Cannon Mountain (via Kinsman Ridge)
July 1, 2023 | Franconia, NH
Background: I really wanted to love this hike; however, the weather forecast in combination with my aching body and tiredness from the long drive up and hike the day prior were not working out in my favor. I tried to double up my hikes on certain days, but this day, I couldn’t do it. Another factor I was not previously anticipating was the humidity; it was difficult to power through sometimes. This would be a recurring theme this trip…
Perhaps if I wasn’t as sore and tired from the previous day, I would have had a different experience. While I’m not always chasing views, it also would have been nice to experience the fabulous views offered at the top on a clear day that are supposed to be some of the best in the region. The forecast had different plans, so there would be none of that to be had on this particular day.
I hope this write-up is useful, but I also hope you have a more positive experience than I did! And if you’re not into hiking, you can take the ski lift up during certain times of year (just note if you hike up, you are unable to catch a ride down!)
Getting to the Kinsman Ridge trailhead: From the town of Lincoln, head north on I-93 N. After nearly 10 miles, take exit 34B for Cannon Mountain Tramway/Old Man Historic Site. Make a left onto Tramway Drive and you’ll be in the parking lot. Follow the loop around to the signs for the trailhead (instead of the tramway) parking. There was no fee to park in this area, and there were ample parking spots when I arrived later in the morning on a summer weekend.
The hike: Out-and-back 4 miles (6.43 km) ~2,200 feet (670.5 m) of elevation gain (depending how much you walk around at the top.) Note as of visiting this trail, you cannot take the tram down if you hiked up. AT&T cell service was mostly available throughout the entire hike.
What you can pair this hike with: for a significantly longer day or an overnight, pair it with the Kinsmans! Lonesome Lake is also a gorgeous stop, and features an AMC hut you can reserve for an overnight or stop at during your day hike for water, restroom use, and/or purchase of snacks.
You can read more about my day on the Kinsmans, here.
