Tour de Franc - Franconia Notch, NH

by Greg McMillan

Flanked by Cannon mountain and Mount Lafayette, Franconia Notch is one of the more striking and historic areas of the White Mountains. On the Eastern side of the notch lies the Franconia Ridge loop, one of the most picturesque hikes in the United States. If you are looking to tick off a New Hampshire classic and extend your journey for a little extra challenge, read on further about what I've dubbed the 'Tour de Franc'. 

Looking back down towards the Notch on Kinsman Ridge Trail

The route travels counter clockwise and encompasses both sides of the notch - first climbing Cannon Mountain before crossing the street and tackling the Franconia Ridge. The route starts and finishes at the Tramway parking lot (exit 34B on I93) allowing for a nice post run dip in nearby Echo Lake. Head south from the lot to find Kinsman Ridge Trail, a punchy two mile climb with tough footing that leads to the summit of Cannon. This trail weaves its way through the Kinsman Glade and offers several views looking towards the valley below before poking out onto the shoulder of the mountain. This is the first viewpoint worth stopping for, and certainly not the last!

View from the shoulder of Cannon a bit below the summit, looking South towards Lincoln

After a quick hop, skip, and a jump you'll arrive at the summit of Cannon Mountain. Climb the radio tower for another view then make your way down the backside towards Lonesome Lake. If you're on the party-pace train don't skip the highest beer taps in New Hampshire - located at 4,080' inside the summit building. From the summit, follow the Kinsman Ridge Trail to the Lonesome Lake Trail connecting you to Lonesome Lake Hut roughly 2 miles from Cannon summit. 

The boardwalk section en route to Lonesome Lake - a nice reprieve after a steep descent

Stop for a refuel at the hut and take a quick glance across at what you're about to get into - the Franconia Ridge loop (cover photo). Bomb down the rest of Lonesome Lake Trail to Lafayette Place then take another breather before heading up Falling Waters Trail, the second big climb of the day. This is a personal favorite of mine as it handrails the Dry Brook, passing a series of waterfalls along the way (hence the trail name). 

The final waterfall on the trail - Cloudland Falls (Nov. '22)

After the falls, the trail works its way up to Little Haystack via some switchbacks and then a punchy final stretch into the alpine. Now comes the fun part - a nearly two mile stretch of perfect ridge running, traversing across Mt. Lincoln and Mt. Lafayette. Soak in 360 degree views into the Pemigewasset Wilderness and Franconia Notch State Park as you make your way along the often crowded ridge. There has been extensive trail work done to the loop so the trail is now a bit wider - allowing folks to pass one another without trampling on the fragile alpine vegetation. Once at the summit of Mt. Lafayette, turn left and head down towards the Greenleaf Hut and the final stretch of the day.

Looking South along the Ridge during the final ascent up Mt. Lafayette

The first mile down to the hut from Lafayette remains above treeline so there is still time to take one last look around before pulling up to the hut and dropping back down into the trees. Fill up on water on the Greenleaf deck before descending down Greenleaf Trail, ending back near the Tramway parking lot. Make sure to follow the signs closely at the hut as you could get off course if you remain on Old Bridle Path. This would spit you out back at Lafayette Place and a couple miles away from your car so pay attention! Kick those shoes off and slide into a recovery flip while enjoying the fruits of your labor. The final route trends closer to 14 miles, not the 12 listed below. I'm a big fan of keeping a cold drink and a camp chair on deck for when you are done - you'll thank me later! 

If you're ever looking to switch things up and are in the need for new route or area of the Whites to explore, don't hesitate to reach out. We all love these mountains and enjoy showing people new and unique places to discover.

That's all for now - hope you give it a go!

- Greg

An overview of the route - two climbs yet endless fun!