Hiking Loon Mountain

I have lived in the Lincoln-Woodstock area my whole life, so it may come as a shock that I don’t ski and have never actually been to the top of Loon Mountain. The new ski trails on Loon’s South Mountain are plainly visible from the grounds of our resort, and after staring at them day after day I decided I’d like to hike up them and see what the view is like from up there. I know what you’re thinking, “Quite the White Mountain Explorer, he’s never even been to the top of Loon!” While this trip was a first for me, it surely won’t be the last.
I was surprised by how nice it was to hike on these trails, even the steep new double black diamond trail, Ripsaw, was pleasant walking. There were some interesting views along the way. The peaks of Moosilauke and the Kinsman Ridge start to appear over the town of Lincoln, and as you near the top Cannon Mountain comes into view. Much more spectacular than I imagined. Another pleasant surprise was the serene shores of Loon Pond. The view across the water to the North Peak was most certainly photo-worthy, and I was in awe of the backcountry feeling of this particular spot, despite it being one of the state’s largest tourist attractions. The heart of the Pemigewasset Wilderness and the sharp peaks of the Franconia Ridge, all lined up in a row, are displayed before you as you approach the North Peak Express Quad chairlift. It’s a wonder people can actually pull themselves away from these views to do any skiing while up here. The views on a crystal-clear winter day must be the stuff of legend. I’ll have to find out for myself sometime soon. Enjoy the pictures from this trip and see you on the next adventure!

Picture Descriptions;
A) Town of Lincoln from South Mountain ski trails

B) Loon Pond

C) The entire Franconia Ridge, seen from Loon’s North peak