The Lincoln Woods trail, a former logging railway active through the 1940 s, provides easy access into the heart of the roadless and Wilderness, and is equally popular in winter with cross country skiers and snowshoers. The trail runs alongside the east branch of the Pemigewasset River for much of its length. Railroad logging of this area began around 1880, with the last active logging utilizing the railroad grade in 1948. The Pemi roadless area contained the largest logging railroad system in the White Mountains, with the railroad grade extensively used today for many of the area s hiking trails. The bridge connecting the trail into the Pemi Wilderness is built upon pilings that once supported the logging railroad.
Many trails branch off the wide easy grade and head into the high country.
Other popular trails can be accessed directly from Interstate 93, in Franconia Notch State Park. The Greenleaf trail is one of several in the vicinity. Hikers can rest and even spend the night in the Greenleaf Cabin, 2.5 miles in and a half mile up from the trailhead. The cabin, one of 3 maintained and run by the Appalachian Mountain Club in the Pemi roadless area, provides spectacular views of the Franconia Range, and allows hikers the opportunity to traverse the rugged terrain without having to lug a heavy pack. Dinner, breakfast and bedding are provided for a fee, and reservations are recommended well in advance of your planned activity.