Franconia Notch's Thundering Flume Gorge (Photos)

There is something soul-stirring when you hear the rumble of the 50-foot high Avalanche Falls while strolling the plank of the Flume Gorge in New Hampshire's Franconia Notch State Park. The granite walls that are eons old shade the light from above while moss becomes thick and greener and trees are sheltered in this chasm with perpetual mist from the collection of waterfalls leading the way. Nature concludes its unsurpassed spectacle here nestled in this magnificent park up in New Hampshire's White Mountains. The boardwalk winds from the Visitor Center completing a mild and pleasant path a little over 2 miles before arriving at the end of the trek at a place called the Cascades. Here is a 25,000 year-old glacial masterpiece where running water plummets to a larger-than-life gyrating water hole resembling a massive foam tub. That quintessential New England vision of a covered bridge is exemplified with the presence of the beautiful Sentinel Pine Covered Bridge crossing the Pemigewasset River. This area was frequented by Hawthorne and Robert Frost back in their day as a prelude for their inspirational writings. There is something magical about visiting the Flume Gorge as at every turn there's a trickle of water from Mother Nature, a rustling of leaves blowing in the autumn wind, or a silhouette of sort beckoning on the green maple leaves of summer. This enclave tucked in the foothills of the imposing White Mountains is a most rewarding way to refresh your spirit for an afternoon. Bring a lunch, a book, a camera, or nothing at all and contemplate what nature has to offer here at Franconia Notch State Park. Enjoy the afternoon and relax at this most magical place that nature has given us.