The best walks and hikes around Lincoln
4.7
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3,990
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Hiking around Lincoln offers access to an extensive trail system and diverse natural landscapes. The region features floodplain forests, winding creeks, and meadows, particularly within Wilderness Park. Additionally, areas like Pioneers Park Nature Center showcase native tallgrass prairie and woodlands. Several lakes and waterways provide scenic backdrops for outdoor recreation, contributing to a varied hiking environment.
Best hiking trails around Lincoln
- The most popular hiking route is Sentinel Pine bridge via Flume Gorge Trail loop – Franconia Notch State Park, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 5 minutes to complete. This loop offers views of the Sentinel Pine bridge and the Flume Gorge.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mount Pemigewasset Trail — Franconia Notch State Park, a moderate 3.5 miles (5.7 km) path. This trail features a steady ascent through varied terrain, leading to panoramic views.
- Local hikers also love the Georgiana Falls Trail — Lincoln, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail leading through forested areas to the Georgiana Falls, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
- Hiking around Lincoln is defined by extensive trail systems, floodplain forests, and tallgrass prairie. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Lincoln are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lincoln's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
1.94km
00:56
240m
0m
Prepare for a difficult hiking experience on the Georgiana and Harvard Falls Trail, a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route that packs a punch with 776 feet (236 metres) of elevation gain. You'll spend about 55 minutes navigating its steep and bouldery terrain, leading you to the impressive Georgiana Falls. Beyond that, the path becomes even rougher as you push towards the wild and majestic Harvard Falls, where the brook plunges dramatically.
Planning your visit requires some preparation. Parking is usually available close to the trailhead, but be aware that the path to Harvard Falls is not always clearly marked, so bring your navigational tools. The terrain is notably bouldery and steep, especially after Georgiana Falls, so watch your footing for wet rocks. This route is considered difficult, so come prepared for a challenging ascent.
This trail stands out for its dramatic waterfalls and the scenic Harvard Brook, which is known as one of the prettier brooks in the White Mountain National Forest. Georgiana Falls offers multiple cascades, including a 30-foot waterfall with natural water slides and a deep pool. Further up, Harvard Falls plunges over 60 feet into a chasm, creating a striking diamond shape, and you can even find views over Route 93 and Loon Mountain.
1.81km
00:29
30m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.1-mile hike along the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River on the family-friendly J.E. Henry Trail.
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4.0
(1)
27
hikers
3.43km
01:27
180m
180m
Hike the difficult 2.1-mile Georgiana Falls Trail in New Hampshire's Second Presidential State Forest to discover stunning waterfalls.
5.0
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4
hikers
3.84km
01:02
50m
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The J.E. Henry Trail is an easy 2.4-mile hike along the East Branch Pemigewasset River, offering historical insights and family-friendly acc
2
hikers
16.7km
06:07
980m
980m
Hike the challenging Old Osseo Trail to Mount Flume, a 10.4-mile route with 3209 feet of gain and stunning White Mountain views.
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Popular around Lincoln
Tips from the Community
Mount Flume, the southernmost and shortest of the five peaks on the popular Franconia Ridge, stands at 4,328 feet, overlooking Franconia Notch. Many hikers combine Mount Flume and Mount Liberty in a single hike to enjoy some peak-bagging. Though the mileage to the summit is short, the steepness is no joke. On the way up there are stream crossings and rock scrambling. The rock scramble will take hikers to their hands and knees, but no technical equipment is required.
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Incredible views from this 1800 ft (550m) summit. During the winter, it is part of a ski area, but in the off-season is a great place to explore with its stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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The Georgiana Falls are impressive, with multitudes of cascades along with the 30-foot waterfall itself. It is a very rewarding prize for the effort required to get to this location. It is worth relaxing in a peaceful setting and enjoying the sounds of the water flowing down on the rocks.
