Mt Lafayette & Franconia Ridge NH


• 5-star hike
• 8 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 3,800 feet
• Franconia, NH | White Mountains
.   NH 4,000 Footers   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 views of Franconia Ridge, and you’ve got one of the most iconic hikes in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. For many, it’s both an unforgettable adventure and a worthy challenge.

We suggest tackling the loop counter-clockwise. This way, you’ll climb the steepest section first while enjoying the series of waterfalls along the Falling Waters Trail. The route ascends past Stairs Falls, continues to Swiftwater Falls, and culminates at the impressive Cloudland Falls. Stream crossings add a touch of variety, but they’re straightforward, and the rocks are generally secure underfoot. The final push up Falling Waters is a thigh-burning climb, yet the reward is immediate: the summit of Little Haystack at 4,760 feet, the first of three peaks on the ridge.
⬤ 5★ Mt Lafayette & Franconia Ridge   7.9 mi loop, moderate, gain 3,800 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?
 $  Donation requested when parking

On a clear day, the ridge delivers jaw-dropping views in every direction. From Little Haystack, follow the rocky spine north to Mount Lincoln at 5,089 feet and onward to Mount Lafayette at 5,249 feet. If the weather turns, Lafayette’s stone-built refuge offers a welcome spot to regroup before beginning the long descent via the Greenleaf Trail and Old Bridle Path, completing the loop.

We rate this hike as medium difficulty. Aside from the steep finale of Falling Waters, the elevation gain is steady and manageable. Still, don’t underestimate it—the total climb 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’re arriving from the south, the trailhead sits just off Interstate 93. The main lot is large but fills quickly due to the trail’s popularity. Coming from the north, or if the lot is full, you’ll find additional parking at Lafayette Place Campground on the opposite side of the freeway. Note that while a pedestrian path connects both trailheads, there is no road link between them.

Mounts Lincoln and Lafayette are part of the AMC 4,000 Footer Challenge, a list of 48 peaks across New Hampshire. If you’re inspired to explore further, check out our other trail reviews and linked routes for many of these summits. Completing the full list is a rite of passage for countless hikers in the Granite State.

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.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Franconia Ridge
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us


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