Mount Lafayette stands as the monarch of Franconia Notch—at 5,260 feet, it's the highest peak north of the Presidential Range and the defining summit of the famous Franconia Ridge. From its bare summit cone, hikers look out across an alpine landscape that feels more like the Rockies than New England.
Lafayette is most often climbed as part of the Franconia Ridge Loop, one of the most popular hikes in New Hampshire. But it can also be tackled via shorter (though steeper) routes if the full loop is too ambitious. However you reach it, Lafayette rewards with world-class views and genuine alpine terrain.
Trail Options
Franconia Ridge Loop (via Old Bridle Path & Falling Waters)
- Distance: 8.9 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 3,900 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The classic circuit: ascend via Old Bridle Path to Greenleaf Hut, continue to the summit of Lafayette, traverse the spectacular ridge over Mount Lincoln and Little Haystack, then descend via Falling Waters Trail past beautiful cascades. Most hikers do it in this direction to tackle the steep Falling Waters section on descent.
Greenleaf Trail
- Distance: 6.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,500 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The most direct route to Lafayette, climbing from the west side. It's shorter than the loop but misses the ridge traverse. Good option if weather limits your above-treeline time.
Skookumchuck Trail
- Distance: 10.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,400 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The quietest approach, starting from I-93 and climbing the northwest ridge. You'll likely have more solitude, though the trail is longer and lacks the dramatic features of other routes.
The Summit and Ridge
Lafayette's summit is completely above treeline, a rocky crown of boulders with views in every direction. To the south, the Franconia Ridge extends toward Mount Lincoln—nearly two miles of exposed ridge walking that many consider the finest alpine traverse in the eastern United States.
What you'll see from the top:
- North: The Twin Range and Mount Washington in the distance
- South: The ridge extending to Lincoln and Little Haystack
- West: The Kinsman Range and Vermont's Green Mountains
- East: The Pemigewasset Wilderness, vast and roadless
The summit features a USGS marker and often a crowd. Space is limited on the rocky top, so be prepared to share on busy days.
Greenleaf Hut
Perched at 4,200 feet on Lafayette's shoulder, Greenleaf Hut is one of the AMC's most dramatically situated mountain lodges. It makes a perfect rest stop on the way up or a base for exploring the ridge.
Day visitors can purchase snacks and lunch, use the facilities, and enjoy the deck views. Overnight guests get full meals and bunks—a wonderful way to split a long hike over two days.
The hut typically operates from late May through late October, with reservations recommended (and required for overnight stays). Book early for summer weekends.
Weather and Safety
Lafayette and the Franconia Ridge are exposed to severe weather. Conditions can change from sunny to whiteout in minutes, and the ridge has claimed lives when hikers were caught unprepared.
Essential Precautions
- Check the Mount Washington Observatory forecast (higher summits are comparable)
- Carry rain gear and warm layers regardless of the valley forecast
- Know your escape routes (Greenleaf Trail from the hut, various options from the ridge)
- Turn around if weather deteriorates—there's no shame in a shorter day
Above-Treeline Protocol
Once you pass Greenleaf Hut, you're in serious alpine terrain. Lightning, high winds, and rapid temperature drops are all possible. Plan to be off the exposed ridge by early afternoon if thunderstorms are forecast.
Practical Information
Trailheads
- Old Bridle Path/Falling Waters: Lafayette Place parking area on I-93 (Franconia Notch State Park). This lot fills by 6-7 AM on summer weekends.
- Greenleaf Trail: Trailhead on Route 3 near Cannon Mountain ski area
- Skookumchuck: Small lot off I-93 at the Lincoln-Franconia town line
Parking
Lafayette Place has two lots (one on each side of the highway, connected by a tunnel). Arrive very early on good-weather weekends or plan for a weekday hike.
Fees
Franconia Notch State Park may charge for parking. White Mountain National Forest pass not required for this trailhead.
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franconia Ridge Loop | 8.9 mi | 3,900 ft | Ridge traverse, waterfalls |
| Greenleaf Trail | 6.8 mi | 3,500 ft | Direct to summit |
| Skookumchuck | 10.0 mi | 3,400 ft | Solitude |
Mount Lafayette represents the best of White Mountains hiking: challenging terrain, alpine exposure, and views that take your breath away. Whether you tackle the full Franconia Ridge Loop or take a more direct route, Lafayette delivers an experience worthy of its prominence on the New Hampshire skyline.
