The Franconia Notch Recreation Path was built as part of the construction of the Franconia Notch Parkway. It travels from the Skookumchuck Trailhead, south to the Flume Visitor Center, passing by the many park facilities and natural features of Franconia Notch State Park including the hiking trailheads, Echo Lake, the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, the Basin and the Flume. There are multiple steep hills along the path and 800 feet of overall elevation gain from south to north.
Please walk your bike in the bike-walk areas. Use caution -- there is high pedestrian traffic in these areas.
Most of the trail is fairly inaccessible due to the very steep inclines or declines which could lead to some difficulties for people. There are sections of the trail that aren’t as steep that could be great options, like the section from Echo Lake to Profile Lake. This section of the trail is a lot mellower than other parts of the trail, it also has great views of both lakes leading to a very scenic trail adventure. There is other parking at both ends of the section making it very easy to get to.
Trail conditions can change without warning. Trail last assessed: 6/11/2026.
Bike Rentals are offered by Sport Thoma in Lincoln, NH. They offer a full range of Scott all-terrain bikes for adults and children. Shuttle service to Franconia Notch from the store is also available.
The Recreation Path is part of Franconia Notch State Park. For more information, visit the park website or contact:
The Recreation Path can be accessed from multiple parking areas along Franconia Notch. The largest lot is at the base of the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway off of Exit 34B.
Please note that the primary parking lots for the hiking trails, The Flume, Liberty Springs/Whitehouse and Lafayette Place fill quickly in summer and on weekends.
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