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19 Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Lincoln, NH

Lincoln is the perfect base for hiking in the White Mountains. Some of the top-rated trails are just minutes away from the town. There are dozens of peaks waiting to be conquered.
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Lincoln is located at the heart of the White Mountains – the most rugged mountain range in New England. The town provides access to dozens of highly-rated trails and mountain peaks, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.

Most of the trails around Lincoln are steep climbs to the summits or moderate hikes along the river gorges; there are only a few easy options. However, the mean altitude is relatively low here, so even beginners can handle moderate hikes.

Trails near Lincoln:

  1. Mount Lafayette Loop
  2. Mount Willard Trail
  3. Welch-Dickey Loop Trail
  4. Lonesome Lake Trail
  5. Flume Gorge Trail Loop
  6. Mount Moosilauke and South Peak Loop
  7. Mount Pemigewasset Trail
  8. Champney Falls Trail
  9. Crawford Path to Mount Pierce
  10. Mount Osceola
  11. Hancock Notch Trail to Hancock Peaks
  12. Mount Washington Loop from Marshfield Station
  13. Boulder Loop Trail
  14. Basin Cascade Trail
  15. Lost River Gorge and Caves
  16. Kinsman Ridge Trail to Cannon Mountain
  17. Franconia Falls Trail
  18. Mount Tripyramid Loop Trail
  19. Coppermine Trail to Bridal Veil Falls 

1. Mount Lafayette Loop

Mount Lafayette Loop
  • Highlight: The highest-rated route in the area with waterfalls and three peaks to bag; stunning, 360-degrees panorama from the top.
  • Type: Lollipop
  • Trail Length: 9.5 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 3,900 feet
  • Time to Complete: 5h 30min
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 8 miles (12 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Lafayette Loop is a lollipop trail near Lincoln, primarily used for hiking and dog walking.

The trail is challenging, rising 3,900ft in total. The path is rocky too and requires some scrambling, so come prepared for that.

This trail is best enjoyed by following the Falling Water Trail on the way up, which follows Dry Brook until the stunning Cloudland Falls.

After taking in the views from the 5,250ft Mount Lafayette (and the 4,725ft Little Haystack Mountain, and the 5,089ft Mount Lincoln before that), head down the Greenleaf Trail past Eagle Lake.

Remember, this trail is challenging, and the rocky route can be slippy. Bring sturdy shoes, and make sure you’re confident before attempting this one.

2. Mount Willard Trail

Mount Willard Trail
  • Highlight: Short but steep hike to the peak with sweeping views, well worth the effort; muddy and rocky terrain with charming woods.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 3.2 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 900 feet
  • Time to Complete: 2h
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Crawford Notch Station: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 31 miles (35 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Willard Trail is a 3.2 mile out and back trail near Bretton Woods. It’s mainly used for hiking, with snowshoeing becoming popular in winter.

The trail is moderately challenging, with a 900ft elevation gain. The path is rocky in parts but mostly stable.

Although a steep hike, it rewards you with stunning views of Crawford Notch and the surrounding mountain range. It starts at Saco Lake too and features a stream crossing and a waterfall.

The 2,848ft peak of Mount Willard may not seem like much, but the steep, rocky path presents a challenge. Trail markers aren’t great for this one either, so bringing GPS is a good idea.

The markers might be few and far between, but the path itself is well-maintained, and the route is heavily trafficked, so the views are certainly worth the challenge for lots of people!

3. Welch-Dickey Loop Trail

Welch-Dickey Loop Trail
  • Highlight: Top-rated and highly-popular two peaks hike with a few steep, scrambling sections; charming forest, and fantastic views from the top.
  • Type: Loop
  • Trail Length: 4.5 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 1,785 feet
  • Time to Complete: 2h 30 min
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 22 miles (25 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Welch-Dickey Loop Trail is a 4.5-mile loop near Thornton, best used for hiking and climbing.

The trail is strenuous, rising 1,785ft. Some sections require scrambling too, which makes it a little trickier for hikers.

Taking place in the White Mountain National Forest, there’s lots to see on the way up to Welch Mountain (2,605ft) and Dickey Mountain (2,733ft). From both peaks, expect stunning views of the Waterville Valley below!

