This moderately difficult family friendly hike in Franconia Notch State Park offers a nice variety of outdoor activities and a stop at one of the nicest mountain huts in the White Mountains. Once reaching the lake at just over 1 mile, hikers can decide to turn left and go directly to the Lonesome Lake Hut or to turn right and take a longer tour around the lake also ending at the hut.
The Lonesome Lake Hut is well maintained and it's full service season is from early June until mid October. There is also a self-service season which typically runs opposite the full service season. Always check the official website for any changes or operating closures.
The focal point of this hike is the beautiful 12 acre Lonesome Lake. This mountain lake can be used to swim, fish, explore, and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the Franconia Ridge to the east.
The hike from Lafayette Place to Lonesome Lake can be a bit too short and mild for a seasoned hiker so there is the option to continue west along the Fishin' Jimmy Trail to Kinsman Pond and North and South Kinsman Mountains. There is also the Kinsman Pond Tentsite at the pond.
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Franconia Notch State Park Website.
