This was a cool hike up. We parked in the parking lot that was right at the midpoint where you can…read morego left or go right. It was muddy as heck that day, so I would recommend not going that route because once we were done with the climb, we noticed that there was literally a shortcut at the bottom to the main road with a parking lot across the street, so there was no need for that extra hike to get to the climb. You're welcome!

Amazing hike with a payoff view that is spectacular. This is a moderate level hike and should be…read moretaken only by people who are OK with climbing rocks, boulders and can handle heights well. That said, my wife and 2 daughters (both under 12y/o had no problem traversing the trails and were ear to ear smiles at the end.

Lonesome Lake is a MUST. Our server at dinner suggested this hike and I am so glad that she did…read more.. always pays to ask a local expert! There is a small parking lot at the base (park next to the Lafayette Campground). My suggestion is to arrive early because it fills up. Plus it's always better to battle an uphill hike early anyways. Most of the hike is shaded, but be warned that it's pretty steep. You'll need to climb uphill for at least two miles before you reach the lake. Luckily the payoff is beautiful and you get to hike downhill the entire way back. #WORTHIT Once at the top you'll immediately have beautiful views of the lake, but make sure that you keep walking for another 10-15 minutes up the narrow trail. That will eventually lead you to a wider boardwalk area where you can lay out some towels, enjoy snacks and drinks and jump right into the lake. I'm glad we packed towels and beers because after the long steep hike I was more than happy to chill out with a drink. I honestly could've stayed all day and been content. Definitely add this hike to your list if you are in the area!

How I have I not gushed about Lonesome Lake yet?! This was by far the best hike of our trip. The…read moreuphill hike is steep and a bit tough, but the payoff at the top is so worth it. We were visiting Littleton beginning of November and spent our whole Saturday on different trails. We got to Lonesome Lake a little later in the afternoon. The parking lot was nearly full when we got there but the trails really didn't seem that crowded at all. The entire hike up is all uphill, but not too challenging. But once you see the lake at the top?? So incredibly worth the sore legs. It seriously feels unreal or from a photograph when you first see it. It was partly covered in ice but we were so heated up from the uphill trek. This lake must be pretty wonderful in the summer months when you are just drenched from the hike up and can cool off by jumping in the lake. Little tip, be sure to wander a little further once you get to the lake. You'll see a trail with wooden planks. We basically made our own little outcove off of the trail by the water so I am not sure what is alllll the way farther down that trail. We got there on the late side and didn't want to make the hike down in the dark so we only stayed for about an hour, but I honestly could have spent the whole day there. Bring snack, drinks, anything to make a supremely cozy stay at the top. If you are looking for the perfect hike, ya found it.

Difficulty wise, I'd rate Artists Bluff as a 3/5. The hike is a 1 mile loop but there's a lot of…read moresteep inclines and the path is pretty narrow. I wouldn't recommend bringing young kids along. The overlook of the lake is the best part of the hike. I hiked this in June during a weekday, and there were only about 3 cars in the entire parking lot. Compared to the Flume Gorge hike, this was pretty solitary and peaceful. There were a ton of bugs and mosquitoes out and about, so bring bug spray.

It was supposed to be a short 1.5 miles loop trail, however, the trail wasn't clearly marked. Many…read morepeople came down from the same trail as how they got up to the top as they were unable to find the other part of the trail. The first part of the trail was going downhill, but that was actually right! It got more difficult and steeply toward the end of the trail (before we got up to the top). Hiking boots are strongly recommended. The view from the top was awesome, especially during foliage season. We actually went during foliage season and the trail got very crowded during mid-day. Please give yourself enough time to enjoy the view from the top, so you should leave yourself about 2 hours for this hike.

It is a nice view, especially from North Kinsman…read more 9.5 mile, out and back via Kinsman Mountain Trail, 3700 feet elevation gain. There are two peaks: North Kinsman and South Kinsman Mountain: 9.5 miles is if you go to both. It starts in the forest: it is pretty mossy forest. The trail is typical White's rocky trail. In spring still there is a monorail in mid-May after Bald peak. If you go to only Bald peak, it is 4.2 miles out and back, which is a nice short hike.

Driven by here hundreds of times but never turned in to this gorgeous property- saw the Wicked…read moreSmart Horned Band again in the amphitheater overlooking the Presidential range. We have become band groupies and had a wonderful time with friends. Beautiful setting.- they grow 2000 Christmas trees each year here

We came to the Rocks for a Spring Break trip in March. I actually had found it a couple weeks…read morebefore our trip because I was looking for a place to show my kids the process of making maple syrup. I saw they did private tours so I booked it with me and the family we were traveling with. It ended up being a GREAT experience and we had Nigel as our guide. He was very knowledgeable and kind and allowed our kids (4 boys) to interact with the process and tap some trees. We also got to sample some syrups and candies while there. It was so neat to learn about everything and walk around this beautiful area. Thank you so much for your kindness. We will remember this forever.

