On these hot summer days, sometimes the thought of hiking is downright unappealing – trudging up and down hills, sweat dripping down your back, the sun beating on your face – none of it sounds too good. But all of that changes if you can take a nice short walk and be rewarded with a dive into the coolest, clearest water you could dream of – all while looking over a gorgeous mountain landscape. You can have all that and more with a hike on Lonesome Lake Trail in Franconia State Park. It’s well worth the effort!

Lonesome Lake is tucked into the Franconia range – you've probably seen it in the distance if you've been to the summit of Cannon Mountain. It looks like a sapphire hidden among the trees!
AllTrails/Troy Osgood
The hike to Lonesome Lake is about 1.6 miles, but it's fairly steep, gaining just over 1,000 feet in elevation.
AllTrails/Valerie Mowbray
It's quite a scenic trail, though, with beautiful views from every turn. Dogs are welcome, too, as long as they remain leashed.
AllTrails/Steve Roese

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If you can't wait to get to Lonesome Lake to stick your feet in the water, you're in luck – you'll find a lovely creek and little waterfalls along the way.
AllTrails/Ashley Penn
When you finally reach the lake, you'll know that the hike was worth it. It's big, blue, and inviting.
AllTrails/Bia Hobi Moreira
You'll barely be able to restrain yourself from running straight into the water! We advise taking your hiking boots off first. But you'll sure be happy once you're in the water – all of the aches of the hike will immediately melt away.
AllTrails/Ashley Penn
On a still day, the lake's surface is like glass – clear, reflective, and beautiful. It's one of those places that makes it easy to adore the Granite State.
AllTrails/Vinay Golthaje

You can hit the Lonesome Lake Trail from the south parking lot of Lafayette Place Campground in Franconia Notch State Park. To learn more about the trail, check out the AllTrails guide to the hike.

Looking for more hikes that will reward you with lake views? Check out this trail that leads up to Lake Winnipesaukee.

 

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