For generations, the Old Man of the Mountain stood high above Franconia Notch, etched in granite, shaped by time, and held dearly in the hearts of all who gazed up at him. He was more than a rock formation; he was a steadfast guardian, a symbol of New Hampshire's spirit, and a reminder of the resilience that defines the Granite State..
When he fell on May 3, 2003, the mountains felt quieter. Yet the love for the Old Man never faded. Instead, it grew stronger.
The Old Man of the Mountain Legacy Fund was created to preserve this legacy and help future generations feel the same sense of wonder that touched everyone who saw him. Through private donations and the dedication of supporters who refuse to let the Old Man's legacy fade away, the Profile Plaza now stands as a place of remembrance, reflection, and connection with his legacy.
Walk the path to Profile Lake and you'll find the remarkable steel profiler rods, crafted by sculptors Ron Magers and Shelly Bradbury. Look along the edge of the profiler and the Old Man's face reappears - quietly, powerfully - against the cliff where he once stood. The engraved granite pavers and benches surrounding the plaza tell the stories of families, memories, and tributes that keep his spirit and legacy alive.
The Old Man of the Mountain is gone, but his legacy continues through the Profile Plaza, a place built by love, memory, and community. Your visits and support keep this tribute vibrant for generations to come.
Commemorative Pavers & Benches
Geology of the Old Man of the Mountain
