After a day in the White Mountains, a night in one of the inn’s inviting guest rooms, suites or cottages is the perfect final ingredient for a great getaway

About Us

This Inn started as a small farmhouse built by the Oakes family in 1789. As one of the early settling families in the Sugar Hill area, they are counted among the score of hearty and independent folks who came into the White Mountains of New Hampshire in search of a better life. This traditional New England house was built of post and beam construction and relied on handsome fireplaces in the principal rooms for heat.

In 1924, when a large addition to the original house was added, it began operation as the Caramat Inn. In the 1950’s three two-room cottages were built in a cluster on a knoll just west of the main building. Some of the area’s most breathtaking views can be seen from these guest rooms and porches.

Accommodation

Each room features a private bath – some with double whirlpool tubs – a plush king or queen bed and mounds of soft pillows. There are fireplaces, wonderful mountain views, and even a private porch adjoining some rooms and cottages. All guest rooms, with the exception of the Oakes Room, are air-conditioned. Every room at the Inn has a history and significance all its own.

Whether you choose the room where Bette Davis stayed while her home was being built, the luxurious Richardson Suite or the affordable Moses Aldrich room, each offers the grace, comfort, and hospitality of a premier historic inn. Looking for something more private, view our vacation cottages.

Peckett Deluxe Whirlpool Suite

This suite has a Cotswald Cottage king bed and matching dresser. An original oil painting set the colour palette. The bath, with a large whirlpool tub, pedestal sink and separate shower, is perfect for relaxing. A large sitting area completes the suite with cable television and a gas fireplace. French doors open to a large private deck perfect for sunbathing or evening stargazing. With mountain views from the front, forest views from the back deck and the perennial gardens on the side, the Peckett Suite is a favourite of returning guests.

Room Specifications

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Double whirlpool tub
• Separate Shower
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat Screen TV/DVD
• WIFI
• Bose Music System
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Mini Refrigerator
• Private Deck and Porch

Richardson Deluxe Whirlpool Suite

A large, luxurious bed and breakfast guest room, the Richardson Deluxe Whirlpool Suite is furnished with a Cotswald Cottage king bed matching cherry dresser and café table. You can relax on your private deck overlooking the forest, in the sitting area next to the brick and pine gas fireplace, or in the whirlpool tub. Cuddle up while watching a movie on the 32″ flat screen TV with DVD player. From the back porch, stepping stones take you for a walk through the herb and sculpture garden.

This room features a breakfast corner supplied with coffee and tea service. Mountain views are framed by the front windows. The beautiful Connecticut River Valley, with scenic farms and quaint villages lies just west of the Sugar Hill Inn. 

A drive along NH Route 10 is a delightful and relaxing way to spend a summer’s afternoon. It is this rural landscape that inspires Larry Golden to paint. He directs his focus around nature shadows and light. The Richardson Suite features two original paintings by Larry Golden.This suite is named for the Richardson family. They had the vision in the 1920s to convert an old farm house into a country Inn. The rest is history.

Room Specifications

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Double whirlpool tub
• Separate Shower
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat Screen TV/DVD
• Bose Music System
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Mini Refrigerator
• Private Deck

Nickerson Deluxe Whirlpool Suite

Nickerson Deluxe Whirlpool Suite is a two-room bed and breakfast suite with a king bed, full bath with shower and double whirlpool tub. In the separate sitting room, relax next to a gas fireplace as you enjoy the view of the surrounding woodlands, gardens and pool.The Nickerson Suite features original paintings by three artists. Each expressing the beauty of our rural landscape in their own way. Philadelphia artist, Reza Nahaie-Ghanad, while vacationing in Sugar Hill, setup his easel on the inn’s front porch and captured the beckoning call of the country road. Debbie Aldrich’s water color captures the magic of a winter’s snow in Sugar Hill. Quebec painter, Yvon Lemieux explores the impact of light on our landscape.

The Nickerson bathroom was update in Nov. 2011 with a new walk-in shower, marble topped vanity and beautiful tiles. 