There are one or two sections that require scrambling with no clear handholds. This can be scary for less experienced hikers. Bringing hiking poles is a good idea, too, especially in winter.

The route itself is clearly marked and easy to follow, even if it is pretty challenging to navigate in some places. Overall, the rewarding views are worth the extra effort.

4. Lonesome Lake Trail

  • Highlight: Charming hike with a loop of the gorgeous lake; great views of Mt Lafayette and Mt Lincoln; steady incline with a few steep sections.
  • Type: Lollipop
  • Trail Length: 3.2 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 1,054 feet
  • Time to Complete: 1h 30 min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Lafayette Place Campground: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 8 miles (12 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Lonesome Lake Trail is a 3.2-mile lollipop loop and one of the most fun hiking trails near Lincoln. It’s also great for running and camping.

The trail is moderate, with 1,054ft of elevation. The incline is steady, but there are a few steeper sections that make things more difficult.

Lafayette Campground is nearby for those wanting to camp. The hike up Cannon Mountain to Lonesome Lake is worth it for the gorgeous views across the water.

Some hikers complain that the trail is incredibly muddy but pick dry weather, and this shouldn’t be an issue.

The trail itself is well-maintained, and the nearby Lonesome Lake Hut is an excellent place for a bite to eat or rent a room for the night.

5. Flume Gorge Trail Loop

  • Highlight: Fun, easy and short trail with waterfalls, creeks, bridges, and remarkable geology; well-worth the visit.
  • Type: Lollipop
  • Trail Length: 2.3 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 491 feet
  • Time to Complete: 1h 30 min
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Parking: Visitors Center: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 5 miles (10 min)
  • Dog Friendly: No

Flume Gorge Trail is a 2.3-mile lollipop trail and one of the most rewarding hiking trails near Lincoln. It’s also great for nature trips.

The route is easy for all skill levels, rising just 491ft in total. It is uphill, but there are lots of stairs to help navigate the inclines.

It starts at the Flume Gorge Visitor’s Center and continues to The Flume, an 800ft natural gorge at the base of Mt. Liberty. The Conway granite walls rise up to 90ft and are 12 to 20ft apart, so the views are breathtaking.

Because of its popularity, the location gets busy. But sharing the trail with other keen history buffs can be fun and spark some interesting conversations.

The path is well-maintained, and the area is thoroughly developed because it is an attraction. Flume Gorge was discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old Aunt Jess Guernsey, and it’s still worth seeing today!

6. Mount Moosilauke and South Peak Loop

  • Highlight: Lengthy but gradual climb to the gorgeous ridge with spectacular views; well worth the effort.
  • Type: Lollipop
  • Trail Length: 8.5 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
  • Time to Complete: 4h 30 min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 13 miles (25 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Moosilauke and South Peak Loop is an 8.5-mile route near Glencliff, used mainly by hikers, trail runners, and skiers.

The trail is moderately difficult, with a 2,500ft elevation gain. The climb is gradual but constant, and that’s why it might be more challenging for some people.

You will take the Gorge Brook Trail alongside the beautiful Gorge Brook towards Mount Moosilauke (4,817ft), which offers sweeping views. Then, follow the Carriage Road down towards South Peak Spur, which will lead to the smaller, but still impressive 4,531ft South Peak. Head back to the Carriage Road and loop back on the Snapper Trail to return to the trailhead.

There is a problem accessing the trailhead in winter as there are seasonal closures on the access road. Keep this in mind before attempting this hike.

Overall, it’s a well-maintained route that’s easy to follow and has the benefit of tackling two peaks in one hike. The views make this slightly challenging hike worth the effort for most hikers.

7. Mount Pemigewasset Trail

  • Highlight: Short and steady climb to the Indian Head Peak; charming woods, well-marked trails, and sweeping views. Nice easy climb.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 3.8 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 1,261 feet
  • Time to Complete: 2h
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Flume Gorge: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 5 miles (10 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Pemigewasset Trail is a 3.8 mile out and back climb near Lincoln, primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and birdwatching.

The trail is moderate, with a 1,261ft elevation gain. It’s a steady climb that’s easy for experienced hikers, but most people will find it moderate.

