The Mount Lafayette Franconia Ridge Trail loop is one of New Hampshire’s White Mountains’ most popular trails.
The trail is rated as Hard on AllTrails and is quite challenging. Furthermore, having an elevation gain of 3,815 feet, it took us 7 hours 18 minutes to complete the loop.
Total distance is 8.7 miles
Get There Early
It is advisable that you arrive early, especially in summer as parking is somewhat limited considering the trail’s popularity. Many hikers sleep in their car in the parking lot in order to be able to get an early start.
Clockwise Or Counterclockwise?
We chose to hike the loop counter clockwise in order to keep the highest elevation point, Lafayette Mountain, for dessert.
The loop begins at the Falling Waters trail.
Moreover, as you make your way on the trail, you will follow and cross a brook a number of times.
The trail is generally well identified with blue markers. Stay focused as in a few areas, the path can be somewhat unclear.
Waterfalls, what Waterfalls?
Approximately one and one half miles into the hike, you will encounter the most beautiful of the multiple waterfalls on the trail: Cloudland falls.
Once the trail veers off from the brook, the terrain gets somewhat steeper and rockier and more demanding as you continue your ascension.
The Alpine Zone
A sign greets you as you approach the alpine zone. Make sure to read it and follow the recommendations!
Once in the alpine zone, you can see the change in flora along the trail.
We know we are getting close as we get our first glimpse of the surrounding area.
Make sure to stay on the trail to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Plan accordingly as the temperature fluctuated massively during our ascent.
Summit I – Little Haystack
We reach the first summit, Little Haystack. Distance 3.1 miles.
After a few minutes pause, we head on for the next phase of our hike, walking the Franconia Ridge Trail towards the second summit, Mount Lincoln.
At the same time, not forgetting to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views along the way.
Summit II – Mount Lincoln
After another short ascent, we reached the second summit, Mount Lincoln. Distance: 3.9 miles
As a result, in the distance, we can now see the third summit, Mount Lafayette.
Not to mention, on a clear day, we can see Mount Washington in the distance.
Summit III – Mount Lafayette
We reach the third summit, Mount Lafayette.
Distance: 4.8 miles. Elevation Gain: 3,815 feet.
Consequently, from Mount Lafayette, we start our descent on Old Bridle Path towards the Greenleaf Hut.
In addition, the views from this side of the loop are truly amazing. Indeed, this is one of the reasons of the trail’s popularity.
Greenleaf Hut
The Greenleaf Hut is open from June to October. In addition, soup and baked goods are available for purchase.
Distance: 5.9 Miles. Distance to go: 2.9 Miles.
From Greenleaf Hut, take the Old Bridle Path down until the parking lot.
Top Five
This was definitely one of my top 5 favorite hikes ever!
For one thing, the views were truly breathtaking and well worth our 3 hour drive
Miles hiked: 8.7 Time: 7 hours 18 minutes
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