Room Selection Tip: Men over 6′ tall prefer the Richardson or Peckett Suites. While loved by younger guests, seniors prefer the more conventional design and location of the Richardson Suite.

Room Specifications

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Double whirlpool tub
• Seperate Shower
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat Screen TV/DVD
• Bose Music System
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Mini Refrigerator

Lafayette Room

This room, with windows on three sides, is named for its magnificent view of Mount Lafayette.  Mt. Lafayette (5,260 feet) represents the highest peak in the Franconia Ridge. Actress Bette Davis stayed at the inn and slept in this room many times during the 1930’s and 40’s and this room was formerly known as the Bette Davis Suite.

A queen size bed, spacious sitting area, maple floors, full bath with a soaking tub and gas fireplace all combine to make the Lafayette room a very special place. The limited edition print by local artist,  Cynthia Knapton, brightens the room with a field of local wildflowers.

Room Selection Tip: If having a TV is important you may prefer Moses, Wildflower or Perennial.

Room Specifications

• Queen Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Soaking Tub With Shower Above
• Gas Fireplace
• Clock Radio with iPod/iPhone docking
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Mini Refrigerator
• TV Free Tranquility

Moses Aldrich Room

The Moses Aldrich Room, redecorated in June 2009 is a tranquil escape from the modern world. The original painting by local artist, Kathy Perry, of  Parker’s Farm in Lyman, captures the essence of Rural New Hampshire.  The large three panel Artist’s Proof by Wendy Turner resembles nearby Lower Ammonoosuc Falls. The wide plank pine floors, rich fabrics, blanched almond walls, natural travertine and gas fireplace create a warm, timeless home away from home. Mountain and garden views are constant reminders of the beauty to be discovered in the White Mountains. This is one of our most popular bed and breakfast rooms.

Moses Aldrich came to Sugar Hill as a young boy in 1780. He became a successful farmer and married Sarah Parker. They had 8 children. Today the Aldrich family is still in Sugar Hill owning both Poly’s Pancakes and Harman’s Cheese. 

Room Specifications

• Queen Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Full bath with tub and shower
• Fireplace
• Flat screen TV & DVD player
• Clock Radio with iPod/iPhone docking
• Mini Refrigerator
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Travertine stone tile in bathroom
• Garden and Mountain views

Bickford Luxury Suite

The Bickford Luxury Suite offers a king bed and large tiled bath with soaking tub for two. Enjoy the cosy window seat and glorious mountain views. Guests come back year after year to our bed and breakfast and choose this popular room.

An original water colour by Sugar Hill’s artist, Debbie Aldrich, was commissioned to capture our view.

Room Specifications

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Double Soaking Tub
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat screen TV & DVD player
• Clock Radio with iPod/iPhone docking
• Mini Refrigerator
• Nespresso Espresso Maker

Blue Room

The Blue Room, named for its many shades of blue, has a handmade cherry four poster queen bed, antique dresser, desk, loveseat and a tiled bath with shower. The mountain views make this room truly are memorable.

Room Specifications

• Queen Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Marble Tiled Bath with Shower
• Clock Radio with iPod/iPhone docking
• Original Pumpkin Pine Wide Plank Floors
• Mountain views

Rose Room

The Rose room has been transformed.  The Rose wall paper has been replaced with a relaxing shade of green. The Rose room, although one of our smaller rooms, is popular with those seeking the classic New England Country Inn experience. This room is on the second floor of our historic farm house.  The 200 year old wide plank floors do creek and that is part of the charm. The magnificent views of Mount Lafayette, Cannon Mountain and Mount Washington make the Rose Room a favourite. Above the bed is an original oil painting of a New England Village in winter, by Vermont artist, Roderick Wells.

This room has a queen size Windsor bed, and full bath with tub and shower.

Room Selection Tip: For about $15 more per night you can upgrade to one of our standard rooms.  These offer more space and other features that vary by room.  

Room Specifications

• Queen Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Marble Tiled Bath with Shower
• Clock Radio with iPod/iPhone docking
• Original Pumpkin Pine Wide Plank Floors
• Mountain views

Oakes Room

This cosy room features a double size, antique metal and brass bed and a view of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. The private bath with shower is located just across the hall from the room. The Oakes room is not air-conditioned.

