Mountain Adventure in Franconia Notch State Park

You’ll find Franconia Notch State Park located between the Kinsman and Franconia Mountains off Interstate 93 in Lincoln, New Hampshire. The park is home to spectacular waterfalls, towering woods and rugged rocks, including the historic ’Old Man of the Mountain’ – a stone outcrop in the White Mountains that resembled a silhouette of a man until a portion crumbled in 2003. 

Despite the change to the iconic landmark, the picturesque mountain pass still offers plenty to see and do like swimming, hiking, camping, winter sports and more for the entire family. 

Check out some of the park’s highlights below. And when you're ready to plan your next mountain adventure, be sure to add New Hampshire to your list.

Lafayette Place Campground

Centrally located, Lafayette Place Campground is an ideal home base during your stay in Franconia Notch State Park. With 97 wooded campsites, a convenience store, coin-operated showers and a hiker information cabin, the park provides back-to-nature getaways from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend. Each site includes a picnic table, open firepit and parking space, but there is no running water onsite. 

Flume Gorge

One of the most popular attractions in the park is Flume Gorge. Start at the Flume Visitor's Center off exit 34A to purchase tickets and talk with the helpful rangers. From May to October, the two-mile boardwalk loop offers an up close and personal view of a natural gorge that extends from the base of Mount Liberty. 

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Travel to the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain in just eight minutes on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, a cable car that has operated since 1938. From June to mid-October, you can purchase tickets for the 80-seat car and travel vertically 2,180 feet to reach the top.

On clear days, the view from the top extends all the way to the mountains in Canada. At the base of the tramway, the free New England Ski Museum offers a range of interesting exhibits to explore.

Echo Lake Beach

Located at an elevation of 1,931 feet above sea level, Echo Lake Beach is another fun summer spot in Franconia Notch State Park. Rent a canoe or paddle boat or simply enjoy a day of swimming and fishing in the waters that flow to the Connecticut River.

The beach charges a modest fee for admission, but the views of Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain are worth it – even if you never dip your toes in the water.

Bike Path

Rent a bike and get pedaling to explore Franconia Notch Bike Path at the base of the tramway off exit 34B. Rates vary, depending on full-day or half-day rental timeframes. The path runs the entire length of the park and is completely separate from the highway. As a bonus, you get to enjoy some truly majestic views with your workout.

Don't forget your camera for this mountain adventure through Franconia Notch State Park. And if you’re interested in exploring more of New Hampshire, check out our guide to the White Mountain National Forest.

Kick start your adventure in Franconia Notch State Park

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