- Lonesome Lake
Lonesome Lake Trail is a 3 mile loop in Franconia Notch State Park. The hike to the lake is a steep incline and Max and I had to stop what felt like every two minutes so that I could catch my breath and allow my legs to recover. What worked in our favor was the trail was shaded and it was a dreary, rainy day. If this were a hot summer day, I think it would have been too challenging for Max in the heat. There is no water along the way until you hit the lake, so make sure you pack plenty of water for you pup for the hike up. Unfortunately, when we arrived at the lake it was so misty that all you could see was what was right in front of your face. Max had an absolute blast swimming in this lake and cooling off from his difficult ascent up the mountain. I would love to do this hike again on a clear day so I can see the lake views. The eerie mist did make for some cool mood mountain pictures, though.
2. Artist’s Bluff
This hike is so instagram famous in the Fall that a line forms on the trail to take a picture at the summit. However, we had no issue during the summer. The hike was very manageable up until just before the summit, where you hit a rock scramble to the top. I was nervous that my dog wouldn’t be able to handle the steep boulder climbing, but he did better than I did! It was worth it for the great view at the top.
3. The Basin
Basin Cascade Trail is a 2.5 mile out and back trail, famous for its pooling waterfalls and swimming holes. This is a very popular trail and family friendly. Bring water shoes, as there is a creek crossing. Parking can be difficult at busy times.
4. Profile Lake
Profile Lake via the Pemi Trail is a 1.3 mile out and back trail that takes you to a little beach area along Profile Lake. I didn’t love this trail, as I had two leashed dogs with me and the trail was very narrow. I found that the three of us were tripping over each other, as there was only space for single file and it was quite overgrown. When I got to the “beach” I realized most people just parked in the parking lot and walked down to the shoreline, which I do wish I did. I think it would have been manageable with one dog, but with two there just wasn’t enough space on the trail. We did see another dog at the lake and the owner was nice enough to share her dog’s ball. We stayed at the lake for a long time and the dogs had so much fun swimming. It’s a great spot to cool off in the summer and you can’t beat the view!
