Franconia, New Hampshire

Artists Bluff in Franconia Notch State Park stands as one of the most iconic and picturesque destinations in New Hampshire visited by thousands each year.

Location Added By:

Tom Riley (GoXplr Account)

About This Location

Artists Bluff in Franconia Notch State Park stands as one of the most iconic and picturesque destinations in New Hampshire. This beautiful rocky overlook offers sweeping vistas of Franconia Notch, embracing breathtaking sights of Echo Lake, Cannon Mountain, and a panorama of surrounding peaks. Particularly during the fall season, when Franconia Notch adorns itself with a vibrant tapestry of foliage, Artists Bluff becomes a magnetic attraction drawing hundreds of visitors to revel in the autumnal spectacle.

The allure of Artists Bluff extends beyond fall, showcasing its beauty in every season. The clean prominence of 280 feet provides unobstructed views, creating a captivating experience for all who venture to this vantage point.

Its popularity is not only attributed to the stunning views but also to its accessibility. The loop trail leading to Artists Bluff spans a manageable 1.5 miles and is rated as easy. While featuring some steep sections, the trail is family-friendly, welcoming kids and dogs to partake in the adventure. The hike to the overlook typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing for a leisurely exploration, particularly at the captivating viewpoint. It features 430 feet of total elevation gain and is well-marked and well-maintained.

For hikers embarking on the Artists Bluff Trail, it's advisable to follow the arrows, as the trail narrows in certain spots. A clockwise loop is recommended to ensure a smoother hiking experience for all.

In terms of parking, the Echo Lake parking lot serves as the closest access point to the Artists Bluff Trailhead, accommodating approximately 150 cars. Given its proximity to the trail, this lot tends to fill up quickly during the bustling summer and fall months. Additional parking options can sometimes be found along Profile Road and in the Cannon Mountain lots, offering alternatives to those seeking to explore this natural gem. Whether surrounded by the vibrant hues of fall or the serene beauty of other seasons, Artists Bluff stands as a testament to the enchanting landscapes within Franconia Notch State Park.

Location Features

No items found.

Locations

Address:
Profile Road, Franconia, New Hampshire

GPS Coordinates:
44.180361, -71.695222
Directions to location:
Click here for location directions
Directions to parking area:
Click here for parking directions
Parking Notes:
The Echo Lake parking lot is closest to the trailhead. It can hold about 150 cars and it does fill up fast in the summer and fall. During winter and spring, the lot is rarely ever full.

Reviews

Have you visited this location before? Let us know what you thought! (Feature coming soon!)