Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop

A lil shelter from the rain

Lafayette Campground

The campground gets really busy, so make sure to book well in advance if you plan on staying here.

Trailhead parking

There is limited parking at the trailhead and the trail gets very busy during weekends and holidays. Make sure to arrive early. If the parking lot is full, you can take the shuttle service. Take Exit 34C where a large parking lot has been designated for hiker parking. The following link to the State Parks Department can be used for reference and additional information: https://www.nhstateparks.org/activities/hiking/franconia-notch-hiker-parking Restrooms are located just after the start of the trail. Start the hike at 'Falling Waters Trail', which is rather steep, but good for ascending the mountains

Shining Rock

A huge rock slab visible from far away!

Summit of Haystack

Wow. Just wow

Mt. Lincoln Summit

After a great climb from Little Haystack, you are now on top of the second 4000 footer of the day. Prepare for the last climb up to Mt. Lafayette. Continuing on past Mt. Lincoln you will be traveling over a 2 mile stretch of knife-edge ridge that connects this peak with Little Haystack.

Mt. Lafayette Summit

This exposed 5,242' summit is the start of a very exposed ridge climb. Make sure the weather is good before continuing south down the ridge. You've reached the highest point at this summit.

Old Bridle Path/Greenleaf Trail

Pick up the old bridle path for a relatively easy hike down the mountain.

AMC Hut

Take a break at the hut and Eagles Lakes to catch your breath before heading up to Lafayette and the exposed ridge.