Old Man of the Mountain Historic Site | Lincoln NH

The Old Man of the Mountain Historic Site preserves the location of a famous rock formation that once resembled a human profile. It is situated in Franconia Notch State Park, near Lincoln, New Hampshire, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The site features a granite cliff face. The "Old Man" was a natural formation of five limestone boulders that, when viewed from a specific angle, appeared as a profile of a man's head and shoulders. The boulders are no longer present, having collapsed in 2003. The current site includes interpretive displays and viewing platforms.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located off Interstate 93, Exit 34A. It is approximately 15 miles north of the town of Lincoln. Parking is available at the Franconia Notch State Park Visitor Center. Access to the viewing area is via a paved, accessible path from the visitor center, approximately 0.2 miles.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Old Man of the Mountain was a natural geological formation, a result of glacial erosion and weathering over thousands of years. The profile was first noted in the early 19th century. It became a symbol of New Hampshire and was officially designated the state's emblem in 1945.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view the memorial to the Old Man of the Mountain, including the remaining boulders and interpretive exhibits detailing its history and collapse. The site offers educational displays about geology and the natural history of Franconia Notch. Walking the accessible path provides views of the surrounding granite cliffs.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Franconia Notch State Park Visitor Center. Shade is provided by trees along the path. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the vicinity. Food vendors are not present at the immediate site; options are available at the visitor center or in nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

The site is accessible year-round, weather permitting. For optimal viewing of the cliff face without snow obstruction, late spring through early autumn (May to October) is recommended. Mid-morning offers good lighting for photography of the cliff face.

Facts & Legends

The Old Man of the Mountain collapsed on May 3, 2003, due to natural erosion and freeze-thaw cycles. Despite its collapse, it remains a significant historical and cultural icon for New Hampshire. A unique tip for visitors is to stand at the designated viewing area to accurately perceive the profile that once existed.

Nearby Landmarks

• Flume Gorge (0.8km North)
• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway (1.5km North)
• Echo Lake State Park (2.0km South)
• Franconia Falls Trailhead (3.5km North)
• The Basin (4.0km South)