Franconia Ridge Loop (NH)

Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States

8.0 miles (12.9 km) · 3,862 ft elevation gain · Loop · trail · Route

Franconia Ridge Loop (NH) is a 8.0-mile loop route in Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States, gaining 3,842 feet of elevation. The route follows a up-and-over elevation profile. The terrain breaks into 3 distinct sections including 2 significant climbs. The longest climb covers 3.5 miles gaining 3,402 feet at an average 17.5% grade. Only 23% of the terrain is runnable — expect substantial hiking throughout. The route opens with a climb and finishes with a descent.

Route facts

Distance	8.0 mi (12.9 km)
Elevation gain	3,862 ft (1,177 m)
Average gain	481 ft per mile (91 m per km)
Longest climb	4.4 mi, 3,419 ft of gain
Steepest climb grade	46.3%
Runnable	22% of the route
Climbs / descents	2 climbs, 1 descents
Profile shape	Up, then down
Difficulty score	16.6 of 100
Surface	trail
Route shape	Loop
Type	Route

Grade breakdown

Grade band	Share of route
Flat	2%
Mild uphill	5%
Moderate uphill	4%
Steep uphill	36%
Mild downhill	8%
Moderate downhill	8%
Steep downhill	38%

Questions about Franconia Ridge Loop (NH)

How much elevation gain does Franconia Ridge Loop (NH) have?

Franconia Ridge Loop (NH) has 3,862 ft (1,177 m) of elevation gain over 8.0 miles (12.9 km). That averages 481 ft of gain per mile.

How difficult is Franconia Ridge Loop (NH)?

The difficulty score for Franconia Ridge Loop (NH) is 16.6 of 100. That is harder than 86.2% of routes at a similar distance. About 22% of the route is runnable at typical trail effort; the rest is steep enough that most runners hike.

What is the longest climb on Franconia Ridge Loop (NH)?

The longest climb on Franconia Ridge Loop (NH) runs 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and gains 3,419 ft (1,042 m). The steepest climb grade on the route is 46.3%.