Over many years, as the stone eroded, the finer-grained basalt washed away much faster than the granite, creating the gorge. Molten basalt was forced upwards too, settling in the cracks of the granite as it cooled. The early stages of its formation date to Jurassic times, around 200 million years ago, when the granite that makes up the walls of the Flume, then liquid and molten, was forced upwards to the earth’s surface. The Flume’s history predates its “discovery” by Aunt Jess, of course. To the Flume! Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault Several waterfalls, natural cave-like rocks, and a classic 1886 covered bridge add to the magic of the Flume, though nothing quite compares to the walk through the gorge itself. An easy, interactive, two-mile trail loop makes visiting the gorge a family-friendly outdoor adventure, while a shorter, even more accessible path leading straight to the gorge makes this breathtaking natural wonder available to almost anyone. While fishing at the Flume is no longer permitted, marveling at it is certainly encouraged, and countless amateur explorers rightly do so each year. The Flume Gorge in Lincoln, NH Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault The Flume Gorge in Lincoln, NH Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault 800 feet long and up to 90 feet tall in some places, Aunt Jess had never seen anything like it. Looking up, she saw a chasm unlike any other. What she found instead was amazing and unexpected. She had taken the warm June day to explore the land surrounding her family’s new homestead, and was following the sound of running water to what she hoped would be a new fishing hole. Ninety-three-year-old “Aunt” Jess Guernsey was stunned (and in extraordinary shape for her age, we’d say). Please check with individual businesses and organizations for the latest information before making travel plans. Please note that many establishments throughout New England have modified their hours and/or operations in response to COVID-19.
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