Franconia Ridge Loop
Franconia Ridge Trail
A classic loop over Mount Lafayette and Little Haystack, where the razor-edged ridge above the treeline is hailed as one of the most beautiful day hikes in the northeastern United States.
The loop starts from the Lafayette Place parking lot and follows the Falling Waters Trail past multi-tiered waterfalls up to Little Haystack. From there, it follows the ridge above the treeline on the Appalachian Trail to the 1,600-metre summit of Mount Lafayette, then descends via the Greenleaf Hut. The full route is about 14 km, with roughly 1,160 m of elevation gain, and takes 6 to 8 hours. The ridge is exposed, windy and prone to sudden weather changes, so bring windproof, warm clothing and plenty of water. Parking is tight on weekends, so aim to arrive before 7 a.m.
Opening hours
Open all day (best to set off after sunrise)
Nearby sights
- Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza
- Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
- Franconia Notch State Park
- Echo Lake (Franconia Notch)
- The Basin
- Artist's Bluff
- Lonesome Lake
- The Flume Gorge