Purgatory Falls - Lyndeborough, NH
Purgatory Falls – A Pet-Friendly Hiking Haven in Lyndeborough, New Hampshire
Purgatory Falls is a scenic, dog-friendly trail system located in Lyndeborough, New Hampshire. Known for its beautiful woodland paths, striking waterfalls, and diverse natural terrain, it’s a top choice for dog owners looking for pet-friendly trails and dog-friendly hiking near Lyndeborough. The area features several interconnected hiking trails, wooden footbridges, and three named waterfalls along the creek, providing plenty for both humans and their canine companions to explore. While there is no traditional fenced dog park area, leashed dogs are welcome throughout the trails and woods.
This park stands out for its picturesque vistas, varied hiking options (from easy to moderate difficulty), and a tranquil atmosphere that both dogs and owners appreciate. The trails are well-marked, making it easy to choose different routes and distances. There’s ample parking available at different trailheads, and visitors often note the ample shade along the way. Please remember that Purgatory Falls is a natural hiking area – there are no waste stations, water fountains, or restrooms on-site, so come prepared with your own dog supplies. Carry in and carry out all trash and enjoy the best of New Hampshire’s pet-friendly outdoor adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are welcome on the trails but should be kept on leash, as this is not a fenced dog park.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced or designated off-leash area here.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? There are no designated benches or seating areas along the trails.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Purgatory Falls features multiple interconnected hiking trails perfect for outdoor adventures with your dog.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the trails are mainly through shaded forested areas, offering plenty of relief from the sun.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There are scenic brooks and waterfalls but no designated dog swim area.
- Where is the best place to park? Ample parking is available at trailheads such as Dow Road and Purgatory Road.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? No, there are no restroom facilities at Purgatory Falls.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some areas can be muddy, especially after rainfall, so hiking boots are recommended.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, bug repellent is recommended as ticks and other pests can be present.
Reviews
Not the location of a waterfall as they are along the creek, but this is a great hiking area with three named falls.
Gorgeous and easy hike
Standing next to Niagara Falls, it’s hard to be “blown away” by the local waterfalls, but, seeing nature’s power always impresses me. With the recent heavy 🌧️ rains the strength of the river and the impact on the forest, I could only but marvel, not the comics, at what I missed!
The bridge to Purgatory Trail has been badly damaged, but, I was able to use it to cross the river. If you try to use it, watch out for nails that stick out. I saw part of the bridge further down the river. The trail to the falls is difficult, not accessable to wheelchairs or strollers. You have to walk past the falls a little ways and find where the trail divides and walk next to the river to get a good view of the waterfall. I enjoyed the view and thought the hike was worth it to see it.
Parking wasn’t an issue. Don’t worry about the sign at the beginning of Purgatory Road saying the GPS is wrong. The trail is at the end of the dirt road.
Bring bug 🐛 repellent and a good pair of hiking 🥾 shoes.
Really nice hike from the parking area below the lower falls to the upper falls. Roughly 2.7 mile one way trip on an easy to moderate trail that follows close top the brook at some points and then veers deeper into the woods at others. While the falls aren’t the largest or most impressive you’ll see it is a scenic and enjoyable hike. Allow about 3.5 hours if you like to stop and take pictures or eat lunch along the way. It’s a carry in carry out trail and there are no facilities at least at the lower parking area.
We parked at the Dow Road parking spot and made our way to the Purgatory brook trail. It was well marked. However once we got past the middle falls, the markers were few and far in between and it occasionally led to opening the trail map and GPS to verify we were on the right track.
The falls were beautiful, we went in early April so some parts of the fall were frozen as were a few sections of the trail. Had to step carefully over wide patches of ice.