Old Bridle Path

Overview

Old Bridle Path is the classic, strenuous line to Mount Lafayette. It’s a rocky, steady climb that rewards early with notch views and finishes in full alpine exposure. Hike it as a 7.6-mile total out-and-back to Lafayette, or turn around at the AMC Greenleaf Hut for a shorter day.

Route Snapshot

From the Lafayette Place parking area, the trail climbs through forest to the first real viewpoints around 2 miles. Reach Greenleaf Hut at about 2.75 miles—an excellent rest point that typically offers water refills during its summer operating season. Continue above treeline for sweeping views and a final push to Mount Lafayette at roughly 3.8 miles one way. Total distance to the summit and back: about 7.6 miles with ~3,500 feet of gain.

Trail Character and Current Work

Expect steep, rocky footing and sections that get slick when wet. This corridor is heavily loved—crowds are normal on weekends—and it’s seeing major restoration to harden the tread against traffic and storms. New sustainable reroutes and stone stairs are being added (the first 4,000 feet opened by October 2024), which can mean uneven surfaces or brief detours but ultimately a more durable, hiker-friendly path.

Why Hike It

The payoff is relentless scenery: Franconia Notch, the Pemigewasset backcountry, and big-peak vistas from the alpine zone. Having Greenleaf Hut mid-route is a luxury on a White Mountains climb—nice for a refill, a snack, and a regroup when it’s in season.

Tips, Crowds, and Gear

Arrive early; the lot fills fast in summer and foliage season. Bring layers and a rain shell—weather shifts quickly above treeline—and carry more water than you think you need. Don’t rely solely on the hut unless you’ve confirmed it’s operating that day. Trekking poles and grippy footwear help on the long, rocky descents.

Alternatives and Variations

• Shorter day: Turn around at Greenleaf Hut for roughly 5.3 miles total and ~2,400 feet of gain.
• Bigger day: Many hikers link Old Bridle Path with the Franconia Ridge Loop (8.6–8.9 miles total) over Little Haystack and Mount Lincoln—iconic but busier and fully exposed.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through fall is prime, with the hut typically staffed in summer. Weekdays and dawn starts beat the crowds. Clear, calm days are the safest and most photogenic above treeline. Stay on rock and established tread to protect fragile alpine vegetation.