Selection Tip: Oakes is a very simple room. For a few dollars more Blue or Rose may offer more value.

Room Specifications

• Double Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Private Bath With Shower Across the Hall
• Original Pumpkin Pine Wide Plank Floors
• Mountain View

Romantic Additions

We offer the following amenities and services to make your stay at the inn even more memorable. Whether a special surprise gift or just a romantic extra touch, we try our best to guarantee romance for you and your loved one.

• A celebratory photoshoot
• Chocolate and Flowers
• Chocolate Covered Strawberries
• Champagne and Chocolates
• The Ultimate Charcuterie Board
• Bottles of wine – Inquire
• A Gourmet Picnic for Two
• Gourmet Hiking Snacks 

Vacation Cottages

Getaway to the mountains of New Hampshire with a stay in one of our luxury vacation cottages. Each cottage is uniquely designed with tranquillity, togetherness, and romance in mind.  All cottages have private baths, luxury robes, gas fireplaces, flat-screen TV’s with DVD players and Nespresso Espresso Makers.

A full country breakfast, as well as afternoon small bites, are included in the room rate.

Dream Cottage

The Dream Cottage was designed to be the perfect White Mountain romantic getaway.  Oversized windows capture the views of Mt. Lafayette and Cannon Mountain.  French doors lead out to a private deck and porch swing.  Inside, the drama unfolds with a cathedral ceiling, wood beams, stone fireplace and wide plank Eastern Pine floors.  The mountain lodge decor of earth tones and natural materials is all about relaxed comfort. No other vacation cottages in the White Mountains will let you unwind as much as ours do.

The bathroom is your own private spa.  Natural stone, polished nickel and a double Carrara marble vanity set the tone.   The over-sized shower with multiple shower heads and body sprays is the perfect prelude to the relaxation of the sauna.  Ladle water over the hot rocks for just the right amount of steam.  Finish your spa treatment with a leisurely soak in the whirlpool for two.  View the fire by opening the window to the living room.  

No detail has been forgotten in our vacation cottages.  Radiant heat will keep your toes warm and the flat screen TV with DVD player, Nespresso Espresso Maker, Bose Music System, mini-fridge and microwave are all ready for that private celebration. The cottage features original oil paintings by local artist Patricia F. Klinefelter and a 19th Century book collection.

Room Selection Tip: Dream is our most popular room among our American guests. Many of our international visitors prefer the more traditional luxury offered by the Richardson or Peckett Suites.

Vacation Cottage Features

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Double whirlpool tub
• Seperate Shower
• Sauna
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat Screen TV/DVD
• Bose Music System
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Mini Refrigerator
• Microwave
• Private Deck and Porch

Garden Fireplace Cottage Room

Infusing an old structure with contemporary elements creates exciting contrast for the newly renovated Garden Cottage.  Accent lighting features the design elements of colourful fabric, beautiful woods, tile, metal and granite.  Relax in style with a air tub, large farmhouse king bed, modern fireplace, and cosy love seat. In summer take pleasure in this vacations cottages private deck overlooking gardens and the pool with its waterfall. 

Crisp, starry nights, fresh snow, and mountain views await you in winter. The original painting by Iosif Derecichei, “Snow in the Woods” encourages us to put on those snow shoes and explore the nearby woods.  This vacation cottage also features photographs by Robert D. Klein.

Room Selection Tip: If having a TV is important you may prefer Wildflower or Perennial.

Vacation Cottage Features

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Jacuzzi® brand standard sized air tub
• Gas Fireplace
• Bose Radio with CD player
• Refrigerator
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• TV Free Tranquility
• Porch
• Garden Views

Forest View Fireplace Cottage Room

Forest View has been inspired by New Hampshire’s many pristine mountain lakes and remote lakeside vacation cottages.  The white washed wood floor, use of shudders, dark and natural woods, glass and iron is in harmony with the area’s natural beauty and the room’s view of Mt Lafayette. 

