Lincoln Woods Trail

Located within the White Mountain National Forest and along the famous Kancamagus Highway, the Lincoln Woods Trail provides the perfect summer hike for recreationists, including families and beginners. With just under 300 feet of elevation gain over its length, the Lincoln Woods Trail is a leisurely walk through the woods and alongside the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River. Occasional openings in the woods allow for mountain views across the river, and several junctions provide access to numerous trails and peaks in the Pemigewasset Wilderness. The start and finish of the challenging "Pemi Loop" hike utilizes the Lincoln Woods Trail, and short side trips for day hikers include Black Pond and Franconia Falls. This trail holds historical significance, as it was once part of the 72-mile East Branch and Lincoln Railroad route, built in 1894. Logging camps were built along its sides, and if you pay attention you may notice artifacts in and around previously cleared areas. There has been enough time for the trees to return and for the area's primitive feeling to return, so it is hard to believe this area was once a logging town where the land was clear-cut and suffered wildfire damage.