Local Swimming Spots to Enjoy This Summer

The White Mountains are brimming with lakes, rivers, and streams perfect for summer fun.

When the days stretch long and the temperatures soar, check out these favorite swimming spots:

Echo Lake State Park, North Conway

To reach Echo Lake State Park, turn west on River Road from North Conway, then left onto Old

West Side Road, following the signs. Nestled at the base of White Horse Ledge, the lake offers

stunning views of the famous cliff. It's one of the rare spots in Mt. Washington Valley with a

sandy beach. Amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, and changing rooms, and you can also

access hiking trails. Park admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-11, and free for

children ages 5 and under and NH residents aged 65 and over.

Flat Rocks on the East Branch, Intervale NH

From Route 16/302 in North Conway, turn right onto Town Hall Road in Intervale, cross 16A,

and you'll find the "Flat Rocks" area along the river. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the

scenic river as it flows over the rocks. During the summer, the water level is usually low,

exposing the flat rocks, which make for a perfect picnic spot. There is no admission fee; just park

safely along Town Hall Road.

Jackson Falls

From Route 16A in Jackson, turn onto Carter Notch Road and follow it to the scenic falls and a

nearby picnic area. You can sit on the rocks or cool off in the small pools created by the falls.

Well-behaved pets are welcome. Parking is free but limited to 2 hours. Be careful and wear

sturdy footwear.

Kancamagus Highway, Lower Falls and Rocky Gorge

From Route 16 in Conway, head east on the Kancamagus Highway. About 7 miles from Conway,

you'll find some of the best swimming holes in the Valley. Lower Falls features both fast and

slow-moving water in small falls, with sandy beaches, picnic tables, parking, and changing

rooms. It's a popular spot, so it may be crowded in mid-summer. Make sure to wear sturdy

footwear as it is quite rocky. Further down the road is Rocky Gorge, a scenic area where

swimming is prohibited but offers beautiful views.

Weston’s Beach, Fryeburg ME

From Conway, head east on Route 302. In Fryeburg, turn left onto River Street at the Post Office.

Weston’s Beach will be on your right, featuring a large parking lot and a spacious sandy beach

when the river is at normal summer levels. It’s a great spot for kids due to its typically slow and

shallow water.