The Basin at Franconia Notch State Park Reviews

We were visiting Franconia Notch State Park. We wanted to hike the Flume Gorge, but the mob that morning was so huge we couldn't even find a parking place. So we moved on to other areas which most of the crowd had overlooked. The Basin is a nice walk, and if you have the time, you can actually take a paved trail all the way to see the spot where The Old Man of the Mountain used to be - it's a long walk, though.

We visited the Flume Gorge, Liberty Gorge, and the Basin. The hike is incredibly beautiful with waterfalls, streams, brooks and a bonus was the amazing Fall colors. Loved it!

A great location to spend some time and enjoy the amazing brook scenes and falls. The walk isn't difficult and is less crowded during the week.

The basins are a easily accessible, pretty location with minimal walking. Great geological experience nice walking trails

The walk from the parking lot isn't far and mostly paved. It wasn't too crowded when we went so we were able to enjoy the views and not feel rushed. There are several hiking trails to explore if you are inclined. My boys enjoyed climbing on the rocks and crossing the streams.

We love to visit the Basin! The trails are well maintained, and if you're on the adventurous side, the river and various formations are a lot of fun to explore. There are even beautiful natural pools that you can walk right into and swim in, though even in mid-August the water is VERY cold. It's refreshing to hop in after a long, hot hike. I wouldn't recommend going in the water until the end, though. It will make for an uncomfortable journey. Be sure to go up the Pemi trail and follow it upriver. There's a lot to see up there!

right off the highway this peacful setting allows you to connect with nature with the gourgeous basin

really easy walk. Simple access from the highway. Small waterfalls and dramatic, hydrolic pothole. Plenty of parking. Outhouses. Well graded walkways for all levels. Bicycle paths as well.

If you want to go on a mini hike then check this place out. There were a couple spots I could just sit lounge at all day but I have a feeling this place gets packed in the summer. The basin was neat and to think Henry David Thereou stood at that very site was a bonus history lesson. If you have a bike bring it. And also the grams and Gramps of the world can do this walk.

A nice easy walk to a truly unique geologic formation. Right off I93 with plenty of parking and easy trails. A definite must stop when in the area.

This beautiful spot offers water and forests and is a perfectly peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors.

One of the easiest walks to see a stunning, serene view. I took a video of The Basin and listen to it all the time. It is so relaxing to hear. It is a short, easy walk to an amazing view. You won't be disappointed.

This park has something for everyone. Easy trail to basin.Short walk from parking lot. Walk at your own pace. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and rushing water.

A beautiful section of Franconia Notch State Park that is a perfect area for a shorter hike or leisurely walk. Easily accessible from the highway, it is ten minute walk to see the Basin/Waterfall and admire the unique facets of nature. For those who wish to walk a bit longer, there is a nice trail in the woods which is well marked. Well worth a stop to see-- and easy to get to(right off the highway) after you've toured the Kancamangas Highway.

A must see!!! So beautiful and easy to access. This was our favorite place to relax and enjoy the amazing flowing water.

We wanted to check this out and we weren't disappointed. It's a very short walk to the basin. The basin itself is smaller than I expected but very pretty. You can't swim at the attraction but there were plenty of swimming spots along the walking path. The water is ICE COLD.
The paths are easy to maneuver and fine for toddlers. There are lots of bikes so just pay attention. It's a quick excursion.

I had not been here in 30 plus years. My wife had never been. It is so gorgeous. It is definitely worth the time to stop and enjoy rain or shine

Short easy pathway to see this beautiful basin carved by water into the underlying solid rock. We first visited here with our children many years ago and it is no less beautiful today.

Our family hiked to the basin with our young kids. The mix of paved and gravel paths worked easily with our BOB jogger. We did have to pick it up once or twice. The path also had a ton of little off shoots that you could take to explore little secret spots with little ones. There were also shallow spots of the river that were good for skipping rocks or splashing! Highly recommend!

Every time we hike, someone HAS to go to the bathroom and it's never a "just go behind a tree, will ya?" Kind of bathroom trip. Ugh. Kids, right? But when you run in thinking and screaming, " Don't breathe!" And then have to run out immediately before passing out due to the fumes on only a 60° day, something's wrong. So you go back in because, surely, it can't be THAT bad, could it...NOPE! You just CAN'T do it. Especially when the fly lands on your head. All I can think of is the diseases that are evolving in that freaking place...gross!

We stopped by here on our way to The Flume. It was a great place to walk on the rocks and let the kids play in the (crystal clear) water. It's really a neat place. The Baby Flume is a short walk to see the waterfall.

Went here with kids aged 3-17 and it was good for all of us. Lots to see and not too diffcult. We recommend it for all ages

Took our grandchildren on a tour of Franconia Notch and spent time at the Basin. It was a very hot day and the children were able to play in the stream above the basis. We were able to have lunch at a table near the stream. It was a very enjoyable time and hard to get the children to leave. Trails are easy to navigate and we found ample parking on a Monday. We understand that parking can be at a premium on summer weekends.

its such a great thing to do just off the highway, great way to stretch your legs and wake up from traveling!

Short walk from the parking lot. Very easy loop, with established paths. A few areas to get your feet wet if you’d like. Good for kids. Worth stopping but for us is a one time thing. Definitely nice on a hot day, was very crowded end of June 2018.

Great views and a lot of nature to see. If you have small children who need a stroller, I recommend a backpack carrier instead. You can swim, picnic or walk.

A wonder of nature. Worthy to visit.The flume is very beautiful. Had a great hike and took spectacular pictures.

A short quarter mile walk from the parking area...all handicapped accessible! Beautiful waterfalls and basin reaching depths of fifteen feet. Worth a quick hour stroll

Everything about this trail is beautiful and so peaceful. Starts out super easy up to the basin and if that is all you can do - IT IS STILL SO WOTH IT. As you start to go up the falls it gets harder - but there are so many areas to go sit out on the rock formations and play in the pools all along the trail - YOUR WHOLE GROUP WILL HAVE FUN. The views of the mountain range from the falls is beautiful too - very peaceful. It wasn’t to crowded earlier on - but certainly had a lot of folks later - SO MY ADVICE IS GO EARLY AND ENJOY THE PEACEFULNESS.

The basin is just off Route 93. Accessing the Basin from the parking lot is a short walk. It’s a lovely sight and worth a visit.

Beautiful place for an easy hike or hanging out in the woods. Great for families. My grandson loved wading in the brooks that surround the basin

We did a road trip through New England and the basin was a highlight for our 12-year-old. The water is so clear that it is deeper than it looks. They had a good time playing on the rocks and walking the trail. This was the only stop we were able to make in New Hampshire, and it was definitely a great one.

No doubt you have seen bowls carved out by mountain streams in granite before, however this spot is truly unique and so enjoyable. Easy to access. I was there around 7:30 AM and had it all to myself to enjoy, would recommend. Photos really cannot do it justice.

This stop is a must if travelling in Northern New Hampshire. Spend an hour or so and take in the sights.

You need to hike a little bit to get to The Basin, it's just a place where the rock form a basin structure.

We almost passed this up but I’m glad we didn’t. If you like rushing water & forest hiking, this stop is just south of the Flume where the Pemigewasett River has carved interesting shapes into the stone & waterfalls/cascades abound. You walk through a tunnel under the freeway & then the adventure begins. There is also a short spur trail to the “Baby Flume” before you reach The Basin.

Great hike for families! We continued on to the Cascade Falls trail. Easy walk to the Basin and paved.

Average trip. We arrived at approximately 1 pm and made our way down the trail towards the basin. The hike was fairly easy, and involved walking on flat pavement. The basin itself had clear water and a nice waterfall flowing through it.

Tip: I recommend spending 15 minutes here if you truly want to see everything.

Very enjoyable. A great outdoor experience for the family. Enjoy hiking and mountain sightseeing along the running water. The walking and bike path here at Franconia Notch Park is great.

