Lonesome Lake Hike

We FINALLY were able to lead this trip. First time it had to be postponed due to Chris’s back injury and the second time due to weather. But on Saturday June 1tth Chris, Don and Randy hiked up to the Lonesome Lake Hut.  Driving down I-93 we were surprised to see cars parked in the breakdown of both sides of the highway, even on a cool June day.  Don and I are used to leading this hike at the end of April around the time of my birthday when there is still snow on the trail.  It’s nice change to hike it when the trail is snow free. The weather was overcast and in the upper 50’s with the threat of rain.  The hike proceeded through the campground and up to Lonesome Lake. At the junction point at the lake we saw a whole bunch of cut boards like they are going to be making another platform on side of the lake away from the hut.  When we got to the hut we were not sure if we’d see the Franconia Ridge due to the clouds, but lucky for us the clouds were above the ridge and we were able to see the whole ridge.  We relaxed at the hut for about a half hour had a snack and socialized with some of the other hiker that were hanging out at the hut.  While at the hut the wind picked up and started to sprinkle, which we took as our cue to head back to our cars.  When we got back to our car were headed to Woodstock Station for post hike beer.

Join Don and myself as we hike to the Lonesome Lake Hut. This is a great spring warm up hike. The hike is about 3 1/2 miles with 1000 feet of elevation gain.  The trip starts out hiking through the Lafayette Place campground and follows the Lonesome Lake Trail up to Lonesome Lake. The trip distance may be short but it packs a steady incline up to the lake.  When the trail reaches Lonesome Lake there is a series of planks that lead to Lonesome Lake Hut. The hike provides great views of Franconia Ridge peaks on the east side of the notch.  We plan on having lunch at the hut.  The trail most likely will have some snow on it on the upper part near the lake, but won't be bad enough to require snowshoes.  Dress appropriately for early spring weather in the Whites: shorts or convertible hiking pants, and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Also bring along lunch, snacks water and sunscreen. Please no dogs on this hike.