Franconia Notch State Park
Franconia Notch State Park
Franconia Notch State Park
5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Named one of the 12 best state parks in America.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view










Top ways to experience Franconia Notch State Park and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
3 within 3 miles
Attractions
27 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- HelpfulBirdie2 contributionsMake reservations---everything has a ticket and a priceAlmost everything in the park (aerial tram, gorge, lake, etc.) is paid for and you almost always need to make a reservation in advance. It is still definitely well worth the price to visit the park--I highly recommend Flume Gorge, Echo Lake, and The Basin, the last of which one of the few, if not the only free part of the park, but nevertheless still definitely worth it. The ticket reservations aren't too expensive, but it helps you avoid the crowds or refusals at the entrance booths. Definitely stop to check out some of the views as well and bring a bike along too.Visited July 2021Written July 25, 2021
- CTMansRidgefield, Connecticut1,446 contributionsGreat Hike, But Not For EveryoneThe flume gorge hike was terrific, but keep a few things in mind. First, you should get an advance reservation at the park website or you risk standing in a long line waiting to enter as the place is very popular. Second, although the flume gorge hike is just a few miles, be aware that it is quite hilly and there many flights of uneven steps adjacent the gorge - this hike is not for the infirm. Even worse for me, it was very hot during my visit so it was easy to get dehydrated. We enjoyed the hike nonetheless - the covered bridges and the waterfalls are quite pleasant.Visited August 2022Written August 9, 2022
- ME2AKJuneau, Alaska46 contributionsAn Active Day in Franconia NotchA beautiful fall day at Franconia Notch State Park in the White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire. We hiked the two-mile Flume Gorge loop trail then a short bike ride along part of the 8.7-mile recreation path. (Our bike ride was curtailed by a mishap with my bike chain.) If you like biking, you would enjoy this path that is totally off-road. If you can drop a vehicle, you can ride one way. Otherwise, out and back. Other riders recommended starting at the Flume Gorge parking lot, so you get the incline on the way out and downhill on your return. We tried getting a spot at Lafayette State Park Campground, but it was full, and we stayed at the KOA instead. I did not notice any history of the indigenous people of this area. Most of the literature started with settlement by colonialists. I would like to learn more about the native people of this land.Visited September 2021Written September 30, 2021
- Kansas Sunflowers15 contributionsBeautiful ParkBeautiful trail through Flume Gorge, but there are also several other beautiful trails in this park. The Flume Gorge trail has boardwalks over the flowing river--quite a special hike. It is also a beautiful drive through the notch. The view from Cannon Mountain is spectacular! Reservations recommended for the Flume Trail or the Tramway up the mountain.Visited September 2021Written September 14, 2021
- NHjoSaco, Maine8,141 contributionsOne of my favorite places ever.Having lived in NH most of my life, I've been here hundreds of times and never get tired of it. Some favorite places are the Basin, Flume Gorge, and the summit of Cannon Mountain via the tramway. And, driving that magnificent road through the notch is always a thrill, especially in autumn.Visited October 2021Written October 9, 2021
- trophywestRedding, California776 contributionsNice State ParkFanconia Notch State Park is nice but it was busy when we were there. Columbus Day Weekend is the busiest on the Fall foliage season so it makes a difference. Nice park. You need a pass to walk the flume gorge.Visited October 2020Written October 18, 2020
- FarAway7585952 contributionsBeautiful mountain area and great hikingThe notch and surrounding area are spectacular and wonderful areas for hiking and viewing the scenery . Trials are well marked and fun for the entire family. Loved the Flume. The town of Lincoln just south of the notch has excellent accommodations and family friendly restaurants. The entire area is great for a week's vacation, and is more beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are changing color.Visited September 2019Written February 17, 2020
- Heather F1 contributionAmazing- but bring waterThis hike is everything you could want in a hike. It’s challenging, with the most amazing reward of the best views. That being said, BRING WATER! the hut does have water, but that’s about all you will find. With the lack of rain, even the springs are pretty much all dried up. Just bring water 💦Visited September 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten September 27, 2020
- Aquaman70Madisonville, Louisiana123 contributionsSpectacular waterfallsFranconia Notch State Park is a must when visiting the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Many great hiking trails and waterfalls including the spectacular Flume Gorge. An entry fee and appointment is needed to tour the Flume Gorge. Also check out the Basin falls.Visited October 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten October 6, 2022
- mariaSomerset, Massachusetts2 contributionsA highlight of our fall camping trip.We decided to revisit Franconia Notch on this recent camping trip. We walked into the Notch on a very rainy day but that only added to the excitement of the flowing falls. Spectacular waterfalls along the path. This is a don't miss stop when visiting the area.Visited September 2021Written October 4, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
665 reviews
Excellent
551
Very good
100
Average
10
Poor
4
Terrible
0
Kansas Sunflowers
15 contributions
Sep 2021
Beautiful trail through Flume Gorge, but there are also several other beautiful trails in this park. The Flume Gorge trail has boardwalks over the flowing river--quite a special hike. It is also a beautiful drive through the notch. The view from Cannon Mountain is spectacular! Reservations recommended for the Flume Trail or the Tramway up the mountain.
Written September 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NHjo
Saco, ME8,141 contributions
Oct 2021
Having lived in NH most of my life, I've been here hundreds of times and never get tired of it. Some favorite places are the Basin, Flume Gorge, and the summit of Cannon Mountain via the tramway. And, driving that magnificent road through the notch is always a thrill, especially in autumn.
Written October 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
trophywest
Redding, CA776 contributions
Oct 2020
Fanconia Notch State Park is nice but it was busy when we were there. Columbus Day Weekend is the busiest on the Fall foliage season so it makes a difference. Nice park. You need a pass to walk the flume gorge.
