For instance, the lesser known but still striking Old Lady of the Mountain looks out, as does the Old Man, over Profile Lake. Near Madison, New Hampshire, Madison Rock is one of the largest glacial erratics—a rock that is significantly out of place—in the world, rising three stories high and stretching 80 feet in length. It is designated a National Natural Landmark.
For more information on these and other distinctive examples of geological whimsy in the White Mountains, see "Profiles, Boulders, and Rock Formations."
Franconia Notch State Park
New Hampshire's flagship state park, covering 6,440 acres, lies nestled in a deep valley between the soaring peaks of the Franconia and Kinsman mountain ranges. You can enjoy almost every imaginable form of outdoor recreation here, from hiking and biking to swimming and scenic driving. The Appalachian Trail passes through the park, and The Old Man of the Mountain, New Hampshire's most famous landmark, calls Franconia Notch home.
Other attractions here include an aerial tramway that takes passengers to the summit of Cannon Mountain (4180 feet), where an observation tower offers even better panoramic views than those you got on the way up. The Flume is an 800-foot natural gorge that rests at the base of Mount Liberty. Echo Mountain Lake is a 28-acre swimming and fishing hole near famous Artist's Bluff (2340 feet), where landscape enthusiasts can find great views without having to expend much effort.
Lafayette Campground is the major camping area in the park. With 97 tent sites and showers, the campground is a great place to set up your base for more extensive explorations of the park. There is also a camp store here with outdoor supplies. To reach the campground, call (603)823-9513. To contact the park, call (603)823-8800.
Crawford Notch State Park
Located off of Rte. 302 on the eastern edge of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, Crawford Notch has prime access to views of the Presidentials. Hiking and fishing are the major activities here (see descriptions of hikes in Crawford Notch State Park). Among the park's many picturesque waterfalls is Arethusa Falls, one of the highest falls in the state.
The Dry River Campground here has 30 tent sites. Call (603)374-2272 to reach the park.
Echo Lake-Cathedral Ledge State Park
Turn off Rte. 302 2 miles west of North Conway to find this cool, crisp lake (not to be confused with a lake of the same name in Franconia Notch) stretching beneath White Horse Ledge (2010 feet). Another panoramic hotspot here, Cathedral Ledge (1150 feet), has a natural rock formation that is said to look like a cathedral built into the cliff's face. A scenic road climbs the distance to Cathedral Ledge. Call the park at (603)356-2672 for more information.
Moose Brook State Park
The waterway after which this park is named provides some of the Forest area's excellent stream fishing. Lying in lush mixed forest, the campground here has 42 tent sites and showers. Mountain bike trails wind through the area, and the proximity of the Presidential and Crescent ranges makes the park a great basecamp for hiking in the high peaks. Located off Rte. 2 about 2 miles west of Gorham. You can reach the park at (603)466-3860.
Eisenhower Memorial Wayside Park
Stop at the turnoff on the east side of Rte. 302 2 miles north of Crawford Notch State Park to find the path that leads to a Presidential range vista, including views of Mt. Washington.
Mount Washington State Park
This 52-acre park includes the summit of Mount Washington, the highest mountain in the northeast at 6288 feet. The weather here can be brutal and change at a moment's notice; always pack with the expectation that it will get colder. Not exactly the most rustic destination, Mt. Washington's summmit includes a post office, snack bar, and gift shop. Vistors can reach the park via hiking trails or take the privately owned Mt. Washington Auto Road or the Cog Railway for a fee. No camping facilities are available in this park. The best access is from Pinkham Notch off Rte. 16. Call (603)466-3347 to learn more.
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