For those who love the outdoors, there’s no better place to be than New Hampshire. From the tallest peaks to the short and flat distances, there’s something here for every skill level. But there’s a common misconception among those just getting started. Because there are so many scenic mountains, it can be easy to assume that every ascent will be challenging. The good news? This isn’t true! Today, we’re featuring a hike in Franconia, New Hampshire that’s just about 1.5 miles and it leads to some absolutely beautiful views. After hiking the Artist Bluff Trail in New Hampshire many times and spending countless hours in the White Mountains, this scenic spot in New Hampshire still remains one of our favorite views.

The 1.5-mile Artists Bluff trail is located in Franconia Notch State Park and it's best accessed by parking at the Echo Lake Beach parking lot.

A second option is to walk across the street from Echo Lake Beach and go right back towards the interstate. There is a little break in the trees to the left and then you will see a sign pointing you to Artists Bluff. This is a quicker and easier way to get to the viewpoint. We have done the trail this way many times and can be a real time saver. Check out this Adventuring in the Moment video to show you this shortcut.

If you want to do the whole loop then you can park in the overflow parking lot for Cannon Mountain and head off on the full 1.5-mile loop hike. Before you set off, keep in mind that this trail is a bit steep. Beautiful...but steep in areas!

We have also done this whole whole loop and Bald Mountain is a fun spur trail to take. This trail is a bit more technical and you will have to hike up a very steep sheer granite face that will give you great views of the ski resort. If you want to see the whole loop check out this Adventuring in the Moment video.

Soon after beginning the trail will split. Stay to the right to access the Artists Bluff Trail. The other route will take you to the same place on the Bald Mountain Trail which is a bit longer and more challenging.

If you are feeling up to it the views from Bald Mountain are pretty spectacular.

The route isn't technical (meaning there are no areas where you'll need to scramble along the rocks), but it is rocky in places.

You'll also come across some exposed roots that you'll want to be mindful of.

But by the time you get to the top of the 2,368-foot peak, you'll forget all about those pesky rocks and roots because this will be your view!

Just below is Echo Lake and Cannon Mountain. This hike can be stunning all year long with many taking the trek in the fall to witness the brilliant bright colors. To the left of Echo Lake is another popular hiking trail along Mount Lafayette.

No matter what season or if it is a cloudy day or sunny, the scenery is outstanding. And you'll be far enough away from the road that things feel peaceful and serene.

The hike can be completed in the winter, but you should be a more advanced hiker. It's almost always necessary to have crampons for this if the snow is new or icy.

But, look at those views! Even in the winter, this place is a beauty.

It bears repeating that this is a short and beautiful hike, but it's best completed by those who have hiked in the past. It's not necessary to be an expert, but be ready to go uphill. If you were wondering if you could accomplish this hike allow yourself to be inspired by two little girls who love this trail in one more Adventuring in the Moment video.

Artists Bluff Trail in New Hampshire is located in Franconia Notch State Park and is open year-round, but it is best accessed when there is no snow. If you do choose to make the trip during the winter, you might want to consider crampons for traction. You can learn more about the route by getting AllTrails+ and downloading the info for Artists Bluff right on your phone.

As you create your list of simpler hikes, consider these 10 brief but beautiful and easy hikes in New Hampshire that you can take in under an hour.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/10-brief-beautiful-hikes-nh/