Old Man of the Mountain

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.

Plaque at Profile Plaza Entrance
click image to read plaque

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 his story and help future generations experience the same sense of wonder that touched those who saw him. Through private donations and the dedication of supporters from New Hampshire and far beyond, the Fund works to preserve the Old Man's history, care for the Profile Plaza, and create meaningful ways for visitors to connect with his living legacy.

Walk the path to Profile Lake and you'll find the remarkable steel profilers, created by sculptors Ron Magers and Shelly Bradbury. Look along the edge of a profiler toward Cannon Cliff and the Old Man's face reappears - quietly and powerfully - against the mountain where he once stood. The engraved granite pavers and benches surrounding the Plaza preserve the names, memories and tributes of people whose lives have been touched by the Old Man and Franconia Notch.

The Old Man may be gone from Cannon Cliff, but his story continues. Through the Profile Plaza, the memories we preserve and the experiences we create for future generations, his legacy remains very much a part of New Hampshire.

Your visit, your story and your support can help carry that legacy forward.

The Old Man of the Mountain continues to inspire people from around the world through memories, traditions, and personal stories shared across generations. Visit our Stories & Memories page to read reflections from visitors and residents who hold the Old Man close to their hearts - and we invite you to share your own story, photograph, or memory as part of this growing collection honoring the Old Man's enduring legacy.

Commemorative Pavers
A meaningful way to support the Old Man's legacy is through the Profile Plaza Paver Program. Purchasing a personalized paver is more than a donation, it's a lasting tribute set into the heart of Franconia Notch.
Honor a loved one, celebrate a milestone, or simply show your pride in this cherished landmark. Each paver becomes part of a collective legacy that welcomes thousands of visitors every year
How to order a Paver

Geology of the Old Man of the Mountain
Glacial Ice • Conway Granite • How long was the Old Man there?

Old Man Geology →