We will commence the trip at the Garfield Trail entrance off of the Gale River Loop Road (also known as Fire Road 92). If all agree we will leave our car(s) here , but for one which we will shuttle to the end of the Falling Waters trail. We will hike to the top of Garfield then follow the Garfield Ridge to the top of Lafayette, across the Appalachian Trail to Lincoln and then down the Falling Waters Trail - depending on conditions , both weather and our bodies , we can modify this trip as necessary (i,e, take the Old Bridle Path down Lafayette). At least microspikes or the equivalent as the Falling Rivers Trail gets icy. This hike assumes a brisk pace and should take seven or eight hours. We must cover 3.4 miles to the summit of Garfield, 4.4 miles from thence to the summit of Lincoln and 3.25 miles down the Falling Waters trail for a total of 11.05 miles with 3k feet elevation on Garfield , and 3.4K feet down Falling Waters. Wintry temperatures at the summits and along the Ridge AT require approraite warm gear with the potential to exposure to high winds and precipitation.   

Follow I-95 north through Franconia Notch and take exit 35 for Route 3. Continue on Route 3 for about four and a half miles and turn right onto the Gale River Loop Road (also known as Fire Road 92). You’ll know you’ve missed the road and gone too far if you reach the Gale River. In the winter the Gale River Loop Road is likely closed, in which case you’ll only be able to drive a short distance in and have to park at the gate. When the road is open it’s a 1.2 mile drive to the Garfield Trail parking area. Try not to get sidetracked on the way in as there are a bunch of side trails and turnoffs along the way. The trailhead will be on the right, and the best I can say is you’ll know it when you see it as the trail is well marked. It’s also worth noting that there’s a U.S. Forest Service fee for parking in the lot.