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This picturesque river is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a short hike and hop across the rocks while appreciating the colorful trees surrounding Lincoln's charming town. The river is a 15.8-mile-long tributary of the Pemigewasset River that flows through the White Mountains in the beautiful state of New Hampshire.
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Mount Flume is the southernmost and shortest of the five peaks of the very popular Franconia Ridge. Like Mount Lafayette, the northernmost peak of the Franconian Ridge, Mount Flume can be hiked via a short loop hike starting from the road. It is an awesome hike. If you are a fan of steep trails, the flume trail is a must.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lincoln?
Lincoln offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 60 routes available on komoot. These trails traverse diverse landscapes, from urban green spaces to natural parks, providing options for all skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Lincoln has several easy trails perfect for a relaxed walk. You can explore routes like the Sentinel Pine bridge via Flume Gorge Trail loop, which is an easy 2.2-mile path. The region's extensive trail system includes many paved and crushed limestone paths, such as those found around Holmes Lake or the Billy Wolff Trail, offering gentle terrain.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Lincoln?
Lincoln's hiking trails showcase a surprising variety of natural landscapes. You'll find extensive floodplain forests and winding creeks, particularly within Wilderness Park. Pioneers Park Nature Center offers beautiful native tallgrass prairie and woodlands. Several lakes and waterways, like Holmes Lake and Salt Creek, also provide scenic backdrops for your outdoor adventures.
Are there any trails with waterfalls or scenic water features?
Yes, the area around Lincoln features several beautiful water features. You can hike to Georgiana Falls via the Georgiana Falls Trail. Other notable spots include Falling Waters Trail and Little Cascade Waterfall, offering picturesque views and the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Lincoln?
Absolutely. Many of Lincoln's trails are suitable for families. The city's commitment to outdoor recreation means there are numerous well-maintained, relatively flat paths. Parks like Pioneers Park Nature Center offer easy walking trails through prairie and woodlands, where children can also enjoy spotting wildlife. The East Branch Pemigewasset River Trail loop is another easy option that families might enjoy.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Lincoln?
Many trails in Lincoln are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Wilderness Park, with its extensive network of unpaved trails, is a popular spot for dog walkers. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural environment for everyone.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Lincoln?
The hiking trails around Lincoln are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 240 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the extensive and well-maintained trail system, the diverse natural scenery, and the accessibility of routes for various skill levels.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Lincoln and its surrounding areas offer more strenuous options. Trails like the Mount Pemigewasset Trail provide a moderate ascent with rewarding views. For a truly demanding experience, consider the Whaleback Mountain & Mount Flume via Old Osseo Trail, which covers a significant distance and elevation gain.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or landmarks along the trails?
Lincoln's trails offer several scenic viewpoints and natural landmarks. The Mount Pemigewasset/Indian Head Summit provides panoramic vistas. You can also find beautiful views of the Platte River from nearby state parks like Platte River State Park and Mahoney State Park. Wilderness Park itself offers views of Salt Creek and its floodplain forest.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lincoln?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for hiking in Lincoln. In spring, the tallgrass prairies come alive with wildflowers, and the weather is mild. Autumn offers stunning fall foliage, particularly in areas like Indian Cave State Park or along the wooded trails of Wilderness Park. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or late afternoons are pleasant, while winter offers unique, quiet landscapes for those prepared for colder conditions.
Are there circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of Lincoln's trails are designed as loops or can be combined to form circular routes. For example, the Sentinel Pine bridge via Flume Gorge Trail loop is a popular circular option. The extensive network within Wilderness Park also allows for creating various loop configurations, letting you start and end at the same point.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the trails?
Lincoln's diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. In Pioneers Park Nature Center, you can observe bison, elk, and various birds of prey. Wilderness Park is excellent for birdwatching and spotting smaller mammals. Along Salt Creek and other waterways, you might see waterfowl and other aquatic species. The tallgrass prairies are home to numerous insects and grassland birds.
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