FRANCONIA NOTCH STATE PARK
Franconia Notch is a spectacular mountain pass traversed by a unique parkway which extends from the Flume Gorge at the south to Echo Lake at the north. For eight miles, I-93 winds between the high peaks of the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges.
Franconia Notch was the home of the famous Old Man of the Mountain, the same "Great Stone Face" immortalized by Nathaniel Hawthorne and Daniel Webster. While you are here, stop at the Flume Gorge Visitor Center and walk through the renowned Flume Gorge, ride the exciting aerial tramway at Cannon Mountain, and visit the New England Ski Museum. Take your time, stop for a swim at Echo Lake, net a trout while fly fishing at Profile Lake, ride your bike on the Recreational Trail, watch for rock climbers, hawks, and falcons on Cannon Cliffs, or hike on the Appalachian Trail. Bring the family, stay awhile, and enjoy Franconia Notch State Park.
1. Echo Lake Beach offers lifeguard-supervised swimming during summer.
2. Profile Lake is popular for its calm, cool waters ideal for a refreshing swim.
3. The Basin has natural pools and waterfalls perfect for wading or dipping in hot weather.
4. Lonesome lake provides an adventurous high-altitude swimming experience after hiking the trail to reach it.
5. Lafayette Place Campground features river access points suitable for quick dips but not recommended as full-swim areas due to currents.
Boating options within this park are plentiful, with opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Echo Lake is a popular spot where visitors can rent boats during the summer season. However, motorized boating isn't allowed to maintain peace and tranquility in the area.
Enjoy fishing in Echo Lake, Profile Lake and Lafayette Place Campground. Trout species are abundant here. Fly-fishing is popular at the Pemigewasset River where you can catch brook trout. Lonesome lake offers opportunities to fish for rainbow and brown trout as well.
Franconia Notch State Park is
1. Franconia Notch State Park offers numerous picnic areas with stunning mountain views.
2. Picnic tables are available at Lafayette Place Campground and Echo Lake Beach.
3. Visitors can enjoy a lakeside picnic while swimming or fishing in Echo Lake.
4. The park's Flume Gorge area also provides picnicking spots near natural waterfalls and trails.
5) Tramway Cafe, located on Cannon Mountain, is perfect for an elevated outdoor dining experience.
Biking enthusiasts should be aware of the 8.8-mile paved path available, but it's not for beginners due to steep sections.
The trail offers stunning views and passes by several attractions including Echo Lake and Flume Gorge.
However, cyclists must exercise caution as there are areas with sharp turns and sudden changes in elevation that can pose challenges even for experienced riders.
Additionally, bike rentals may not always be readily available so bringing your own equipment is advisable.
Remember also that weather conditions can change rapidly; check forecasts before setting out on any ride.
Lastly, respect all park rules regarding biking hours and designated paths to ensure a safe experience.
Birdwatchers can explore various trails, including the Flume Gorge and Echo Lake. Species include warblers, thrushes, hawks and owls. The park's diverse habitats attract a wide range of bird species year-round. Birding tours are also available for beginners or seasoned watchers alike.
Mountain Club on Loon
90 Loon Mountain Rd
Lincoln, NH
(603) 745-2244