New Hampshire 4,000-Footer Planning Guide – Mount Lincoln

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

Profile
Mt. Lincoln (5,089 feet), a part of the popular and scenic Franconia Ridge, bears a sharp, rugged peak with excellent views of the surrounding area and an array of alpine plants.

Suggested Routes
Strenuous: Mt. Lincoln’s summit is most frequently accessed by way of the Falling Waters Trail to Franconia Ridge Trail. Hikers may also wish to turn the trip into a two-day excursion, starting out on the Old Bridle Path, spending a night at the Greenleaf Hut, continuing on the Greenleaf Trail to Mt. Lafayette, then turning south onto the Franconia Ridge Trail to Mt. Lincoln.

Trip Planning
The AMC’s Greenleaf Hut is located at the junction of the Old Bridle Path and Greenleaf Trail on nearby Mt. Lafayette, overlooking Eagle Lake. The hut is open from mid-May to mid-October (caretaker basis in May), offering meals and overnight accommodations.

The AMC’s Hiker Shuttle stops at the Old Bridle PathTrailhead, connecting with The Highland Center and Lafayette Place Campground.

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.

Note: Franconia Ridge is extremely susceptible to high winds and bad weather, and is particularly exposed and prone to severe lightning strikes. Hikers are advised to pay particular attention to weather conditions for the area and avoid the ridgecrest on Mts. Lafayette, Lincoln and Little Haystack when storms approach.

Fun Fact
Franconia Ridge Trail has numerous areas of alpine habitat, including on the stretch between Mt. Lafayette and Mt. Lincoln.