Cannon Mountain Winter Hike

A pretty rugged hike for a short one! We went up the Kinsman Ridge Trail that was a good cardio workout. Up and back was 4.2 miles and definitely perfect MicroSpikes snow. The forecast was for a crazy cold day with wind chill. But it ended up being very comfortable, with some chilly wind only at the summit. A little bit cloudy early on so the views weren’t visible until later, but the trail itself with great snow formations on the trees provided all the views one could ask for! The observation tower revealed a fine panorama with a magnificent look at the Franconia Range across the notch. We butt slid certain sections of the steep descent that was a lot of fun!

Mike and Jon

The observation tower reveals a fine panorama with a magnificent look at the Franconia Range across the notch!

Cannon Mountain (4100') is also known as Profile Mountain, referring to the magnificent profile of the Old Man of the Mountain, which collapsed in May 2003.  We'll utilize the Kinsman Ridge Trail up and back. This trail climbs aggressively to the expansive ledges atop the Cannon Cliffs [3800 ft.] that provides additional magnificent views of the Franconia Range and down into the notch. The trail then moderates as it approaches the summit with its observation tower.   

Total Distance and Elevation Gain:  4.2 miles with approximately 2150 feet in accumulative elevation gain.

Total Time:  Approximately 4.5 hours depending on breaks and group's speed.

Harsh weather may postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate. 

We will be hiking in winter conditions at a moderate pace with time to enjoy the scenery. There will be ice and snow. Light tracking devices are mandatory and we may need snowshoes if there was a recent snowstorm. Light traction can be either Kahtoola MicroSpikes or Hillsounds Crampons that can purchased from your local outdoor outfitter such as REI or EMS; or online. If you don’t own a pair of snowshoes, you can always rent them from your local outdoor gear shop. 

Please have the appropriate gear/clothing to hike this time of year and the appropriate amount of layers to keep your core body warm. We recommend WINTER hiking boots, MicroSpikes, wool hat, gloves, hand warmers, rain/wind gear, warm layers, HEADLAMP and NO COTTON. Carry at least 2 liters of water, lunch and snacks.

Event Coordinators: Mike Boisvert and Jon Normand