Rocky Gorge - White Mountain National Forest

Rocky Gorge, located outside Conway in the White Mountain National Forest is a wonderful spot along the Kancamagus Highway.

We visited Rocky Gorge during our recent glamping vacation.  The Swift River carves out some beautiful spots here!  There's plenty of parking and quite a few benches scattered around. 

Visitors will also find a couple picnic tables as well.  The path leads to a wooden bridge that spans the Swift River.  The views from here are spectacular!

After taking in the beauty of the gorge itself, we continued down the path and found Falls Pond. The viewing area offers a shaded spot to sit and so we ate our picnic lunch here. 

Like all spots in the White Mountains National Forest, Rocky Gorge is a carry in/carry out park.  You must take all your trash with you when you leave the park.  Those with a NH Fishing License can try their luck at Falls Pond.

All About Rocky Gorge

• Directions: Located eight miles west of Conway on the Kancamagus Highway.
• Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whitemountain/recarea/?recid=74967
• Open Season: Mid-May to Mid-October
• Lovequist Loop Hike: 1 mile (easy)
• Swimming in or jumping into the gorge is prohibited and is strictly enforced.
• Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

There are several hiking trails to choose from, the easiest being Lovequist Loop, which takes you around Falls Pond.  Along the way, you'll see and hear wildlife all around you.  There a many species of plants and we were delighted to see a rare Lady Slipper alongside the path.

The other hiking trails accessible from Rocky Gorge are:

• Lower Nanamocomuck Ski Trail
• Paugus Link Trail
• Wenonah Trail

What to Pack for a Day in the New Hampshire Parks

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• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Hats and Sun Glasses
• Water Bottles
• Wet Wipes
• Mini First Aid Kit
• Camera and Batteries
• Plastic Shopping Bag for Trash

White Mountain National Forest Highlights

We have traveled through the White Mountain National Forest quiet a bit over the years.  Here are some of our adventures:

• The Mt. Washington Auto Road, Gorham
• The Flume Gorge, Franconia
• Sabbaday Falls, Conway
• Diana's Baths, Conway

If you're looking for another park to explore, try America's Stonehenge or for another gorgeous wilderness to explore, try Astoria, Oregon. It's gorgeous and the perfect Pacific Northwest complement to New Hampshire!

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