My husband and I easily hiked to The Basin and it is worth it. So beautiful and lovely. I would highly recommend it.

Typical for the area but it's really nice and good hiking. Definitely worth the trip when in the area. Well kept and beautiful.

This trail is overloaded with beautiful cascades. It is very zen,,,,, until you must go to a bathroom. As soon as we started the hike, my child needed to go to a bathroom. He refused to go into the horrifying bathroom in the trail and we had to drive back 20minuts to use a bathroom in the town (Due to pandemic, there are no public indoor bathrooms nearby). I wish this trail will charge a fee to maintain a usable bathroom. There are also dog poos in plastic bags here and there on the trail.

This was perfect. I cannot do any strenuous hiking. This was a great walk! Easy along the river and it seems like you can chose to go as far as you like before turning around. Well marked trails and options. Bring a picnic and stay awhile. Plenty of spots along the river to sit on rocks and enjoy the sounds.

This large pothole in the Pemigewasset River was formed about 25,000 years ago by a glacier. The Basin is a great place to spend some time admiring the scenery and walking along the trails by the river. Watch your pets, though -- one time my springer spaniel fell into the stream, even though he was on a leash, and couldn't climb his way out over the slick bank. Luckily for both of us, a stranger was kind enough to jump in and lift him out.

This is right off the highway and an easy walk to the natural pool of "The Basin." The path to the Basin is paved and there is even a viewing point for handicapped people. Really glad that we stopped and took time to walk to this beautiful, natural spot.

This is a very nice short visit. Nice little hike in the woods with the river and the basin itself is very unusual.

A short walk from the highway parking, this natural formation carved out of the running water shows how wonderous nature can be; whilst a lot smaller than the local gorge, the basin is a natural beauty point and free to view at your pleasure.

Gorgeous water views. Easy walk. No need to be a hiker to enjoy. Lots of nature photo opportunities.

Although a cold day, it was well worth the visit to see the beautiful scenery. A nice place for for walking.

Dos and dont’s - DO expect a beautiful, serene, calm trail that is well marked, and an overall easy walk. Paved in some parts. Great for kids, families, and those that love beautiful water, waterholes and picturesque views. DONT expect a difficult hike or climb up the side of a mountain. DO expect plenty of ‘gram moments. The scenery is gorgeous and plenty of picnic and chill out spots. We spent a couple hours meandering there and it was wonderful!

We were looking for a short stop to make on our trip home from Jefferson and pulled off at the Basin. Right off the highway we were thrilled to find a great short easy walk to some fun views. A perfect way for our 4 year old to get some wiggles out before getting back into the car. Added bonus he put his bathing suit on and waded in the clean but cold water. Definitely recommend it as you are driving by.

Although it seemed strange walking under the interstate...This place was beautiful and was one of many stops this day as we made our way thru the New England States for the first time. The basin was so clear, you could see the bottom and smaller falls area really nice. Clean and refreshing

Short hike under the highway and along a nice trail. The Basin, super cool to see. You cant swim but it is nice an cool there anyway under tree cover and ice cold water rushing by. I have been coming to NH for 40 years and this is my first time here. So glad I decided to visit. Its totally free and is similar to other attractions that charge money.

The basin is in Franconia Notch SP which is a beautiful area. It is a relatively short walk under the interstate but not accessible for those who can’t walk well. Not crowded and well worth the stop.

We saw the stairs and wow! Such fun climbing over the boulders and watch the water roll on by. Adult supervision is a must as are sneakers!

The family and I made a nice little pit stop at this location. We didn't spend a lot of time, but viewing the basin was neat and the trails are fun for the kids and adults alike.

This is a very easy, and short, walk from the parking lot and a cool geological formation in the stream. Just a short distance from the Flume parking lot and definitely worth a stop.

Basin is very picturesque...a perfect little walk for the whole family..in the middle of Franconia notch state park...if your driving thru don’t miss it

Amazing that views like these are so easy to get too! This is another truly amazing place to see. With a bit more effort there are some falls across from the basin that are worth the trip also

This was a very beautiful area. However, it is not for people who are not in condition to walk up very steep areas. We had older people with us and they stayed in the store area; they could not have walked up the trails. They did post this very prominently in the lobby.

I wouldn't go out of your way for this attraction but if your driving by take a peek. It's a small waterfall and there is another small waterfall to the left of it.

Just a short walk takes you to a beautiful little waterfall in a small stone grotto. Hard to describe, easy to experience. Only thing better would have been if you could take a quick dip and if it had of been a hot day. Nice little picnic area on the way.

The Basin is worth a stop when you're driving along Route 3 through Franconia Notch State Park or visiting the White Mountains region in general. It's a very soothing, beautiful place, and the short walkway/trail along the Pemigewasset River to it isn't strenuous.

Beautiful and super easy to get to! Right off Route 93 on Franconia Notch Parkway and lots of parking. Just a short walk to The Basin!

Nice view. Not allowed to swim there. We could only take pictures and enjoy the views. But water is crystal clear!

We loved seeing the Basin. The terrain was slightly difficult for older people. The weather was absolutely beautiful the day we visited. We traversed some trails over roots and rocks also.

The Basin is a lovely spot along a bubbling brook. On a warm summer day it's a great place to enjoy the cold water to dip your ankles in to help cool you off. This is not a swimming hole for adults as it is quite shallow, at most perhaps 12" deep; but with parents' watchful eyes, children and toddlers love it!

I have been going here for years. It's a nice, quick stop before going to major attractions in the area. It's free, scenic, and a great place to dangle your feet over the natural slides and falls. I don't think you are supposed to swim here, but you can dip feet in to cool off. It's even beautiful here in winter, when the falls make gorgeous, blue-toned glaciers. I highly recommend this place. Good for a picnic. Great for adults and kids and has easy trails.

We went a little before lunch. It was adventurous for our 3 yr old granddaughter and easy for her to walk all the way in and out. We stopped at one of the pick nick tables and had a family snack on our way out.

There’s no reason not to go see this place. It’s amazingly beautiful, beyond actual compare. Hidden but easily accessible. And, there are miles of walking paths (for handicap, plus size folks like myself, and people carrying children or strollers) around the basin and the water that runs into the basin. Also, if it rains, it still seems doable. It was easy to park, walk through the tunnel and get to the basin. It’s gorgeous waters. You can do this in 20-30 minutes (though the walk is less than that to get there, maybe 5-10 minutes). And, if you keep walking, you can dip your toes into the water or skip rocks across the pond or sit on a boulder and paint, or listen to music. Bonus point: for literary folks, this is a place greatly admired by Henry David Thoreau.

What agorgeous view and easy path and labled to get to the basin waterpool. It is abeautiful sight to get scenic pictures.

The sound of rushing water drowns out the heavy highway traffic noise. Easy off and back on Rte 93 south bound. Avoid the crowds, go early am, or very late in the afternoon. Hard packed gravel trails and pavement for ease of walking. There are a couple picnic tables, and benches for sitting beside the river in the shade. Great place for a hot day!

Had already hiked my socks off by the time we got to the parking lot for the Basin so was really grateful this was a very easy 10 minute walk! There are trails to make a bit more of a hike but if you just want to stop and see the Basin it is a quick easy stop and very beautiful to see!

We almost drove right by this place. It turned out to be a wonderful morning walk through the quiet forests into the flume gorge, and a wonderful relief from the heatwave,

We were here 50 years ago and it is still a fun place to stop. We enjoyed the trail, the rushing water falls and the beautiful foliage. We could not have hit it any better because it was simply a gorgeous day. We would highly recommend this stop and if you like to hike, hike far beyond the basin, itself.

Really cool natural structure, with great trails around it. A few swimming spots near the trails too. Great way to spend about an hour.

Five minute walk to this interesting site. Ie an area of a mountain stream . An easy walk along a paved and dirt path.

Cool spot that is easy to get to and only a short distance from the parking lot. Can be crowded. There are some other trails that branch off by the basin that are nice and way less crowded. Kinsman's Falls were really pretty (more on the moderate side of difficulty rating to get there). The parking has outhouses too.

