Despite its proximity to the highway, this little lake at the foot of Cannon Mountain is a pleasant place to pass an afternoon swimming, kayaking or canoeing (rentals $20 per hour) in the crystal-clear waters. And many people do: the small beach gets packed, especially on weekends.

There's a lifeguard on duty from 9am to 6pm mid-June through early September.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. New England Ski Museum

0.61 MILES

Bode Miller's Olympic medals are on display at this tiny museum near the base station for the aerial tram. The permanent exhibit traces the history of…

2. Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

0.64 MILES

This tram shoots up the side of Cannon Mountain, offering a breathtaking view of Franconia Notch. You can also hike up the mountain and take the tramway…

3. Old Man of the Mountain Museum

0.97 MILES

All New Hampshirites mourn the Old Man of the Mountain, a rock formation resembling a man's face in profile that remains the state symbol despite its…

4. Old Man of the Mountain Profile Plaza

1.19 MILES

Franconia Notch was long the residence of the Old Man of the Mountain, a natural granite formation shaped like a man's face that became New Hampshire's…

5. Frost Place

3.9 MILES

Robert Frost (1874–1963) was America's most renowned and best-loved poet in the mid-20th century. For several years he lived with his family on a farm…

6. Whale's Tale Waterpark

7.39 MILES

This razzle-dazzle water park looks out of place in the staid White Mountains, but you know what? If the kids are cranky after all the hiking and scenic…

7. Clark's Trading Post

8.98 MILES

Just north of North Woodstock on US 3, Clark's has been a traditional family stop since 1928. Children who've spent too much time in the car can burn off…

8. Pollyanna Statue

9.7 MILES

Alright cynics, pessimists and grouches, give it up a minute for the joyous Pollyanna statue on the lawn of the library. The children's book character, an…