New Hampshire in December: Travel Tips, Activities, and Events 

As December rolls around, New Hampshire’s winter is just picking up steam, and come Christmas, the state explodes with activity and winter will truly be in full swing. 

So what’s New Hampshire like in winter? In this blog post, we’ll look at what you can expect, share some of our favorite activities, and give you a few festivals that you might want to plan your travel around. Come visit, we look forward to welcoming you! 

New Hampshire December Weather and What to Expect

December in New Hampshire can be cooooold! The temperature averages from 36F at the highest to about 18F at the lowest. In the coldest region, which is Mount Washington, the temperature can reach as low as 4F. There’s also a possibility of rain and powerful, frigid winds in December, so make sure you prepare for them too.

While there will already be snow on the slopes, New Hampshire’s peak snow season is around late December to January. Not to worry, most ski resorts have advanced snow-making facilities to compensate for any lacking conditions. For more detailed information on the weather for each region, check out the state’s weather report online. 

Here are some tips for dressing in New Hampshire in cold weather:

• Wear your clothing in layers, such as jackets over sweaters and shirts. The temperature can fluctuate from day to night; layers can help you adjust easily.
• Wear a waterproof and windproof outer shell to keep your inner layers warm and dry.
• Protect your extremities with wool or synthetic materials to prevent hypothermia; this includes feet and hands.
• Wear protective accessories, such as a scarf, beanie, ear muffs, and hats to protect your face, ears, head, and neck. 
• Wear protective sunglasses to prevent snow blindness and glare. 

Winter Travel Tips in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is famed for scenic drives, and having your own car means you can easily access the different winter festivals. Here are some of the best road trip spots around New Hampshire.

• Mount Washington Auto Road offers sweeping views of the Presidential Range and beyond. There are also numerous resorts with winter activities nearby, such as the Bretton Woods ski area. 
• Kancamagus Scenic Byway. One of the most well-known scenic drives in New Hampshire, the byway passes through many interesting places to visit such as the towns of Lincoln and Conway. 
• Lakes Regions Byway. This road trip circles Lake Winnipesaukee, which is the largest lake in the state. Try visiting nearby towns such as Laconia to find local winter festivities.

Before going on the road trip, make sure your vehicle is well-equipped for winter driving. Some winter car essentials are winter tires, tire chains, traction mats, shovels, ice scraper, and salt. You might also want to bring some blankets, snacks, water, tool kits, jumper cables, and a first aid kit.  

For more road trip inspiration, check out the state’s recommendation of road trips for every region, complete with fun pit stops.  

Top Winter Activities in New Hampshire

With over 300 miles of skiable terrain and 7,000 miles of snowmobile trails, New Hampshire is a mecca for the snow sports enthusiast.

Skiing and Snowboarding 

Skiing and snowboarding are popular pastimes in New Hampshire, especially in the White Mountains region. Some popular ski resorts include Bretton Woods, Loon Mountain, Gunstock Mountain, Mount Sunapee, Cannon Mountain, Cranmore Mountain, and North Conway. 

Some highlights are Bretton Woods as the biggest ski area in the state, Gunstock Mountain for its nighttime skiing and riding, Cranmore Mountain for its Giant Swing, and North Conway as a convenient hub to visit many different ski resorts. With a vertical drop of over 4,000 ft, Cannon Mountain is hugely popular with intermediate skiers and serious shredders. 

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

If you’re after beautiful views, try snowshoeing and winter hiking in New Hampshire. The state has many different trails that can satisfy newbies and experienced hikers. Some beginner to intermediate hikes include Mount Major, Lonesome Lake Hut, and Mount Moosilauke. For more challenging routes, get to the highest peaks in the White Mountains region, such as Mount Chocorua and Mount Washington. 

Be sure you check with locals and park authorities before heading out for the trail conditions. 

Ice Skating

If you prefer more relaxing winter activities, the state offers plenty of ice skating rinks, both natural and man-made. Try going to Portsmouth and visiting the Strawbery Banke Museum to ice skate at the Labrie Family Skate. If you love rustic holidays, head to Jackson and visit the Nestlenook Farm for some natural ice skating. 

Snowmobiling

Largely due to the generosity of landowners, New Hampshire has over 7,000 miles of trails that link to neighboring states. Most of the ski resorts offer snowmobiling rentals, but you can also head to certain trails and rent from local vendors. 

A popular vendor is Northern Extremes, which takes you around the White Mountains Forest trail network located a few miles from Attitash Mountain Village. There are also Northeast Snowmobile Rentals in Gorham, which can take you around the extensive trail networks next to Mount Washington. 

Winter Wildlife Watching

New Hampshire is home to majestic creatures, so it’s the perfect place for winter wildlife watching. One of the best places to spot wildlife is the Kancamagus Highway, where you can find sightings of moose, deer, black bears, and smaller creatures such as beavers, raccoons, and porcupines. 