The large king bed, gas stove and love seat set the mood along with a walk-in shower, tiled to feel like a private waterfall. Start your day with early morning coffee on the front porch. The colourful original oil painting by Sabina captures the essence of a New England lake at the vibrant peak of the fall foliage.

Room Selection Tip: If having a TV is important you may prefer Wildflower or Perennial.

Vacation Cottage Features

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Walk-in Shower
• Gas Fireplace
• Bose Radio with CD player
• Mini Refrigerator
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• TV Free Tranquility
• Porch
• Mountain & Garden Views

Perennial Fireplace Cottage Room

The Perennial Fireplace Cottage Room is defined by its connection to the great outdoors.  Not just the bold views of Mt. Lafayette but its location in the perennial garden and the original oil landscape painting by Sugar Hill Artist, Paula Wolcott.  Worn hickory floors, travertine stone tiles, and a Vermont Castings stove speaks to timeless qualities of rural New Hampshire.

This guest room has a sitting area, full private bath with tub and shower, gas fireplace and front porch.

While Perennial and Wildflower rooms can be booked separately, a connecting door makes these rooms perfect for couples or families traveling together. 

Vacation Cottage Features

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Private Bath with Tub and Shower
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat Screen TV
• Bose Radio with CD player
• Mini Refrigerator
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Porch
• Mountain & Garden Views

Wildflower Fireplace Cottage Room

Wildflower has been transformed into a timeless country cottage discovery. The cute barn red shutters and window boxes invite you in. Worn hickory floors, natural stone tiles, fireplace and mountain and garden views reflect the terroir of Franconia Notch. The old fashion wardrobe and country sink speaks to the craftsmanship of another age. Start your day with early morning coffee on the front porch.

This guest room has a sitting area, private bath with large walk in shower, a gas fireplace and a country king size bed. An original oil painting by local artist, Adrien “Yellow” Patenaude brings the outside in. Adrien, inspired by Van Gogh, Cezanne and Monet applies their sense of colour to the New England landscape.

While Perennial and Wildflower rooms can be booked separately, a connecting door makes these rooms perfect for couples or families traveling together. 

Room Selection Tip: Guests from the UK prefer the traditional look and feel of the Bette Davis, Bickford and Peckett or the more contemporary look of Garden.

Vacation Cottage Features

• King Bed
• Max Occupancy: 2
• Private Bath with Tub and Shower
• Gas Fireplace
• Flat Screen TV & DVD Player
• Clock Radio with iPod/iPhone docking
• Refrigerator
• Nespresso Espresso Maker
• Porch
• Mountain & Garden Views

Romantic Additions

We offer the following amenities and services to make your stay at the inn even more memorable. Whether a special surprise gift or just a romantic extra touch, we try our best to guarantee romance for you and your loved one.

• A celebratory photoshoot
• Chocolate and Flowers
• Chocolate Covered Strawberries
• Champagne and Chocolates
• The Ultimate Charcuterie Board
• Bottles of wine – Inquire
• A Gourmet Picnic for Two
• Gourmet Hiking Snacks

Dining

The Culinary Experience is an integral part of any stay at the Inn. We use only the freshest local produce and herbs grown in our own gardens. We serve aged cheddar from Harman’s, goat cheese from Vermont and maple syrup from Sugar Hill. The day starts with a full breakfast served in our dining room while you take in the breathtaking vistas of Cannon Mountain and Mt. Lafayette.

For lunch recommendations we invite you to read our blog post on the Top Ten White Mountain Lunch Places.

At 4:00 pm it is time for a treat. Whether you are just checking in or have returned from a day of hiking, biking, skiing, shopping or antiquing join us for small bites and cocktails.

Before dinner enjoy your favourite cocktail, beer or wine while sharing your day’s adventures with your fellow travellers.

We have a European philosophy about dining. The table is yours for the evening. Take your time to enjoy the candlelight and cosy fire with the combination of great food, wine and conversation.  

After dinner enjoy your coffee or brandy by the fire.