This is a great walk to do on a warm day. The tall trees along the path provide shade, and the rushing water creates a relaxing mood. There are stairs and short inclines/declines. If you prefer you can do a straight path to the an overview if you are in a stroller or wheelchair.

This is a very nice place to visit and go for a nature walk. It is not far to get to the basin if your walking ability is limited but if you choose, there are other nature walks. It even has a "mini" flume.

Trail for “off road” jogging stroller. Only a few spots you can’t take the stroller like down the steps to the basin area as pictured. Easy walk, close to parking. Beautiful views.

This easy to drive and walk to attraction is worth the time to do so. The basin is indeed a local geological wonder.

The actual Basin is only about 1/2 a mile from I 93 and very impressive, a whirlpool. From there you can hike up the river seeing rushing water and falls or take a flatter trail down the river.

The park ranger recommended this site off exit 34A and we just loved it. Its an easy shaded walk along the beautiful rushing granite waterways worn smooth by the current. One of our favorite places in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Definitely worth a visit. Folks were swimming in a few places.

The Basin and Pemi trails were clearing marked. The cascade trail is located at this trailhead, but is not marked until you walk to the right on the paved path - which looks like the bike trail. It’s a beautiful trail with waterfalls.

Beautiful spot with great paths (paved to the Basin). Basin is fascinating and shows what time and a little sand and lots of water can do. Well worth the time to go up the trails to some amazing falls. Relatively easy path and grade to first two falls.

All the sights and vistas in this area are beautiful. The mountain range and waterfalls were in full view

We were here many years ago and either my memory is dim or the area has changed. I seem to remember a smaller basin, one that wasn't fenced off. However, the short hike here is worth the visit. The basin, surrounding rock formations, nearby falls and pathways are good for the soul. An added bonus: it's free!

This is a nice easy nature walk with a huge pay off with the beautiful blue water and streams leading the way to the ending beautiful point the basin. I have never seen a formation quite like this.

Very cool, easy hike with your children. Met a friendly park ranger who seemed to love his job.... told is about the area, and about the various trout in the area

Love to walk through the easy to walk trails ,I have breathing issues so it is perfect way to enjoy the beautiful waterfalls and scenery . I always so mesmerized by the swirling water of the basin could watch for hours ! The best time to visit I believe is in the spring when the water is really flowing around in the basin, always a beautiful site!

Take a few minutes and turn off the highway here. The day we went - August 5th - it was raining off and on all day, but we went here on a break in the rain. It's a beautiful location.

We have visited this location during multiple seasons and have enjoyed it more in November when tourism is in the off-season. I am an avid photographer and during the summer months it is too crowded to get natural photo's without being photo bombed by traveling visitors. During foliage season there is more water in the basin but you will be climbing over people to see it! Great location overall.

Absolutely stunning falls and a very walkable trail. Be sure to carry rain gear if there is a cloud anywhere. We got soaked, but it was worth every single second. Easy to navigate - even with bad knees, i made it to the lower fall on the paved trail without any trouble at all. Go! Enjoy.

The pemi trail here is an easy walk and the trails are well maintained. It was a busy fall day but we were still able to feel secluded in nature.There are multiple bathrooms but they are camp style (glorified porta-potty) they also do not have a place to was hands and they DO NOT offer hand sanitizer either. Only downside was because of the number of other walkers there was little to no wildlife to be seen or heard.

We always have a great time at the basin! Many hiking trails of various lengths but a quick 30 min walk will take you past the beautiful river, small waterfalls, many bridges, and of course the basin. If you can brave the cold water, there is also a small swimming hole. Picnic areas and outhouses close to the parking lot.
We come here year round - even in you can see the basin and it is lots of fun to track around in the snow!

It is worth the short hike to see the basin but don't stop there There are a couple of path which take you around to the back of and above the basin with different little waterfalls and rock formations. The view from above the basin is quite different. Sweet and refreshing hke.

When we arrived at The Basin, I though meh, it’s ok. Then we continued on the trail there were cascades and great scenery. We decided to take the Basin Cascades Trail to Kinsman Falls, and there was great scenery all over.

Really cool place for a short walk with great water views and history of the area. We spent some time here in between rains and thoroughly enjoyed it! Most of the paths are paved, but even the ones that not are doable for most.

Great view, nice spot. Incredible information on the sign. Hike is easy but lots of roots, don't recommend for wheelchair.

If your just looking to see the basin this is a quick stop with a parking lot right off the main road. Then you walk under the highway a couple hundred yards and your there.

Short walk to beautiful cascade falls and the Basin itself. Each of falls is beautiful in its own way. All of them are well maintained and easily accessible.

Beautiful spot to Hike take a dip have some Lunch .Large Parking area also allowed to Bike on the Trails or bring your Dog.Spend the Day relaxing and enjoying the tranquil sounds of the river very Peaceful.

Worthwhile, easy, and very pleasant walk to a fascinating swirl of a waterfall in a rock pool. This walk would be great with kids, as is evidenced by all the families on the well-maintained trail. After viewing the basin, you have the option to challenge yourself and extend your hike to other, lovely waterfalls beyond The Basin. Keep your eye out for the signs along the trail to Kinsman and Glen Falls. Allow about 45 minutes to one hour to see the Basin and two or more hours to go beyond.

Fun easy hike with the family. Very pretty area. The basin is very cool. Been there many times with my family.

We passed signs for The Basin on the highway in between activities, so we decided to check it out. Definitely a highlight from the day and well worth the detour. Plus, there was no entrance fee. Beautiful falls, fun rocks to climb, and nice little spots to dip your feet. (The water was very cold in some parts, but we found some spots which had warmer water.) Lots of different trails to choose from. We didn't have much time here, so we went to The Basin and then towards Glenn Falls. It was the perfect trail for us.

A great stop on the Franconia Notch Highway .. .easy on and off ... well developed trails ... make sure that you also go to upper area of the basin where you get an overlook and can access the bridge to the rapids view

I am not sure if it is nature made or man made but either way it was very cool to see. About a 5 minute walk from the car to the basin. Easy for all ages. Slippery after it rains so be careful! Worth the little trip.

Trails could be a bit better marked but once we got going the right direction, the Basin, the Cascades and Kinsman Falls were very scenic!

Just Beautiful, the basin was cool looking, Very clean, you can go swimming in certian areas, easy to get to, free parking. Just spend the day walking away.

While visiting in New Hampshire my brother in law took us to this great location. We ended up spending a couple of hours here admiring the nature, the views and hiking up the waterfalls amidst the newly formed canopy of leaves during New Hampshire's spring. its located right off the highway, offers free parking, restrooms and plenty of hiking trails. The scenery needs to be experienced first hand. Do yourself a favor and don't pass this spot by. Stop, take it in, and experience the beauty of the Basin.

This is a very quick and easy hike full of many photo opportunities as soon as you start! There are some hills to climb but not much elevation throughout the hike.

the walk to the basin is not bad at all and it was very quit and beautiful. i would highly reccomend

The hike along the cascades to Lonesome lake is spectacular any time of day but especially during golden hour. The visitor info center is very informative.

TIP: Do your more strenuous hikes in the morning and come here for the easy, beauteous and relaxed natural therapeutic trail to end your day. It's stress-free and paved well into a hemlock-covered, deep woods waterway that is unraveled in the East. Plenty of selfie spots at the Basin, various bridges and rock slot gullies. Don't miss the the "Mini Flume" not far beyond. Parking is easy because there is an East and West parking area off 93 connected by a walkway beneath the highway. Both areas are well marked by BASIN exit signs.

This is one of those great-bang for your buck places...even though its free. We drove two hours to get here, and my five year old loved it. There is enough to see to make the drive worth it. The walk also is quite easy.

My boyfriend and I stopped here with my parents to see the basin and take a nice hike through the woods. It was easy to navigate and worth a visit!

