Lonesome Lake Trail begins in the southern most parking lot of Lafayette Campground which is near the heart of Franconia Notch State Park. The trail travels by Lonesome Lake offering an opportunity to hike around the lake on Lonesome Lake Trail then continuing northbound to Kinsman Ridge Trail. From the trailhead over to the lake, the route is along an old bridle path which is wide and level. Beyond the lake, the path narrows and has an uphill grade. Note: Hi-Cannon Trail intersects off Lonesome Lake Trail and runs up to Kinsman Ridge Trail. These two trails may be combined to create a long-distance circuit hike.

Directions: From Lincoln or Franconia, NH, This trail is located in the southern most parking area of Lafayette Campground which is located on I-93 about midway between the towns of Lincoln and Franconia.

Elevation: 3,400 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet

Difficulty: Strenuous

Expert Review of Lonesome Lake Trail

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Parks and Outdoors Review of Lonesome Lake Trail

Away Travel Expert: Johnny Molloy

Parks Expert Favorite
ParksExpert Rating Recommended for:
Day Hiking

Parks and OutdoorsExpert Tips & Helpful Hints

• Enjoy watery features, as in streams and a lake, as well as the high country on this path that crests out on Cannon Mountain.
• Make Franconia Notch State Park your base camp for this trail that leads from Lafayette campground.
• It is a 1000-foot climb to Lonesome Lake, and another 1,400 feet to the top of Cannon Mountain. See a variety of environments along the way.

Visitor Information