The Inn has received the Distinguished Restaurants of North America (DiRoNA)’s Achievement of Distinction in Dining award for 2009 – 2018.

Four Course Prix Fixe Menu

Our Inn is a romantic getaway known for the art of fine dining.  We have a European philosophy about dining.  The table is yours for the evening.  Take your time to enjoy the candlelight, cozy fire and amazing views with the combination of great food, wine and conversation.  Everything is made from scratch using local ingredients when available.

Our four course menu offers a well balance symphony of flavors and leads guests through a leisurely, romantic and artistic culinary experience.  We are careful with portion size so that everyone can enjoy all the variety that a four course dinner offers and we limit the number of reservations and menu items so that everything can be cooked to order and personally served. Add the selection of local cheeses for the ultimate five course dining experience.

The kitchen is under the direction of Executive Chef Mark Malo.   According to Chef Malo “the tenderloin, rack of lamb and scallops are among the most popular”.   Chef Malo’s focus is American. He describes his food as “honest”, meaning quality ingredients (local when possible), attention to detail and careful execution.

With the goal sharing the fine dining experience with a wider audience all items are now available as a la carte.

For the ultimate in causal luxury try the half pound burger and pair it with a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Great wines and a full bar selection enhances the experience.  Our wine list features over 100 wines from around the world.

The restaurant is open to both inn guests and the general public.  

Come early and enjoy a cocktail in our Tavern before dinner. 

Wine List

At the Inn we love wine and believe that no great meal is complete without a bottle. Our extensive wine list is carefully thought out to complement and enhance the guest experience.

The philosophy of the wine program is to combine old favourites with new experiences.  We are proud to feature over 100 of the best wines that the United States produces, alongside some truly unique offerings from around the world to complement our European influenced menu.   The Inn has earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.

We offer great value at all price points, from our economical glass pours to the more expensive bottles.  Allowing everyone an opportunity to indulge in these great wines. Our knowledgeable dining room staff can help you choose the perfect wine to suit your taste and budget.

Breakfast

Breakfast at the Inn is all about the luxury of being served, beautiful surroundings, and delicious home cooked food. Begin the day with Organic Fair Trade Coffee or cappuccino, warm home baked muffins, juice and fresh fruit.

The menu always includes a selection of entrees plus homemade granola. Favorites include omelets, scrambled eggs with local cheddar and fresh herbs, stuffed French toast, blueberry buttermilk pancakes and waffles topped with berries and whipped cream. Breakfast is included for inn guests.

A Before Breakfast Walk Around the Block

No need to get in the car. From the Inn walk up Rt 117.  On your left is a beautiful farm with mountain view in the background.  Turn right at the historic marker for America’s first ski school.  The view is of meadows with wildflowers, farmland, forest and mountains. Turn right again on the next block on to Lovers Lane. By now you will be humming John Denver’s “Country Roads take me Home”. Turn right again and you are now back on Rt117.  All this in just 35 minute

Before Breakfast Run – 3.8 miles

Turn left and run down the hill, across the bridge to the end of Rt. 117.  Turn left;  You are now on flat land.  At the fork turn left onto Streeter Pond Road.  The Gale River will be on your left and farmland on your right.  Run to the old iron bridge.  Take a break here and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.  Retrace your path back to the inn while experiencing mountain views.   Feel free to ask for seconds at breakfast, you deserve it.

Events of Distinction for Small Groups

Gather a group of your friends and family and make your own Special Weekend! We’ll make arrangements for your group activity.

• Rehearsal Dinners
• Elopements
• Weddings
• Clubs / Workshops
• Cocktail Parties
• Anniversaries
• Family Reunions
• Corporate Retreats
• Mid-week Getaway
• Office Parties
• Pool Parties
• Holiday Parties
• An Old Fashion Country Thanksgiving or Christmas just for your family

Our staff can make your special occasion an outstanding and memorable event. Whether it’s a sunset wedding in our garden, a romantic candle lit dinner, a cocktail reception or a relaxing, off-site business planning session, cycling, skiing or hiking, the Sugar Hill Inn can meet your special needs. Call us to plan your next event.  We specialize in high quality functions with 28 guests or less.  For larger functions we recommend The Rocks Estate, Bishop Farm or Toad Hill Farm and have your out of town guest stay us.

