The 9-Mile Loop In New Hampshire That Covers Three White Mountain Peaks

The Franconia Ridge Loop covers 9 miles and summits three peaks over 4,000 feet: Little Haystack (4,761 feet), Mount Lincoln (5,089 feet), and Mount Lafayette (5,261 feet).

The route combines Falling Waters Trail for ascent, Franconia Ridge Trail along the exposed ridgeline, and Old Bridle Path for descent via Agony Ridge. Conway, New Hampshire serves as the nearest town with lodging and services, located approximately 90 minutes from Portland, Maine.

1. The Falling Waters Ascent

The three-mile Falling Waters Trail climbs through forest past multiple cascades including Stairs Falls, Swiftwater Falls, and 80-foot Cloudland Falls.

Dense evergreen cover provides shade during the steep ascent until the trail breaks above treeline at Little Haystack Mountain. Early morning starts help hikers avoid midday heat and humidity common during summer months.

2. Ridge Walking Above Treeline

Franconia Ridge Trail, which coincides with the Appalachian Trail, travels 1.6 miles between Little Haystack and Mount Lafayette with extended sections above treeline.

Low-lying alpine plants dotted with white blossoms line the rocky ridge, where butterflies frequent open areas during warm weather. The exposed terrain offers continuous views of surrounding mountains but provides no shelter from sun, wind, or weather changes.

3. Summit Characteristics

Mount Lafayette at 5,261 feet stands just 20 feet below Maine’s Katahdin and represents the highest point on the loop.

The three summits lack official signs, unlike many Maine peaks where markers are standard. Trail intersection signs provide necessary navigation waypoints for hikers carrying paper maps—essential backup since GPS devices can fail in remote terrain.

4. Greenleaf Hut Stop

The 1930-built Greenleaf Hut sits at 4,220 feet, 1.1 miles from Mount Lafayette’s summit.

Operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club, the backcountry lodge offers day hikers water refills and rest stops, with overnight accommodations for backpackers. The common room provides shelter from weather and sells homemade baked goods for cash.

5. The Agonies Descent

Old Bridle Path descends via Agony Ridge over steep rocky sections called The Agonies, reportedly named by AMC crew members hauling supplies to Greenleaf Hut. Some areas require hand use and careful footing on loose rocks. The descent completes the loop back to the Falling Waters trailhead.

6. The 4,000-Footer Context

The three peaks on this loop contribute to New Hampshire’s list of 48 mountains exceeding 4,000 feet, a popular hiking goal in the Northeast.

Maine adds 14 more peaks over 4,000 feet to the regional challenge, several located in Baxter State Park. Hikers attempting to complete these lists often seek summit photos as documentation, though unmarked summits require other proof methods.