Mount Lincoln

The hike up Mount Lincoln requires Six-Pack of Peaks Challengers to negotiate what is known as the Franconia Ridge Traverse (or Loop), one of the most challenging and beautiful hikes in the country. The entire route dips and climbs over 9 miles of rough terrain, three major peaks (Little Haystack, Lincoln, and Lafayette Mountains), with a very respectable 3,875 total gain in elevation.

As with Mount Washington, weather can be very unpredictable and the trail can be narrow in places and treacherous during wet weather.

Did you know?

The Franconia Ridge Traverse was designated one of America's Top 20 Hikes by USA Today.

Mount Lincoln Basics

Summit elevation: 5,089′ (1,551 m)
Vertical gain: 3,875′
Hiking mileage: 9.4 miles

Hiking Mount Lincoln

Six-Pack of Peaks Challengers must follow the Franconia Ridge Traverse. Mt Lincoln is located approximately halfway along the route.

Travel Time

Driving from Boston, MA: 2:39 (138 Miles)
Driving from Portland, ME: 2:29 (104 Miles)
Look-up turn-by-turn directions to the trailhead here on Google Maps

Where to Stay and Eat

Camping

There are many campsites available within a short distance of the Pinkham Notch trailhead including the Green Meadow camping area in Glen, NH and the Barnes Field Campground in Gorham, NH.

Lodging

Lodging is available in Franconia and a number of surrounding towns. The Holiday Inn Express Lincoln East White Mountains is my favorite hotel nearby, located just a few minutes from the trailhead in Franconia.

For those seeking a truly memorable lodging experience, the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort (site of the 1944 Bretton Woods International Monetary Conference) and its incredible view of Mt Washington and Presidential Mountain Range is worth the 45 minute drive.

Dining

Although dining options are limited in the immediate area, there are a couple of very good small restaurants within a few minutes of the trailhead. I highly recommend Common Man restaurant located just a few miles from the trailhead in Lincoln, NH.

Thanks to New England Six-Pack of Peaks Ambassador Craig Wonson for local recommendations and details.