A major mountain pass in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Franconia Notch is a must-visit destination for any car lover. Dominate by Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain to the west, this gorge is a popular destination for road trips, hiking, and biking. It is part of the Franconia Notch State Park and traversed by the Franconia Notch Parkway.
The Basin in Franconia Notch State Park is a short hike to the base of the waterfall. The granite pothole is 20 feet in diameter and was formed 15,000 years ago during the last ice age. Several other waterfalls are located along the river below and above The Basin. This area is perfect for those who want a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Flume Gorge is a natural wonder that is covered in moss. It features walls that are 12 to 20 feet high. The gorge has a boardwalk that lets visitors walk along the walls. The trail includes glacial pools, large boulders, and cascading waterfalls. During the summer, hikers can explore the gorge and enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.
The Lonesome Lake Trail is a pinnacle hike in Franconia Notch State Park. It begins near the Lafayette Place Campground’s south parking lot and runs 1.5 miles one-way to Lonesome Lake. The hike includes steep stretches of Cannon Mountain, and a visit to the Appalachian Mountain Club Lonesome Lake Hut is a must. The Hi-Cannon Trail is a challenging 4.2 mile climb that leads to the summit of 4,081-foot Cannon Mountain.
The parkway is a scenic drive that connects many of the park’s features and facilities. You can explore this unique area on foot or on horseback. The Pemigewasset River rises in the Pemigewasset Pass and flows south for 70 miles. You can also walk along the river or enjoy a picnic at the park’s picnic tables. You can even take a hike through the woods and along the road.
If you’re in the mood to walk, try the Shining Rock. This mountain’s face is covered with water, giving it its name. It is an impressive sight to see on a road trip, but the Old Man is even more magnificent. You can visit the National Museum of Modern Art in the town of Lincoln. If you’re looking for a unique hike, take a look at the French village of Franconia Notch.
The area is popular with RVers. Until the early 20th century, most of the park was privately owned. The Flume and Profile Hotel Company owned most of the land in Franconia Notch. The Flume House was a popular location for swimming, and the northern part was home to the Profile House. The latter burned down in August 1923. The ruins of this iconic landmark still stand today.