Franconia Notch State Park is located in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. The notch was formed by the glaciers thousands of years ago. The formation of the glaciers and then their receding eroded away much of the soil leaving behind the granite the forms Franconia Notch.

One of the early tourist draws to this particular area was the Old Man of the Mountain which was immortalized when Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote about it in 1850 in a short story called "The Great Stone Face". The Old Man was a geological granite formation that was in the shape of an old man's profile.

This park offers year round outdoor recreation for all levels and tastes. The warmer months offer hiking, camping, canoeing, rock climbing and biking. Spend the day or camp out for the week. The Appalachian Trail even passes through the notch. In the winter Cannon Mountain is open for skiers. The Cannon Aerial Tramway brings skiers up to the top of the mountain in the winter and sightseers up during the warmer months. A bit of history is also offered for all to enjoy year round.

Some attractions in Franconia Notch State Park include:

Some other attractions in Franconia Notch State Park are The Old Man Historic Site and Museum, The New England Ski Museum, Echo Lake Beach and Cannon RV Park, and Lafayette Place Campground.

Pull-Offs

The Basin is a large granite hole in the ground that was created by the glaciers. Here there is a picnic area with walking paths to the Basin and an entrance to Franconia Notch State Park. (northbound & southbound access)

Trailhead Parking is ideal for those who wish to hike the Franconia Ridge trail system. Picnic tables are also available. (northbound only access)

Lafayette Place Campground has 97 campsites located in the woods of Franconia Notch, a camp store, showers and information. Reservations for the campground are required. For hikers there is an information cabin, parking and access to some recreational trails. (southbound only access)

Boise Rock was made famous when a man named Thomas Boise used the rock to escape from a blizzard. Wonderful views of Cannon Cliffs and picnic tables are available. (northbound only access)

Profile Lake Trailhead parking is ideal for those who wish to go hiking, rock climbing or use Profile Lake for some fly fishing. (southbound only access)

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