Cathedral Ledge from Echo Lake State Park (White Mountains, New Hampshire)

I've been visiting the White Mountains for years. From visiting as a 20 something with friends and quiet backpacking trips, to weekends in the camper with family and kids in tow. Every time I come, I fall in love with this portion of the Granite State a little more. I've been in the winter to ski or hike with a group of girls, in the spring to hike and brewery hop, in the summer to splash in the waterfalls, and the fall to enjoy the foliage. It absolutely never get's old and there is so much to do in every corner of the White Mountain National Forest. 

This trip to the Whites was centered around North Conway where we stayed in an AirBnb with another family. Four adults and four kids, four months to 3.5 years old and time spent at Story Land or the Scenic Railway. Four days is a sweet spot for our family and it was a picture perfect weekend (as picture perfect as it can be with a gaggle of toddlers). Adam and I took turns getting away, him to golf and me to trail run on a new-to-me trail. 

Staying in North Conway, I've seen the view from below of Cathedral Ledge and was excited to see it was a short hike (or drive even) to the summit. I took the chance for some solo time and drove to Echo Lake State Park where my trail run/hike began up the Bryce Path to Cathedral Ledge.

This relatively short hike makes it a perfect choice for a morning excursion of afternoon adventure. By no means do you need to plan the entire day here, unless you want to spend some time picnicking at Echo Lake Beach or jumping in the lake itself. There are two different ways to head up to the ledge, Bryce Path or Echo Lake. I chose the slightly longer Echo Lake approach and included a full loop around the lake to take in the views of this pretty little State Park. The trail starts on a very scenic and relatively flat section of trail bordering the lake before heading into the woods and up, up, up. The hike quickly becomes trickier as you navigate steep rocky and rooted sections, some even equipped with wooden ladders. As you near the summit, expect to see a few more people than on the trails as an auto road also takes visitors up to the summit to enjoy the view.

Dogs and kids: Dogs are allowed but do know that they are only allowed throughout the back trails in the Cathedral Ledge and White Horse Ledge areas only. Dogs are not allowed at Echo Lake from May 1 to Oct. 31. I would not rate this as a kid-friendly hike for younger kids as the incline is steep and rocky/technical in spots. I would say this could be an option for older more experienced kids. 

Distance: 3-miles out and back, moderate due to the steep and rocky incline

Elevation: About 670 feet about 1.5 miles

Fee Area: Echo Lake State Park is a fee area and you will be expected to pay a fee at the ranger station/entrance to the park. During the summer season, expect to see the snack bar/shop staffed. The 2024 day use fees are $4 per adult, $2 kids 6-11, and free 5 and under.

Parking: The park has a relatively small parking area and if you are visiting during the summer weekends, expect parking to be challenging. You can make a reservation online before arriving at the park (up to 30 days prior). Walk-in spaces are available for visitors on a first come/first-serve basis.