New Hampshire 4,000-Footer Planning Guide – North Kinsman

Note: For complete trail descriptions, times, elevation, trailhead directions, and major features, see the AMC White Mountain Guide.

Profile
North Kinsman (4293’) is the second highest peak on the Kinsman-Cannon Ridge. Ledges just below the wooded summit offer great views of Mt. Lafayette and Mt. Lincoln across Franconia Notch.

Suggested Routes
Strenuous: The Kinsman Ridge Trail, which is part of the Appalachian Trail and usually takes days to complete, accesses the summit of North Kinsman, as well as South Kinsman,  Cannon, and many lesser peaks. For those planning a day trip, there are a number of trails that provide access to the North Kinsman summit. The most popular route ascends via the Lonesome Lake Trail. From Lonesome Lake the summit can be reached via Fishin’ Jimmy Trail, Kinsman Pond Trail, or continuing on the Lonesome Lake Trail to the Kinsman Ridge Trail, which travels over the undulating Cannon Balls before reaching the summit.

Trip Planning
The AMC’s Lonesome Lake Hut, which overlooks Lonesome Lake and is within three miles of the North Kinsman summit, is open from mid-June to early September, offering meals and overnight accommodations.

The AMC’s Eliza Brook Shelter is located on the Kinsman Ridge Trail, 3.4 miles south of North Kinsman's summit. Kinsman Pond Campsite is located on Kinsman Pond near Kinsman Junction, .6 miles north of North Kinsman's summit.

The AMC’s Hiker Shuttle stops at the Lafayette Place Campground, connecting hikers with The Highland Center.

Safety
The AMC recommends all hikers check weather conditions in advance, carry a current map and guidebook, along with a compass and knowledge of how to use it. For recommendations on how to plan a safe hike in the White Mountains, see: The 10 essentials for a safe and pleasant hike.

Fun Fact
The Fishin’ Jimmy Trail is named after James Whitcher, a man who once lived in Franconia and was featured in a story by Annie Trumbull Sloson, once a popular New England author.