The trails on the west side of Franconia Notch pass by many features as they climb toward Lonesome Lake and Kinsman Ridge.
The Basin - The Basin is a waterfall and pothole in the Pemigewasset River. It is accessible by the Pemi Trail from the Basin Parking area. The trails around the Basin are relatively easy, but also link to the more difficult hiking trails.
Rocky Glen Falls - The Basin Cascades trail passes multiple cascades and falls as it climbs along Cascade Brook from the Pemi Trail. A 2.5 mile loop is possible by connecting to the Cascade Brook Trail/Appalachian Trail then back to the Pemi Trail and the Basin.
Lonesome Lake Hut - The Appalachian Mountain Club manages a high elevation hut at Lonesome Lake. Reservations are required. The full service season runs from early June through mid October. A caretaker is on site during the winter self service season. Pets are not permitted overnight at the hut.
Appalachian Trail - The Appalachian Trail follows the Cascade Brook Trail up to Kinsman Pond where it heads south toward Georgia on the Kinsman Ridge Trail.
Lafayette Place Campground - Lafayette Place Campground features wood sites with picnic tables, car parking and open fireplaces. Many trails are accessible right from the campground. Pets are not permitted in the campground. Parking at the campground is for campers only. Make a reservation to stay at the campground with NH State Parks.
The many hiking trails on this side of the Notch make many loop hikes possible. Choose which trail according to the length and challenge you are looking for!
Before you hike, know the hiker responsibility code and be prepared:
Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more!
The trails all start in Franconia Notch State Park. Past Lonesome Lake, they enter the White Mountain National Forest. For more information, please visit the trail manager website or contact:
The trails on the west side of Franconia Notch are accessible from all of the hiker parking lots. Please note that the Liberty Springs, Lafayette Place and Basin parking lots fill quickly in summer and on weekends. The Pemi Trail connects all of the parking areas.
Many people choose to hike this trail. For a less busy hike experience, consider visiting midweek, rather than on weekends. Use Trail Finder to identify other nearby trails. If the parking lot is full when you arrive, please choose another trail. Be considerate of your fellow trail enthusiasts - pass at safe distances, and move on from viewpoints if others are waiting.
The White Mountains are beautiful, but they can also be treacherous. Weather can change quickly. Many trails are narrow, steep and rocky. Educate yourself about the challenges you will encounter on the trail you plan to hike. Visit the hikeSafe website to learn more about how to prepare for hiking in the White Mountains.
Success! A new password has been emailed to you.
