Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
Ride North America's first aerial tramway to 4,080 ft for stunning White Mountain vistas. Experience history before it's replaced!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular foliage colors
Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
Best Time
Spectacular foliage colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride North America's first aerial tramway to 4,080 ft for stunning White Mountain vistas. Experience history before it's replaced!
"Breathtaking experience! The views from the summit are incredible, and the tram ride is unforgettable."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save $3 per ticket by booking online in advance, especially crucial during the busy fall season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want sneakers for walking around the summit and to the observatory tower for the best views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Cannon Mountain Summit
Ascend to 4,080 feet for breathtaking views of the White Mountains, Echo Lake, and potentially four US states and Canada on clear days.
+2Historic Aerial Tramway Ride
Base to Summit
Experience North America's first aerial tramway, a scenic 8-10 minute ride to the summit offering spectacular vistas.
+1
Observatory Tower
Near Summit Lodge
A short walk from the summit lodge leads to an observatory tower with 360-degree views, perfect for photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance, Especially for Fall
+1The Current Tram is Retiring Soon!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save $3 per ticket by booking online in advance, especially crucial during the busy fall season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want sneakers for walking around the summit and to the observatory tower for the best views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos from the tram and the summit's observatory tower.
⏳ Check Operating Dates
The tram is seasonal and typically closes after the fall foliage season. Confirm dates before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save $3 per ticket by booking online in advance, especially crucial during the busy fall season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want sneakers for walking around the summit and to the observatory tower for the best views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos from the tram and the summit's observatory tower.
⏳ Check Operating Dates
The tram is seasonal and typically closes after the fall foliage season. Confirm dates before your visit.
⬆️ Ride in the Front/Back
For the best views during the ride, try to be at the front or back of the tram car.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway for its breathtaking summit views and the historic tram ride itself. Many highlight the friendly staff and the convenience of the summit lodge for food and relaxation. The upcoming retirement of the current tram adds a sense of urgency for those wanting to experience this iconic ride. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds during peak season and the seasonal operating dates.
"We rode the Cannon Aerial Tramway for the first time and had a blast! There are two cable cars, and the operator mentioned that both are set to retire in October 2025. At the summit, there's a cozy gift shop and a restaurant with great food and views. Just a five-minute walk from the top takes you to the Observatory Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views. The whole experience was really fun and memorable! Plenty of parking and the ticket was $28 for adult."
Cykard 49
"What a cool experience for us and the kids!! My 7yo was a little apprehensive at first but everyone was so friendly and happy that it really made our time here special.. didn't know what to expect but once we got to the top and saw the views we were hooked. The restaurant up there is neat we even got a beer to enjoy after our little walk. 10/10"
Ryan Bartholomew
"What a wonderful experience with my boyfriend and his family. The ride up was a little crowded but when we got to the top the views were amazing!!! We did the rim walk and was amazed with the views.Make sure you were sneakers. The in-laws stayed behind at the cafe.The ride down was a little better more room"
Marissa Laurent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway is located at 260 Tramway Dr, Franconia, NH. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available at the base. Many visitors combine a trip here with exploring nearby Franconia Notch State Park.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the base of the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which is convenient for visitors.
While some trails connect to the area, it's generally recommended to drive directly to the tramway base for convenient access and parking.
During fall, expect higher traffic. Driving is the primary method. Booking tram tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Public transportation options are limited. Driving is the most common and practical way to reach the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are typically $28, and children aged 6-12 are $23. Booking online can offer a $3 discount per ticket.
Yes, it's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially during the popular fall season, as they can sell out. Online booking also offers a discount.
Operating hours are typically from 9 am to 4:30 pm or 5 pm, but this is subject to change and seasonal. It's best to check the official website for current hours.
The tram typically operates until the end of the fall foliage season, often around mid-to-late October. Confirm exact closing dates annually.
Yes, booking tickets online usually provides a $3 discount per person. Keep an eye out for any other seasonal promotions.
🎫 🛗 Onsite Experience
The ride is about 8-10 minutes long, carrying up to 80 people to the 4,080-foot summit. It offers continuous, stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
At the summit, you can visit the Observatory Tower for panoramic views, enjoy the gift shop, and dine at the restaurant. There are also hiking trails like the Rim Loop Trail.
Yes, there is a restaurant and a cozy gift shop at the summit lodge, offering food and drinks with great views. +1
It's a short, approximately 0.25-mile walk from the summit lodge to the Observatory Tower, offering incredible 360-degree views.
On a clear day, you can see parts of Maine and Vermont, and potentially even four US states and Canada from the summit.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the tram car itself, the summit's Observatory Tower, and various viewpoints along the Rim Loop Trail.
Absolutely! Fall foliage season offers vibrant colors and stunning landscapes, making it a prime location for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details. Don't forget extra batteries!
Generally, photography is encouraged. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage in certain areas.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of it, consider booking tickets in advance to minimize wait times. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the summit area. The friendly staff also contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, making the experience enjoyable for all ages.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1During fall, the vibrant foliage creates a spectacular canvas. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the White Mountains. Remember to check the weather forecast, as clear days offer the best visibility for capturing distant states and the full grandeur of the scenery.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Even if you're not planning a strenuous hike, the natural beauty from the summit is a significant draw. The fresh mountain air and the expansive views of forests and lakes provide a serene experience for anyone looking to connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Tram and Its Future
+2This transition is a major undertaking, with over $27 million secured for the planning and replacement process. While the timeline for the new tram is still being finalized, the retirement of the current one marks the end of an era. Visitors looking to experience the classic ride should plan their trip before its closure in late 2025. The anticipation for the new tram is high, with hopes that it will continue to offer unparalleled access to the stunning vistas of the White Mountains for generations to come.
Summit Experience and Views
The true highlight, however, is the panoramic vista. On clear days, the views are expansive, stretching across New Hampshire and into neighboring states like Maine and Vermont, and even Canada. A short, approximately 0.25-mile walk from the lodge leads to the Observatory Tower, which provides an even more comprehensive 360-degree perspective. This is where many visitors find themselves captivated by the sheer beauty of the White Mountains.
+2Planning Your Visit: Tickets and Timing
+1The tram operates seasonally, usually from late spring through mid-to-late October, with daily hours typically from 9 am to 4:30 pm or 5 pm. It's crucial to check the official operating dates and hours before your visit, as they are subject to change. During busy periods, especially on weekends and holidays in the fall, tickets can sell out quickly, so booking well in advance is key to avoiding disappointment.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit