Cannon Mountain Rock Climbing

If you have a thirst for a challenge, a passion for the outdoors and are in "decent" physical condition, Cannon Mountain rock climbing is right for you! The Cannon Mountains are located in the White Mountains of Lincoln, New Hampshire. Steeped in high grades and consisting of sporadic weather conditions, this climb is not for the faint of heart.

In the summer, both freestyle climbers and those who utilize aid lines are seen scaling this mountain. That being said, a waterproof shelter is sometimes necessary, given mid-summer thunderstorms. In the winter, ice climbers tackle this monster. There is even a local "Ice Fest" in the Franconia Notch region portion of Cannon Mountain.

During this period of the year, Black Dike is the most popular pick of Cannon Mountain. It is easy to rappel, if circumstances require, and it is also very wall traveled in terms of path visibility. It is also considered a "mixed ice climb," so there are elements of rock, as well as ice to deal with when people undertake this particular climb. However, the advantage to summer climbing is that there are very few hot and humid days, which juxtaposes most summer days in the New England region.

The soil composition is of a granite nature, so climbers are warned to take even greater care to news of rock shifts than normal. In the same vein, climbers are also counseled to give heed to the various weather conditions associated with Cannon Mountain. Rock fall has increased in recent years, whereas before it was almost unheard of. The base of the wall at the Black Dike climb is also prone to avalanches at certain periods of time in the winter season. Additionally, for safety purposes, there is a log book for climbers to sign in at the beginning of their climb and out when their climb is complete. After a certain amount of unaccounted time, rescues crews are sent out for climbers and hikers.

Cannon Mountain offers many options during for the moderately serious to ultra serious climber. Whether attacking Whitney Gilman Ridge or the aforementioned Black Dike, Cannon Mountain is guaranteed to provide a time of fitness, challenge and a bonding of man and nature within the majestic and pristine White Mountains of the Northeast.