In Franconia Notch. Short walk into the woods. Awesome to experience the beauty of nature. Beautiful falls into a "granite" pool. It was raining when we went, but worth getting wet to see it!
The basin is a quick walk under I-93 from the parking lot and is a fascinating yet quick stop. There are hiking trails in the area but the Basin itself is a waterfall that dumps into a large bowl that was created thousands of years ago. The water is usually cool and roars into the bowl. A quick stop.
A short walk & well worth it - the scenery was spectacular. It was not steep & would be easy for a disabled person/wheelchair, I think.
Just the natural beauty of The Basin is worth the trip!!! Definitely coming back...hopefully for every season.
Located in the heart of the White Mountains, in N.H. "The Basin" provides you with several miles of well marked, and scenic hiking trails. There is something available for everyone!
The whole area is very nice, the trail form the parking lot to the Basin is mostly flat, wide and clear of obstacles, very easy for explorers of all ages. It goes by the river that has carved some nice forms in the rock, the forest itself is also very quiet. The "crowning" moment, the Basin, is also very nice end of the hike. It is not something majestic, but it is very beautiful and pristine. I have been there multiple times with friends and their kids and the kids have always loved it.
The Basin was an easy exit off the highway, and short walk. We didn't hike any further, but the path was cement and handicap accessible. The Basin was neat, but also just a really giant pool of clear water.
Parking on the Franconia Parkway was ample but I'm sure during the busy season it may get crowded. A very light walk on very nice walkways can be encountered. A nice place to stretch your legs when traveling. No fee at this location. Bathrooms are limited. Plan about 1 hour to enjoy the flowing water and rock formations.
I may lose my native card for this, bit here goes. The Basin is beautiful no doubt, and you can't beat the price. However, the part that brings me back is the cool deep pools further up the river. Excuse my vague directions. See the Basin. YeaLook for a frail heading up river. The trail forks left and right. Go right. You will walk about 100 yards through forest. Then you will see the main branch of the Pemi. You know you're there when you have to step over the cedar roots that will definitely hurt you. Once you see the river, look for the mini basins to wade and swim in. The best holes are here and maybe .25 miles up river. Don't wear crocs or flip flops, you will fall or turn an ankle. Realize that the rocks have a sheet of algae on them and you will slip. I watched in horror as my 13 year old slipped and went down the river over the rocks. Dogs will love this area. Keep them close, they will slip too. Have bug spray, this is black fly country and they will devour you if not prepared. The water is ALWAYS
It's worth the stop to check out this beautiful natural feature. There is wheelchair access. It's reallyclose to the parking lot and it's free. It's esp. great after rainfall, but always good. This area is the start of the Pemi River.