Cathedral Ledge

Cathedral Ledge rises about 700 feet above the Saco River valley just west of North Conway, and a paved road makes its summit accessible to nearly anyone. From the top the whole valley spreads out: North Conway, the Moat range and on a clear day Mount Washington itself. Rock climbers cling to the face below, since the ledge is one of the best-known climbing areas in the East. A short walk along the rim gives different angles, and the sunset here is one of the most popular in the valley. At the foot of the ledge is Echo Lake State Park, with a sandy beach, a clear lake for swimming and paddling, and the trail around the shoreline. The Cathedral Ledge and White Horse Ledge views over the water make Echo Lake an obvious summer stop for families. Together the two spots form a perfect two to four hour outing that fits between breakfast and a village lunch or a pre-dinner sunset.

The Cathedral Ledge Road is open to cars in the warm months and closes in winter. Parking at the top is limited and fills at sunset, so arrive early on summer evenings. The summit has no facilities, so bring water and a jacket. Keep an eye on children near the cliff edge, and give climbers' ropes a wide berth.

Echo Lake State Park charges a day-use fee and has a lifeguarded beach during the summer, along with restrooms, picnic spots and a loop walking path of about a mile. Trails in the area climb to the top for those who prefer to earn the view, so ask at the park about current routes. Paddle rentals are often available, and the water is clear and cool.

Fall is the prime season for views, while winter transforms the ledge into an ice-climbing venue. Pair the ledge with a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad or a Cranmore summit trip. Check the state park conditions and hours before you plan the day, because road openings depend on weather and season. The area works well for budget travelers, as the main costs are the park fees and a picnic.

Use the two stops as bookends for a relaxed day. Begin at Echo Lake in the morning, when the water is calm and families get the best beach spots, then drive up Cathedral Ledge in the late afternoon for the view and the light. Photographers should bring a wide lens for the valley and a long lens for climbers on the face.

On clear evenings, the summit fills with people waiting for the sunset, so bring a jacket and be patient. Birdwatchers sometimes spot peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs, and certain climbing routes close seasonally to protect them, which is a good reminder to respect posted signs.

Nearby, the Diana's Baths walk offers a short, easy stroll to a cascade of pools, and the Hurricane Mountain Road gives another scenic drive. Note that cell service can be limited around the ledge, so arrange meeting points ahead of time and keep an eye on the sky when thunderstorms threaten. Check current hours, seasonal dates and conditions with the operator before you go, wear layers for changeable mountain weather, and keep a flexible backup plan for the day in case clouds, rain or crowds change what is possible.