Spending the Day at Crawford Notch State Park

Are you dreaming of an escape where alpine vistas and tranquil waters come together to create the ultimate New England adventure? Look no further than the breathtaking beauty of Crawford Notch State Park, located in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains—just a scenic 90-minute drive from the sun-kissed shoreline of The NASWA Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a family seeking outdoor thrills, or a nature lover yearning for peace and inspiration, Crawford Notch offers a dramatic change of scenery that perfectly complements a stay at our lakeside resort. Let us help you plan a vacation where you can wake up to gentle lake breezes, spend the day among waterfalls and mountain peaks, and return to your cozy cottage just in time for dinner and drinks by the water.
Here’s everything you need to know about one of New Hampshire’s most captivating natural parks—and why The NASWA Resort is your perfect basecamp for exploring it all.
Crawford Notch State Park: A Natural Wonderland in the White Mountains
Stretching across the narrow mountain pass between the towering cliffs of the Presidential and Willey Ranges, Crawford Notch State Park is a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With over 5,800 acres of wilderness to explore, this storied park features craggy peaks, roaring waterfalls, hidden swimming holes, dense pine forests, and a rich history woven into the fabric of New Hampshire’s rugged landscape.
Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels
Crawford Notch is known for its network of scenic hiking trails, offering everything from family-friendly walks to rewarding summit climbs. No matter your experience level, there’s a trail waiting to inspire you.
- 🥾 Easy Trails: Try the Willey House Falls Trail, a short, picturesque walk from the historic site to a peaceful cascade.
- ⛰️ Moderate Hikes: Explore the Mount Willard Trail, a 3.2-mile round-trip route that leads to a panoramic overlook of the notch—perfect for families or beginner hikers.
- 🏞️ Challenging Treks: For experienced hikers, Mount Webster and Mount Jackson offer steep climbs and sweeping alpine views that make the effort more than worthwhile.
Arethusa Falls: A Journey to New Hampshire’s Tallest Waterfall
If there’s one hike that simply must be on your Crawford Notch itinerary, it’s the Arethusa Falls Trail. This moderate 2.8-mile hike winds through forested terrain and over small streams before culminating at the breathtaking Arethusa Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall in New Hampshire, measuring nearly 200 feet high.
The sight and sound of this magnificent cascade, surrounded by mossy rock and towering pines, is something out of a storybook. The trail is especially popular during the summer and fall, when sunlight filters through the trees and illuminates the falls in a golden glow.
💡 Pro tip: Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the peacefulness of the area near the base of the falls—it’s the perfect spot to relax and reflect.
Willey House Historic Site: A Story Carved Into the Mountains
For those who love to combine natural beauty with fascinating history, a visit to the Willey House Historic Site is a must. This modest homestead tells the poignant story of the Willey family, who perished in an 1826 landslide after fleeing their home in the night, only to be overtaken by the disaster they were trying to avoid.
Today, the site offers a glimpse into 19th-century mountain life with interpretive displays, a small museum, and access to nearby trails and waterfalls. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength of nature—and the resilience of those who call this region home.
The NASWA Resort: Your Lakeside Retreat After a Day in the Mountains
After a day of hiking, waterfall-chasing, and mountaintop views, there’s nothing quite like returning to the warm embrace of The NASWA Resort, where lake life meets family legacy and heartwarming hospitality.
Located just under 90 minutes from Crawford Notch, our resort offers a perfectly balanced vacation—a chance to chase adventure by day and unwind lakeside by night.
What Awaits You at The NASWA:
- 🏡 Charming Accommodations: Choose from colorful lakeside cottages, spacious inn rooms, and suites with stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
- 🍽️ On-Site Dining: Savor elevated cuisine at the Blue Bistro or kick back with a casual, Caribbean-inspired meal at the NazBar & Grill.
- ☀️ Private Sandy Beach: Relax with your toes in the sand or take out a kayak or paddleboard—available free for houseguests.
- 🐾 Pet-Friendly Options: Bring the whole family, four-legged members included.
- 🚤 The SS NASWA Boat Rides: Enjoy complimentary scenic boat rides during peak summer months.
- 🎶 Live Music & Family Events: Keep the fun going with beachside entertainment and kid-friendly activities.
A Perfect Pairing: Mountain Majesty Meets Lakeside Leisure
What makes a New Hampshire vacation truly unforgettable is the opportunity to experience both the serene beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee and the awe-inspiring wilderness of the White Mountains. At The NASWA Resort, you don’t have to choose—you can have the best of both worlds.
Spend a day exploring the wild, winding trails of Crawford Notch, then return to The NASWA for dinner by the water, an evening bonfire, or a sunset paddle across the lake. It’s a rhythm of rest and adventure, of wonder and welcome.
Plan Your White Mountains & Lake Winnipesaukee Escape Today
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, tracing history, or just soaking in the views, Crawford Notch State Park is a must-see during your New Hampshire getaway. And with The NASWA Resort as your home base, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of lakeside living while staying within reach of the state’s most iconic mountain park.
📞 Call us at 888-55-NASWA to reserve your stay
🌐 Visit naswa.com to view accommodations and seasonal specials
📧 Email [email protected] for help with planning your perfect itinerary
Let your adventure begin—from our shore to the mountaintops.