Franconia Notch

All outdoor adventurers welcome

Situated on Interstate 93 at the feet of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch captivates visitors with its alluring natural wonders year-round. In winter, white powder carpets the terrain, setting the stage for snow sports. In summer, visitors bask in a lush wonderland with endless hiking, biking and watersport options. Spring brings blooming flora and fauna, while autumn adorns the region in a stunning array of reds and golds. Hop in your RV and take it all in via scenic drive, or lace up those hiking boots and explore a natural paradise that’s sure to leave you in awe.

Get Lost in a World of Natural Splendor

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest is Franconia Notch State Park. At the base of Mount Liberty, you’ll find the star of the park: Flume Gorge. Spanning 800 feet, this natural gorge features towering granite walls that soar 70 to 90 feet. Hike the two-mile loop around the gorge or stroll through it on a boardwalk that snakes just above the water.

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Hikers of all skill levels can take advantage of a wealth of trails. Walk along the 1.5-mile Bald Mountain and Artists Bluff Trail and you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Cannon Mountain and Franconia Notch at the end. Other popular hiking destinations include Lonesome Lake and Kinsman Falls, both easily reached by short treks. Seasoned hikers will want to tackle the famous Appalachian Trail or the Franconia Ridge Loop, a 9-mile path that leads to numerous waterfalls and incredible panoramic views. During your journey, keep an eye out for a diverse array of wildlife such as salamanders, black bear, moose and 184 species of birds.

Afterward, visit Echo Lake State Park for a refreshing swim, relaxing beach day or scenic picnic. Take the trail that loops around the lake for spectacular views of the 700-foot Cathedral Ledge. You can also fly-fish at Profile Lake. This 13-acre body of water is regularly stocked so you’re bound to reel in loads of trout.

The fun doesn’t stop when summer ends. In the winter, snow enthusiasts indulge in world-class skiing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling and dog sled expeditions on Cannon Mountain.

Take a Ride on an Aerial Tramway

One of the top highlights in Franconia Notch is the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, the first one its kind in North America. After a short eight-minute ride, you’ll reach the summit of Cannon Mountain. Here, you can spot New Hampshire’s Presidential Range and even mountains in Vermont, Maine, New York, and Canada on a clear day. The New England Ski Museum is located here as well. Stop by to see artifacts and displays that shed light on every aspect of ski history.

Classic New England Town

Looking for New England charm? The small town of Franconia delivers in a big way. With neighborhoods filled with houses topped by gabled roofs and a small but accommodating downtown, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a postcard.

For More Information

Franconia Notch Regional Chamber of Commerce
603-823-5661
www.franconianotch.org

New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs
www.visitnh.gov