Bald Mountain Trail

Overview

A quick payoff hike. This short, steep out-and-back climbs granite ledges to a small, open summit with sweeping views over Echo Lake, Cannon Mountain, and the Franconia Ridge. Total distance is 0.6 miles round trip with about 242 feet of elevation gain. Expect rocky tread and a brief hands‑on scramble near the top.

Route

Start from the large dirt hiker lot off Route 18, directly across from the Cannon Mountain base area; the path begins at the back of the lot. You’ll follow the Veterans Trail (also known locally as the Bald Mtn – Artist’s Bluff Path). The grade kicks up quickly, transitioning to open ledge with increasingly wide views before a short scramble to the high point. Many hikers continue on to link Artist’s Bluff as a bigger loop, but Bald Mountain on its own is a fast hit of scenery.

What You’ll See

From the summit ledges, you’re looking straight into the heart of Franconia Notch—Echo Lake below, Cannon’s cliffs across the way, and Mount Lafayette anchoring the Franconia Ridge. It’s a favorite perch for photographers thanks to fast‑changing clouds and fog funneling through the notch, vibrant autumn foliage, and stark winter scenery.

Best Time to Hike

Sunrise and sunset are gorgeous here, but crowds spike then—especially in foliage season. Go early or aim for sunrise to find some space. Winter can be beautiful and quiet, but expect ice; traction is often necessary. After rain, ledges turn slick.

Parking & Access

Use the dirt hiker lot on Route 18 across from the Cannon base area; do not park at Echo Lake Beach. The trail leaves from the back of the dirt lot. If a gate to the big lot is closed, only use legal roadside pull‑offs where posted as allowed.

Safety, Conditions, and Etiquette

Wear footwear with solid traction—there are steep rock steps and smooth ledges near the top. In winter, microspikes or snowshoes are often needed. Keep pets leashed on the ledges, watch footing near drop‑offs, and pack out everything.

A Bit of History

In the mid‑1800s a carriage road reached near the summit. By the 1870s it had fallen into disrepair and was essentially a footpath; accounts mention a neglected stone stairway near the top. Today, the official route is the Veterans Trail.