Humphrey’s Ledge Natural Area

🏆🏆🏆🏆 North Conway Cliff — Dramatic granite cliff rising above the Saco River valley — a premier rock climbing destination and scenic landmark

Humphrey’s Ledge Natural Area protects a dramatic granite cliff face rising above the Saco River valley near North Conway — the outdoor recreation capital of New Hampshire. The ledge is a premier rock climbing destination with multiple routes ranging from beginner to expert. The cliff also serves as a nesting site for peregrine falcons, which were reintroduced to New Hampshire after near-extinction from DDT. North Conway’s climbing scene dates to the 1920s, when European-trained mountaineers began developing routes in the White Mountains.

Visitor Information

About Humphrey’s Ledge

Humphrey’s Ledge Natural Area in North Conway provides dramatic cliff views in the heart of the Mount Washington Valley — New Hampshire’s premier outdoor recreation destination. The 700-foot granite cliff face is a popular rock climbing destination and offers panoramic views of the Saco River valley and surrounding White Mountains. North Conway has been a center for mountaineering and rock climbing since the 1920s.

Things to Do

Rock climbing the granite cliff face, hiking to the summit viewpoint, photography of Mount Washington Valley, fall foliage viewing, and connecting to the extensive White Mountain trail system.

Insider Tips

Rock climbing: Humphrey’s Ledge is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in New Hampshire — 200-foot granite cliffs with routes for all abilities. Pro tip: The ledge overlooks North Conway — the “outdoor recreation capital” of New Hampshire with easy access to climbing, skiing, hiking, and paddling. Mount Washington Valley: North Conway sits in the Mount Washington Valley — surrounded by the Presidential Range.

Best Time to Visit

Fall: Climbing with foliage views. Summer: Peak climbing and hiking season. Spring: Early season climbing when higher peaks are still snowy. Winter: Ice climbing on frozen seeps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is North Conway good for outdoor recreation?

North Conway is arguably the best outdoor recreation base in New England — within 30 minutes of world-class climbing (Cathedral Ledge, Whitehorse Ledge), skiing (Attitash, Cranmore, Wildcat), hiking (Presidential Range, Mount Washington), paddling (Saco River), and mountain biking. The village also has tax-free outlet shopping (New Hampshire has no sales tax) and a vibrant restaurant scene.

Nearby Attractions

North Conway — adjacent — has outlet shopping, the Conway Scenic Railroad, and restaurants. Echo Lake State Park — 1 mile west — has Cathedral Ledge climbing and swimming. White Mountain National Forest — surrounding area — has extensive hiking. Kancamagus Highway — 5 miles south — is New England’s premier fall foliage drive.