About
Swift River, New Hampshire — Kancamagus Highway 26 Miles, White Mountain NF, Albany. From Bear Notch through the White Mountain National Forest, the Swift River cuts 25 miles of Class I–III water along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway corridor in Carroll County. The upper section from Bear Notch to Rocky Gorge runs Class II–III through mountain headwaters at 420 CFS average, with optimal flows between 200–1200 CFS on gauge 01064485. Below Rocky Gorge, the gradient eases into Class I–II water through the lower valley to Conway. Saco Bound operates guided trips on the river. The Swift flows within the White Mountain National Forest boundary, providing cold water conditions typical of New Hampshire's mountain drainages.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.