Our Tavern

The Tavern is a natural gathering place.  The wood burning fire place, boutique bar, soft sofa and café table creates an inviting space.  Guests can frequently be heard sharing their travel adventures.  Views of Cannon Mountain and Mount Lafayette can be enjoyed from the large windows.

Every day at 4:00 pm it’s time for small bites, a surprise from our chef.  It can be anything from local cheeses to crab cakes or a dessert sample.

While the official opening time for the bar may vary with the seasons, feel free any time to ask us to pour a glass of wine or beer.

We stock most premium liquors and have a cocktail list for your enjoyment.  In the warmer months we will gladly deliver your drinks to the front porch or pool.  Our wine list has earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

Many guests enjoy arriving early for dinner so that they may enjoy a pre-dinner drink.

Attractions and Activities

There is a world of things to do and see within a short drive from the Inn.

Fields of Lupine, Sugar Hill, NH – This time honored June festival is famous for picturesque fields of purple lupine flowers against a majestic mountain backdrop. The festival features, open-air markets, wagon rides, concerts and events at area locations, including the Inn. Inn guests will receive a complementary Lupine book featuring the best sightings, inn tours, parties, special event and discounts.

1. . A race up the 7.6 mile, 5000 ft vertical course that is Mount Washington.

Fourth of July Celebrations

• Littleton Celebration
• Franconia's Old Home Day Celebration

Fall Foliage, September – October

The Arts

• Weathevane Theatre, Whitefield. Repertory Theatre open July through September, 20 miles away.
• North Country Chamber Players. Chamber concerts Saturday evenings in Sugar Hill and in neighbouring communities on other days during July and August.
• Jean's Play House, Lincoln. Events throughout July and August.
• Colonial Theatre, Bethlehem. Classic movies, documentaries and live performances.

Canoeing

• Streeter Pond, Sugar Hill. Tranquil for rowing or canoeing.
• Ammonoosuc River, Littleton. 21 miles of class I-II rapids. Numerous “ins” and “outs” along course.
• Connecticut River, Woodsville. 50 miles of class II and flat canoeing.
• Gale River and Ham Branch. 10 miles of class I, II rapids running from Easton to Franconia.

Cycling

Franconia Notch State Park bike path, 9 relatively easy and scenic miles through the Notch.

Explore numerous secondary roads with quaint stops and magnificent scenery including the local towns of Sugar Hill, Franconia, Littleton and Bethlehem. There are trails for experienced riders and year-round custom guided outdoor tours for the less experienced. Bike rentals are available at the Cannon Mountain Tram.

Fishing

• Profile Lake, Franconia. Brook trout. Sitting directly below where the Old Man of the Mountain once stood, it was often called the Old Man’s Washbowl. The lake is well-known for its brook trout and is open to fly-fishing only.
• Streeter Pond, Sugar Hill. Brook and rainbow trout.
• Perch Pond, Campton. Rainbow trout.
• Ammonoosuc River, Littleton. Brook and rainbow trout.
• The Pemigewassett River, Lincoln. Brook trout. The river runs through the White Mountain National Forest surrounded with spectacular scenery on both sides
• The Gale River, Franconia. Brook trout.
• Connecticut River Brook, rainbow and brown trout.
• Ham Branch, Franconia. Brook trout.
• Echo Lake, Conway. Brook trout.
• Lonesome Lake, Lincoln. Brook trout.

Golf

• Bethlehem Country Club, Bethlehem.18 holes. Special rates are available for Sugar Hill Inn guests.
• Bretton Woods Mount Washington Hotel Golf Course. Bretton Woods. 27 holes.
• Maplewood Country Club, Bethlehem. 18 holes.
• Mountain View Country Club, Whitefield 9 holes.
• Sunset Hill Golf Course. Sugar Hill. 9 holes. Tremendous views.

