With spectacular views of the Franconia Ridge across a pristine glacial lake, Lonesome Lake Hut offers big mountain scenery without the big mountain effort. Lonesome Lake is just 1.6 miles from the trailhead, making it an ideal first-time backcountry experience and a great intro to AMC’s hut system. More experienced hikers will find plenty of challenge, with nearby Cannon Mountain, the Kinsman Ridge, and miles of Appalachian Trail beyond. 

Lonesome Lake Hut

Lonesome Lake hut is one of three AMC huts open year-round. During peak season, your rate includes dinner, breakfast, a bunk with 3 wool blankets. Meals are served family style; if you have food restrictions, let them know when you make your reservation. There's running water in the sinks (peak season) and composting toilets. Bunkrooms are smaller here than at other huts; you'll be sharing a room with 3-6 others and most of the bunks are only two high rather than the triple deckers you'll see elsewhere. During the off-season, a caretaker may start a fire, but you're on your own for meals and bedding. Sit on the deck or down by the lake and enjoy the views, maybe some wildlike. If you're not an AMC member, join and you'll get a discount on the rate while also supporting their work.

  

It's about 1.6 miles and 1000' elevation gain from Lafayette Place trailhead, making it a family-friendly destination. NOTE: parking at the trailhead is at a premium and you may need to park at the hiker shuttle at Cannon Mountain. If that's the case, drop off the majority of your crew so that only 1 person has to pay the shuttle fee.

  

In winter the trail is so frequently travelled that you may not need snowshoes, but I would definitely recommend spikes to minimize the risk of sliding on ice.  Your reward is a beautiful view (on a clear day) across the notch to Franconia Ridge. The Kinsman Ridge towers over you to the west. If you're bagging 4000-footers, it's great to hike up here in the evening one day and then head up to the ridge for the Kinsmans and Cannon the next, to make it just a little easier.

Family friendly destination and great base for hiking Kinsman Ridge

Fun and beautiful spot to stay. Can be crowded in summer months. Hike in is fairly easy, caretaker on site most nights. Will supply food and water if purchased. Must reserve to stay