Thirteen Falls

About

Thirteen Falls Tentsite sits at the confluence of Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails in the heart of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in the Northeast and the second-largest Forest Service Wilderness east of the Mississippi. This remote location requires a substantial backcountry hike from Lincoln Woods Trailhead, making it a destination for experienced backpackers seeking solitude amid old-growth forest and cascading waterfalls. The site provides 9 designated tent pads, a composting privy, bear-resistant food storage boxes, and a dishwashing area. Thirteen Falls is the only location within the Pemigewasset Wilderness where the bear box serves as an exception to the mandatory bear canister requirement that took effect May 1, 2026. A seasonal caretaker staffs the site during busy periods; self-service cash boxes handle fee collection otherwise. Campers must bring all drinking water as none is available on-site. Group size is limited to 10 people. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Pemigewasset Wilderness within 200 feet of trails. Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced in this protected wilderness area.

Directions

Access is via Lincoln Woods Trailhead off Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112). From the trailhead, hike the Lincoln Woods Trail to Franconia Brook Trail, then continue to the junction with Twin Brook and Lincoln Brook Trails where the tentsite is located. Total distance is approximately 5-6 miles one way with moderate elevation gain.