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

Visual Characteristics

The site features a granite cliff face. The original "Old Man" profile was a natural formation of five granite ledges, approximately 40 feet high, that appeared as a human profile when viewed from the west. The current site includes interpretive displays and viewing platforms.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located off Interstate 93, Exit 34A, in Franconia Notch State Park. It is approximately 15 miles north of Plymouth, NH, and 30 miles south of St. Johnsbury, VT. Parking is available at the Franconia Notch State Park Visitor Center. Access to the viewing area is via a paved, accessible path from the parking lot, approximately 0.25 miles long.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Old Man of the Mountain was a natural geological formation, a result of glacial erosion and weathering of the granite cliff face over millennia. The profile was first noted by explorers in the early 19th century. It became a symbol of New Hampshire and was officially designated the state's emblem in 1945. The formation collapsed and fell on May 3, 2003.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view interpretive exhibits detailing the history and geology of the Old Man of the Mountain. The site offers observation points for viewing the cliff face where the formation once existed. Walking trails in Franconia Notch State Park are accessible from the vicinity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Franconia Notch State Park Visitor Center. Shade is provided by surrounding trees along the walking path. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the park. Food vendors are not present at the immediate site, but are available at the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway base station and in nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

The site is accessible year-round, but the walking path may be subject to snow and ice conditions from November through April. Daytime hours offer the clearest views of the cliff face. Spring and fall provide moderate temperatures for walking.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the Old Man of the Mountain was its constant presence, despite being a natural formation. It was a symbol of endurance and permanence for New Hampshire. The collapse in 2003 was a significant event, marking the end of a natural landmark that had existed for thousands of years.

Nearby Landmarks

• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway (0.5km North)
• Flume Gorge (2km South)
• Echo Lake State Park (1km North)
• The Basin (3km South)