The Basin

This is a must see for an easy experience of the streams and waterfalls with the young or old! It is free and there is a small parking lot and then an easy short walk over to the trails. Sneakers or water shoes are helpful if you want to climb the rocks or wade into the icy mountain streams.
It’s amazing to see how the water has smoothed over the large boulders at the basin or the rocks along the way. There are also spots for a picnic — just be kind to bring your trash with you as it’s very clean.

As a NH native, this is a do not miss. Not only is it beautiful, it is without admission. The white waters are extremely cold, and I dare you to get in the whole way. The only way I have ever fully submerged was using a push up position. Higher up the water is warmer, so check the temperature. I almost met my demise here when I was around 7. I was sliding down a natural waterside, for a few feet. After doing this several times, I was almost swept away by a current and had to dig my legs into rocks to prevent myself from sliding into the rapids. Kids don’t be dumb! At least I was rugged and made the right decision.
There are extensions that access the wetlands, and if I remember right the Appalachian trail. You will have to cross a segment that floods, and can become impassable. If it is a go you still may get wet. On a hot day, this is idyllic.

This is a beautiful spot hidden from the road but is accessible by a nice, short walk. Walk along any of the short trails around the basin for pretty little spots and small waterfalls. If you visit during the week just before dusk, it’s very quiet and you will have the whole place almost to yourself. This is a must see!

The basin itself is a super short walk and interesting. No swimming however. I recommend venturing a little farther to enjoy some other features in the trails nearby. The basin-​cascades trail to kinsman falls and beyond was a short hike, moderate difficulty and lovely. Great picnic /​hangout spot. There were some pools to cool off in although I’m not sure it’s allowed.

The Basin is a nice little site intermingled with other attractions around Franconia Notch. It’s free, and restrooms are available next to the parking, and you’ve probably been driving for a while, so all of that is nice.
The basin itself is a pleasant, if static site. It looks like it would be nice to take a dip, but of course, safety concerns prevail. You can dip your feet in shallow water elsewhere. The accompanying waterfalls offer a nice place to sit and relax.

The Basin is a ten foot waterfall that cascades into a circular bowl rock formation. It’s located directly across from the Flume in Lincoln, NH. There are miles of paved walkways and waterfalls to explore. It’s a fantastic and cheap way to get outdoors in Franconia Notch and a must see for all nature lovers and photogs.
It’s free!