Submitted by rock_hopper
8.9 mi • 3,893 ft gain • 5-8 hours • Falling Water
Feels like 8°F
Recent Precipitation
Rain: 0.03" (24h) · 0.24" (48h)
Snow: 0.2" (24h) · 0.5" (48h)
Best Hiking Window
No safe window exists Thursday or Thursday night. Friday midday offers a brief potential window as high pressure crests and winds temporarily drop with some clearing possible — however, this window is narrow and short-lived before another storm arrives Friday afternoon with dangerous winds and whiteout conditions. If attempting Friday, plan for an early morning start to summit and descend well before midday, carry full winter emergency gear, and monitor forecasts closely. Saturday and beyond remain unsettled with ongoing snow and cold.
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!