Lonesome Lake Hiking Guide
Lonesome Lake sits in a high bowl on the west side of Franconia Notch, about a thousand feet above the highway, with Franconia Ridge rising across the notch beyond the far shore. A steady climb through the forest from Lafayette Place leads to the lake and AMC's Lonesome Lake Hut, which has stood on its shore since 1930. It is one of the best family hikes in New Hampshire, and one of the most photographed.
The Hike
AMC and other guides list the round trip at 3.2 miles with about 1,000 feet of gain. The Lonesome Lake Trail starts at Lafayette Place and climbs steadily; most of the effort comes in about 0.8 miles of steep, rocky switchbacks. At the lake, a trail loops around the shore, with views across to Franconia Ridge.
The Hut
AMC's Lonesome Lake Hut, first opened in 1930, sits on the lake's shore and is a popular family destination in the White Mountains hut system. Day hikers are welcome to stop by during staffed seasons. Overnight stays require reservations with AMC.
Parking
The trail starts from Lafayette Place in Franconia Notch State Park. Southbound drivers park on the campground side; northbound drivers use the Falling Waters/Old Bridle Path lot and walk under the highway. Hikers may not park inside the campground, and parking on the I-93 shoulder is illegal. Lots fill early on summer and fall weekends, when the Cannon Tramway lot shuttle is the backup.
Dogs
The trail starts through Lafayette Place Campground, where Franconia Notch State Park does not permit pets, and the park limits dogs to designated areas. Trail guides list dogs as allowed higher up on national forest land. If you want to bring a dog, confirm the current rules with the park at 603-823-8800 before you go.
Seasons
Summer and fall are the classic seasons, with foliage around the lake in early October. In winter, the lake freezes and the trail becomes a popular snowshoe route; bring microspikes or snowshoes and warm layers. Spring brings mud and lingering ice on the switchbacks.
Hiking tips for Lonesome Lake
- Pace yourself on the 0.8 miles of steep switchbacks — that's most of the climb.
- Walk the shoreline loop for views across the lake to Franconia Ridge.
- Never park on the I-93 shoulder or in the campground; use the shuttle if lots are full.
- Confirm dog rules with Franconia Notch State Park before bringing a pet.
- Bring microspikes or snowshoes in winter, when the lake freezes.
Nearby trails to explore
- Franconia Ridge Loop
- Artist's Bluff and Bald Mountain
- Welch-Dickey Loop
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Lonesome Lake is a perfect first White Mountains hike with new friends. Use TrailMates to find hikers heading to Franconia Notch. Download the TrailMates app to connect.