Written October 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FarAway758595
2 contributions
Sep 2019
The notch and surrounding area are spectacular and wonderful areas for hiking and viewing the scenery . Trials are well marked and fun for the entire family. Loved the Flume. The town of Lincoln just south of the notch has excellent accommodations and family friendly restaurants. The entire area is great for a week's vacation, and is more beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are changing color.
Written February 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Heather F
1 contribution
Sep 2020 • Couples
This hike is everything you could want in a hike. It’s challenging, with the most amazing reward of the best views. That being said, BRING WATER! the hut does have water, but that’s about all you will find. With the lack of rain, even the springs are pretty much all dried up. Just bring water 💦
Written September 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aquaman70
Madisonville, LA123 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
Franconia Notch State Park is a must when visiting the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Many great hiking trails and waterfalls including the spectacular Flume Gorge. An entry fee and appointment is needed to tour the Flume Gorge. Also check out the Basin falls.
Written October 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
maria
Somerset, MA2 contributions
Sep 2021
We decided to revisit Franconia Notch on this recent camping trip. We walked into the Notch on a very rainy day but that only added to the excitement of the flowing falls. Spectacular waterfalls along the path. This is a don't miss stop when visiting the area.
Written October 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Th3HappyTraveler
Reynoldsburg, OH190 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
My daughters & I hiked Franconia Notch in Sept, 2022. It was beautiful and although still too early for the bright fall colors that “leaf peepers” yearn to see, the temps were cool & crowds were small. There are options for hiking—a longer loop (which we took) or a trip where a bus drops you off farther down the trail if you have small kids or for those with mobility challenges. Nice restrooms, snack bar, exhibits & gift shop.
Written June 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim S
Boston, MA93 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
We hiked the trail for The Flume Gorge. It is about 2 miles and lots up stairs and hills. However we saw a lot of families with young kids and older people on the trail. There are plenty of spots to sit and rest and take in the beautiful scenery. The flume gorge itself is an amazing site with waterfalls and caves, covered bridges and basins. Pack a few drinks and snacks for taking breaks and keep your energy up. If you have kids print out the scavenger hunt from the website to keep them engaged. They can have it stamped and get a prize when you show it to the information desk.
Written June 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pam A
33 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
A must see hike in New Hampshire is The Flume. It was a fairly easy 2 mile trail with easy to negotiate steps near the Flume. Fantastic views of Franconia State Park and interesting plants along the way were labeled. I loved the powerful streams and rock features.
Written June 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, we are thinking of visiting Franconia this year. How many days do you recommend visiting the attractions in the area, 1, 2, 3 days? How do you recommend starting the visit? Is there any map with the trails and any initial point from where to start?
Thanks in advance for your answers
Josh
Marblehead, MA
Where do I enter Franconia Notch State Park?
FarAway758595
2 contributions
The most convenient access to the various attractions of the park is via the town of Lincoln, NH, just off I-95. There are no formal entrances to the state park per se, but merely numerous portions with great hikes (eg The Flume, The Basin, etc).
Is it handicap accessible
FarAway758595
2 contributions
Sorry; most of the main areas are not handicap accessible. This is an area mainly for hikers, though nice views are accessible from parking turnoffs.
ajr41
Bowmanville, Canada8 contributions
Hi. I'd like to visit the park for an afternoon and I have a couple of questions. I'm mostly interested in mountain views, not so much the gorge.Which area should I go to?
Also, having a hard time putting the park into my gps it wont recognize Tramway in Franconia or Lincoln.
Any suggestions?
Thanks
Luvtobikeacadia
Keene, NH61 contributions
If you want to ride the Tram, that is perfect for views. If you want a short hike, park at parking lot for Echo Lake, cross the street and hike to Artist’s Bluff. 30 minute hike to beautiful view of the Notch! Not sure about your GPS settings. Put in Echo Lake State Park or Cannon Mountain Ski Area for Tram.
Hi, how close is the covered bridge to the visitors centre and is it a flat walk between the two points? Thanks in advance, David.
Yesdog2016
Hoover, AL127 contributions
It is not flat - mainly sloping. We were there in winter when there was snow/ice on the ground, which was a challenge. But in dry weather it is not difficult. I would recommend folks with balance or walking issues use a walking stick.
Mike K
Miesbach, Germany
Kann man den Franconia Notch State park mit dem anual pass betreten?
Recently viewed
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingFranconia Notch State Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Franconia Notch State Park
- Franconia Notch State Park is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- We recommend booking Franconia Notch State Park tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 2 Franconia Notch State Park tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Franconia Notch State Park:
- (0.35 mi) Canon Mountain RV Park
- (2.39 mi) Horse and Hound Inn
- (0.51 mi) Freeland Acres Country Home
- (5.31 mi) Sugar Hill Inn
- (7.46 mi) The Mulburn Inn
- Restaurants near Franconia Notch State Park:
- (8.72 mi) Black Mtn Burger Co.
- (5.23 mi) Polly's Pancake Parlor
- (9.95 mi) Tim-Bir Alley
- (8.99 mi) Flapjack's Pancake House
- (9.99 mi) The Coffee Pot Restaurant
- Attractions near Franconia Notch State Park:
- (0.00 mi) The Basin at Franconia Notch State Park
- (0.33 mi) Cannon Mountain
- (0.21 mi) New England Ski Museum
- (0.33 mi) Echo Lake Beach
- (0.32 mi) Old Man Of The Mountain Museum & Memorial Plaza
Franconia Notch State Park Information
| Excellent Reviews | 551 |
|---|---|
| Very Good Reviews | 100 |
| Franconia Notch State Park Photos | 687 |








































