Offering views of the White Mountains the whole way, this trail eventually leads to the summit of Mount Pemigewasset. Standing at 2,523ft, the peak provides terrific views back towards the town.

A few sections have steep ledges, which can be slippy when icy, so be careful of this if hiking in colder months.

This trail is very well-maintained, though, which is good considering this is one of the quieter mountain trails in the area. But that just means more peace at the summit too!

8. Champney Falls Trail

  • Highlight: Short hike through the river gorge with stunning falls at the end; best visited when water is high; charming fun trail. 
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 3.3 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 690 feet
  • Time to Complete: 2h 30min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 25 miles (35 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Champney Falls Trail is a 3.3 mile out and back route, mainly used for hiking, birdwatching, and dog walking.

The trail is moderate, rising 690ft in total. However, it runs through the river gorge and has some steeper sections that require scrambling.

Following Champney Brook, the route eventually leads to the stunning Champney Falls, always gushing with water after heavy rainfall. Pitcher Falls is nearby too, and a trail leading to Mount Chocorua is nearby if you want to extend the hike.

Some hikers say the Falls are lovely but aren’t exceptional. Since it’s a short hike, it’s worth seeing anyway and made even more worthwhile if heading to Mount Chocorua, too!

The path gets muddy but still passable, and the trails in the area are all well-marked so finding the way isn’t an issue for most hikers.

9. Crawford Path to Mount Pierce

  • Highlight: Fun climb with mud, rocky steps, steep sections, and a charming forest; fantastic adventure.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 6 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,451 feet
  • Time to Complete: 3h 30min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 25 miles (35 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Crawford Path to Mount Pierce is a 6 mile out and back trail near Bretton Woods.

The route is moderately difficult, with an elevation gain of 2,451ft. The path is rocky, so sturdy hiking boots are best for this one.

Following Gibbs Brook, this trail eventually leads to Gibbs Falls, which is a treat. After taking in the surroundings at Gibbs Brook Scenic Area, head up towards the 4,292ft Mount Pierce summit, which offers sweeping views across the area.

Be aware that this muddy, rocky trail becomes exceptionally slick in colder months, so fetching some microspikes is probably a good idea.

This trail is exposed at Mount Pierce and gets very windy, so bring a face covering to protect yourself. Overall, though, a fun adventure for those who are up to the challenge.

10. Mount Osceola

Mount Osceola
Photo: tmaullCC BY 2.0
  • Highlight: Top-rated and highly-popular climb to the summit with stunning panorama; can continue to East Peak.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 6.3 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,098 feet
  • Time to Complete: 3h 30min
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 11 miles (25 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Osceola is a 6.3 mile out and back trail near Waterville Valley, used chiefly by hikers and climbers.

The trail is strenuous, rising 2,098ft, and does become steep in sections towards the summit where scrambling is required.

Vistas are what this hike is all about. The trail is fun and feels like an adventure, but it’s the views from the 4,315ft summit of Mount Osceola that brings people back time and time again.

Some hikers will complain that there isn’t a lot to look at en route, and that’s probably a fair assessment, but the panoramic views from the top make up for it.

11. Hancock Notch Trail to Hancock Peaks

  • Highlight: Gorgeous trail with a rocky, steep section at the end and fun creek crossings; stunning views from the lookouts.
  • Type: Lollipop
  • Trail Length: 9.5 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,698 feet
  • Time to Complete: 5h 30min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 11 miles (20 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Hancock Notch Trail to Hancock Peaks is a 9.5-mile lollipop trail near Waterville Valley, best used for hiking, camping, and running.

The trail is rated as moderate and has an elevation gain of 2,698ft. The steep section at the end of this hike requires scrambling.

The first part of this hike takes place through the woods and has multiple creek crossings, which are a lot of fun. Eventually, a loop trail will take you across all three Hancock Peaks (Mount Hancock, Middle Hancock, and South Hancock).

Some complain that trees obstruct the views from these peaks, and that’s true. However, this hike is all about the journey and not the destination.

Crossing three 4,000ft peaks off in one hike is no mean feat. The views from a few outlooks are cherished, but be aware that this hike will be a thigh burner!

