Franconia Ridge loop

Hike Name: Franconia Ridge loop Location: central NH Length: 9 Submitted by: Micahel Palm Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more New Hampshire trail reviews New Hampshire national parks New Hampshire state parks
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Description
Franconia Ridge, although still part of the White Mountain National Forest, is north of Mt. Washington; and encompasses Mt. Lafayette, Mt. Lincoln, Little Haystack Mtn., Mt. Liberty and Mt. Flume. Also because of its distant proximity to Mt. Washington, Franconia Ridge tends to be less populated than the more famous trails to the summit of highest point in New England. The nine-mile loop, which includes Old Bridal Path, Greenleaf trail, Franconia Ridge trail and Falling Waters trail, is an extremely strenuous and steep hike (no such thing as switchbacks in these parts.) Begin on the very rocky Old Bridal Path and head up, and up, and up (if you like the stair master this trail is for you) for two miles until you come to Greenleaf trail and continue up another mile to Greenleaf AMC hut -Franconia Ridge trail is part of the Appalachian Mountain trail. Go inside the hut and REST! EAT! DRINK! You still have another mile to go until Mt. Lafayette Summit (5260 ft.) and the Franconia Ridge trail. The trail up to MT. Lafayette is steeper and above treeline so remember to bring a warm jacket. Once on top, stop and take in the beauty. (The views rival any in the in the White Mountains, maybe the even the US.) Now take Franconia Ridge trail south (1.7 miles), traversing the ridge over Mt. Lincoln (5089 ft.) to Little Haystack Mountain and Falling Water Trail, stopping to snap pictures and ponder the world above treeline on the way. Falling Water trail is also extremely steep and rocky. Take your time descending and rest those knees every so often. Although the loop is very difficult, it is worth every ache and pain (hiking poles would be good for this trail.) You won't be disappointed (make sure it's a clear day though, other wise you'll see nothing but white fog.)

Directions to Hike
From Boston take Rt. 93 north into New Hampshire, past Manchester and Concord into the White Mountain National Forestto exit 33 or 34... get off exit for Mt. Lafayette Campground. Look for trail signs in parking lot.

Contact Information
Ammonoosuc Ranger Station
Box 239, Bethlehem, NH 03574
(603) 869-2626.
www.cs.dartmouth.edu/whites/

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