1Canaan

Canaan Highlights

During the 1800s, residents spent two years blasting through ledge to make way for the laying of a railroad track to pass through the town. As shown in the Canaan Historic Museum, memorabilia illustrates their “can do attitude” when facing adversity. They have survived floods, hurricanes and fires and never given up. Home to Cardigan Mountain School, an independent boarding school for middle school boys (grade 6-9), Cardigan nurtures the whole child -- academic, social, ethical and physical. The school is also the town’s largest employer. The Mascoma State Forest, with its 216 acres offers trails for hiking, walking and relaxing. The Northern Rail Trail, a 58 mile multi-use trail offers hiking, horseback riding and so much more. It spans from Lebanon to Boscawen, running through the towns of Danbury, Wilmot, Andover, Franklin and Boscawen in Merrimack County. Camping, alongside the Canaan Lake (Crescent Campsites), with its sandy beach, clear water, beautiful views, swimming and fishing, you certainly will be relaxed. Canaan also is home to Canaan Motor Club, a 1.3 mile motorsport racetrack, The racing enthusiast will definitely enjoy a challenge here!