The views along the trail are very nice, but the footing becomes steadily more unpleasant as you go along. There are MANY tree roots that make it difficult to find a place to step in some areas, as well as slick rocks on steep slopes if it's rained recently. You also have to cross the stream in a place that is not super easy to do so. If none of this sounds like a big deal, then enjoy! If it does, though, then stick to Franconia Notch and Lost River.

Great little walk with great views..easy walk for both handicap and non. Can get to it from both sides of 93.

Be ready for people taking dogs to this. It is very scenic and pretty easy climb, too. Take a picnic and sit on the rocks to watch the clear water flow briskly.

I've been here countess times. The serene beauty and nature all around is so relaxing and indeed, quite therapeutic! Every time I've been here, it looks a little bit different, and I see something I'd never noticed before.

I remember as a young boy how much fun I had hiking around the area, and then up the mountain to see the awe-inspiring water falls and streams. It hasn't changed any as an adult. Although my somewhat older bones and muscles might complain a bit, I still love just taking in the scenery and the beauty of God's creations!

Any time someone tells me to go take a hike, I gladly oblige them and come here!!

We have been here a few times now with different people. We only spend about 20-30 minutes here but it really is interesting to see how water can make rock so smooth. There are some hiking trails as well that we have not gone on. To get the the Basin from the parking lot most people would be able to walk it and at least from the parking lot on the north side of 93, you could take a wheel chair to the Basin.

Very interesting geological feature! We also had a very nice hike around the ringe. It was a hot day but nice under the tree canopy.

This is a great spot for a leisurely walk enjoying the falls and scenery. Despite being right off the highway there's room that people spread out and it feels intimate. There are trails spoking off from the main 'basin' path where you can go as far or stay as close as you wish. Good for kids, but only if they're not prone to climbing under stockade fences.

It's handicap accessible from the southbound side and from either side with a stroller.

This is a beautiful place to stop and visit; it is a relatively easy hike for families with children and has a handicapped accessible area to see the lovely flumes and the basin. The water is crystal clear but for the record it is not s place to swim. Even when crowded it is peaceful serene place to visit, truly a wonder if nature. As a bonus it is free to visit and there is a small picnic area with rest areas.

This State Park is so big, that it traverses Highway I-93. The Basin is easy to see with the highway signage, so just pull off and start a relaxing walk. The path is paved, and also has a handicapped accessible pathway to see the Basin. We saw some people even taking a dip in one area. It is a very short walk, maybe ten minutes or so, if you don't stop for photos, to the Basin. The Basin is a huge granite hole about 20 feet in diameter that is so smooth and to hear the water rushing down into it, is just amazing.

It’s worth stopping off 93 to see the basin and nearby water cascades. It’s actually free, unlike the flume gorge.
Also, you can dip in the water just above it. It is ice cold so be prepared.

This natural watering hole might not be Niagara’s falls, but it holds its own captivity. Take in the sounds of the waters swirling, Creating it’s own pool. Them continue along the well trodden path in the woods for more relaxing waters and sounds. I hope (might I add “trust”) this stop will be a highlight of your trip as it is ours.

After visiting The Basin along with lots of other people, we took off down the brook trail and loved it. It was challenging but not too tough and there were two beautiful waterfalls to visit. After leaving the main area, we didn't come across other people at all.

The trails are easy to walk, not long at all. So relaxing, peaceful and quiet! My 6 year daughter absolutely loved this part of our trip!

This was a great spot we were able to easily view the basin and the unique features there with my mother in law in her wheel chair stunning rock features and the way the water was carving the area even today

Our kids are older now, 19 and almost 13, but they still love nothing better than a stream with lots of big, flat rocks to play on. This area was beautiful with a short hike to the basin. We, of course, took nearly an hour to walk .2 miles because even in that short stretch, there were a ton of spots to stop and play. The best part is, it's free!

We visited the Basin because we were in the area and there was no cost. It was interesting. The water flowing was spectacular and refreshing. There are walking paths nearby as well. Worth a visit if you are in the area.

Easy walk along a beautiful river! The scenery was spectacular and there were virtually no bugs whatsoever. This is definitely a MUST SEE!

Beautiful walk, awesome falls, and worth the trek into the woods. handicapped accessible, well maintained trails.

Walking to the basin is an easy walk, but continue on to enjoy the area around you even more. Quiet trail that takes you along the river.

The Basin is beautiful to visit year after year. WE never tire of it. There are hiking trails, one to The Little Basin which is beautiful to see also.

We made it right before the trail kept going to the lake it took about an hour or so to get up. The three waterfalls on the mile or so hike were beautiful we only saw a handful of people. However, the earlier you get there is better just like everything else. By 11 AM on our way down there was a lot of people going up. There were some people enjoying the natural water bath areas. This was very dog friendly and plenty of parking and also public restrooms pretty much a porta potty. I recommend!

Thankful for the rain the night before. Water was high & rushing by. It was such an awesome sight. The water was so loud as it crashed into boulders and rocks. Not a long trail and easy to find. Easy fairly short walk as well. Loved this one !!

Stopped at The Basin late one cloudy afternoon, a ten minute or so easy walk from the parking area. Very beautiful. The rushing water is loud enough to drown out the sounds of cars from Interstate 93. More walking/bike trails are available than we had time for. Spent about 45 minutes total. Could easily spend several hours or more.

Fantastic short hike along the water to the Basin! I love Franconia Notch state park it is a beautiful place to visit. You need to spend the whole day there to truly enjoy the area with no time constraints and just disconnect. Such a beautiful spot nature has made.

If you're a nature buff....The Basin is a wonderful spot to check out! I actually proposed to my wife right in front of it, and it couldn't have been more perfect! This is a favorite destination for my family and I to visit whenever we get the chance to take a little vacation to the area. Bring some snacks and water especially if you're bringing your kids, it's a bit of a hike but absolutely worth it.

Had just stopped at the Flume up the road. It was late in the day and we didn't realize how long that hike was or how much it was to get in (We had already done so much that day). The guy at the info desk recommended the Basin because it was a shorter walk and free (Flume is a great beginning to mid day activity and it was 7pm). The Basin is gorgeous and there is a mini Flume just to the left of the bridge, opposite the Basin trail (it's less than a 5 minute walk) and a great way to relax and end the day! Highly recommend.

Nice free flow of water in waterfall form. Easy hike for small legs and toy wolf did quite well. We all loved to see the squirrels. Cool breeze and cool waters make for nice day but BEWARE THE GNATS!!! They will eat your face no matter how much bug spray you use. They are like the highland midgies but more in the lowlands of new England even though we were in the highlands of new England. Crazy world, huh?

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Greetings travelers,
I live nearby the Basin and have enjoyed it many times over the years.
Access is a little easier if your southbound on 93, although northbound works fine, it's just 5 minutes more walking.
The Basin is about a 10 minute walk from the parking area, access is good, through a beautiful, park like setting, along the brook.
Mobility impaired people may have some difficulty getting to the Basin, it is downhill, although there are high quality trails and boardwalks throughout.
The Basin itself is well worth seeing...the river has cut a 50 ft circle through granite, the river is crystal clear, it is as classic a swimming hole as any in this beautiful state. Although swimming is not allowed anymore.
Best of all, it is free !! There are many attractions here you have to pay for..but for what it is...The Basin is just about the best !

Right off I-93. Easy in and out. Great interpretive plaques as you are walking along the trail There's a handicap trail that is paved that has a beautiful overlook onto the basin. A no cost chance to view the power of water and the beauty of natural surroundings.

A great place to stop off of I-93. The trail to the basin is relatively flat and there is even a handicap access trail. I saw a visitor with a wheelchair visit. There was also an outhouse near the parking lot, if needed. While the basin itself is impressive (and loud!) the trail itself was peaceful and had many great places to take photos or just sit and enjoy. It takes about 10 minutes to reach, though we took our time to admire the river and waterfalls along the way. If you're traveling through Franconia, there's little reason not to stop!

