Franconia Ridge Loop
One of the great alpine ridge walks in the eastern US, traversing three 4,000-foot peaks.
- Difficulty
- Strenuous
- Length
- 8.9 mi
- Elevation Gain
- 3,900 ft
- Duration
- 6–9
- Best Season
- Jun–Sep
- Permit
- Not required
- Dogs
- Allowed
- Features
- Alpine ridge, Three 4,000-footers
About the trail
The Franconia Ridge Loop is regularly ranked one of the best day hikes in America. From Lafayette Place, the Falling Waters Trail climbs past three named waterfalls to Little Haystack. From there, 1.7 miles of fully exposed alpine ridge connects Little Haystack, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Lafayette (5,260 ft) with sweeping views in every direction. Descend via the Greenleaf Trail and Old Bridle Path past the AMC Greenleaf Hut.
Trailhead map & directions
Turn-by-turn route
- Park at Lafayette Place trailhead lot on I-93 in Franconia Notch State Park.
- Take the Falling Waters Trail south, climbing past Stairs, Swiftwater, and Cloudland Falls.
- Reach Little Haystack at 3.2 miles and the open ridge.
- Traverse north over Mount Lincoln to Mount Lafayette (1.7 miles of exposed ridge).
- Descend the Greenleaf Trail to AMC Greenleaf Hut.
- Continue down the Old Bridle Path back to the parking area.
Parking
Lafayette Place lot fills by 7 AM in summer; overflow on the I-93 shoulder is enforced.
Tips from the trail
- The ridge has zero shelter — bail before reaching Little Haystack if storms threaten.
- Hike the loop counterclockwise (Falling Waters up) for the gentler descent.
- Refill water at Greenleaf Hut on the descent.
More in New Hampshire
Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine
NHThe Northeast's most demanding day hike up its highest peak.
Franconia Ridge Loop
NHA 1.7-mile alpine ridge linking three of New England's 4,000-footers.
Mount Chocorua via Piper Trail
NHThe most photographed peak in New Hampshire, with a bare granite summit cone.