Stunning entry point to the Pemigewasset Wilderness!…read more I was looking for a short hike to salvage the great weather we had at the end of a rainy weekend and this one came across my facebook feed of all places. I was amped though because I was hoping for 3 things this trip to NH: viewpoints, water, and bridges. This had 2/3 and The Flume had given me the last piece the day prior. I got there around 11 which seemed to be pretty early as the trail was empty. So empty I second guessed myself as there were bear warning signs and no cell reception. After a brief pep talk I continued on my way. So glad I did because eventually other day and thru hikers joined the path. This trail goes for a little over 3 miles and ends at a waterfall and connects to other trails and mountains in the Whites. Much of it is abandoned railway and the old planks are still partially exposed along the path. The view downriver is breathtaking. I must have stood on the suspension bridge for 20 minutes taking it all in. Were it a bit warmer I would have joined some of the other brave souls and dipped my feet in! Things to know: -paid parking for a nominal fee. They have machines and the trust system. -tons of parking spaces -restrooms though I can't say if they're flush or not -right off the Kanc and close to Loon Mountain I can show you better than I can tell you - enjoy my pics!

We came during foliage season and it was one of the best spots to see foliage. We parked at the…read moremain parking lot right off the Kancamagus Highway and we only walked for about 5 minutes to get into water. We did not finish the 3+ mile trail, we came back to the parking lot after a short walk. This parking lot could get very busy during Fall, so I suggested either go early or go late during foliage season.

Awesome Hike!! We've done in the spring and winter. In the spring there are rocks and roots and…read moresome high stepping as you move up the trail. There are a few brook crossings and a bridge or two. The trail is steep, so do not be fooled. It's right up hill, as us new englanders never thought switchbacks were a good ideas. Bring a good amount of water, and some summit snacks for a perfect day of hiking. In the winter time it's a different story. You should really be as prepared as you can be, hiking in the notch always, but especially in the winter. The snow creates hardened trail, that sits above the roots and rocks, so there is much less high stepping through out the hike. Still super slick, and steep, so I would suggest micro spikes or crampons. Carry the ten essentials, always, no matter how small or short or easy you think your hike will be. Doesn't hurt to also carry and buy yearly, a hike safe card, that supports search and rescue and could save you a big fee in the event of needing rescue. Plus it's only $25 dollars for the whole year. Do it! It's worth it. No matter what season you do your hike in, the last several yards, coming out of the woods and seeing the vista of the notch in front of you... it's just so beautiful. This is a great trail, any time !

Not for the faint of heart. Worth the view during fall foliage. Two mile hike from trailhead each…read moreway. Skip Flume Gorge and do this instead.

An excellent swimming hole on the edge of the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Access is limited so be sure…read moreto get there early and check in with the Rangers at the parking lot to get a day pass. Fun for rockhopping, picnicing, lounging in the sun and two natural waterslides. Take the kids and teach them how awesome erosion is as the flume launches them down a ten foot drop into a near bottomless pool of sparkling mountain water.

Franconia Fall is one of New Hampshire's many great swimming holes. Watch the weather and rain…read morefall. Great place to take the family. Wear water shoes (protect those toes when rock hopping) Pick a place to hangout in the sun or shade. Bring a diving mask and explore the pools. If the water is high use caution and consult with the ranger. Have fun exploring and please leave the glass bottles/containers at home! This is a great spot to explore and learn whey New Hampshire is the granite mountain state!

Fun time! All staff are super friendly and knowledgeable, especially Ruth! Will definitely be back…read morenext year.

Fun Fact: The first passenger aerial tramway in North America began operation on this site in 1938…read more Of all the things to do in Franconia Notch State Park, taking a ride in the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway is one of the most unforgettable ways to see the park! a single cabin can carry up to 80 passengers, and the fee is $25 PP both ways. Take a scenic eight-minute ride in one of two enclosed cable cars to the 4,200-foot summit of Cannon Mountain. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the distant valleys, mountains, Echo Lake, and black bears (no we did not find any, but the guide said so :P ) Also, you'll be able to view parts of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York, and Canada! Once at the summit you can hang out on the outdoor deck that overlooks the mountains or grab lunch & drinks at Cafe 4080 that's located next to the air tram. Fee: $25 PP but make an online reservation, Time is allotted and if you are late, you would have to wait for another cabin and if that is full, then wait for another cabin. our time slot was 2:!5, we reached 2:30, they stopped us and at 3:15 - there were few spots, so then they allowed us. so be mindful