Giant Falls - Chasing Waterfalls in Shelburne New Hampshire
Giant Falls: Stunning Waterfall Hike in New Hampshire’s White Mountains
Hike to Giant Falls in Shelburne, NH, for one of the White Mountains' most beautiful hidden waterfalls. A short, rewarding trail perfect for nature lovers and waterfall chasers.
The hike to Giant Falls via the Peabody Brook Trail in Shelburne, New Hampshire, is a scenic and moderately challenging hike that offers beautiful views of 80-foot tall Giant Falls.
Moe was guiding in the Catskills, so Jeff was on his own up north. He was joined by Patrick for a short, but scenic hike to Giant Falls on this trip.
It's been a wet summer in New Hampshire and the trek up to Giant Falls turned out to be the perfect hike to enjoy the benefits of all of that rain. When we got to the falls themselves, the water was roaring and we were treated to a beautiful sight.
Giant Falls Trail Description
The trailhead for the Peabody Brook Trail is on North Road, which is off of Route 2 in Shelburne, New Hampshire. There is a small pull off across from the trail on North Road that can fit 3-4 cars. There's no other nearby parking.
You'll follow the Peabody Brook Trail for approximately 1.5 miles, ascending gently at first, and then more steeply to the trail junction with the Giant Falls Trail. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but it can be rocky and root-filled in some sections, especially the closer you get to the falls — so proper footwear is a must. Along the way there are several small stream crossings and footbridge. In higher water (like we had for this trip), you’ll end up getting your feet wet on the crossing.
After 1.5 miles of hiking, you'll reach Giant Falls, the highlight of the hike.
Giant Falls is a stunning 80-foot tall waterfall with a pool at its base. It's a perfect spot to relax, have a snack, and take in the natural beauty around you.
After enjoying the beauty of Giant Falls, you retrace your steps back to return to the trailhead.
The overall hike is 3 miles long and has about 830 feet of elevation gain along the way. The hike is best considered a moderate trek, but can be more difficult in wet conditions as the rocks become quite slippery.
Giant Falls Trail Details
Trail Length: Approximately 3 miles round trip
Trailhead Location: Peabody Brook Trail parking area, Shelburne, NH
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: About 700 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Key Features: 80-foot Giant Falls waterfall, forested terrain, stream crossings
Best Time to Hike: Spring and early summer for peak waterfall flow
Suitable For: Day hikers comfortable with moderate elevation and uneven terrain
For More Information On The Hike To Giant Falls
You can find the hike to Giant Falls:
More Lake and Waterfall Hikes in the White Mountains
Lonesome Lake Trail — A moderate hike offering stunning lake views and great for wildflower spotting in summer.
Arethusa Falls Trail — One of New Hampshire’s tallest waterfalls, accessible via a moderate hike with scenic surroundings.
Western Mahoosuc Trail Loop — A 13.5 mile loop on the western third of the Mahoosuc Trail
Hike On Guides: Don’t know where to start with hiking, backpacking, and camping? We can help you! Visit our professional Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services Company at Hike On Guides.
Gear we used on this hike:
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