Aug 14

Aug 14 Fall in New Hampshire: Hiking to the Artists Bluff Overlook

I guarantee if you’ve ever seen a photo of New England or New Hampshire in the fall, it was probably the Artists Bluff lookout. Located in Franconia Notch State Park, this trail will take you to a rocky ledge that overlooks Echo Lake and the surrounding Cannon Mountain.

There’s two ways to get to the overlook, via the long trail or the short trail. The short trail is the least amount of distance, but you will be dealing with lots of rocks and tree roots of all sizes on a very steep trail. The long trail is a more gradual climb over a longer distance.

Parking for either trail can be found in a large gravel lot across from the Cannon Mountain Ski Resort, but depending on when you go, you might be able to park at the Echo Lake/Cannon Mountain RV parking lot for quicker access to the short trail. I would plan on parking at the large gravel lot as that is where maps will direct you.

Side note: Visit Echo Lake for sunset!

Quick Facts & Tips

Pets are permitted, but drones are not
- Personal recommendation: take the long trail if bringing your dog. The short trail is far too steep and rocky for their joints
Long trail - 1.5-mile loop | Short trail - 0.5 mile out & back
Elevation gain: 150+
Average time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The view is south facing directly into the sun
Sounds from the nearby highway can be heard from the overlook

View of Cannon Mountain from the Artists Bluff overlook

Hiking the Artists Bluff Trail via the short trail

Coming from the main gravel parking lot, you’ll start on the trailhead and head counterclockwise for the quickest route to the overlook. You’ll start to gain elevation and scramble up the rocks before reaching the top, and then you want to turn right at an unmarked fork (I recommend using AllTrails to make sure you don’t miss it). There you’ll find a herd path that will lead you to the rocky ledge called Artist’s Bluff.

The ledge (or observation deck as some call it) is large enough to hold dozens of people, but expect to wait a bit if you want that perfect Instagram shot if you visit on a weekend or in the middle of the day. People tend to hang out all over the ledge, so pick an empty spot and enjoy the view!

I started my hike just after sunrise on a weekday and by the time I reached the top, there were a few people. When I left an hour or so later it had gotten busy, but not to the point where the experience is ruined.

View of Echo Lake and the surround mountain from Artists Bluff

Once you’re done enjoying the stunning view, you can take either the long or short trail back down. If you’re looking for more of a hike, then you can take the long trail to Bald Mountain which offers a similar but higher elevation view of the surrounding area.

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