Total Distance - 4.5 miles (total loop)
Difficulty Level: Easy/Moderate
Climbed October 5, 1996
Weather conditions: Clear - 40's
The parking area is well marked on Rt 302 with a sign for Arethusa Falls. There are two areas to park, the lower lot which affords a perfect view of Frankenstein Cliff and the upper lot which is closest to the beginning of the trail. It begins following an old carriage road and ascends moderately for almost a mile running parallel with Bemis Brook passing cascades at two different places. The trail then crosses the brook via a sturdy wooden bridge and ascends somewhat more steeply to the base of Arethusa falls. (The highest falls in the state). From here the Arethusa-Ripley Falls trail (sign) turns right and crosses the brook on rocks. It continues to ascend moderately for about 1/2 mile then ascends more steeply on a root covered path to meet the Frankenstein Cliff Trail. It then levels off (sometimes descending). A short distance ahead there is a small clearing to the left of the trail where there is an excellent view of Mt. Washington. The trail then descends moderately to Frankenstein Cliff with more views of the surrounding area. Take extreme care on the ledges because of the steep drop-offs. The final leg of the trail descends rapidly (less than a mile) to the parking area passing under a functioning trestle.