Kinsman and Cannon Loop via Kinsman Ridge Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a scenic hike over the Kinsmans, (NH4k) Northeast Cannon Ball (NE100) and Cannon (NH4k) Mountains. The summit of North Kinsman can be found on the trail before the small spur trail to the look out. Once at the lookout there is a small herd path going down, this herd path can be tricky but will give you views of Kinsman pond and the tent site.

Now South Kinsman gets a little more tricky. The hike over is easy but once you think you're at the summit (small spur to a look out and cairn) you're not there yet. look to the SW and you will see a small hump. That is the true summit. On this summit you will find the overly photographed throne.

Now head back down to the campsite and head towards Cannon Mountain. My son and I refer to this trail as the Kinsman roller coaster. You will see why.

On the way over to Cannon you will go around the Cannon Balls and go over Northeast Cannon Ball which is on the NE100 list. This is often a persons first NE100 by accident and usually without knowing. Congrats!

Once you finally make it to Cannon, the observation deck is directly on the summit and some may claim it doesn't count if you don't venture to the top of the deck and enjoy the views. At the top you will find a coin operated binocular to get a closer look.

Bonus Alert - Cannon ski area operates a cafe and bar year round. Stop by for a beer or my personal favorite... French Fries!

From here its all down hill

This is a difficult loop trail to North Kinsman in Franconia Notch State Park.

This trail goes by Cannon Mountain, Coppermine Col, Northeast Cannon Ball, The Cannon Balls, South Peak Kinsman Mountain, Kinsman Pond Tentsite, Lonesome Lake Hut, and Lonesome Lake.

Getting Started

There are a few places to park for this hike off of Rt 93, the preferred spot is the hiking lot at Lafayette campground. All the trailheads in this area fill up quickly during the summer. During the winter only a small lot is available for parking at the campground and fills up quickly on the weekends.