A brisk start to January greets skiers at Cannon Mountain with overnight lows dipping to 18°F and a dusting of fresh snow on the way. Cannon Mountain ski resort in New Hampshire offers a variety of trails for all ability levels, but its black diamond terrain is particularly noteworthy, with the Front Five being a favorite among advanced skiers.
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Humidity
Just 1 inch of snowpack currently blankets the slopes—well below the seasonal average—so expect thin coverage and early-season conditions across most trails. The 72-hour forecast is calling for 2 inches of fresh powder, which could slightly improve surface conditions, especially on north-facing and shaded runs. Snowmakers are working overtime to bolster base depths wherever temperatures allow, and early birds will find the best turns in the morning before the sun softens lower elevations.
Beyond the slopes, Cannon has been making headlines both for infrastructure updates and wildlife sightings. A recent chairlift malfunction led to the safe evacuation of over 60 skiers, sparking renewed discussions about lift safety. Meanwhile, funding proposals are gaining momentum to replace the iconic Cannon Tram, which will see its final rides this season before a multi-year overhaul begins. On a lighter note, black bear cubs were spotted near the base area, offering a rare glimpse of local wildlife. With rich history, rugged terrain, and big plans ahead, Cannon Mountain remains a uniquely New Hampshire experience—even in lean snow years.
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Ashburnham North.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Cannon Mountain.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Cannon Mountain impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Cannon Mountain Ski Resort, located in Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire, is known for its stunning views and challenging terrain. The resort is situated in the White Mountains, specifically in the Franconia Range. Cannon Mountain itself is part of the Franconia Range and is known for its steep pitches and rugged terrain.
Some key mountain aspects of Cannon Mountain Ski Resort include:
1. Vertical Drop: Cannon Mountain has a vertical drop of 2,180 feet, making it one of the steepest ski resorts in New Hampshire.
2. Terrain: The mountain offers a variety of terrain, including beginner, intermediate, and expert runs. Cannon Mountain is known for its challenging black diamond and double black diamond trails, as well as its glades and backcountry terrain.
3. Views: One of the most spectacular aspects of skiing at Cannon Mountain is the views. On a clear day, skiers can see all the way to Mount Washington and the Presidential Range from the summit.
4. Tramway: Cannon Mountain is home to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which takes visitors to the summit of the mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Overall, Cannon Mountain Ski Resort offers a unique and challenging skiing experience with stunning views of the White Mountains.
The resort is also known for its historical significance as the site of the first aerial tramway in North America. For beginners, the Tuckerbrook Learning Area is a great place to start, with gentle terrain and dedicated instructors. For après ski, the Cannonball Pub is a popular spot with a casual atmosphere and great beer selection. Overall, Cannon Mountain is a must-visit destination for skiers looking for challenging terrain and a touch of skiing history.
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 21. wind chill values as low as -3. west wind 7 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.
Massachusetts ski conditions today show modest but localized snowfall, with the heaviest 24-hour totals reported in Southbridge (5.0"), Hardwick (3.0"), Cheshire (3.0"), and Leicester (3.0"). Southbridge, near Ski Ward in Shrewsbury, is currently seeing the largest fresh accumulation, which is an encouraging sign for skiers in Central Massachusetts. Cheshire, located near Berkshire East Mountain Resort and just south of Mount ... Read more