Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
293.00 ft (89.31 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
5.80 mi (9.33 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

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.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

National or state forest pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic hike. Access to many trails and peaks.

Cons

Busy trail.

Trailhead Elevation

1,157.00 ft (352.65 m)

Highest point

1,450.00 ft (441.96 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Waterfalls
Wildlife
Family friendly
Flushing toilets
Potable water
Wildflowers
Big vistas

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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