This was our last day in New Hampshire so we had to make the best of it in spite of the clouds and rain. We heard about something called the Franconia Notch State Park and couldn’t resist checking it out. There are two ‘must sees’ in the park and we wanted to see them before left on Tuesday. The first of these sights is the Flume Gorge which “includes an easy walk of about 2 miles”, according to a 70 something looking woman at the visitor center. She was quick to tell us she has walked it several times. Well, how could I say I can’t do it! After doing the walk I realized why she looked like she is 70 something.
Franconia Notch State Park, NH – MG getting tired going up steps on trail
That gorge is so different from anything I have ever seen. It is created during the Ice Age Glaciers and cuts right through this mountain of granite and rock. It’s only about 8 feet wide and runs off the top of the mountain in that area creating the Swift River (Pemigewasset River is the Indian name). The sheer power of the river flowing down is almost frightening but spectacular to see.
Franconia Notch State Park, NH Top of Flume falls
I just don’t understand how it could be a 2 mile loop and be uphill the whole way! As you walk through the gorge you actually climb about 180 steps all made of wood.
Swift River in Park
My advice to anyone wanting to see the wonderful things we have seen in the White Mountains is to do it before your knees get too old. I can’t explain how my knees got so much older than the rest of my body, but I know they are.
Covered Bridge we crossed as we walked the park
The second “must see” is the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway and the Old Man of the Mountain. Unfortunately the rain and fog made that trip impractical.
Franconia Notch State Park, NH – View from Rangers station
The foliage was spectacular and the mountains are awesome, but I sure would like to see some flat ground and sun again.
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