Cannon Mountain July 3rd 2016

We set out on a gorgeous July 3rd morning to tackle Cannon Mountain. Our route today would take us from the "Basin" viewing area, along the "Basin Cascade Brook Trail", connecting up with the "Cascade Brook Trail", to Lonesome Lake hut for a break and water refill. We would then take the Dodge Cutoff Trail to Hi-Cannon to the summit. We would end up descending the Hi Cannon Trail all the way back down to Lafayette campground and walking the Franconia State Park Bike Path back to the Basin parking area.

The Basin is a famous geological feature on the Pemigewasset River. Geologists say it is the result of 25000 yrs of the Pemi River swirling rocks around through the solid granite river bed that glacial melting eroded, creating this 15 foot deep pothole. It is fascinating to see and hear the power of the water as it flows through here.

The water level the day we hike was such that we could walk right out onto the smooth granite of the river bed. Beautiful sights were to be plentiful this day on the trail.

This lower section of the Cascade Brook trail is a delight. One could while away a day just relaxing by these cascades and letting the beauty of it all refresh and renew you.

Another interesting spot.

Water crossings added a new aspect to this hike. These were the first real water crossings I had encountered since I started hiking. At one point we lost the trail and were inadvertently bush whacking along the Cascade Brook on the opposite bank from where the trail runs. After a couple of interesting work arounds, we were able to rejoin the trail.

Interesting light and dark contrast looking out through this mini gorge at the waterfall.

These foot bridges through the boggy sections of the trail were a great aide in the quest to reduce the amount of mud bathing along the way. To my mind they also add a feeling of enchanted wildness to the trail.

At nearly every turn there was more wild beauty to behold.

I had heard tales of and read accounts of the beauty of Lonesome Lake, but was still taken aback as we approached it.

As we made our way around the lake we were treated to a unique display of sunlight on the flanks and base of Cannon juxtaposed against the ominous clouds hovering over the summit. For a while we were concerned that the skies might open up. Fortunately the cloud passed without any downpours.

We sat on the steps of the Lonesome Lake AMC hut and enjoyed a snack after refilling our water bottles. The view of the Franconia ridge from that vantage point was spectacular.

Soon we were back on the trail and as the Hi Cannon trail heads up the upper reaches of the mountain it is a wild rocky trail with plenty of fun scrambles. The car sized Boulder in this picture made for some fun maneuvering.

Great views from the trail and ledge outlooks on the way up.