Discovery Place Children’s Museum | Texarkana

Echo Lake Beach is a public swimming area located within Franconia Notch State Park in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Visual Characteristics

The beach consists of a sandy shoreline bordering Echo Lake. The lake itself is a body of freshwater with a depth averaging 30 feet. Surrounding vegetation is primarily deciduous forest, with a mix of maple, birch, and oak trees. The water color varies from clear to a greenish hue depending on light conditions and sediment levels. The beach area is approximately 500 feet in length.

Location & Access Logistics

Echo Lake Beach is situated off Interstate 93 at Exit 34B, following the signs for Franconia Notch State Park. The park entrance is approximately 1 mile from the highway. Parking is available in a designated lot adjacent to the beach, with capacity for approximately 100 vehicles. During peak season, additional parking may be available at the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway base station, with shuttle service provided. Public transport options are limited; the closest Amtrak station is in White River Junction, Vermont, approximately 45 miles away.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Echo Lake is a natural glacial lake, formed by the movement of ice sheets during the last Ice Age. The surrounding landscape was shaped by glacial erosion and deposition. The area was incorporated into Franconia Notch State Park in 1965 to preserve its natural features.

Key Highlights & Activities

Swimming is permitted in the designated beach area. Kayaking and paddleboarding are allowed on the lake. A 0.5-mile paved walking path runs along the shoreline. Fishing is permitted from the shore or boat, with a valid New Hampshire fishing license.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms with changing facilities are located near the parking area. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are available. Shade is provided by surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available, though it can be intermittent within the park. No food vendors are present directly at the beach; visitors should bring their own provisions or utilize facilities at the nearby Cannon Mountain base lodge.

Best Time to Visit

The beach is open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. The best time of day for swimming is between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when water temperatures are typically warmest. For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers softer illumination on the lake and surrounding mountains.

Facts & Legends

The name "Echo Lake" originates from the acoustic phenomenon where sounds can be reflected off the surrounding granite cliffs, creating distinct echoes. Local folklore suggests that the lake was once a sacred site for indigenous tribes, though historical documentation is limited.

Nearby Landmarks

• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway (0.2km West)
• The Flume Gorge (3.5km South)
• The Basin (4.0km South)
• Franconia Falls Trailhead (4.5km South)