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Not long after leaving Shining Rock, I arrived at a sign that announced the start of the Alpine Zone, so I knew I was beginning to get close to the ridge. Then finally, after the last switchback, I began to see glimpses of the views west toward Cannon and Kinsmans on the other side of Franconia Notch. I could also see Lonesome Lake far below, and the Green Mountains in the distance. 

Across the wide expanse of Walker Ravine was the ridge rising up to Mt Lafayette. I'd be coming down that way later this afternoon on the Old Bridle Path. I could see Greenleaf Hut sitting on a small knob on the ridge at the base of the summit cone. The air was so clear that I could even see the Laurentians in Quebec far to the north.

In less time than I had expected, I started to break out of the scrub, and I knew I was almost there. The snow had melted into patches, and was soon entirely absent. I was excited to be up on top of Franconia Ridge.

Alpine Zone sign. These signs warn hikers about staying on the trail in the fragile alpine zone.

Getting closer. Looking up toward the summit of Little Haystack Mtn just after entering the Alpine Zone.

Looking west at the Kinsmans from the Falling Waters Trail. The white patch in the center is Lonesome Lake.

• Lonesome Lake up close

Looking north across Walker Ravine from the Falling Waters Trail. You can see Greenleaf Hut sitting on the small knob at the left.

Almost there. Coming out of the scrub, I was nearly at the summit. The sky was extremely blue and clear that day.

Map

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