Much of the terrain that we see today in New Hampshire was formed at a time when great lakes and massive sheets of ice covered the region. When these glaciers melted off, they left behind rugged natural features such as steep mountains and gorges. An excellent example of the latter can be found at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area in Bedford. My recent visit to this small but impressive glacial gorge in New Hampshire was a look back in time that we can all enjoy.

Pulpit Rock Conservation Area in Bedford hides a treasure in the form of a rugged gorge that was carved out by a retreating glacier. Steep trails lead down to the bottom of the gorge.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos
As Pulpit Brook flows through the gorge, it tumbles over several waterfalls. For me, the sight and sound of flowing water is the best!
Ken MacGray/Google Photos
Without the spring vegetation growing back yet, there were nice brookside vignettes like this one to enjoy.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos

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Evidence of the glacial action in this area can also be spotted in the form of large erratics that were left behind by the ice sheet.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos
On this day, I also did a second hike to Pulpit Rock Conservation Area but approached from the south via the longer Pulpit Brook Trail.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos
As someone who works on trails, I very much appreciated this well-constructed boardwalk near the southern end of Pulpit Brook Trail.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos
From the boardwalk, I took in the scene of where it crosses Pulpit Brook. If you're looking for an alternative to the busier main trailhead for Pulpit Rock Conservation Area, I recommend this approach.
Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Pulpit Rock Conservation Area offers a variety of walks up to three miles and is a perfect place to bring kids, but use caution and wear sturdy footwear while in the gorge, as sections are rugged and steep. Of all the beautiful gorges in New Hampshire, this one is definitely worth a visit. For more information and to download a trail map, visit Piscataquog Land Conservancy.

If you love waterfalls as much as I do, spring is the time to seek them out! Here are ten of them that are super easy to reach. Enjoy!

10 Unbelievable New Hampshire Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight…. No Hiking Required

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Pulpit Rock Conservation Area, New Boston Rd, Bedford, NH 03110, USA