Cannon Mountain

If you’re at all familiar with ski history, you’re probably at least familiar with Cannon Mountain. Its list of “firsts” is long and varied. The initial aerial tram at Cannon ran for forty-two years, starting in 1938, so it’s no surprise that plenty of skiers got their start here. And, with the highest vertical drop in New Hampshire at 2,330 feet, Cannon’s long sustained runs have helped mold generations of skiers. While it might not have the biggest skiable acreage, Cannon makes up for it with interesting and varied terrain, and about a third of Cannon’s runs are expert-level, making it a great area to grow your skills.

James Niehues captured the height and history of Cannon when he painted this ski map in 2007. His artwork depicts both Cannon and Mitersill mountains, as well as the Mitersill backcountry area in the trademark detailed Niehues style. Cannon is a beacon for New Hampshire skiers, no matter where they now resided, and this map provides a little taste of home to anyone who longs for laps off the Cannon tram.

Location: Franconia, New Hampshire, United States

Nearest city: Franconia

Coordinates: 44°09′28″N 71°41′56″W

Vertical: 2330 ft (710 m) Cannon/Mittersill

Top elevation: 4180 ft (1274 m) Cannon

Base elevation: 1850 ft (564 m) Mittersill

Skiable area: 265 acres (1.1 km²)

Runs: 73 Plus Mittersill Backcountry Area (86 acres) , 21% Beginner , 47% Intermediate , 32% Expert

Longest run: 2.3 miles (3.7 km)

Lift system: 10 total: - Aerial tram (70) - 1 hi-speed quad chair - 2 quad chairs - 3 triple chairs - 1 double chair - 1 rope tow - 1 Wonder Carpet

Lift capacity: 11,000 skiers/hour

Snowfall: 160 in (4.1 m)

Snowmaking: 168 acres (0.68 km2)