Easier Hikes:
Franconia Notch Recreation Path– This partially paved trail runs through the entire length of the Notch and is perfect for biking, walking, strollers, and running. While there are slight uphills and downhills, nothing drastic. You can park at various points along Interstate 93 to access the trail.
Artist Bluff & Bald Mountain– This is a short, VERY popular hike, but does have some steep areas. The open ledges are located in the north end of the Notch and face south, giving excellent views.
Profile Lake via Pemi Trail– This trail begins near the Old Man of the Mountain Museum, located just before you enter the Cannon Tramway parking lot. This is a short, flat hike that runs next to Profile Lake and has lovely views of the surrounding mountains as well.
Basin Cascade Trail– This trail begins paved and follows the stream eventually ending up at a natural pothole pool called The Basin. If you wish to continue your walk follow the signs for Cascade Path. This trail runs north following the Pemigewasset River encountering many cascades and waterfalls. There is an incline.
Moderate Hikes:
Lonesome Lake– This 3 mile round trip follows a steady incline to a beautiful mountain lake with excellent views of Franconia Ridge. This is a very popular hike year round.
Mount Pemigewasset– This is a relatively short trail, but does have a consistent incline. Though located within Franconia Notch State Park, this peak is south of the Notch. The sweeping views from the ledges face south.
Georgiana & Harvard Falls– The trail to Georgiana and Harvard Falls can be found in Lincoln on Route 3. The trail is relatively easy to the 30 foot Georgiana Falls, following a lovely brook with many cascades. After Georgiana Falls the trail becomes very steep and eventually reaches a lovely view of the impressive 60 foot Harvard Falls.
Hard & Advanced Hikes:
Cannon Mountain via Kinsman Ridge Trail– This short hike is STEEP, though the views from the observation deck are worth it. After popping out of the trees on Kinsman Ridge Trail, before heading to the observation deck and summit, there is a junction. Follow it taking a left and you will find stunning views of Franconia Ridge. Backtrack to the junction and continue onto the summit or head back down.
Mount Flume via Flume Slide Trail– This is an advanced trail, most hikers combine it with Mount Liberty to make a loop and descend via Liberty Springs Trail, as the slide can be dangerous to go down. This is a strenuous hike and requires preparation, recommended only for experienced hikers.
Mount Liberty via Liberty Springs Trail– Out of all of the trails that ascend to a peak on Franconia Ridge this is probably the most moderate. That being said, it is still very strenuous and recommended only for experienced hikers. It is very popular and a favorite peak among locals.
North and South Kinsman Via Lonesome Lake Trail, Fishin’ Jimmy Trail and Kinsman Ridge Trail– The Kinsmans are a pair of tall peaks situated somewhat behind Lonesome Lake. One of the ways they can be accessed is from Lonesome Lake and going up the very steep and rocky Fishin’ Jimmy Trail. These mountains are not quite as exposed as a lot of the other peaks in Franconia Notch State Park that are above 4000ft.
Franconia Ridge Loop via Falling Waters Trail, Ridge Trail, and Old Bridal Path– One of the most iconic hikes in New Hampshire, but also one of the most difficult and dangerous. Once you make it up the extremely steep (and often slippery) Falling Waters Trail, you will reach treeline and ascend into the Alpine Zone. This is entirely exposed to the elements and is not easy to descend quickly for shelter, for about almost two miles.
Leave No Trace is a set of outdoor ethics aimed at minimizing human impact on natural environments, and it’s especially important in New Hampshire’s diverse landscapes, including the White Mountains. The principles encourage responsible recreation by focusing on actions like planning ahead, staying on trails, properly disposing of waste, respecting wildlife, and leaving what you find. In New Hampshire, with its fragile ecosystems and popular outdoor destinations, Leave No Trace helps preserve the beauty and integrity of the state’s forests, lakes, and trails for future generations, while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Checking the weather actively is extremely important to any successful hiking trip. The Mount Washington Observatory provides a multi-day Higher Summits Forecast, which is a great and sometimes life-saving resource for hikers. Please note that this forecast can change drastically even over a period of a few hours, so checking it frequently is highly recommended.
The White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire State Parks, and Appalachian Mountain Club manage many of the natural areas in the Western White Mountains. When in doubt, it’s never a bad idea to reach out to them prior to a hike if you have any additional questions.
White Mountain National Forest- Pemigewasset Ranger Station
71 White Mountain Drive
Campton, NH 03223
603-536-6100
New Hampshire State Parks – Franconia Notch State Park
260 Tramway Drive
Franconia/Lincoln, NH 03580
603-823-8800
Appalachian Mountain Club
General information or questions:
603-466-2727
amclodging@outdoors.org
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