Hidden Gems of New Hampshire: Chesterfield Gorge
New Hampshire State Parks are home to some of the most popular outdoor destinations in the state, and while our flagship parks have their charms, the most unique experiences are often off the beaten path at lesser-known parks.
Hi! I'm Dorothy, and this summer we'd like to share some hidden gems of the state park system starting right here at Chesterfield Gorge.
This natural area is more than just a gorge — it's a wonderland of cascades, waterfalls, and scenic views connected by a footpath along Wild Brook.
While the park is only about 13 acres in size, it packs more visual interest and drama per acre than most other parts of the state.
The sound of rushing water draws you right down to the brook. You may find yourself hopping from rock to rock across the water or maybe even getting your feet a bit wet as you explore the many unique features of this stream.
It’s less than a half-mile journey to reach a bridge that provides a beautiful vantage point of Wild Brook and the cascades below.
Continuing across the bridge and downhill you'll be able to look straight down into the gorge at the beautiful cascades and waterfalls.
As I was walking through Chesterfield Gorge one of the things that I think I really liked the most was just how much there is to explore.
Even though it's only 7 tenths of a mile around the entire thing, you can kind of go along the trail but also come off the trail a little bit and walk along the water.
Some of the things that I think are really special about this is just how impressive it is.
It's incredible to look down from some of the viewpoints and see all of this water rushing by and to just see the sides of the gorge and think about how it came to be.
If this looks like a place you'd like to explore, come visit this hidden gem in the southwest corner of New Hampshire.
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