US-20 Pemi Pop
Overview
The Pemi Loop is one of the most iconic endurance routes in the Northeast — a 28–32‑mile circuit around the Pemigewasset Wilderness that links Franconia Ridge, Garfield, the Twins, Guyot, and the legendary Bondcliff. Starting and ending at Lincoln Woods, the loop delivers exposed ridgelines, sweeping alpine views, rugged climbs, and long stretches of true wilderness. From the wind and granite of Franconia Ridge to the dramatic fin of Bondcliff, every section feels like its own chapter in a granite epic. It’s big, wild, and unforgettable — a full‑day journey through the wild heart of New Hampshire.
Quick Stats
• Location: Lincoln, New Hampshire
• Distance: 32 miles
• Elevation Gain: 9,730 ft
• Estimated Time: 12 - 18 hours
• Route Type: Loop
When to Hike
The best time to hike the Pemi Loop is June through October, when the high ridges are mostly snow‑free and the long, exposed sections of Franconia Ridge and Bondcliff are safest. July and August offer the most stable weather and the longest daylight, making them the prime window for a single‑day push. June can still hold lingering snow and ice in shaded gullies, while September brings crisp air, stunning visibility, and colder, windier summits. Outside this window, the loop becomes a serious winter mountaineering objective. For most hikers, mid‑summer through early fall is the ideal season for this granite epic.