12. Mount Washington Loop from Marshfield Station

  • Highlight: Top of the world experience and superb adventure with killer views; bag Mt Clay and Mt Monroe on the way.
  • Type: Loop
  • Trail Length: 9.8 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 4,314 feet
  • Time to Complete: 5h 30min
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 33 miles (40 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Washington Loop from Marshfield Station is a 9.8-mile trail and one of the most challenging routes near Lincoln.

The trail is strenuous, rising 4,314ft. It also tackles three prominent peaks in one hike, so the difficulty takes a lot of people by surprise. 

Starting on the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail heading up, you’ll eventually reach Mount Monroe (5,305ft). Continue past the Lakes of the Clouds towards Mount Washington (6,290ft), where taking in the top of the world experience is a must before heading down on the Jewell Trail, where you can also turn towards the 5,525-foot Mount Clay for more fantastic views.

This trail is grueling, and scrambling is required to complete all three, but the views are worth all the effort.

Thankfully, the trails in the area are all clearly marked, so planning the route and sticking to it isn’t an issue.

13. Boulder Loop Trail

  • Highlight: Short but challenging loop through the woodland with hilly, rocky terrain; lots of wildlife, and a few lookouts.
  • Type: Loop
  • Trail Length: 3.1 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 918 feet
  • Time to Complete: 1h 30min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 30 miles (40 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Boulder Loop Trail is a 3.1-mile loop near Albany, primarily used for camping and hiking.

The trail is moderate and rises 918ft over its hilly and rocky terrain. In winter, it’s made even more difficult by ice, so be prepared for this.

The joy of this trail are the boulders, and the loop passes many oddly placed and strangely shaped ones en route. There are multiple lookouts too, where hikers can admire the scenery.

Some complain that most of the trail is covered, so there aren’t views throughout. However, the wooded area is home to cute chipmunks and other wildlife.

Overall, the path is well marked, with yellow marker trees showing the way, and the unusual boulders alone make this trip worthwhile.

14. Basin Cascade Trail

  • Highlight: Gorgeous hike along the brook with many water cascades and pools; great for swimming in summer.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 2.7 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 636 feet
  • Time to Complete: 1h 30min
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 14 miles (20 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Basin Cascade Trail is a 2.7 mile out and back route and one of Lincoln’s most waterfall-packed hiking trails.

The route is moderately difficult, with a 636ft elevation gain. It’s also partially paved for the first 0.3 miles before becoming a little muddier.

The route passes many cascading waterfalls (including Kinsman Falls) while following Cascade Brook. There are many deep pools along the way, too, including The Basin pothole, which is the deepest in the entire White Mountain area!

Some people complain that the crossing over Cascade Brook is unexpected, so be aware of this, wear sensible shoes, and be prepared to wade the river.

Overall, the path is simple to follow and well-maintained. The beautiful falls all around make this trip incredibly relaxing, despite the steeper challenges in parts.

15. Lost River Gorge and Caves

  • Highlight: Fun family adventure with boardwalks, stairs, boulder caves, and water cascades; short but worth a stop.
  • Type: Loop
  • Trail Length: 0.6 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 181 feet
  • Time to Complete: 45min 
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Parking: Visitor Center Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 7 miles (15 min)
  • Dog Friendly: No

Lost River Gorge and Caves is a 0.6-mile adventure near Woodstock. It’s a short hike that’s perfect for families.

Following the Lost River, the trail eventually leads to stunning caves (some of which are accessible). There are many stairs on this route, but just as many resting spots, which is welcome.

The gorge is filled with fascinating geological features that will make you appreciate what nature can carve if you give it enough time.

Also, you can extend your experience to the Forest Adventure Trail – a fun area for families with a treehouse and a suspension bridge.

Yes, it’s a short and easy-to-navigate hike, but the caves and photo opportunities could keep you here well longer than it takes to hike the route.

16. Kinsman Ridge Trail to Cannon Mountain

  • Highlight: Short, steep climb straight to the summit; killer views, challenging terrain, and can get quite busy but worth the effort.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 3.7 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,277 feet
  • Time to Complete: 2h 
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking: Tramway Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 11 miles (15 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Kinsman Ridge Trail to Cannon Mountain is a 3.7 mile out and back trail near Franconia, primarily used for hiking.

