Top Winter Activities in New Hampshire

New Hampshire in winter is a magical wonderland. With snow-capped peaks and dramatic landscapes, it is an excellent time to visit the Granite State. Well, it is ALWAYS a good time to visit but we might be biased.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy over 300 miles of skiable terrain or the vast, 7,000-mile network of snowmobile trails. If you want something a little tamer, there are countless restaurants, festivals, and entertainment choices.

Whatever floats your boat, New Hampshire has it all. Here are some of the top winter activities in New Hampshire. Come visit! 

Outdoor Winter Adventures for Adrenaline Seekers

Come winter, many folks go into hibernation and seek out comforts like a warm, crackling fire. Not us! We pile on more layers and get right back out there to play. Here are our favorite things to do.

Skiing & Snowboarding

With over 300 miles of skiable terrain, New Hampshire is a mecca for snow sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a serious skier or a complete beginner, you’ll find a spot for yourself. 

One of the top spots is Bretton Woods at Mount Washington, the biggest ski area in New Hampshire. With a vertical drop of 1,500 feet and over 63 trails, Bretton is one of the busiest ski areas during the season. 

Mount Sunapee Resort has over 66 trails across 233 acres catering to all levels. Many of their trails offer stunning, panoramic views of the lake, and other activities like tubing and sledding make it fun for the whole family. 

Loon Mountain Resort overlooks the Pemigewasset River and has over 70 trails. With a vertical drop of a whopping 4,080 feet, Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch State Park is for intermediate and advanced skiers, and Waterville Valley Resort has over 60 trails and an excellent ski school.

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Cross-Country Skiing 

A great place for cross-country skiing in New Hampshire is the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation, located on Jackson’s Main Street. The area has a world-renowned network of cross-country skiing trails that are groomed to perfection, passing through the forest and farmland. 

The trails suit people with different tastes and abilities, whether it’s a simple walk in the park or an international race course. You can also try the Franconia Inn’s Ski Center and explore their groomed trails that take you through the woods and over rivers. Located in the heart of the White Mountains, you’ll take a loop around the Franconia Village with breathtaking views of the Kinsman Mountains. 

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Snowshoeing

New Hampshire also has great snowshoeing trails, such as the Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop that’s located near Lincoln. Be cautious, some trails are difficult and will expose you to unpredictable winter conditions, and some alpine experience would be useful. 

The Bear Notch Ski Touring Center has numerous trails for all levels. 

Fat Biking 

While regular mountain bikes have tires that are around 2 inches across, fat bike tires are about 5 inches across, making it possible to zip across snow. Fat biking is allowed on cross-country skiing trails as long as the snow conditions allow safe, non-impactive biking. 

Here’s a list of places that offer fat bike rentals and excellent trail systems.

• Bretton Wood’s Deception Trail System
• Franconia Inn Ski Center
• Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
• Mount Washington Valley Ski Center
• Waterville Valley Resort 

Snowmobiling 

New Hampshire boasts over 7,000 miles of snowmobiling trails, which are also linked to a vast network of trails in neighboring states. A popular spot is the Pittsburg Ridge Runners at the northern tip of New Hampshire, which has 200 miles of groomed trails for snowmobiles. 

You can also try the Attitash Mountain Village and check out Northern Extremes for rentals and guided tours around the White Mountains. For the ultimate snowmobiling destination, head to Great North Woods with 700 miles of trails. 

Unique Winter Attractions Only Available in New Hampshire

Looking for something different? New Hampshire has loads of innovative activities that appeal to all ages. 

Winter Zip-Lining 

Zip-lining is not just for summers anymore, and New Hampshire is the perfect place to try winter ziplining. Many ski resorts are now offering zip-lining to appeal to a broader range of snow lovers. 

One of the most popular spots is Alpine Adventure in Lincoln. Book their winter Skyride tour, which is the ultimate tour featuring 5 ziplines, 3 suspension bridges, and 2 racing zips. You can also try The Mount Washington Alpine Resort’s Eagle Flight Ziptour, which features 4 zip lines that span 1.44 miles long with 1,364 vertical drops.   

Cosmic Snow Tubing 

You might be familiar with snow tubing, but cosmic snow tubing takes it to the next level. Granite Gorge offers a one-of-a-kind experience with their night snow tubing under the stars. 

For an even more interesting time, try going on Saturday night when you’ll be accompanied by neon lights, disco balls, and glow-bead necklaces.

Mountain Coaster 

Adrenaline junkies will love winter coasters. Gunstock Mountain Resort has an all-year roller coaster that takes you through the forest. The downhill mountain coaster track has sweeping turns, banked corners, rolling drops, and 360-degree loops. 

The carts are equipped with brakes so you can control the speed to a comfortable pace of about 25 mph. Another place that has a winter coaster is the Cranmore Mountain Resort, at their Mountain Adventure Park. 

There are minimum age, height, and weight requirements, so check with them before you head out. For example, drivers have to be at least 4”6” for Gunstock, and passengers need to be at least three years old. The combined weight cannot exceed 375 lbs in dry conditions and 330 lbs in wet. 

Giant Swing

Cranmore Mountain Resort’s Mountain Adventure Park also has the Giant Swing, which will give you views of the mountains on a giant pendulum. The ride fits four people at a time, which is perfect for a family outing. The swing will propel you to tree top level before its released. 

