Lonesome Lake Hut via Lonesome Lake Trail
Overview
This is a easy one way trail to Lonesome Lake Hut in Franconia Notch State Park.
This trail goes by Lafayette Campground and Lonesome Lake.
Getting Started
There are three parking options near the trailhead. Heading north on the Parkway, take the Falling Waters Trailhead exit then follow the path under the highway to Lafayette Place. Take your first left and watch for the trailhead on your right. From the north, take the Lafayette Place exit, then take your first left to the trailhead parking lot, or turn right, go past the information center, and bear right into the parking area. There are currently no parking fees in any of these lots, which are part of Franconia Notch State Park. Do not park on the highway, it is an interstate and parking is not allowed. You risk a ticket if you park out there. The State of NH has run hiker shuttles from the Cannon Mountain Ski Area, for a fee, during the summer and foliage seasons. This is a very popular hike so arrive early if you want a parking spot on the weekend.
The trail climbs gradually and has several long switchbacks which moderate the climbing. At the Hi-Cannon Cut Off stay to the left to climb up to the lake. At the lake take a left to go to the hut or turn right on the Around the Lake Trail which proceeds counter-clockwise leading to the hut. The hut is open year-round, with short breaks between seasons, and offers hot drinks, water, snacks and rest room facilities.
This is an excellent first hike for those wishing to get into winter hiking.
Round trip mileage is 3.2 miles, not 1.5.
Taking Children
This is a good hike for children who have had some hiking experience on shorter trails. The lake and the hut are destinations of interest, and in the summer there is a sandy spot for wading or swimming. It is very popular with families.
Rating: 9
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