- Franconia Falls
The Franconia Falls Trail is a 6.9 mile out and back trail that follows the Pemigewasset River to a waterfall. The best part about this waterfall is it forms a natural slide, so this is a common place for swimming and families. The trail itself is flat and easy, it’s just long with 3.5 miles before you reach the falls. We did this hike on a very hot summer day and there were not as many opportunities for Max to jump in the river as I thought there would be. Some of the riverside is up on a cliff and some is blocked by deep brush and forest. There were a few smaller streams along the way that he was able to drink from, but I really wanted him to go for an all-out swim along the trail so that he wouldn’t overheat. By the time we got to the falls, Max was quite hot and exhausted. He went for a swim and then took a nap on the rocks. It was another long walk back to the car. He had a lot of fun, but I would probably do this hike again with him closer to the fall when the temperatures are a bit cooler.
2. Serendipity Loop
We did this trail on a rainy June day and found we had it mostly to ourselves. Serendipity Loop is a 2.2 mile trail that follows a river. There were lots of places along the trail where the river is easily accessible. The only downside of this trail is that the parking lot only allows for 4 cars and there are No Parking signs along the street leading to the parking lot. Seems a little ridiculous to me. Where are people supposed to park? Thankfully we had no issue since we went on a rainy day and we were the only ones crazy enough to be hiking. You will find the trailhead at Loon Mountain after driving down a ways passed cabins and condos.
3. Lovequist Loop
Lovequist Loop is a 1.1 mile loop that begins along the Swift River. You then cross a large bridge and continue up to a pond. The trail wraps behind the pond into the woods and back around. It was an easy, lovely hike with two dogs. They enjoyed playing in Swift River before and after the hike.
4. Sabbaday Falls
This is an easy 0.7 mile out and back trail that leads to Sabbaday Falls. It is one of the most popular hikes on the Kanca Highway and thus parking can be difficult. The trail is only open during the summer and fall. There is a lovely stream leading up to the falls. We encountered five other dogs on this trail, which can be narrow around the falls, so not a great trail to bring your dog if they are not dog/people friendly.
5. Lower Falls
This is not a trail, but still a nice stop along the Kanca Highway. There is plenty of space along the rocks of the river to explore. Here you can find mini waterfalls and swimming holes all along the river. It can be crowded on hot days during the summer, but the parking lot is a good size and people often don’t stay long as there are no trails.