Relaxing Winter Experiences to Wind Down

If you want a little something more tame, there are plenty of relaxing activities for you. 

Ice Skating

You can find ice skating in almost every corner of the state, from indoor rinks to outdoor ones on frozen lakes. Try the Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Duck Pond on the Seacoast Region, near the Strawbery Banke Museum. The museum also offers a great dining and shopping experience, as well as guided tours. 

Another interesting spot is Mill Falls, where you can access three different outdoor skating rinks. You get to choose between Lake Waukewan, Hawkins Pond, or Bay Point which gives you beautiful views of Lake Winnipesaukee.  

Soak in Hot Tubs 

After a full day of outdoor adventure, there’s nothing better than soaking in a hot tub to soothe aching muscles. Some of the resorts that are within proximity of exciting activities and are equipped with hot tubs are Attitash Mountain Village, White Mountain Hotel and Resort, North Conway Grand Hotel, and RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain. 

Comfort Food and Drinks

Grab some delicious gourmet hot chocolate at the L.A. Burdick Chocolate Shop and Cafe in Walpole. The hot chocolate is made with hand-crafted chocolates, which you can enjoy with their array of luxurious desserts. 

You can also try the Dancing Lion in Manchester, which serves delicious Mayan-style hot chocolates in a traditional bowl, and a delectable chocolatier’s selection tasting menu. 

Another New Hampshire highlight is Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill. The family-run parlor was established 85 years ago and their highlight is the New Hampshire maple syrup. If you prefer something savory, try their quiche made with local Harman’s cheese.  

Cultural & Entertainment Winter Excursions

Movie Theaters 

Catch a movie and visit the 3-screen, state-of-the-art Red River Theater. Located in downtown Concord, the Arthouse Cinema is a beautiful and intimate space for movie lovers. 

Another highlight is the Colonial Performing Arts Center. The historical building was established in 1924, and it’s where you can catch the latest movies, theatrical performances, or the latest community events.   

Craft Beer Scene

Try one of New Hampshire's craft beers and visit some of their breweries after a long day. One popular spot is The Concord Craft Brewing Company, where they make a large array of beers. They have IPA to barrel-aged stout, but the highlight is their flagship beer called “Safe Space”. The brewery is now serving full meals to pair with their craft beers.  

Winter Family-Friendly Activities 

Sled Dog Adventures

Get the whole family together and go on a sled dog ride. One popular location is the Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel in the White Mountains. It’s suitable for families and you can choose several different tours. For an introductory session, try the 1.5-hour tour through a 5-mile terrain. If you have bigger kids, you can try the 3-hour tour that’s suitable for kids ages 12 and up.  

SnowCoach Tour

Go on a snow coach tour at Mount Washington, where you're taken to a sub-arctic world. The tour starts at the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center and then climbs about two-thirds to the summit of Mount Washington. At the top, you can get off and take in the amazing views of the protected Great Gulf Wilderness and the Presidential Mountain Range. You’ll be accompanied by one of their guides who will narrate the tour throughout the ride. 

Ice Castles

Visit a winter wonderland and experience an award-winning frozen attraction at Ice Castles. Located at North Woodstock, the ice castles have an array of family-friendly activities that you can enjoy. Try the ice slides, frozen maze, snow tubing, and crawl through tunnels with your kids, or go on a romantic walk through the Mystic Forest Lightpath. Parents can also relax in the Polar Pub for winter-themed alcoholic beverages. 

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of things to do in New Hampshire in winter. Whether you want to shred some slopes or spend a relaxing day indoors, there’s something for everyone. 

If you’re thinking of visiting us, check out our charming, cozy vacation rentals at Gidana Getaways. We look forward to welcoming you! 

FAQs

What are some fun winter activities in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is great for adventurous winter activities, such as cross-country skiing, skiing and snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and fat biking. There are also family-friendly activities such as sled dog rides and snowcoach tours. 

What is the best month to enjoy winter activities in New Hampshire?

The best time to enjoy winter in New Hampshire is in December to March.

Where can I go snowmobiling in New Hampshire?

You can go snowmobiling in Pittsburg Ridge Runners at the northern tip of New Hampshire or Northern Extremes at Attitash Mountain Village. 

What is winter zip-lining in New Hampshire like?

Winter zip-lining in New Hampshire is a unique experience where you can view the winter landscape from up top. Be ready with thick layers of clothing, as the high altitude and windy mountains can be extra cold. 

Are there any unique winter events or experiences in New Hampshire?

Yes, try winter ziplining at Alpine Adventure, cosmic snow tubing at Granite Gorge, the winter mountain coaster at Gunstock Mountain Resort, and the Giant Swing at Cranmore Mountain Resort. 

Where can I try cross-country skiing in New Hampshire?

You can try cross-country skiing at Franconia Inn Ski Center and Jackson Ski Touring Foundation.

What are the best places to enjoy gourmet hot chocolate in New Hampshire?

The best places to enjoy gourmet hot chocolate in New Hampshire are The LA Burdick in Walpole and Dancing Lion in Manchester. 

Where can I find the famous ice castles in New Hampshire?

The Ice Castles is located at 24 Clark Farm Road North Woodstock. It’s accessible via Exit 33 on I-93.

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