This is a very easy, but fairly long, out and back hike that starts at the Lincoln Woods Trailhead. This is a popular trailhead year-round, so plan accordingly if you want a parking space. (Although in the summer there is the possibility to park along the road for a bit). I clocked the distance just under 7 miles. AllTrails has the elevation gain as 436 feet. So, like I said, an easy trail in terms of elevation, but a looong hike. It took me about 2.5 hours to complete with a break for a snack at the Falls and some detours for pictures.
After parking in the lot at the trailhead, you head passed the ranger cabin, where there is typically a board with weather forecast, trail condition, and other information. Head down the trail to the left and you will see a suspension bridge that crosses over the East Branch of the Pemigewasset river. The first part of the hike is fairly flat as you walk along an old wide logging road. Watch your step there are still beams that can be covered by snow and/or leaves this time of year; minor tripping hazard. Overall though, very easy for individuals of all ages. Today we saw quite a few families with small children out on the trail. I don't believe they went all the way to the Falls, but it just goes to show that this trail is a great hike whether you plan to go all the way or just part of the way while enjoying the views.
(the road that feels like it goes on and on)
The walk is very nice as you parallel the river to your right with some small streams which pop up to the left. A few of the streams cross (or go under) the trail leaving trickling waterfalls and icicles. Adding to the music of the river next to you.
After about 2.8 miles along the logging road, you come to an intersection with the trail to the Falls to the left and a small rock wall directly in front. If you were to go passed the rock wall, there is a bridge that crosses Franconia Brook and leads into the Pemigewasset Wilderness. However, you turn left onto a trail that is more like the typical White Mountain trails we all know and love. Watch your step, there are plenty of roots and ice. I didn't put on my crampons this time, as there was plenty of space to avoid the ice. However, I always keep them in my bag this time of year because you never know if you might need them with the cold weather.
(turn left here) (lovely White Mountain trail)
I loved this part of the hike as you walk along next to the brook and waterfall after waterfall. Since most of the families had turned around quite a bit back, it was just the sounds of the water and the wind and it was wonderful.
You walk along this part of the trail for a short while (about .5 miles) until you come to the end of the trail. There is a very helpful sign on a tree that indicates it is, in fact, the end of the trail. This is a great place to take a break. There isn't much of a view of the Falls from the trail, so I bushwacked just a bit and climbed down a few rocks to sit next to the water while I enjoyed a quick trail snack before heading back.
All in all, a nice day for a nice walk in the woods.
Comments