Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire
Swimming hole in Jackson, New Hampshire · Other
Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire is a natural swimming hole. It is near Jackson, New Hampshire. Access is free. Best season: Summer (June-August) for the best.
Typical season: Summer (June-August) for the best
About Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire
Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire sits in New Hampshire along Varies (See Below). Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. Between the peaks of the Presidential Range and the dense canopy of spruce and birch, a handful of natural . Each with its own personality, its own pitch of waterfall, and its own particular shade of mountain-cold water. These are mostly unofficial spots, loved by locals and discovered by curious travelers willing to step off the beaten path. The Landscape and the Water Crystalline and clean, often tinged the faintest green-blue where it pools beneath falls. Jackson Falls is the most accessible of the bunch, tumbling down smooth granite ledges right along the roadside, where kids scramble across sun-warmed rock and families spread out on the boulders. The pools are shallow enough for wading and deep enough for a proper plunge, making it an easy first stop. Glen Ellis Falls, by contrast, demands a short but steep descent to reach, rewarding you with a more secluded atmosphere. The falls drop dramatically into a rocky bowl and the cool mist reaches you before the water does. Thompson Falls requires a 30-minute walk through quiet forest, and that extra effort pays off in solitude: you're more likely to share the pool with dragonflies than with other swimmers. No lifeguards patrol Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Varies (see below)
- Water body
- Varies (see below)
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Jackson
- State
- New Hampshire
- Coordinates
- 44.25713, -71.25304
- Best season
- Summer (June-August) for the best .
- Access difficulty
- Easy to moderate. Jackson Falls is roadside, Glen Ellis Falls requires a short but steep hike, and Thompson Falls involves a 30-minute forest walk.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Limited — see facilities notes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- None at sites.
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- No formal facilities such as restrooms or changing areas. You should plan ahead and carry essentials like water and snacks.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitSummer (June-August) for the best .
- AccessEasy to moderate. Jackson Falls is roadside, Glen Ellis Falls requires a short but steep hike, and Thompson Falls involves a 30-minute forest walk.
- FacilitiesNo formal facilities such as restrooms or changing areas. You should plan ahead and carry essentials like water and snacks.
- Camping nearbyNone at sites.
Highlights & features
- Crystal-clear mountain waters
- Family-friendly Jackson Falls
- Secluded spots at Glen Ellis
- Scenic hike to Thompson Falls
- Breathtaking waterfalls
- Diverse swimming experiences from roadside falls to secluded pools
- Stunning seasonal transformations
- Proximity to other White Mountain attractions
How to get there
Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire lies in New Hampshire near Jackson, Glen, and Pinkham Notch. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Jackson Falls Description: A popular . The falls are easily accessible and situated right by the road. Directions:
From North Conway, take Route 16 North.
Drive through Glen, ensuring you stay on Route 16 as it continues north. Upon reaching Jackson Village, turn right onto Route 16A. Follow Route 16A to the falls, which are located beside Carter Notch Road in the center of Jackson Village. The falls are visible from the road.
Parking
Parking is available nearby along the road. Be mindful of local parking regulations. Glen Ellis Falls Description: A scenic and popular waterfall located near Pinkham Notch. Note that bathing suits may be optional further downstream. Directions:
From North Conway, take Route 16 North.
Drive through Glen and Jackson Village, continuing north toward Pinkham Notch. about 0.7 miles before reaching Pinkham Notch, look for the parking area designated for the Glen Boulder and Wildcat Ridge trails. Park in this lot and use the pedestrian tunnel to cross to the other side of the highway. Walk about 0.2 miles to reach Glen Ellis Falls.
Parking
Use the designated parking area for Glen Boulder and Wildcat Ridge trails. Ensure your vehicle is securely parked and follow signage for pedestrian access. Trail Details: The trail to Glen Ellis Falls is steep and includes steps and guardrails. Exercise caution, especially if visiting with children or during wet conditions. Thompson Falls Description:
A smaller waterfall located on Thompson Brook with a pool at the base. . Avoid . Directions
From North Conway, take Route 16 North.
Drive through Glen, ensuring you stay on Route 16 as it continues north. Pass Jackson Village and continue north toward Gorham. Look for the Wildcat Mountain Ski Area on your left and turn into the ski area parking lot near the ticket booth. Park in the lot and cross the bridge near the ski area.
Turn left and follow the signs to Thompson Falls. The walk to the falls takes about 30 minutes.
Parking
Park at the Wildcat Mountain Ski Area parking lot near the ticket booth. Ensure your vehicle is parked in a designated area. Trail Details: Follow the marked trail to Thompson Falls. Be cautious of water conditions and avoid .
Helpful notes
Always check local conditions before visiting, as water levels and currents can vary. Bring appropriate footwear for hiking and navigating trails. Respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots In New Hampshire works well as a day trip from Jackson or Glen. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Glen Ellis Falls (about 1.1 mi away) or browse more New Hampshire swimming spots in our directory. For the full list in New Hampshire, see our state directory.
Access & fees
All locations are unofficial, natural areas with no admission fee indicated. Facilities like restrooms are not confirmed to be available. Parking is roadside or in designated trailhead lots; always obey posted regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots in New Hampshire?
Yes. Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots in New Hampshire near Jackson, Glen, and Pinkham Notch in NH is a varies (see below) swimming spot on Varies (see below). Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots in New Hampshire free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “No”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots in New Hampshire?
Pinkham Notch Swimming Spots in New Hampshire is in NH within day-trip range of Jackson, Glen, and Pinkham Notch. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Culture & history
The Pinkham Notch area is steeped in the history of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid littering, stick to trails, and respect wildlife to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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