Cannon Mountain is hard to miss, located a snowball’s throw from Interstate 93 in Franconia Notch. Its Aerial Tramway is a year-round tourist destination, offering amazing foliage views in the fall and access to steep, blazing-fast terrain in the winter.

Constructed in 1938, the first Aerial Tram carried 163,000 passengers in its first year. The decision for a new tram came after it was determined that the custom-made replacement parts for the original were too costly. Aerial Tram 2 opened in 1980, tripling the lift capacity with each cabin capable of carrying 80 passengers.

Although the tram is a great attraction, waiting for it to arrive and crowding aboard on a busy day might not be the best way to get to the top. A quick ride on the Peabody Quad followed by a short hop to the top on the Cannonball Quad might be a safer strategy. From Tuesday to Thursday, this is the only route because the tram is closed. This tidbit is important to remember or you will be hiking back to the lift.

Returning this year is the Mittersill double, offering access to “all natural terrain,” which really means no grooming or snowmaking. Originally operating from 1946 to 1984, the area closed due to lack of snow and income. Currently, riders can access the area from a short hike off Taft Slalom or by parking at the base of the double chair.

Last year, the resort opened its new Cannonball Pub, sporting tons of good beers on tap. The food is wicked tasty and not too pricey, so you don’t have to worry about packing a lunch.

Overall, Cannon is a very fast, steep and solid mountain. It averages only 170 inches of snow per year, and boilerplate ice is a common obstacle. But powder days can be insanely good, with plenty of glades, rock bands, easy access side country and secret stashes. Be careful when planning a trip, though—unless there has been recent snow or it’s 50 degrees out, it’s probably not the best place to ride unless you’re Bode Miller.