A Less Traveled Path to Lafayette on a Weekday

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Amy Kelliher, Holly Riehl
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX000001GNUj
Register By: 9/16/2026
Audience: Adults

Description: Join us for an adventure that is typically less crowded than the Franconia Ridge loop and includes amazing views, a stop at the Greenleaf Hut, summiting one “official” and one "unofficial" 4,0000-footer - Mount Lafayette (5,242 ft) and North Lafayette (5,046 ft), respectively. This is a strenuous route, especially in terms of steepness and elevation gain. We will hike approximately 9 miles with ~ 3,700 ft of elevation gain at a moderate pace (about 1.5 MPH on average, including short breaks) – slower on the ascent and faster on the descent. We plan to stop for short efficient breaks and a short lunch. Plan to be on the trail for 7 – 8 hours.
While climbing 2300 ft in 2.7 miles to reach the Greenleaf Hut we will navigate rocky footing, pass through a narrow slot between 2 boulders and enter Eagle Pass then climb another 1.1 miles with 1,100 ft gain to reach the summit of Mt. Lafayette where on a clear day we will enjoy amazing views. The hike to North Lafayette is an open ridge over several minor knobs and descends steeply before our final descent over 4.2 miles back to the parking lot. Participants will be asked to arrive early, assist with car spotting, have similar recent hiking experience and be in good physical health. Come prepared for the weather as it changes quickly in the whites. Multiple layers, rain gear, hiking poles, sun protection, and the 10 essentials are required. Bad weather, such as high winds or rain will cancel this hike because we will be above tree line.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!