Franconia Notch Multi-Use Path

Examination of design issues

Photo Tour

Article describing the path

A history and discussion

Use by casual, recreational bicyclists -- the kind that a path in a park is likely to attract -- is highly hazardous, and signs instructing bicyclists to walk have been posted in some sections. Signs prohibiting use of inline skates also have been posted. Wheelchair use has not been prohibited, probably because such a ban would highlight the non-compliance of the path with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The links to the left above connect to more detailed information about the path.

I thank the several correspondents who have contributed to this suite of Web pages. Photos in the photo tour are by Brian DeSousa unless otherwise indicated.

The Franconia Notch path, in Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire, is a popular recreational destination, but I present it here as a prime example of design that went wrong due to incorrect assumptions about safety, political cross-currents, and non-adherence to design guidelines. The path has blind corners, dangerous obstacles, and worst of all, extremely steep slopes.