Profile Lake | Littleton

Information

Landmark: Profile Lake
City: Littleton
Country: USA New Hampshire
Continent: North America

Profile Lake, Littleton, USA New Hampshire, North America

Profile Lake is a glacial lake situated in Franconia Notch State Park, within the White Mountains of New Hampshire, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The lake has a surface area of approximately 40 acres. Its waters are typically clear, reflecting the surrounding granite cliffs and dense coniferous forest. The shoreline is primarily composed of natural rock and soil, with limited sandy areas. The lake's depth varies, reaching a maximum of approximately 30 feet.

Location & Access Logistics

Profile Lake is located within Franconia Notch State Park, accessible via Interstate 93. Take Exit 34A for Franconia Notch Parkway Southbound or Exit 34B for Franconia Notch Parkway Northbound. The lake is situated approximately 1 mile south of the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway base station. Parking is available at designated lots along the Franconia Notch Parkway, including the Profile Lake parking area. Public transport options are limited; the closest major transit hub is in Lincoln, NH, requiring a taxi or ride-share service for final access.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Profile Lake was formed by glacial activity during the last ice age, carved into the granite bedrock of Franconia Notch. It is a remnant of a larger glacial lake. The lake is a freshwater ecosystem supporting various fish species and aquatic plants. It is also known for its association with the "Old Man of the Mountain," a natural rock formation that once resembled a human profile, which collapsed in 2003.

Key Highlights & Activities

Fishing is permitted in Profile Lake, with regulations managed by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Hiking trails surround the lake, including access to the Flume Gorge and the base of Cannon Mountain. Photography of the lake and surrounding landscape is a common activity. The site of the former "Old Man of the Mountain" is accessible via a viewing platform.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Profile Lake parking area. Limited shade is provided by surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available but can be intermittent within the notch. No food vendors are located directly at the lake; provisions should be brought from nearby towns like Lincoln or Franconia.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon offers optimal lighting conditions for capturing the lake's reflections. The best months for visiting are from late May to mid-October, when the park is fully accessible and weather conditions are most favorable. High tide is not a relevant factor for this lake.

Facts & Legends

The "Old Man of the Mountain," a natural granite profile that was the state's symbol, was a significant attraction at Profile Lake for centuries before its collapse. Local indigenous legends speak of the spirits of the mountains residing in the notch, influencing the weather and the land.