If you enjoy nature and walking, this is a great place to visit. Great small waterfalls and hiking trails. There is a handicapped available trail, but it is a little steep at spots.

This was our first stop of many as we drove around the White Mountains and a good introduction. There is a large car park and signed walking routes, including a walk to the Basin which takes around 5 minutes. The Basin itself is fenced off to prevent access but it's a lovely spot to relax and take some photos and well worth taking a few minutes to visit if you are passing but I'm sure you could spend much more time here if you had the time.

We enjoyed the Basin almost as much as the Flume area. The walk through the area is very easy and the water features are very interesting. There is also an offshoot trail with a lot of roots that goes to a little flume and other water features that was worth the short walk.

I liked that basin. As we were heading to it, we saw a river flowing swiftly.

The basin has a waterfall and its water is green. It's truly a basin in all its beauty!.

Some of the water followed the river.

I enjoyed the beauty of this basin. It is free as well. It's a must see! Wow!

We almost overlooked this stop along Franconia Notch. But, with some spare time, we decided to stop, thinking it was a quick look at nothing too impressive. It's actually totally worth your time. A paved trail, with several off shoot dirt trails, follow the river and MANY waterfalls. At the bottom is a large pool, The Basin, with some cool rock formations. Picnic areas are located throughout the trail. Wading pools and rocks in the river provide lots of opportunity to get your feet wet along the way. Some people were actually swimming, although the water was quite cold for a July afternoon. It's an easy walk, you can make it as short or long as you like. I'm very happy we took the time to stop, I wish we had been able to stay there longer!

Very interesting to see and worth the easy hike. Parking is free and the hike is less than one mile.

This is a pull-off parking lot from I-93. Just a short walk - (with a handicap accessible path too) through woods to the pretty basin. There were spots where kids were splashing in the water along the way. It's a shady walk so good on a hot day too!

Great walking paths and nice place to stop and enjoy a picnic during the summer months. Very enjoyable for a couple or families. Bike paths are safe and well maintained.

We were lucky enough to find this place during a drive. It’s a nice easy walk with some incredible views. If we weren’t stuffed from eating at Flapjacks we would have had a nice picnic there.

It is so worth a stop here to see the fantastic power of nature. It's a short walk and there is no fee. Even if you aren't a nature buff you will be taken by its natural beauty.

We parked our car and took the short walk to this attraction. Really a good spot for photos. Crystal clear water and erosion of rocks by water.

Crazy what the nature can form into stones. It's just an easy walk from the parking lot near the interstate.

Nice area.The Basin is worth checking out. A short walk from the parking lot. There are also paths that follow a stream. Nice and shady. And its free.

This area should be a National Park. It has that type of beauty and appeal. No parking problems on a summer weekday. Now to decide which pictures to publish.

We always take a walk in to see the Basin even though we have seen it about 100 times. Just cool to look at. You can park on the opposite side of the road and walk under the road or there is parking on the same side. Depending if you are traveling north or south. The little bridge over the brook is awesome. It is much cooler once you get into the woods and the water is so clear you can see every rock and sand as it rushes along. You can make your walk as short or long as you want entering from either side of the road. Seniors like us make it a short walk. There are more trails to follow from the basin if you are up for it.

Sorry to have missed this on my previous trips here, but this is a great beginner hike to see wild falls and cool formations. Can be as short or long as you want.

It's a nice attraction, but I'm not sure why people are raving about it so much. Worth seeing because it's easy to get there and is an unusual looking formation.

Well worth the stop. Short walk from ample parking with handicap access if need be. There are some beautiful small waterfalls on the walk down. Careful wet rocks are very slippery.

My wife and I were originally going to take our two Golden Retrievers to see "The Flume", which costs $16 per person. However, the helpful person at the Customer Service Desk at the Visitors Center informed us that dogs were not allowed at The Flume but that we could take them to "Ths Basin", for free.

We took her advice and saw wonderful views of rapids and whirlpools over a 100 foot section of the river. There was a second, smaller "Basin", but that was 15 minutes in the opposite direction and so skipped that one.

Always love this area and we visit each time we come to the area. The walk to the basin is lovely and fairly easy to do.

Lovely spot with clean pathways and beautiful vegetation. We went on a very hot day and it was so pleasant and shady there.

Very easy, short hike, water is crystal clear, lots of small waterfalls. No admission fee, right off the highway. Hike only takes about an hour, if you take your time.

The walk in to this beautiful location is short and fairly easy with just a mild incline. You can get quite close to the pothole from the trail. There are some small waterfalls along the way that are beautiful as well. The water has carved the granite bedrock into smooth curves here. There is also an alternative viewing area that looks down from above and is handicap accessible. Even if you walk the trail, the view from above is worth seeing. Love this spot.

This was my first visit to the White Mountain area and my husband wanted to show me this natural wonder. This is an easy walk and well worth the time to stop and see it.

An easy, accessible hike that brings you to beautiful waterfalls and rock formations. However, you can make it into a longer, moderate hike by going up to lonesome lake and back.

The noise is the first thing you experience about the sight. The roar of the water can be heard some distance away. The actual sight doesn't disappoint as well. It is larger than I expected and a great natural feature to see.

Short hike to the basin. We went there because the Flume Gorge was not open yet for the season. And the customer service person of the Flume Gotge suggested it. We enjoyed.

Took my grandchildren to the flume and basin. My grandparents took me many times. Beautiful walk and trails. Harder for me now I'm older. Wonderful river falls past it. Maybe last free attraction in Franconia notch

This place was amazing where u really connect with nature and family.
Loved the walk and the exercise.
People gathered to watch kayakers coming down the falls, it was a little chilly but sunny and a beautiful day.
Nice area where to park and go underpass to get to the basin.
There’s also a bike road that we took everything well signed.

We visited early in the morning when the air was crisp and hardly anyone else was around. Such a lovely little path that leads you through the trees and by ever increasing waterfalls until you eventually arrive at the boisterous and noisy basin. If memory serves, there's an easier path for those less able. It's a wonderful not to be missed kind of place.

Place is quiet and stunning. Loved our picnic on the rocks and waterfalls. Wear hiking shoes or something with grips for the rocks.

It is really near the carpark so you actually dont sweat when you reach it. And the roads are paved especially going to the handicap viewing area. Not that stroller friendly due to the natural landscape of the ground. On the way to the basin you could see the river and some minor falls for more enjoyment of the walk.

It was interesting to see how the water had carved out the basin. The woods and bike path around the basin are pretty.

Our first time here and it was a beautiful fall day, the trail was very simple, it wasn’t overly crowded. There is two parking lot, north bound and south bound. Easy for kids and older folks to visit, they provide a restroom, which I didn’t dare use but if you had to go, it’s there, in the entrance.

The basin is an easy, mostly paved hike from the parking area. The trail continues up the mountains to a waterfall. This hike was a little steep, but not too far. Worth the effort.

Told my kids that this is where to sprinkle my ashes ! It’s truly beautiful!
The walk in is even nice.

We took a little side trip to the Basin on our trip home. Easy walk down to the Basin with a well maintained path and trail markings. We will stop again when we have more time to explore more of the trail. There is no fee to enjoy the trails.

The Basin park has several waterfalls including the big whirlpool created by 10,000 years of swirling water carving out the granite.The Basin has several trails including one that heads up Canon Mountain. Lots of parking. The ice formations in winter are spectacular. During the summer rangers check to see if you bought a White Mountain trail pass. No admission fee, but you should get the pas to hit all the scenic trails.

Beautiful as always. Kids loved climbing on the rocks and going into the very cold water. Will definitely return soon.

There's a natural formation shaped like a basin. Nothing more than that. It's a nice walk from parking lot to The Basin. Please note that parking lot is split into two parts. If you can't find parking in the first half, keep driving to the second half. After you see The Basin, you can keep walking further. There are places where you can see the water flowing. It's not deep anywhere, and you'd see kids playing in the water. Place closes after certain time, so check Open/Close times before you go.

