FRANCONIA NOTCH, New Hampshire — The Flume Gorge & Gilman Visitor’s Center opens for the season on Friday, May 11th. Due to ice still being on the walls of the gorge, there has been a delay in putting in the boardwalks. The walking trails, gift shop, cafeteria and movie are available, with the hope that boardwalks will be in within the next week or so.

Located in Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume Gorge is a natural gorge extending 800 feet. The walls of the gorge rise to a height of 70 to 90 feet and are 12 to 20 feet apart. During the two-mile walk, you will see spectacular waterfalls and historic covered bridges. The Visitor’s Center offers a cafeteria and gift shop, and a free introductory movie about the history of Franconia Notch.

The Flume Gorge & Visitor’s Center is open daily from 9am to 5pm. The admission cost for adults is $10.00 and is $7.00 for children ages 6 to12. A reduced rate will be charged until the boardwalks are in place. For more information about the Flume Gorge, please call 603-745-8391 or check out the Flume’s website at www.flumegorge.com.

Franconia Notch State Park is located off I-93 and Route 3 in Franconia and is managed by the NH Division of Parks and Recreation. The division is part of the Department of Resources and Economic Development and manages 72 state parks, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, and natural waysides. For information about the Franconia Notch State Park or NH State Parks, visit www.nhstateparks.org or call 603/271-3556.