Lonesome Lake Hike

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Twenty of us showed up to hike to the Lonesome Lake Hut. The group consisted of a nice mix of experienced hikers and some GO members participating in their first GO hike and first ever hikes. The day started off cold and overcast.  The start of the trail leads through Lafayette Place campground, which this time of year was a ghost town. We didn’t see anybody camping. Along the trail to the lake we encountered snow half way up the first switchback and when we were hiking the second switchback there was snow along the whole length of the trail. When we got to the flat part of the trail prior to the reaching Lonesome Lake there was hard pack snow several feet deep. When we reached the lake we discovered that it was still had a light layer of ice on it. When we got to Lonesome Lake the sky had cleared and the sun came out. We stopped for lunch at the hut, some chose to eat inside and others ate out in the sun. We had spectacular views of the Franconia Ridge off to the east. The group wanted to lay out on the deck at the lake, but it was completely covered in snow, so we settled for the deck outside the hut. Some of the group was wondering if it would be more difficult going back down the trail because of the snow.  As it turns out it was easy and no one had a problem with it. One of the guys did fall through the snow and got a small cut, but that was the extent of the injuries. All in all even with all the snow, it was a great hike and great company.

Join Don and myself as we hike to the Lonesome Lake Hut. This is a great spring warm up hike. The hike is about 3 1/2 miles with 1000 feet of elevation gain.  The trip starts out hiking through the Layfayette Place campground and follows the Lonesome Lake Trail up to Lonesome Lake. The trip distance may be short but it packs a steady incline up to the lake.  When the trail reaches Lonesome Lake there is a series of planks that lead to Lonesome Lake Hut. The hike provides great views of Franconia Ridge peaks on the east side of the notch.  We plan on having lunch at the hut.  The trail is wooded but there could be some snow on the trail. Hiking boots are just fine, but gaiters if you have them could be helpful.  Dress appropriately for spring weather in the Whites: shorts or convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Also bring along lunch, snacks and water.  Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require.  No dogs please.