This is my favorite hike in White Mountains. Great views for photography and plenty of place to stop and relax, enjoying nature. We loved dipping our toes in the cool mountain water..very refreshing!

I remember going to the Basin years ago. I found it very tranquil then and found it just as tranquil today. I was impressed with the trail available for handicap people. The walk to the Basin was easy and clear of garbage.

The basin with its waterfall and rapids, are within walking distance from the parking lot. Even though it is not that spectacular, it is well worth the time for the visit as it does not take a lot of effort to see it all.

We have been visiting the basin for a number of years and have enjoyed it during all seasons. Easy hiking trails to see the basin itself but you definitely feel transported to a different place! A number of other trails branch off so you can spend more time if you like.
In the summer, the little sand beach can be crowded and folks use it as a swimming hole. It is very cold even on the hottest day of the year - but definitely refreshing!
We have a great time every time we go!

The Gadabout Gals looking for easy to moderate hikes loved the Basin. Easy parking and you across go under the road instead of walking across. Great signage on the trail. You walk across a wooden bridge to a short forested walkway and the Basin is only a short distance. It was beautiful. Some would turn around here but the path went on & so did we. Much to our surprise there was much more beauty . We loved the many different types of mushrooms, wild flowers, other native plants, trees and butterflies. More smaller basins and numerous small but delightful falls too. So glad we stopped.

This basin was probably one of my favorite parts of our New Hampshire trip. It is beautiful. The hike is easy, scenic, and peaceful. We went twice during our trip, the first time was early morning and we were pretty much the only ones there. Then we went the following afternoon and it was very populated. It's very nice there, I highly recommend seeing it!

Nice little walk to see cascading water, rocky stream. Parking free which is useful when the walk is only short. Other hikes nearby.

Was breath taking. Kids loved it! And free!! We would have walked longer but we just came back from the flume (A MUST) so we just did a quick stop. We will come back longer when we come back next summer!!!

It's free and well worth your time. Probably as good as Flume Gorge itself. Some parts might be a bit soggy/muddy deeper in the trail, but there are still other nice parts before that.

This is a wonderful place to take a hike, great for adults and kids. There's also a great bike path for those with mountain bikes. Great water views. I recommend visiting even if you can only spare 15 minutes. 5 minutes in you can enjoy great views.

This is a great quick easy walk. Lots of shade, and the rushing water creates a relaxing mood. Beautiful clear water.

The Flume Gorge was a highlight of our 2 days in New Hampshire. I was a bit worried about the hike and stairs as I have bad feet. But we went slow and the stairs are very comfortable to go up. We went shortly after they opened and we enjoyed the whole hike by ourselves.

We have hiked in during summer, spring and fall. We usually go by snowmachine in the winter. Beautiful every season.

We were biking through the Franconia Notch trail on a very hot humid day with muscles spent from hiking. After 4 miles, we surrendered and decided to walk down to the Basin. We were so glad we’d been too tired to continue the bike ride! The Basin is one of the loveliest natural features I’ve ever visited and we almost missed it. The water is icy cold and perfectly crystal clear. Centuries of running water have carved spectacular chutes and pools into the smooth granite. The air was so cool and refreshing by the water, under the trees of the forest. Definitely worth a walk to see this natural beauty. Our photos don’t begin to do it justice.

Easy walk to the Basin but lots to see on the way. very unique place and scenery so well worth the stop.

Quick hike across bridges, and along the water. Lots of notched rock, and the basin at the bottom was amazing to see. There is a handicap path to see it from the top side. The other path is pretty level and easy to walk on. It’s a nice path, it’s pretty... just make sure you bring bug spray!

We took a beautiful walk at The Basin. So many pretty sights, from rolling brooks and several falls. The path is paved and safe. Many great scenes to take photos.

Very well maintained, rain shelters and benches along the way. Definitely recommend not rushing, take a snack/water/etc. It’s a solid hiking experience if you aren’t physically fit. Price is a bit high, but at least it’s clean/organized/etc.

Easy to walk around with kids and/or dogs. Beautiful falls, refreshingly cold water. Paved paths make it accessible for bikers and wheelchairs.

Pretty crowded. Parking tight! Most wearing masks but minority not! Very annoying when most do the right thing and others flagrantly ignore our safety! Needless to say it was the quickest walk to the basin and then back to the car! Water level lower than usual probably due to lack of rain and heat up here this summer.
It is free and outhouses are open. ( I didn’t use but saw people going in and out.)

Recently visited with my wife and two children from California. I grew up visiting the Basin and was super excited to share with my family. Everyone loved the experience! Still amazing after decades of visiting. #PureNature

This is an absolutely beautiful spot. The trail down to the Basin is handicap accessible with a small incline on your way back up. There are several different hikes that you can take when you're at the basin one takes you up to a waterfall actually cannot remember the name of it but we walked up on the rocks. We also encountered several people swimming so if you're going to visit I would suggest taking your swimsuit so you can take a quick dip. If memory serves me correctly I believe that they actually have restroom facilities where you can change your clothes after a dip. This is a must-do for couples or families when visiting the Lincoln area.

My wife and I stumbled upon this during a trip for our anniversary and are SO happy we stopped to explore. Beautiful little trail with waterfalls.

This was cool to see, but we worked hard for it, because we initially took off down the bike path instead of the trail to the Basin. After we walked for awhile, it really felt like we should have been there - yeah, because we took the wrong path! From the parking lot on the east side of the highway, the correct trail is to the left at the entrance to the parking lot, and the trail goes under the road.

A peaceful location for a quite walk in undisturbed nature. Never to busy and always clean and beautiful. Right of the highway and perfect for the non adventurous hiker who just enjoys the outdoors

Lovely, quick hike in to see the basin - very cool how old it is & how it was formed! Easy to navigate, unsure if it was wheelchair friendly though. Bikes & dogs allowed.

The Basin at Franconia Notch St is an interesting place to visit while in New Hampshire. The area is great for hikes.

Great scenery and a good walk through woods and falls with spectacular views. Saw deer and numerous bird life. Another advantage to this attraction is you can get a combined ticket which gives you access to a cable car ride a mile down the road which, gives you spectacular views for miles around. Truly awesome scenery.

Very interesting water and rock formation/feature! The rocks don't really look like real rock. This is also handicapped accessible.

If you are driving by, take a minute to stop an view the basin. It's a short walk from the parking lot. The scenery is beautiful and very calming. The short walk passes over a bridge which has a nice waterfall behind it and then leads down to the basin. You can get some great pictures if you go on the side set up for the handicap access.

Beautiful and relaxing hike with very powerful waterfalls along the way, i was glad that I stopped there.

This is one of those places you think about visiting but never do. Well.... go!
You’ll start at a lovely little stream which leads to a bridge over some falls which leads to a swirling collection of water smoothed rocks which you’ll follow to the basin itself. The power of glacial melt and surging water is on display and quite impressive. It’s an easy trail with one slightly steep area. Photo ops abound, so take your time and enjoy nature.

The Basin is an easy short walk from the parking lot. You can stop at the Basin or continue on down the hiking trail. The Basin is, like the description says, a large pothole filled with water. When we visited we saw very few people so we could enjoy it at our leisure. The path to the Basin is not stroller or wheelchair friendly. There are some steps right at the Basin.
The parking lot is a good size and has picnic tables and a vault toilet.
Admission is free. The Basin is part of Franconia Notch State Park.

Awesome waterfalls. The Basin is very well maintained. Lots of walking to see the whole Basin. We enjoyed the scenery,the walk n just being there.

We stopped here here looking for something today and fell in love. The water flowing is peaceful and calming. There are enough people around that it’s not creepy like your in the woods alone but is not overcrowded and you have plenty of space to roam. On a hot day if you sit on a rock close to the river it’s like natures AC My son enjoyed jumping from rock to rock in the river

Just a short walk from the road leads to this gorgeous pool of water. I loved the way the water was shooting out sideways. The water is so very clear and clean-looking. Simply beautiful natural setting.

