instead, continue up to the top and turn left on a dirt road over a bridge to descend safely on the opposite bank. Waterfall viewing and water access is best from the east side of the river. Return by climbing back up to the bridge and retracing your steps to the parking lot.
The Elephant Rock Trail (0.4 miles from the parking area just past the Swazeytown XC trail) heads south from its intersection with the Cascade Path to the top of the Snows Mountain chairlift. There are marvelous views, disc golf, church services, mountain bike shuttle services and picnic tables. The chairlift operates in the summer and fall.
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!
For more information, visit the White Mountain National Forest hiking page, or the Waterville Valley Athletic & Improvement Association website, or contact:
Park in Snows Mountain parking lot. From Exit 28 on I-93, follow NH-49 north for 11.3 miles. Turn right on Boulder Path Road, pass the tennis courts, and then turn right into the parking lot.
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