The White Mountains around North Conway offer some of New England’s most compelling waterfall and ridge hikes. Here, the landscape moves with purpose – waterfalls daring you to come closer, cliffs stretching wide enough to grab the horizon. Whether you're setting off on a short loop or gearing up for an all-day trek, these trails present a mix of forested climbs, rocky scrambles, and high ridges that reward effort with true wilderness vistas.

Start with Diana’s Baths, a family-friendly 1.3-mile out-and-back trail featuring a series of gentle cascades that invite you to pause and listen. The water here hums with a quiet persistence, cutting through moss-covered rocks and whispering of ancient granite. For something more demanding, the Arethusa Falls Trail challenges with a steady 3.2-mile ascent and 700 feet of elevation gain, culminating at one of the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire. Be prepared for varying terrain—from slippery wet rocks near the falls to exposed roots and stone steps in the forest.

For ridge hiking enthusiasts, the Cranmore Mountain Skyride to the Bald Knob Trail delivers a different vibe. This 4.7-mile loop pumps your legs and your senses: pine stands give way to open ledges where the wind tests your balance and the views stretch across iconic mountain peaks. Here, the trail is fiercely itself, rewarding hikers who respect the steep pitches and occasional scree fields.

When planning these adventures, think hydration and footwear first. Rapid shifts in elevation push your cardiovascular system, and rocky or uneven footing demands boots with solid grip and ankle support. Set out early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and crowds, especially in late summer or early fall when the foliage pulls visitors in.

Packing layers is smart, as exposed ridges catch wind that chills quickly, even on warmer days. A lightweight rain shell can save a hike when the White Mountains unleash sudden showers. The trails may appear straightforward on a map, but nature’s moodiness means you stay alert, respect the elements, and let the environment set the pace.

Whether you’re drawn by the call of tumbling waters or the pull of panoramic ridge lines, hikes around North Conway teach the language of balance: endurance matched with appreciation. Here, waterfalls don’t just fall—they argue their presence, pushing water with stubborn force. Ridges don’t merely rise; they hold the sky, watching over hikers bold enough to meet their challenge. If you prepare well and move thoughtfully, the White Mountains afford you moments that grip your attention and quiet your mind.