I had been here before in the winter and it was magical although a bit frigid. The summer visit allowed for more time outdoors listening to the swirling waters and simply appreciating nature. I believe this is a must see for any who like the outdoors.

Great hike and views. During the summer the river flow was low enough that you could walk out onto the rocks and take pictures of the vista.

definitely stop here to see this beautiful basin. It's an easy walk and is true gem in the White Mountains...convenient for small children and elderly.

Access from route 93 Northbound for south access 93 Southbound for north access. Short and easy trail to view this natural feature where the rushing water angled into a swirl that created a basin of stone about 30 feet in diameter. Crystal clear water. On the path north of the basin back to the parking area, there are spots where you can access the stream for wading or sitting. Not deep enough for swimming. Restrooms adjacent to the parking. Nice diversion even for non-hikers.

It's very easy to make a quick stop at the Basin if you're in the area. It's a neat rock formation from water rotating over & over over time. You'll probably only be here for 15 minutes.

My father was a park developer who always said that implementing accessibility features made everyone's life easier-- after all, we are all temporarily abled. He also said that all people deserved access to nature's beauty. I'm sensitive to these issues and was very pleased to note how easily reached "The Basin" is. For all.

We were heading to hike the Flume Gorge (highly recommended!), and also stopped at the Basin. I was under the impression that the hike to the Basin would be a bit longer, but it was very quick (15-30 minutes). The basin is an interesting natural feature, and you will encounter rivers on the way to the basin, so the views are beautiful; however, do not plan to spend a decent chunk of time here, as it is a pretty quick trip out to the Basin and back to your car.

There is an accessible path to the Basin which is appreciated. This hike is also accessible for children.

We were told about the basin by our innkeeper. First of all there is no entrance fee. With water levels so low paying to see the flume gorge didn’t make sense. We found the basin to be incredibly peaceful despite others visiting. There are picnic tables near the water and would make for a romantic picnic. We hiked and It was an easy hike and it took about 90 minutes to complete a round trip. We had to cross several creeks but with the water so low it wasn’t a challenge.

I went with my girlfriend the day after it rained so the stream that the path followed had a decent flow and we got to see some waterfalls. We hiked all the way to Lonesome Hut. You need to cross the stream twice in order to get there and since the water was so high we had to jump across some rocks to get there which was added fun and tested our balance. The lake by Lonesome Hut was beautiful and really big.

The Basin is a great walk or hike, especially in early spring. It is is located off the Franconia Notch Bike Path and has several other hiking trails that are around it. We were hiking the bike path and stopped there in early May and the water runoff from the snow melt was fantastic. It's nice all year round, but Spring and Fall is our favorite time.

Lovely, but only a short walk. Definitely beautiful. If you want a hike, this isn't it, but still worth a see, for sure.

We have been summer residents for many years. We stop at the Basin every couple of years and it's always worth the stop. No charge to park and no charge to view one of the many beautiful spots in Franconia Notch.

Easy off the highway. Leisurely walk through the woods. Interesting geologic history. Handicapped accessable.

Yep. That’s right. A non-ambulatory person who uses a wheelchair may access this trail. In fact, a portion of it is paved and intersects with the bicycle/pedestrian trail. Many trails intersect with the Basin. It is FREE, and no parking fee is collected. Buses and RVS may park in one area. The thing is, however, that vehicles may park in this space, too. Bathrooms are located in a couple of areas along the trail. Know of the weather forecast before you go. This is a really fantastic stop that you do not want to miss.

My wife and I are visiting and staying in Ashland. The drive up here was easy and the White Mountains beautiful. The Basin and Flume Gorge are both easy hikes. It is our last day in this state and the peace and relaxation up here was just what the doctor ordered.

Refreshing to body and spirit ... the beauty of this area and the cool micro-climate under the trees will work their wonders on even the hottest days. You cant swim in the basin but it is a wonder to look at.
There are actually an number of features along maybe 3/4 mile section of the river. So you could rush and just see the Basin in about 20 minutes or take an hour or more and really explore it all.
No fee at this area and only a few people too. Unlike "the Flume" where you are paying to walk in a cattle line.

Just another one of the beautiful wonders is this area of New Hampshire. Peaceful to watch and walking paths nearby.

It has been years since my last trip here. It is just breathtaking and amazing to watch the water here. The water is so crystal clear and the roar of the water is mesmerizing. So worth the trip to see something so amazing.

Enjoyed walking the river and seeing all the falls, hard to believe there could even be a Basin of rock

What a beautiful place and a nice easy walk to explore. You can go as far or as short a walk as you'd like and can handle.

Love it & I can't say enough of how important it is to get the kids off the internet & into some hiking boots!!my son's grew up hiking & appreciate wildlife.

Beautiful spot for a quick stop. There are 2 paths to see the Basin - one a trail and one accessible. It was perfect for a short leg stretch with our kids and extended family as we left Franconia en route to Maine.

The Basin is an amazing place to visit - the Basin itself is remarkable but is only a small part of the immediate area which is all stunning and worth exploring. It's an easy 5 minute walk to the Basin from the free car park but it's really worth taking more time to enjoy this beautiful spot.

Beautiful trail along river! Awesome scene to see the water come down into that circular stone area.

Beautiful place! The sound of the water was so soothing. It was an easy walk from the parking lot. When we hiked the flume gorge we missed it.

Not much to say but it’s a pretty straightforward walk and this nice basin! If you like water sounds, it’s a very calming place to be. But it does get crowded with people, so plan accordingly. There’s two separate spots to take photos, but continue walking the short distance to see the actual basin! There’s a parking lot and an entrance directly from there to start the little trail.

The Basin trail and the Basin is clearly marked. You'll know when you make it to the Basin. There are lots of pretty spots along the cement path. It is a short walk with views of the water almost the entire way.

Lots of people were in suits and in the water at various places. I'm not sure if it is actually an area to be in the water or not as there were signs that said to stay on the trail.

The water is crystal clear.

We had a short walk to The Basin and viewed the various cascades etc along the trail. Unfortunately, the weather deteriorated during our walk so that we didn't get as far as we had hoped. However, we did reach The Basin itself which is a fascinating sight.

The Basin itself was not the most exciting site, but it was a quick walk and the view of the Basin was pretty.

We were sent here when the Flume Gorge was closed. It was an okay hike. Lots of places to climb for children. However, there are better hikes in the area if you love to hike. We could not actually climb to the top due to too much mud on the path.

We enjoyed hiking into the basin created by glacial activity. The trail was beautiful and was relatively easy. The basin carved in the Rock was incredible and interesting

Beautiful walk. The power of nature is fully visible here. Well worth a visit for people of all ages. Easy walking. Some areas suitable for paddling/wading/swimming

What a beautiful place! We parked at the Basin trailhead right off the highway and it was less than 5 minutes to the Basin itself. It was a flat and easy walk. My family and I enjoyed watching the water rush down and around the Basin but the real treat was following the trail up and to the left, the Basin Cascades trail to Kinsman Falls. It was a moderate hike - moderately steep with lots of roots (easy enough for 2 novice adults and our 8 and 11 year old kids) - but only took about 10 minutes to reach a stunningly beautiful waterfall. It had poured rain all day the day before, so the waterfall was probably more impressive than it usually is in August. But, what a view! We have done much longer and more difficult hikes to get to much less impressive falls (I'm thinking of Arethusa in particular). We only spent about 10 minutes here because it was starting to get dark, but I can't wait to go back, maybe with a picnic lunch next time.

Amazing. Simply Amazing. Not to be missed. For the most part very accessible. Paved walkways. In the end worth every step. How fortunate are we to have access to this wonder of nature.

The basin at Franconia Notch is absolutely beautiful. We walked among the trails with beautiful fall colors lulled with the sound of water. Don't miss this beautiful park.

