Cannon Cliffs in Spring

Mt Cannon - 4100'

Mt Cannon, in Franconia Notch State Park, was home to the Old Man of the Mountains, symbol of New Hampshire. Because of this, the mountain is sometimes refered to as Profile Mountain. The cliffs on the east side of the peak are host to the most popular rock climbing routes in the state.

The most direct route up the mountain is the Kinsman Ridge trail, running from the ski area base to the summit in 2.2 miles. A more popular but slightly longer route is the Lonesome Lake trail to the Hi-Cannon trail, which starts in Lafayette Place Campground in the center of the notch. It takes 2.6 miles, and some of the climbing is very steep with many switchbacks. There's also a 15' ladder along the way and many nice ledges. A slight variation of that is to go up to Lonesome Lake and take the Dodge Cut-Off back to the Hi-Cannon trail. This route avoids the steep section of the Hi-Cannon trail. At the summit, the Rim trail is a short walk away from the buildings that gives great views of the notch.

The Cannon Ski Area has an 80 person tram which runs year round. Next to the tram base station is the New England Ski Museum, a must see for anyone interested in the history of New England skiing. There use to be a large hotel, called the Profile House that was built in the early 1900's between Echo Lake and Profile Lake.

Trailheads

Cannon Tramway - The parking area at the base of the Cannon Tramway is the start of the Kinsman Ridge trail. Take exit 34B on the Franconia Parkway, turn left at the bottom of the ramp and park in the lot. Follow the signs to the trailhead. No WMNF Parking Pass is required.
Lafayette Place - Located in the center of Franconia Notch State Park, there are parking areas on either side of the Parkway with a foot travel tunnel running underneath. The Lonesome Lake trail starts on the west side of the highway, at the southern end of the parking area. No WMNF parking pass is required.

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