You can also head to Jackson for a winter wildlife safari to see elk, moose, sheep, bison, and wolves. The White Mountains region is known to have several winter wildlife, such as black bears, moose, and otters. For more information on New Hampshire wildlife, check out their website. 

Festive Holiday Events and December Activities

New Hampshire in December is a beehive of activity, especially in the lead-up to Christmas. 

Christmas and Holiday Festivals

New Hampshire has several prominent spots for holiday and Christmas celebrations. Christmas in Bethlehem is located in the northern area, where you can visit Santa and the Grinch, or enjoy the bonfire, free drinks, and fireworks display. 

Another must-visit town is Portsmouth, where you’ll find the Vintage Christmas festival. During the holidays, Portsmouth downtown is transformed into a Christmas capital with a lights parade, trolley rides, market square, shopping, gingerbread house competition, and musical performances. 

Holiday Lights Displays

There are plenty of places where you can enjoy holiday light displays. The most popular option is the Gifts of Lights in Loudon, where you can ride your car to drive through a fascinating motor speedway decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. 

If you don’t have your car with you, try going to Portsmouth and visit the Candlelight Stroll at the Strawbery Banke Museum. During the tour, you’ll experience 400 years of history accompanied by hundreds of lanterns. There’s also the Winter Lights Festival at Waterville Valley and LaBelle Lights in Derry. 

Seasonal Dining and Culinary Events

For seasonal dining, try Wentworth by the Sea for a gourmet Christmas dinner prepared by award-winning chefs. The hotel is a historical resort located in New Castle with proximity to other winter attractions in New Hampshire. 

You can also head to the Common Man’s Lakehouse Grille Restaurant in Meredith to enjoy some Christmas lunch or pick up Christmas dishes to-go. Almost all restaurants will have special holiday menus, so check before you make a reservation. 

December Events

There are plenty of December events happening in New Hampshire, including holiday festivities such as Gift of Lights and LaBelle Lights. 

You can also try watching holiday performances, such as A Christmas Carol, at the Palace Theater in Manchester. Head to Portsmouth’s Market Square for a tree lighting ceremony with a hometown holiday parade. 

Best New Hampshire Winter Getaways

Best Family-Friendly Winter Getaways in New Hampshire

Best destinations for families include Cranmore Mountain and Lincoln for family fun winter activities outdoors, including winter amusement parks. You can also try Portsmouth for a more festive and Christmas-filled atmosphere.  

Best Romantic Winter Escapes in New Hampshire

For romantic winter escapes, try more cozy and intimate lodgings such as the Wentworth Inn, Bretton Woods, and Mount Washington Resort. 

Best Outdoor Adventure Hubs in New Hampshire

For outdoor enthusiasts, try ski resorts such as North Conway, Gunstock Mountain, Bretton Woods, Loon Mountain, Mount Sunapee, and Cranmore Mountain. 

Final Thoughts 

December in New Hampshire is an exciting time, especially in the lead-up to Christmas. A winter wonderland, it is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays and spend time with loved ones. 

If you’re thinking of a visit, drop us a note at Gidana Getaways! Our cozy vacation rentals have everything you need to make your trip special, complete with saunas and hot tubs. Come visit us. We look forward to welcoming you! 

FAQs

What is the weather like in New Hampshire in December?

The weather in New Hampshire in December can be quite cold, ranging from 4F in the mountains at night to around 36F during the day. There’s also the possibility of snow and rain, so make sure you prepare proper gear and necessary tools for your car if you’re driving.

What are the best ski resorts to visit in New Hampshire in December?

The best ski resorts to visit in New Hampshire in December include Bretton Woods, Loon Mountain, Gunstock Mountain, Mount Sunapee, and North Conway. 

Where can I find the best holiday lights in New Hampshire?

You can find the best holiday lights in downtown Portsmouth during Vintage Christmas and Candlelight Stroll, Gift of Lights in Loudon, and Christmas in Bethlehem. 

What are some family-friendly winter activities in New Hampshire?

Some family-friendly activities in New Hampshire include joining winter festivities such as the Gift of Lights in Loudon, or outdoor activities like snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling. 

Are there any unique holiday events in New Hampshire in December?

Yes, there are several unique holiday events in New Hampshire in December, such as Candlelight Stroll in Portsmouth, Gifts of Lights in Loudon, Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth, and Christmas in Bethlehem.

What should I pack for a winter trip to New Hampshire?

You need to pack winter clothing, such as waterproof and windproof jackets, sweaters, shirts, thermal underwear, gloves, beanies, ear muffs, scarves, hats, and sunglasses or goggles. You can also pack winter sports gear if you have any. For those who are driving, prepare winter car essentials such as chains, traction mats, shovels, ice scraper, salt, tool kits, jumper cables, and first aid kits. 

Which winter activities are popular in the White Mountains during December?

There are plenty of winter activities to enjoy in the White Mountains during December, such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and wildlife watching. 

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