With almost 4 miles of trail above treeline, Franconia Ridge is one of the most sough-after hiking destinations in New England. The full ridge includes Mts Flume, Liberty, Little Haystack, Lincoln and Lafayette. Multiple trails access the ridge and pass by beautiful features such as waterfalls and viewpoints. The Appalachian Mountain Club's Greenleaf Hut (reservations required) sits in a beautiful location just below Mt. Lafayette. The Appalachian Trail follows the Liberty Springs Trail to the ridge and then along the Franconia Ridge Trail to Mt. Lafayette. It then continues along the Garfield Ridge Trail to Mt. Garfield to the northeast.
Franconia Ridge and its associated trails are strenuous. Be prepared for changing weather as you climb the ridge. Wear sturdy footwear, bring multiple warm layers (even in summer) and always bring rain protection. The trails up the ridge are steep and can be slippery when wet. The ridge is beautiful, but also quite exposed. Rock scrambling is required. Always stay on the marked trail in the alpine zone.
Please note that this is a very popular hiking destination especially in summer and on weekends. Please be respectful toward your fellow visitors as well as the trails and natural world around you.
Geocaching is not allowed in the alpine zone.
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!
The trails up Franconia Ridge begin in Franconia Notch State Park and then enter the White Mountain National Forest. For more information, please visit the trail manager websites or contact:
The trails up to Franconia Ridge are accessible from The Flume parking, Lafayette Place and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
Please note: The Flume and Lafayette Place fill quickly in summer and on weekends. Parking along I-93 is expressly forbidden. If your preferred parking lot is full when you arrive, please adjust your plans and park in another location.
This trail passes an area containing rare and fragile alpine plants, some of which grow on exposed rocks or in rock crevices. Stay on trails and avoid stepping on plants or disturbing shallow soils. If pets are permitted on this trail or property, please keep them leashed.
Many people choose to hike this trail. For a less busy hike experience, consider visiting midweek, rather than on weekends. Use Trail Finder to identify other nearby trails. If the parking lot is full when you arrive, please choose another trail. Be considerate of your fellow trail enthusiasts - pass at safe distances, and move on from viewpoints if others are waiting.
The White Mountains are beautiful, but they can also be treacherous. Weather can change quickly. Many trails are narrow, steep and rocky. Educate yourself about the challenges you will encounter on the trail you plan to hike. Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more about how to prepare for hiking in the White Mountains.
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