This Short Hike In New Hampshire Leads To The Dreamiest Swimming Spot

On these hot summer days, sometimes the thought of hiking is downright unappealing – trudging up and down hills, sweat dripping down your back, the sun beating on your face – none of it sounds too good. But all of that changes if you can take a nice short walk and be rewarded with a dive into the coolest, clearest water you could dream of – all while looking over a gorgeous mountain landscape. You can have all that and more with a hike on Lonesome Lake Trail in Franconia State Park. It's well worth the effort!

Lonesome Lake is tucked into the Franconia range – you've probably seen it in the distance if you've been to the summit of Cannon Mountain. It looks like a sapphire hidden among the trees!

The hike to Lonesome Lake is about 1.6 miles, but it's fairly steep, gaining just over 1,000 feet in elevation.

It's quite a scenic trail, though, with beautiful views from every turn. Dogs are welcome, too, as long as they remain leashed.

If you can't wait to get to Lonesome Lake to stick your feet in the water, you're in luck – you'll find a lovely creek and little waterfalls along the way.

When you finally reach the lake, you'll know that the hike was worth it. It's big, blue, and inviting.

You'll barely be able to restrain yourself from running straight into the water! We advise taking your hiking boots off first. But you'll sure be happy once you're in the water – all of the aches of the hike will immediately melt away.

On a still day, the lake's surface is like glass – clear, reflective, and beautiful. It's one of those places that makes it easy to adore the Granite State.

You can hit the Lonesome Lake Trail from the south parking lot of Lafayette Place Campground in Franconia Notch State Park. To learn more about the trail, check out the AllTrails guide to the hike.

Looking for more hikes that will reward you with lake views? Check out this trail that leads up to Lake Winnipesaukee.