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Cannon Mountain is retiring its iconic aerial tram this fall
Cannon will build a "next-generation tram system" in its place.
The iconic aerial tram at Cannon Mountain is being retired this fall after 45 years and will be replaced with a new tram system.
The state-owned lift at Franconia Notch State Park began operating at the site in 1938 and was the first passenger aerial tramway in North America. It was replaced by the current tram in 1980.
The tram has carried more than nine million passengers since 1980, bringing 80 people at a time one mile to Cannon’s 4,080-foot summit on a seven minute scenic ride in two enclosed red and yellow cable cars known as Ketchup and Mustard. At the summit, guests enjoy scenic walking paths and a cafe and bar. There’s a 360-degree observation deck and, on a clear day, visitors can see New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York, and Canada.
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A final day for the tram has not been announced, but officials say it will be after the 2025 fall season.
“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, in a statement. “It’s time to begin writing the next chapter.”
Cannon will build a “next-generation tram system” and says it has secured $27.2 million from the state. A structural analysis is planned, which will determine the renovation plans for the tram system’s existing towers, terminals, and foundations and help guide design requirements and load considerations for the next tram.
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“The Cannon tram is a symbol of New Hampshire,” said Sarah Stewart, commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, in a statement. “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.”
The new tram will be “designed and built in the coming years,” according to officials.
In 2023, Gov. Chris Sununu suggested replacing the tram with a gondola to cut costs, and the idea was met with disagreement by officials and residents. During an informal poll, Boston.com readers voted to keep the tramway over replacing it with a gondola, writing: “You don’t mess with tradition.”
For those who want one last ride this season, the tram is open daily through Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Round-trip tickets are $28 for adults, $23 for kids age 6 to 12, and kids age 5 and under are free. Visitors can save $3 per ticket by booking online in advance.
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