I was scared (as usual) bug did Cannon last weekend – first big mountain and another of the NH48 this year! Steepest hike (elevation/distance) I’ve ever done. I actually passed people!! This hike has the best viewed I’ve seen so far with a wonderful (not scary) flat trail around the top that is just great.

Started around 9am and finished at noon (45″ ahead of the alltrails estimated time). This trail had 4 unique sections:

1. gravelly to start
2. Rocky – very wet trail. I would NOT do this hike if there was any freezing possibility with the wet/steep rocks. Not really an issue with Long Peak treads. No exposure.
3. More Pine soft paths
4. A short rocky part to get to tower and another flat trail at top

Took 1.5 hrs to get to overlook, became flatter around 1818′. Then a short scramble (not scary) to peak.

Beautiful day from the 70s to 80s. Ate 2 cliff bars and side water bottles. Poles useful but not for entire path (a little tricky in parts and needed hands). Note there was no parking fee for the lot by the tram unless you took the tram. Hiking entrance is the far left of the parking lot thru the dirt lot.

Definitely recommend this hike but it is runnable only for short distances at top and near bottom. Fantastic views! Was out of breath going up but not tired at all when done – encouraging.