What a lovely place to visit, the Basin is free unlike the Flume Gorge and it is a very nice place to stroll, along the river down to the Basin is very pretty and tranquil. We saw it in the Fall in all it's glory and it was special.

The waterfalls at the Basin are worth a brief visit. From parking lots, they’re only a 5- or 10-minute walk, part of it downhill, along paved and woodland-floor trails. Several interesting interpretive signs occur along the trails. Generally, the trails are clearly marked, but an area map proves helpful. I most enjoyed the variety of waterfalls to be seen on such a short walk. I disliked nothing.

An easy to moderate trail along the Cascade Brook. Some pretty pools and waterfalls. Some spots hiking up rocky steps up. One spot crossing the brook, and lots of tree roots to negotiate. Hiking boots and poles are useful but not needed. Bug repellent is a good idea.

This is a great place to get out of the car, stretch your legs and see some great scenery. You can just stay in the basin area, which is a short walk, or you can get on some connecting trails for a more strenuous hike. This area is beautiful in all seasons.

Nice area for a quick walk/easy hike for family and young kids. Good picnic spot. Bathrooms/outhouse present. Can stay on paved trail or take longer excursion on more "natural" trail. Plenty of parking on both sides of highway.

If you are amazed by water in a "rock basin" you'll be delighted. Otherwise just a normal northwoods sight in the New England states.

The scenery, the walks, the water basin were stunning. It was so peaceful but very refreshing. Well worth the visit. Highly recommend.

In just a short walk from the parking area you can see this beautiful area. The walk to the Basin is not that difficult and is well worth it. Can be very calming.

This place is beautiful and a must stop for your White Mountain tour. Dog friendly and people were even friendlier. Wish I lived up here.

It's short and pleasant walk from the parking lot to the Basin. We enjoyed the visit but not have enough time to explore the trails.

Right off of I-93. Park and walk 1/10 of a mile to the basin. The basin isn’t a big waterfall but is pretty cool how it fills the huge refreshing look bowl. When you take the trail from parking go under the underpass and then turn right at the fork. It’s just up the trail. Continue on for more trails and river hang out spots. Nice picnic tables for lunch. No charge. Good for all ages.

Just off the main road. Free with ample Free parking on both sides.
We got a stroller down there with a 6 month old no issues. The Basin was very beautful and calming! Wish we had seen a bear though

Incredibly beautiful walk along the stream, rapids, and pools. Short, easy walk from the parking lot. We brought our dogs (on leash) and they loved it. Even the beagles walked in the cool water.

Great spot if you have young children or seniors who want to enjoy a beautiful spot without having to walk too much

Probably my favorite place in the park, though I love the Flume also. The Basin is a glacial pothole along another stretch of the Pemigewasset River. Here the river flows down a more gentle slope over massive granite banks carved and smoothed over the centuries by the motion of water and debris. These formations are beautiful and somehow soothing culminating in the Basin itself, a deep green pool fit for a goddess. The trail is an easy walk.

Being a certified city girl, my daughter and I visited the Basin at Franconia Notch State Park this past week. While the weather was 14 degrees we bundled up nicely and made the trek. So glad I did! Amazing!!

A beautiful, easy walk in the woods. People of all ages and abilities on the trail. The spring melt and rain added to the super verdant forest.

The Basin is a very insteresting place to visit. It's just a short walk from the carpark but well worth it.

Beautiful and accessible for people with mobility difficulties. It's great that these natural splendours can be shared with everyone

Loon mountain is full of waterfalls. After seeing 2 of them they lose their uniqueness as they are not all that different.

Nice falls at the basi, doesn't take long to visit them but if you are hard pressed for time they are by no means a must do in our opinion. If you want to see running and falling water, Flume Gorge is where you should go.

When you arrive you will park your car across the way, then, you will walk underneath the highway in a large tunnel to get to the Basin area. Bring a water bottle & Bring your camera~ this is a very pretty walk; sort of mini hike in the mountains, with water falls, little bridges, and the Basin itself is very peaceful. When we were there, the trees kept us nice & cool during the walk too. There are a just a few picnic tables around, so hopefully~if you go a little earlier in the day you can save one for lunch. Wear comfortable clothes & Enjoy!!

This was an easier walk and can be reached mostly on a paved path to the Basin. The bike trail (paved) runs along this site.

This part of Franconia Notch State Park is a must see. It has two paths, one that will accomodate wheelchairs or strollers. It is, however, best see from the bottom. It is an easy walk, 5-10 minutes to see the Basin.

The view is out of this world. So relaxing just sit back take pictures. A great get away from the world and just relax and take the beauty in 💗💗💗💗 it here

This natural site took about 25,000 years, for water to wear away granite and leave a large (but not deep) pool, The Basin. It's accessible to pedestrians and those with less mobility. Well worth visitng and seeng the power of water versus stone.

If the Flume is too crowded the same river flows through the basin and is easy to visit. Probably a half hour to walk the whole trail although there are other trails near by that you can add on if you want a longer excursion. Stuck my feet in the water and it was ice cold in July!

Love the Basin and the walk to the river. Any season is perfect here.
Cold clear water, rushing through the rocks and among the shady walkways. Alway calming to the soul. Evan did a ice walk in November, snow and ice, just beautiful with the water frantically finding it's way.

Gentle walk to some very beautiful rocks warn away by rushing water and glaciers. Plenty of places for some great photos. Very tempting to jump in and enjoy the cool water.

Visited the Basin mid week on our way back from vacationing in NH. Trails were just what we needed for a nice leisurely walk for our family of 5. It was clean, had bathrooms and the river section was beautiful. Loved it!

It was very interesting spend some time here. We went on wet day so the water falls were much stronger than I would normally expect. The wood work all along the trail was incredibly slippery and rather dangerous in my eyes. Would go again if I had spare time, not on the top of my list to go if we visit again.

Many walking trails, shaded areas! Very beautiful area! Paved areas for walking, plenty of parking, restrooms.

Set alongside the I-93 this is a wonderful place to take a break. The small creek makes it's way through some lush forest with an easily walked the pathway nearby. The whole atmosphere exudes peace and tranquility.

Easy walk slightly uphill but not too challenging.
Definitely worth the trip to view the many varied waterfalls and the main basin .

If you'r looking a quit place to take a fresh breeze with relaxing water falls combined with nature in the forest then this is the right place.

The Basin provides a quiet, peaceful environment with interesting scenery. Make sure to read the narrative posted at the Basin. The walking paths provide beautiful views of the woods. It feels much less commercial than the flume and other White Mountains attractions.

Very short and easy walk 10 minutes, pretty forest green all around clear water between the rocks. Not so special but a nice stop and totally worth the short walk from the parking lot

The basin is basically a glacial pothole in a giant rock formation. The river carved a natural water slide out of the rock which flows into a round basin dug out of the rock by glaciers long ago. The water gently swirls around the basin and back out as the river flows along. Sounds simple, but it was so cool to see. I have never seen anything like this anywhere! This is way cooler than the falls / gorge, which you have pay to see.

We were surprised how snow covered the trail was in April. The wise woman at the Visitors Center encouraged us to purchase Yak Trax which we found invaluable to traverse over icy trails (otherwise we fell into thigh high snow!) Powerful waters are remarkable! Go for the adventure!

It was an easy walk to the falls, although it should be noted that we did not walk to the top. There were several very beautiful places to safely take photos.

Within a very short time after leaving the parking lot, visitors are immersed in nature. The Basin is worthy of a trip and the surrounding waterways, forested areas and rock formations are beautiful in their own right. We were able to walk the short loop, stopping to take pictures and appreciate the views in about 45 minutes. There are longer trails and hiking areas, for those who are interested. Some brave enthusiasts were swimming, but the water was so cold!

I have been visiting my entire life with family and friends - and it is a beautiful place every time. It can get crowded, but there is plenty of room for everyone. There are many great memories here. It is an easy walk but wear comfortable athletic shoes as the rocks can get slippery. Bring a swimsuit for summer months.