From ancient waterfalls to the Old Man in the Mountain, New Hampshire has its share of geological marvels. After all, there’s a reason we’re known as the Granite State! But if you haven’t visited this particular incredible work of nature, you’re missing out.
Tucked into Franconia Notch is The Basin, a geological wonder that dates back 25,000 years.
Flickr/Peter Rivera
As the Ice Age came to an end and the glacier that formed Franconia Notch melted, the granite bedrock underneath the glacier was eroded. In this particular spot, rocks and sediment being swirled by the river bored deep into that exposed rock to form a natural basin with smooth sculpted walls.
Flickr/Neal Hunt
The Basin is startlingly beautiful and pristine. You may also notice the stone formation at the bottom of the basin - that’s known as the “Old Man’s Foot.”
Flickr/Rain0975
This spot is so magical that Henry David Thoreau wrote in 1839 that “this pothole is perhaps the most remarkable curiosity of its kind in New England.”
Flickr/jps246
Lucky for all of us, this natural marvel is easy to reach! It’s just a short walk from a parking lot in Franconia Notch State Park, and the path to it is paved and handicapped accessible so everyone can enjoy the beauty.
TripAdvisor/Sue B.
If you’re up for a slightly longer walk, head just a little further upstream to see more waterfalls!
Flickr/Jonathan Moreau
Just be sure to stop for a while here, watch the water rush down the granite, and contemplate the remarkable fact that this natural process has been occurring for so many thousands of years. It’s the perfect way to gain a little perspective!
Flickr/Neal Hunt
To get a sense of the magic of this spot, check out this video:
Flickr/Peter Rivera
Flickr/Neal Hunt
Flickr/Rain0975
Flickr/jps246
TripAdvisor/Sue B.
Flickr/Jonathan Moreau
To plan your trip the Basin, visit the New Hampshire State Parks website. You’ll never forget this spot!
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