Flume Gorge, New Hampshire

The Flume Gorge, commonly known as “The Flume,” is a natural ravine about 240 m long, located at the base of Mount Liberty in Franconia, New Hampshire, USA. Carved by Flume Brook, it features impressive Conway granite walls that rise 21 to 27 m and narrow to a width of 3.7 to 6.1 m. The gorge was discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old “Aunt” Jess Guernsey. Today, it operates as a paid attraction open from May 10 to October 20, and pets are not allowed.

Geology

Around 200 million years ago, during the Jurassic period, the Conway granite existed as deeply buried molten rock. As it cooled and solidified, it developed a series of closely spaced vertical fractures aligned roughly in a northeasterly direction. Later, basaltic material from deep within the Earth was forced upward along these fractures, pushing aside the surrounding granite under intense pressure. The basalt cooled rapidly against the colder granite, forming a fine-grained rock. If this material had reached the surface, it would have erupted as lava flows.

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Over time, erosion lowered the land surface, revealing the basalt dikes. As the overlying rock wore away, pressure decreased, leading to the formation of horizontal cracks that allowed water to seep into the rock layers. The basalt dikes eroded more quickly than the surrounding Conway granite, gradually forming a deep valley that exists today. After the glaciers retreated, Flume Brook resumed its flow through the valley. The highly fractured granite and basalt have been eroded by frost action and by the brook’s water, creating Flume Gorge.

Attraction

A 2-mile self-guided nature walk through Flume Gorge, a breathtaking natural chasm. Along the trail, one can encounter covered bridges, stunning waterfalls, a picturesque natural pool, and magnificent mountain views. Kids can add a sense of adventure by crawling through the “Wolf’s Den” cave. The Flume Gorge visitor center also provides park information, a gift shop, and a cafeteria.

How to Reach Flume Gorge, New Hampshire

To reach Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park, NH, drive to the Flume Building (Visitor Center) off I-93 (Exit 34A) near Lincoln. Reservations are mandatory and must be booked online in advance. The 2-mile one-way walking loop features a wooden boardwalk, steep stairs, and scenic waterfalls, typically taking 1.5 hours.

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The trail is primarily composed of packed gravel with sections of boardwalk and features moderate uphill climbs along with stairs inside the gorge. Sturdy, appropriate footwear is strongly recommended.