Submitted by rock_hopper
8.9 mi • 3,893 ft gain • 5-8 hours • Falling Water
Feels like 41°F
Recent Precipitation
Rain: 0.48" (24h) · 0.55" (48h)
Best Hiking Window
Avoid Thursday entirely due to the approaching storm system with severe potential. Friday afternoon offers the most promising window as the trailing ridge builds, winds shift north and diminish, and fog begins to dissipate. Saturday is the preferred target if conditions verify — allow time for trails to drain slightly after expected half-inch to inch of additional rainfall through Friday morning.
Summit-level conditions by time of day at 5,260' elevation
The classic Lafayette loop: up falling water, along Franconia Ridge, and down old bridle path past Greenleaf Hut. Note: Descend on Greenleaf Trail from summit of Lafayette to the hut, then Old Bridal Path back to the trailhead.
Distance
8.9 mi
Elevation Gain
3,893 ft
Duration
5-8 hours
Trailhead
Falling Water
Jonathan Q.
I’ve hiked this route over 50 times in my life. In every month of the year except for December. My favorite time of year to hike this loop - the best day hike east of the Mississippi! - is late winter. The days are a little longer, the snow is well packed, the air is generally clearer, and the views are the most spectacular!