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NatureHiking

After A Hike On New Hampshire’s Lonesome Lake Trail, Stay At The AMC Lonesome Lake Hut For A Memorable Adventure

The Lonesome Lake Trail in Franconia Notch State Park offers a scenic 3.1-mile loop with opportunities for wildlife viewing and snowshoeing.

Published Jan 12, 2022

Written by 

Marla Stein

The Lonesome Lake Trail in Franconia Notch State Park is one of the most scenic trails in New Hampshire. At 3.1 miles, the loop trail around the lake offers scenic views and opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers. If you hike this trail in the winter, it's ideal for snowshoeing too.

While there's plenty to do and see if you head to Lonesome Lake Trail for the day, you can extend your time by hiking a little further to the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Lonesome Lake Hut for an overnight adventure too!

To get started on your outdoor adventure, head to Franconia Notch State Park near Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Sign for Lonesome Lake Trail with an arrow pointing up, surrounded by green trees and a gravel path.
AllTrails/Andrew MacDonald

Since this hike is rated moderate, make sure to bring and wear the proper gear. With views like this, have your camera on hand too.

A scenic view of a wooden path beside a calm lake, surrounded by trees and mountains under a clear blue sky.
AllTrails/Meghan Lucey

As long as your furry pal is leashed, they can also join you for an exhilarating day out in nature.

A happy dog with a big smile sits by a serene lake surrounded by trees and mountains under a blue sky.
AllTrails/Sarah Bruce

While May through October are considered the best times to hit this trail, the views are equally spectacular throughout the year.

Two people sit on a dock by a frozen lake, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and trees.
AllTrails/Matt Lazicky

If you hit this scenic trail in the fall, you'll get to enjoy scenery like this.

A winding trail through a vibrant autumn forest, lined with yellow leaves and rocky terrain.
AllTrails/Sebastian Malm

To reach the AMC Lonesome Lake Hut, you'll need to hike one and a half miles from the trailhead. Once you arrive, you'll be treated to breathtaking views in a rugged setting.

Sign for Lonesome Lake Hut, welcoming visitors, with wooden structure and greenery in the foreground.
AllTrails/Joshua Kuban

After your day of play in nature, you'll be able to end your day snuggled up in one of the beds at the hut.

Cozy wooden cabin interior with two sets of bunk beds and a single bed, featuring warm wood paneling and natural light.
Google/Ken Schulz

To get started on planning your unique hike and adventure in New Hampshire, visit AllTrails and the Appalachian Mountain Club's websites. If you'd like to explore more trails in New Hampshire, take a look at 10 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In New Hampshire Should Take for ideas of where to go next.

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