Pond Brook Falls, Stratford NH


• 4-star hike
• 0.3 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 80 feet
• Stratford, NH | Great North Woods
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A wide waterfall cascades diagonally across smooth, gray rock formations in a forested mountain landscape. The water flows in multiple ribbons down the sloped rock face, creating a dynamic, frothy texture as it descends. Tall coniferous and deciduous trees with dense green foliage frame both sides of the waterfall, their trunks partially obscured by undergrowth. In the background, a forested mountain rises steeply under a bright blue sky dotted with small, wispy clouds. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the rocks and water.
Looking across Nash Stream's valley from the top of a cascade.

Barely a hike yet still worthy of a visit, Pond Brook Falls is a hidden gem that sees water flowing all year round. Featuring a series of cascades flowing over granite slabs, the waterfall's total height is more than 50 foot and culminates with a large picturesque pool.

The trail begins at an unmarked location around six miles along the unpaved Nash Stream Road. For those unfamiliar with the area, Nash Stream Road can be accessed from Route 110 in Stark, though the road conditions can vary seasonally—particularly during spring mud season and after heavy rains. High-clearance vehicles are recommended at those times though not strictly necessary for most of the year.
⬤ 4★ Pond Brook Falls   0.3 mi out & back, easy, gain 80 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?
 P  Free parking (approach from the south).

Utilizing a brief section of the epic 170 mile Cohos Trail, wayfinding along the forested route is very easy, particularly since you only need to follow the sound of rushing water to find the falls. The walk to the falls is approximately 0.3 miles one-way, making it an ideal warm-up or cool-down activity when paired with longer hikes in the area. The path is relatively flat with minimal elevation gain, suitable for most fitness levels.

Either follow the adjacent trail to the top of the falls, or find your own route among the granite caps, taking care on the wetter slippery slabs and when rock hopping. Negotiating a path the the top of the falls is worthwhile, as elevation opens up the views across the Nash Stream Valley. During peak foliage season in late September and early October, these valley views become particularly spectacular, with the mixed hardwood forest displaying vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows against the backdrop of distant peaks.

The falls themselves offer excellent photographic opportunities throughout the year. In winter, ice formations create dramatic frozen sculptures, though extra caution is required when navigating the potentially icy granite surfaces. Spring brings the highest water flows as snowmelt feeds the cascades, while summer offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the pools at the base of the falls. The large pool at the bottom, while inviting on hot summer days, remains quite cold even in peak summer due to the constant flow of mountain water.

A forest trail winds through dense woodland with tall trees and thick underbrush. In the foreground, a weathered tree bears a wooden sign with two directional arrows: one pointing straight ahead labeled “FALLS ↑,” and another pointing right labeled “CT SOUTH →.” Below the sign, a small trail marker with a yellow arrow also points right. The ground is uneven and covered in dry leaves, exposed roots, and patches of dirt. Dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, casting soft shadows across the path.
Trail signs aren't necessary as you follow the sound of rushing water.

We'd recommend combining this short excursion with a trip to either Percy Peaks or Sugarloaf Mountain; both of which have trailheads nearby on Nash Stream Road, and both are great hikes featured on the New Hampshire 52-With-A-View list.

You'll need to approach the trailhead from the south, and any navigation apps that tell you it's possible to approach from the north are incorrect. Expect around five miles of unpaved road to reach the location. We traveled the road in late summer and found it to be a breeze to drive on, though your experience may vary at other times of year.

You'll likely need GPS to find the trailhead location, since its position along Nash Stream Road is unmarked. An alternative way of finding the trail is to set your vehicle's trip counter to zero when you turn onto Nash Stream Road from Northside Road. The trailhead is located 5.7 miles along the road on the right and the waterfall will become evident from the sound of rushing water that can be heard from the road. If you find yourself on a snowmobile trail heading uphill, then you're on the wrong trail - the waterfall trail is slightly north of there.

A tranquil forest scene features a rocky stream flowing gently through a densely wooded area. Large boulders and uneven stones scatter across the water’s path, creating small cascades and ripples. The surrounding forest is lush with tall trees, their green and slightly yellowing leaves suggesting early autumn. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled light and soft shadows on the rocks and water below. The composition evokes a peaceful, secluded setting ideal for quiet reflection or nature exploration.
The pool at foot of the 50-foot falls.


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