Franconia

Ski Areas

Cannon Mountain. The staff at this state-run facility in Franconia Notch State Park is attentive to skier services, family programs, snowmaking, and grooming. One of the nation's first ski areas, Cannon has 55 trails that present challenges rarely found in New Hampshire—for instance, the narrow, steep pitches off the peak of a 2,146-foot vertical rise. There are also two glade-skiing trails—Turnpike and Banshee—and a tubing park with lift service. Thirty-seven miles of cross-country trails are available to Nordic skiers. In summer, for $14 round-trip, the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway can transport you up 2,022 feet. It's an eight-minute ride to the top, where marked trails lead to an observation platform. The tram runs daily from mid-May through late October. 9 Franconia Notch State Park, Franconia, NH, 03580. 603/823-8800. www.cannonmt.com.

Franconia Village Cross-Country Ski Center. The cross-country ski center at the Franconia Inn has over 65 km of groomed and backcountry trails. One popular route leads to Bridal Veil Falls, a great spot for a picnic lunch. You can also enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides and ice-skating on a lighted rink. 1172 Easton Rd., Franconia, NH, 03580. 603/823-5542 or 800/473-5299. www.franconiainn.com/cross_country_ski_center.php.