SAM Magazine—Franconia, N.H., Feb. 6, 2025—Yesterday morning, a mechanical failure on the Peabody Express quad forced the evacuation of 64 passengers at Cannon Mountain.

At approximately 10:13 a.m., a bolt affixed to the power take-off (PTO) shaft failed on the Peabody Express. Because of the nature of the mechanical issue—the PTO transmits power from an engine to auxiliary equipment— the resort was unable to off-load guests.

Ski patrol performed a rope evacuation with the assistance of additional mountain ops personal, and all 64 passengers were safely evacuated from the lift by 12.23 p.m., according to a statement from the ski area.

“While all chairlifts and equipment at Cannon undergo regular inspection and testing, mechanical issues can occasionally occur,” said GM Jace Wirth.

All guests at the mountain, not just those evacuated from the lift, were offered the option of a refund or a credit for a future visit, as well as “complimentary hospitality” at the base area.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding,” said Wirth. “We also want to recognize the efficiency, skill, and dedication of our staff, whose priority remains the safety and experience of our valued guests.

“We have the best Mountain Ops staff we could ask for, and we're so grateful to have a team that comes together when the slush hits the fan,” the resort added in today’s mountain report.

The Peabody Express remains closed for repair. Replacement parts have been procured, and the mountain ops team is working closely with the Tramway Board as it repairs the lift, according to Ski NH president Jessyca Keeler, who spoke with Cannon communications director Jen Karnan today.

The Peabody Express is a main artery and the only chair at the resort that provides access to the Cannonball Quad summit chair when the tram is not running.

This is the second New Hampshire lift incident in a matter of days. On Feb. 2, a carrier with one rider aboard detached from the Flying Bear lift at Attitash Mountain.