An 80-ton boulder that had loomed above visitors at a popular New Hampshire attraction for more than 100 years broke loose and crashed onto a walkway on the final day of the 2026 season.
Polar Caves, a network of glacially created talus caves in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, said its famous “Mysterious Hanging Boulder” fell on Oct. 18. The path below is visited by thousands of people each year.
“We are incredibly grateful that no one was injured in this incident,” Polar Caves Park said in a statement.
Because the collapse occurred as the 2026 season was ending, the park will use the offseason to inspect the area, evaluate the damage and decide how to proceed.
Known for sweeping mountain views and brilliant autumn colors, New Hampshire’s White Mountains attract visitors throughout the year. Polar Caves has been a regional destination since it opened in 1922.
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The caves date back to the last ice age, when a continental glacier moved through New Hampshire and deposited enormous granite boulders across the landscape.
The Mysterious Hanging Boulder ranked among the park’s best-known landmarks. Visitors frequently paused beneath the massive rock to take pictures or escape the sun.
Polar Caves includes nine glacial granite caves, wooded nature trails, a boulder maze, an animal park featuring fallow deer and a sluice where guests can try gem mining.
Park officials said they remain focused on protecting the historic site while maintaining a safe environment for visitors and employees.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 2027 season,” officials said.
