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Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves
Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves
White Mountains
view website1712 Lost River Road (Route 112W)
North Woodstock, NH 03262
603-745-8031
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Historical Landmark
Park
Seasonal
Hiking
Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves Description
Kids can't resist playing hide-and-seek and follow-the-leader along the 3/4-mile boardwalk. No ordinary walkway, this one leads you above the cascading river and through roughly 20 lantern-lit granite boulder caves left by the Ice Age and discovered by two brothers in 1852 when one dropped into a cavern. Be prepared: Your kids will dare you to follow them through the claustrophobia-inducing Center of the Earth and Lemon Squeezer. If you wimp out, no worries—you'll meet up again on the boardwalk in a minute. Don't skip Judgement Hall of Pluto—it's tight, but the brave are rewarded with an underground waterfall.
Kid Tips
Babies: Parents with backpack baby carriers will appreciate the setting but can't fit into caves. If you're carrying a baby and bringing an older child, go with two adults so one can spelunk with the child.
School-Age Kids: This age group will get the most out of this adventure.
Planning Notes
- Arrive first thing. Early risers avoid bottlenecks in the caves and on the boardwalk, especially those with older children who like to move quickly. Leave extra gear in the car; it's tough to navigate through the caves with even a small backpack.
- Wear non-slip, protective footwear. The granite boulders can be slick, and toes get easily bumped on the rocks.
- Pack a picnic lunch. Snacks and drinks can be purchased at the entrance; covered picnic tables are provided.
- No wheels. Strollers are not permitted in the gorge.
- Pass on sluicing. Unless you've got a real rock hound or junior geologist, skip sluicing for gemstones.
Just the Facts
Hours: May-October: Daily, weather permitting. Tickets are sold 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in May, June, September, and October; until 5 p.m. in July and August.
Fees: $10-$20
Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours
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What's Nearby?
- Whale's Tale Waterpark 481 Daniel Webster Highway (U.S. Rt. 3)
Lincoln, NH 03251
603-745-8810 44.06870388888889 -71.68590388888889 - The Basin Exit 34A off Interstate 93
Franconia, NH 03580
603-745--8391 44.12228388888889 -71.68313777777777
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