Mt Lafayette & Franconia Ridge NH


• 5-star hike
• 8 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 3,800 feet
• Franconia, NH | White Mountains
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The image presents a panoramic view of a mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. In the foreground, there are dense green trees, predominantly conifers, framing the scene. The middle ground reveals rolling hills and valleys with varying shades of green vegetation. In the background, a range of mountains stretches across the horizon with their peaks creating a jagged profile against the sky. The vastness of the view and the contrast between the verdant landscape and blue sky contribute to its beauty and serenity
Looking South along Franconia Ridge towards Mt Lincoln.

Combine the towering summits of Mount Lafayette and Mount Lincoln with the sweeping panoramic vistas of Franconia Ridge and you have one of the most iconic hikes in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. For seasoned hikers and ambitious beginners alike it is both a memorable adventure and a rewarding challenge.

We recommend tackling the loop counter-clockwise. This approach allows you to conquer the steepest climb early while enjoying a continuous display of cascades along the Falling Waters Trail. The path ascends past Stairs Falls continues to Swiftwater Falls and culminates at the impressive Cloudland Falls. Stream crossings add a fun touch of variety and they are generally straightforward with reliable footholds. While the final stretch up Falling Waters is a true thigh-burner the reward is immediate with the summit of Little Haystack Mountain at 4,760 feet waiting as your first peak of the day.
adventure.
⬤ 5★ Mt Lafayette & Franconia Ridge   7.9 mi loop, moderate, gain 3,800 ft
GPX File · AllTrails GPX?
 $  Parking (donation): Northbound ·   P  Parking (free): Southbound

On a clear day the exposed ridge delivers jaw-dropping views in every direction. From Little Haystack you follow the rocky alpine spine north to Mount Lincoln at 5,089 feet and onward to Mount Lafayette at 5,249 feet. As you trek across this open landscape please stay strictly on the trail and step only on durable rock to protect the fragile alpine vegetation. If conditions turn unexpectedly the Greenleaf Hut just below Lafayette’s peak offers a welcome shelter to regroup before you begin the long descent via the Greenleaf Trail and Old Bridle Path.

We rate this hike as moderate, though those unfamiliar with the White Mountains may regard it as more strenuous. Beyond the steep finish on Falling Waters the overall climb demands sustained stamina because the total elevation gain is roughly equivalent to scaling four Empire State Buildings stacked end to end.

On the left, there’s a cascading waterfall surrounded by green foliage with a person in hiking attire standing at the base, looking up towards the waterfall. On the right, there’s a rocky mountain summit with several hikers resting and enjoying the view of a vast landscape under a clear blue sky. Both scenes depict outdoor recreational activities in nature, highlighting the beauty and tranquility of natural environments.
Falling Waters trail. | Sheltering atop Mt Lafayette.

If you arrive using the northbound carriageway of Interstate 93, the main trailhead lot is large but it fills early due to the loop's popularity. On the southbound carriageway you will find additional parking options at Lafayette Place Campground but these small lots can fill up even quicker. A pedestrian underpass connects both sides of the highway but there is no vehicle link between the northbound and southbound parking lots. When both primary lots fill up hikers can utilize the seasonal state park overflow shuttle service running from nearby designated parking areas.

Mounts Lincoln and Lafayette are two of the most popular peaks in the AMC 4,000-Footer Challenge which is a list of 48 New Hampshire mountains above 4,000 feet. Completing the full list is a true rite of passage for Granite State hikers. If you are inspired to explore further you can check out our other trail reviews and linked routes to start planning your next peak-bagging

The image presents a panoramic view of a mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. In the foreground, there are dense green trees, predominantly conifers, framing the scene. The middle ground reveals rolling hills and valleys with varying shades of green vegetation. In the background, a range of mountains stretches across the horizon with their peaks creating a jagged profile against the sky. The vastness of the view and the contrast between the verdant landscape and blue sky contribute to its beauty and serenity.
Looking up at the ridgeline from Old Bridle Path.

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Kinsman Mountains (10 mi)
4★ Mount Pemigewasset (4-5 mi)
5★ Flume Gorge (2 mi)
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