Trailhead and parking area are on West Side Road in Bartlett, NH. If approaching from the south, take Rt. 16 into the center of Conway and turn left at the first of two traffic lights onto Washington Street (across from Rt. 153). In 0.2 miles, bear left at the fork onto West Side Road. Drive 6.1 miles up West Side Road to a T-junction and turn left, which is still West Side Road. Drive another 1.4 miles and turn left into the parking area, marked with a national forest sign. If coming from the north, take Rt. 302 to a point 1.3 miles east of Attitash Ski Area and 2.2 miles west of the northern split with Rt. 16. Turn south and drive 4.2 miles down West Side Road to the parking area on the right. Take note that the parking area often fills up quickly at busy times and a parking ban is strictly enforced along West Side Road. Finding a parking space may be difficult, especially on weekends. A parking fee of $5 is charged by the national forest. Click here for a Google map.
At the beginning of the trail to North Moat Mountain is a scenic series of cascades and water slides in a ledgy area of Lucy Brook known as Diana's Baths. The multitudes of cascades and water features make it an enduringly popular area to visit for swimming and splashing around in addition to sightseeing. With lots to explore, it remains high on the list of the top family outdoor attractions in the area. The walk to the cascades is short and simple on a half mile dirt/gravel path through a sparse wood of towering pines. As you approach the cascades, the path follows a wooden boardwalk across a wet area. The path meets the brook with a view ahead to three side-by-side cascades at the bottom of the chain, the most picturesque view of the falls. The remnants of the old mill that utilized the water power from the cascades can be found just to the left of the overlook. Follow the brook upstream to see more. The trail eventually veers off, but you can walk along the expansive, ledgy brook through a plethora of small cascades, pools, and water slides. The textured rock is fascinating to see in places how the power of the water has carved out unnatural curves and potholes. The cascades extend several hundred feet upstream.
NH Family Hikes Printables