The trail is challenging, with a 2,277ft elevation gain in a short stretch. Some scrambling is required to reach the summit of Cannon Mountain.

Starting from the New England Ski Museum, this trail heads towards Cannon Mountain via the Kinsman Ridge Trail, which passes the natural beauty of Kinsman Glade. The views from the top of Cannon Mountain (4,082ft) are some of the best in the area.

Some might say that the extremely steep scrambling sections are too much effort, but this is the most direct route to the summit and is rewarding to overcome.

The trail itself is well-marked and easy to follow, even if the challenging sections might prove too much for less experienced hikers.

17. Franconia Falls Trail

  • Highlight: The best easy hike near Lincoln; runs along the river and through the gorgeous forest; lots of charming cascades and pools.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 6.9 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 430 feet
  • Time to Complete: 3h 30min 
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 6 miles (10 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Franconia Falls Trail is a 6.9 mile out and back trail near Lincoln, primarily used for hiking, running, and dog walking.

The trail is easy for all skill levels, rising just 430ft across the 6.9-mile route. The path is muddy at times but still passable and even easy for kids.

Following the East Branch Pemigewasset River, this trail eventually leads to the picture-perfect Franconia Falls after following Franconia Brook. The hike through the forest feels like an adventure, too, especially for kids.

The muddy sections can be bad at times, but just bring an old pair of hiking boots, and this shouldn’t be an issue.

The path itself is clearly marked and well-maintained, and it’s one of the most relaxing hiking trails near Lincoln, thanks to the running water along the entire route.

18. Mount Tripyramid Loop Trail

  • Highlight: Killer ascent with scrambling and climbing sections, not for the faint-hearted; fantastic hiking challenge and rewarding views.
  • Type: Lollipop
  • Trail Length: 12 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,944 feet
  • Time to Complete: 6h 30min 
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 15 miles (35 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Mount Tripyramid Loop Trail is a 12-mile lollipop route near Waterville Valley, mainly used for hiking and running when looking for an intense workout.

The trail is strenuous and rises 2,944ft in total. Some scrambling is required up the brutal ascent to the summit, so this is best left to experienced hikers.

The trail is best tackled by taking Livermore Trail at the loop, so North Tripyramid (4,111ft) is completed first. Views from here, Middle Tripyramid (4,003ft), and South Peak (4,059ft) are breathtaking.

Although easy to navigate, no section of this route is easy. In fact, hiking poles can be a lifesaver.

Overall, this hike is intense and not for the faint-hearted. But with the proper equipment and experience, this is one of the most rewarding hiking trails near Lincoln!

19. Coppermine Trail to Bridal Veil Falls 

  • Highlight: Charming, fairly easy trail with a few boulder sections; leads to a stunning waterfall; perfect family hike.
  • Type: Out and Back
  • Trail Length: 4.9 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 1,088 feet
  • Time to Complete: 2h 30min 
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
  • Distance from Lincoln: 17 miles (25 min)
  • Dog Friendly: Yes

Coppermine Trail to Bridal Veil Falls is a 4.9 mile out and back route near Franconia, primarily used for hiking and nature trips.

The trail is moderate in difficulty, with 1,088ft of elevation gain. The path is rocky, but sturdy hiking boots will make this less of a problem.

Following the Coppermine Brook for most of the way, running water can be heard throughout the hike. The trail eventually leads to Bridal Veil Falls, which are stunning.

Even when it hasn’t been raining for a while, the rocky path is very slippy, but hiking poles might help with the support.

Overall, this trail is well-marked, easy to follow, and a fun family hike. There’s even a boulder section in the Brook that’s perfect as a lunch spot, so there’s plenty to do here.

Final Thoughts

Lincoln is a fantastic gateway to some of the best hiking trails in the White Mountains. Peaks, gorges, waterfalls, forests, and boulder fields are all waiting for you to come and explore.

Hopefully, the list above inspired you to visit the area and helped you plan your stay. You can’t go wrong with Lincoln.

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