Artist's Bluff and Bald Mountain Hiking Guide
If you have seen a photo of Franconia Notch in fall — a lake ringed in red and gold, with Cannon Mountain's cliffs rising behind — there is a good chance it was taken from Artist's Bluff. This short loop visits the bluff and neighbouring Bald Mountain, two rocky viewpoints at the north end of the notch. It is short enough for an evening, with just enough scrambling to feel like an adventure.
The Loop
Hiking Project lists the loop at 1.5 miles with about 535 feet of gain; other sources give 1.2 to 1.5 miles. From the dirt lot on NH-18 across from Cannon's Peabody base area, the trail climbs through forest to a junction. One spur leads to Bald Mountain's summit ledges via a short, steep scramble; the other runs along the ridge to Artist's Bluff above Echo Lake.
The Views
Artist's Bluff looks straight down on Echo Lake and across to Cannon Mountain and Franconia Notch. Bald Mountain has a wider view to the north and west. In late September and early October, foliage around Echo Lake is among the most photographed in New England, and the bluff can be crowded with photographers at sunrise.
The Scramble
The Bald Mountain spur includes a short ledge scramble; Hiking Project notes grades up to about 45 percent. It is fine for most hikers in dry conditions but slippery when wet. The trail is rated easy overall because it is short, but take the steep bits carefully and keep an eye on children near the bluff's edge.
Parking
The large dirt lot on NH-18 across from Cannon's Peabody base serves the trail. TrailFinder notes the lot may be closed when the ski area isn't operating, in which case use the designated highway lots nearby. There is no parking fee. Sunrise and foliage weekends are the busiest times.
Dogs and Practicalities
TrailFinder lists dogs as permitted on leash, but Franconia Notch State Park limits pets to designated areas; confirm with the park at 603-823-8800 before bringing one. The loop is a good add-on to a longer Franconia Notch day, such as Lonesome Lake. Bring a light layer — the viewpoints can be breezy.
Hiking tips for Artist's Bluff and Bald Mountain
- Go at sunrise in early October for the classic Echo Lake foliage view.
- Take the Bald Mountain scramble slowly; it is steep and slick when wet.
- Keep children close on Artist's Bluff near the edge.
- Check whether the NH-18 lot is open outside ski season, or use nearby highway lots.
- Confirm dog rules with Franconia Notch State Park before bringing a pet.
Nearby trails to explore
- Lonesome Lake
- Franconia Ridge Loop
- Welch-Dickey Loop
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Artist's Bluff is a quick hike to one of New England's most famous views. Use TrailMates to find hikers for a Franconia Notch sunrise. Download the TrailMates app to connect.