I would rank Sabbaday Falls as the most kid- friendly hike along the Kancamagus Highway. In fact, if you only had time for one hike, this should be it. A short easy trail will lead you to a 45 foot waterfall, giving you the best bang for your buck.
The Kancamagus Highway cuts through the White Mountains National Park of New Hampshire. There is no shortage of beautiful hikes with options for a wide variety of skill levels.
The first obstacle when it comes to any popular hiking trail is parking. There is a parking lot at the trail head with a self-serve pay station. The cost is $5, so remember to bring cash. The lot is usually full, which is actually a good thing because it limits the amount of people on the trail at one time. Since it is not a very time consuming hike, spots open up pretty quickly. There is a public bathroom in the parking lot.
The trail leading up to the falls is wide and smooth. The incline is gradual making for a comfortable hike for young children or even to push a stroller. You will be walking along the side of Sabbaday Brook so it is scenic from start to finish. It is only a 0.3 mile hike to reach the falls.
There are signs along the path that will point out important geological features and explain how a glacier altered the falls over the course of 10,000 years.
There is a beautiful pool at the base of the falls. From here, you will head up a staircase that will bring you along the top of the flume. The bridge across will give you a perfect view of Sabbaday Falls. Continue up the staircase to the basin above the falls, which marks the end of the trail. The trail will lead you around a short loop before putting you back on the same trail you walked up on.
No swimming is allowed, but of course there were people doing as they please. We even held our breath as a family climbed over the railing on top of the waterfall just to get a selfie. This is why we can’t have nice things.
For safety reasons, Sabbaday Falls is only open during the summer and the fall. The foliage along the Kancamagus Highway is spectacular in the fall and the cool air is perfect for hiking. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Have you been to Sabbaday Falls? What is your favorite hike along the Kancamagus?
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