Cannon Mountain's Iconic Aerial Tram Faces Retirement

Originally posted on Powder | By Ian Greenwood | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 1:42 PM ET

With millions of dollars in funding secured through state legislation, the groundwork is being laid for a renovation of the soon-to-be-retired Aerial Tram at Cannon Mountain, New Hampshire.

In preparation, the ski resort plans to begin winding down the Aerial Tram’s public operations after this fall. The new, third-generation system is set to be designed and built in the coming years.

New Hampshire House Bill 25, which appropriates funds for capital improvements across the state, funnels $27.2 million toward the project. Like a few other ski resorts in the Northeast, Cannon Mountain is state-owned and operated.

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“She’s aged gracefully, but like all legends, she deserves a dignified retirement,” said Jace Wirth, general manager of Cannon Mountain and Franconia Notch State Park. “It’s time to begin writing the next chapter.”

According to Cannon Mountain, a structural analysis will begin soon to confirm the renovation strategy for existing towers, terminals, and foundations, pending approval from New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte and the state’s Executive Council.

The analysis, Cannon Mountain added, will help determine design requirements and load considerations for the new tram.

“The Cannon tram is a symbol of New Hampshire,” said Sarah Stewart, commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “Governor Ayotte has declared 2025 the ‘Year of New Hampshire State Parks,’ and this project ensures we continue investing in our most treasured places.”

“We’re excited for what’s ahead,” Stewart added.

The Concord Monitor reported that public discussions about replacing or upgrading the aging Aerial Tram have gone back at least as far as 2020.

First opened in 1938, Cannon Mountain’s Aerial Tram was the first ropeway system of its kind in North America.

In 1980, its cars were replaced with newer models by an Italian company that could carry 80 people. Since that upgrade, the Aerial Tram has ferried over nine million passengers to Cannon Mountain’s 4,080-foot summit.

According to Cannon Mountain’s website, the Aerial Tram will operate daily this summer and fall from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until October 26. Scenic tickets cost $25.