It’s hard to believe 10 years have past since we lost this symbol of New Hampshire, though you can still see him throughout the state on road signs, license plates, and souvenirs of the Granite State. The Old Man was made of five layers of Conway granite, and probably was formed by a retreating glacier over 12,000 years ago. On May 3, 2003, when clouds that had obscured the mountain cleared away, the Great Stone Face had collapsed.
You can still make a pilgrimage to where the Old Man stood when you visit the inn. Just plan to take the 100 mile scenic round trip through the White Mountains, and about half-way, as you go through Franconia Notch, stop at Exit 34B from I-93. Turn left at the wooden sign for the Old Man, and at the parking area, follow the path to Profile Lake. There you can look up at Cannon Mountain where the Old Man stood for so many years. The Profile Plaza has steel Profilers that recreate the image of the Old Man who once watched over the lake and guarded the Notch.
While you are traveling this scenic route, make time to view the surrounding mountains from the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway (theree’s an easy hike with views of both the Green and White Mountains at the top), and visit the Basin and Flume Gorge, all located close by.
