The AMC Cardigan Lodge serves as a trailhead for both the summit of Mt. Cardigan and a delightful package of waterfalls of different shapes and sizes, ranging from a staircase of cascades to a 15-foot tall plunge surrounded by cliff walls on all sides (the lower half of Welton Falls, to be specific). Above the 15-foot plunge, the upper half of Welton Falls consists of an 8-foot tall cascade, hidden from most vantage points around the falls by the boulder-strewn river. The Fowler River offers swimming for nearly the entire section of the Manning Trail that parallels the brook. There are shallow pools scattered just about everywhere, and a few deep pools below the falls. Always take caution when entering any swimming hole. Slippery rocks and strong currents have been merciless before and will likely be again. The best opportunity for swimming would be directly below the main plunge at Welton Falls; unfortunately, we scanned the area and could not determine a feasible route out of the pool. Also we encourage you to stroll up to the top of the main falls, where you will find an overhanging ledge with safety rails. There lies another waterfall within a moderate hiking distance of the AMC Cardigan Lodge. Elizabeth Falls, a waterfall rumored to be 40-feet tall, is allegedly found by bushwhacking a short distance off the Holt Trail towards Bailey Brook. Sources indicate that the falls lie somewhere between 1.0-1.5 miles from the lodge. Although we were unable to locate this waterfall on our sole attempt, we are certain of its existence.

From the parking area facing the AMC Lodge, take a right and cross a short, grassy field and enter the woods about 150 feet later on. Follow a path about 0.1 mile while passing a few campsites on your left. A more obvious, yellow-blazed trail begins to emerge. This is the Manning Trail, which will lead you to the falls. After hiking on this trail for about 0.8 mile, you will need to cross the river, which may require you to remove your boots and start wading across. Trekking poles are very helpful in such a situation. After crossing the river to the falls, the trail ascends and descends several times, and, at times, the path is somewhat steep. About 0.2 mile beyond where you crossed the river, the trail will descend and turn right. Immediately after, fork left and walk towards a green iron fence for a view of the top of the falls from within a bowl-shaped gap in the gorge. To reach the base of the falls, continue back to the trail and continue downstream about 100 feet. You may even wish to scramble downstream for additional pools and small cascades.

Directions for this particular waterfall are not posted online. Please see directions in our published guidebook, New England Waterfalls: A Guide to More Than 400 Cascades And Waterfalls, or you can email us and we will happily provide them to you.

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