Kids Love the Flume Gorge Nature Walk in Franconia Notch, New Hampshire
Let’s first make one thing clear: Flume Gorge is a bonafide nature walk, not a hike. Hiking requires a trail that’s not navigable by a golf cart with at least the threat of breaking a sweat. Not to mention the optional shuttle bus, which shortens the “trek” to .7 of a mile round trip, is an automatic disqualification. As far as nature walks go, Flume Gorge is exceptional.
Winter Hike Mt. Lafayette and the Franconia Ridge Trail
It was nine degrees in the Lafayette Place parking lot and the car was getting blasted by wind. At a little past seven on a February morning, I had a good mind to retreat home to the warmth of my down comforter. Fortunately, common sense was in short supply.
Hike Mt. Liberty Via the Liberty Springs Trail in Franconia Notch, NH
8.6ish miles round trip
4-6 hours
Difficulty: Weekend Warriors; equivalent to five hours on a stair master
Mt. Lafayette Loop Hike Via Falling Waters Trail & Old Bridle Path
This is one kick-ass hike (Mom, I’m sorry for swearing on the Internet) encompassing the Falling Waters, Franconia Ridge, Greenleaf and Old Bridle Path trails. Halfway up I was already ranking it amongst my personal favorites. Not quite Katahdin level, but close.
Hike the Tranquil Lonesome Lake Trail in Franconia Notch, NH
We were looking for a relatively easy family hike to kick-off the season and the Lonesome Lake Trail in Franconia Notch was the perfect fit. The trail has an elevation gain in the neighborhood of 1000 feet, most of which occurs over a .8 mile stretch that switchbacks up the mountain. This segment of the trail can be challenging for young hikers or those of us still getting our “legs” under us as it is rocky and fairly steep.