Horseback Riding

Franconia Notch Stables, Franconia. Guided and private rides available.

Hiking

Whether you are a novice or an expert, there is a hiking trail for you. Trail maps are available at the inn and we would be delighted to help you plan your route.

• Mount Washington, North Conway. 3600-4288 feet of vertical climbing spread over 8-10 miles (depending on your trail) takes you to the summit at 6288 feet, the highest peak in the northeast. Originally called Agiocochook by native Americans, the mountain boasts some of the planet’s most severe weather, and retains the world record for wind speed, 231 MPH, so plan ahead. For those of you who’d like to see the spectacular view from the summit, but don’t have the time, energy or ability to hike to the summit, consider driving to the top via the Mt. Washingron Auto Road. Yet another way to reach the peak is the famous Cog Railway.
• Bald Mountain and Artists’ Bluff, Franconia. A two mile trail with a vertical rise of 400 feet. Moderate difficulty. Accesses Echo Lake beach. Vistas and a close up view of Franconia Notch.
• Mount Lafayette Franconia. 3550 feet vertical feet over 5-8 miles takes you to the 5249 foot summit with its own Alpine Meadow. The Appalachian Trail crosses the summit. Like all the 5000 footers, it is notorious for making its own weather.
• Bridal Veil Falls, Franconia. 3.5 mile hike, 1000 foot elevation change. A nice walk for a hot afternoon.
• Mount Liberty, Mount Flume, Franconia. 8 mile hike 3000 feet elevation change. The Liberty Spring route tracks the Appalachian Trail to marvelous tent sites just below Franconia Ridge, then concludes with views from the fortress walls of Mount Liberty’s awesome peak.
• The Basin and Cascade Brook, Franconia. Three miles, 500 feet of vertical. This hike in Franconia Notch follows Cascade Brook for nearly 1.0 mile, visiting two waterfalls and numerous cascades along the way. Excellent views.
• Mount Pemigewasset, Franconia. 3.6 miles round trip with a 1,170 foot elevation change finishing at the top of Indian Head Profile on the summit of Mount Pemigewassett. Seasonal home to large number of ravens it has notable views up and down the Notch.
• Arethusa Falls Trail, Livermore. The state’s highest falls at 200 feet. Three miles, 1,000 feet of elevation change. Easy to moderate.
• Appalachian Trail. It’s only a few miles from the inn and runs all the way to Georgia. In NH alone it runs 161 miles from the Connecticut River in Hanover to the Maine state line. Thousands of vertical feet over some of the best terrain along the entire Eastern Seaboard. Takes a whole season to hike from one end to the other.
• Falling Waters Trail, Franconia. 6.4 miles, 2800 feet to summit of Little Haystack Mountain. Difficult. Trailhead in Franconia Notch State Park.
• Georgiana Falls Path and Lincoln area hikes. This path, leading you to the Georgian and Cascade Falls, on Harvard Brook are accessed by an unmarked trail leaving from a parking area off Hanson Farm Road in Lincoln. An easy 1.3 mile hike leads to the Lower in a beautiful wooded setting. The Upper, or Harvard Falls are a steep 0.5 mile farther.
• Greenleaf Trail, Franconia. 7.6 miles, 2100 foot rise to the top of Mount Lafayette. Moderate difficulty. Starting in Franconia The Greenleaf Trail leads from the tramway parking lot at the Cannon Mountain Ski Area to the summit of Mount Lafayette.
• Lonesome Lake Trail, Lincoln. 3.3 miles rising a 1000 feet to finish at Lonesome Lake. Moderate difficulty.
• Skookumchuck Trail, Franconia. 10 miles beginning in Franconia with a 3360 rise to the summit of Mount Lafayette. Moderate difficulty.

Picnicking

There are numerous places to picnic in the area, some designated, some not. Designated areas include Beaver Brook Wayside Rest Area in Twin Mountain; Basin Pond Fishing and Picnic area in North Chatham; Wildwood Picnic Area in Easton and Zealand Picnic area in Twin Mountain.