View from Artists Bluff with Echo Lake just past peak foliage on a cloudy day.

Bald Mountain and Artists Bluff

Directions

BALD MOUNTAIN and ARTISTS BLUFF, reached by a short hike, offer some of the best views of Cannon Mountain and Franconia Notch for the effort. The 1.2-mile loop begins in the big dirt parking area across Route 18 from the Peabody Base Area. 

Hiker parking in the Echo Lake Beach parking lot is not permitted. Hiker parking is located down the road in the big dirt lot across the street from the Cannon Mountain base area.

IMPORTANT UPDATES FOR FALL

Artists Bluff has become a popular, and extremely busy fall attraction. In an effort to maintain an enjoyable and safe experience for all, Franconia Notch State Park is enforcing a One-Way trail loop. 

Please Note: 

  • The "Short Trail" is CLOSED. Hikers will be asked to walk the entire loop in a counterclockwise direction. The full loop is 1.2 miles.  
  • There is NO roadside parking.
  • Please park in the Big Dirt Lot across from the Cannon base area. DO NOT PARK IN THE ECHO LAKE LOT.
  • Pack Out What You Pack In. Please dispose of all trash properly.
Bluff Map Pic