Let It Snow: Explore the Wonders of New Hampshire This Winter!

We all know that New Hampshire’s peaks can be beautiful in the summer and fall, but winter provides even more breathtaking views of snow-capped mountaintops in every direction you look.
While temperatures can be a bit chilly this time of year, the scenery more than makes up for it. Winter in New Hampshire brings glittering snowfall, leading to snow-dusted trees, with crystal clear blue skies by day and dazzling night skies bursting with bright constellations.
It also helps that New Hampshire residents are warm and hospitable hosts, making every visit welcoming and inviting. From the mountains to the coastline, New Hampshire offers an abundance of activities for the whole family to enjoy throughout the winter months. From exhilarating outdoor fun to cozy indoor experiences, it offers a feast for the senses for all ages and interests.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
The Granite State certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to outdoor adventures. If you enjoy downhill or cross-country skiing, you can ski or snowboard your way through the winter at one of New Hampshire’s many ski resorts. Not a skier or rider? Try tubing, ziplining, skyrides, or dog sledding!
Wildcat Mountain in Pinkham Notch
Known for the best mountain views in the East, Wildcat Mountain also features 225 acres of skiable terrain. Be sure to check out the Herding Cats Scavenger Hunt from December 22to April 7. Participants compete in challenges on and around the mountain for points that can be redeemed for limited edition prizes.
Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln
Located just off Route 93, the quaint town of Lincoln is a must-visit—especially for skiers and riders! Loon Mountain has over 400 acres of skiable terrain and also features snow tubing—fun for the whole family. You can also delight your visual senses with a scenic gondola skyride, and while you’re not enjoying the mountain, there are plenty of boutique shops and great restaurants to enjoy.
Cranmore Mountain in North Conway
Steps from North Conway’s iconic downtown area, you can get adventurous at Cranmore Mountain, which offers fun activities for all age ranges, including a tubing park. There’s even a Kidsrule Mountain Camp for the littlest skiers in the group! Bring your own equipment or rent from their selection of high-end performance skis and snowboards.
Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford
Want to experience skiing under the lights? Gunstock offers downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and tubing—day and night! The mountain is located just 90 minutes from Boston, making it ideal for a day trip or for a quick weekend getaway close to home.
Winter Zip-Lining at Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods
For the ultimate winter adventure ride, take a trip to the Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods for a three-hour guided zip line tour with some breathtaking views and a mind-blowing adrenaline rush. This winter activity certainly isn’t for the faint of heart.
Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel in Jefferson
Calling all dog lovers! Enjoy a thrilling ride through the White Mountains of NH behind a team of rescue dogs. There are various tour options to choose from, and you may even have the opportunity to help drive the sled. Bundle up and enjoy the ride!
OTHER PLACES TO VISIT & THINGS TO DO
Looking for things to do in between skiing and tubing and other more active adventures? Or, maybe you just prefer more relaxing winter activities, like festive lights, hot drinks, and delightful food. Here are some other options to explore.
Ice Castles in North Woodstock
Immerse yourself in a frozen world of ice castles! This park features ice slides, magical sleigh rides, and a mystic forest light walk. After your ice adventuring, treat yourself to a cold brew or hot toddy at the Polar Pub.
North Conway
North Conway’s central location in the White Mountains allows easy access to winter activities like skiing, snow tubing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and even dog sledding! If you want to take a break from the cold, head over to one of the popular outlet malls for some retail therapy and great deals.
Strawberry Banke in Portsmouth
Want to switch it up from the mountain experience? Step back in time with a visit to historic Strawberry Banke in coastal New Hampshire. During your visit, you might want to bundle up and enjoy a few loops around the Labrie Family Skate Ice Rink at Puddle Duck Pond.
Take a Drive on the Coastal Byway
If you’re looking to stay warm and toasty in the comfort of your vehicle, consider taking a drive on the Coastal Byway, covering 18.5 miles from Seabrook to Portsmouth. At the end of your journey, you may want to stop and go for a stroll in downtown Portsmouth to enjoy one of the many restaurants and pubs.
Living Shores Aquarium in Glen
For some indoor fun for the family, visit New Hampshire’s first aquarium, which offers more than 32,000 square feet of interactive activities and exhibits. There are also otters, sting rays, and tropical birds – oh my!
Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill
Need to warm up with some good old-fashioned comfort food? This NH gem features freshly made pancakes topped with NH maple syrup. Yum!
View NH’s Covered Bridges
As of 2023, we counted 60 covered bridges located throughout the state of New Hampshire. While we don’t recommend trying to see them all in one trip, you’re sure to stumble across a few during your travels. If you’re looking for pictures for your Instagram account, add a few of these to your list of stops in between your winter adventures!
UPCOMING EVENTS AROUND THE GRANITE STATE
If attending a memorable event is more your speed, there are also plenty of things going on throughout the state all winter long. Here are some options for you to check out.
LIGHTS
Now through December 31: Gift of Lights at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH, starting at 4:30 pm nightly.
Now through January 7, 2024: LaBelle Lights at LaBelle Winery, Derry, NH, 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Tuesday – Saturday

MOUNTAIN FUN
December 26-29: Let it Snow Family Fun Week, Bretton Woods, schedules vary daily.
December 26-30: Cranapalooza at Cranmore Mountain Resort, North Conway, 2:30-4:30 pm
January 3, 2024: Kick-Off Party at Cranmore Mountain Resort, North Conway, 3:30-6:30 pm

OTHER EVENTS
January 26-28, 2024: New Hampshire Sanctioned and Jackson Invitational Snow Sculpting Event in Gorham, 7:00 a.m.
February 3, 2024: Keene Ice and Snow Festival, 10:00 a.m.
February 10-11, 2024: 45th Annual Ice Fishing Derby sponsored by the Meredith Rotary Club
WHERE TO STAY IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
During your winter visit to New Hampshire, consider finding a mountain retreat or lakeside condominium where you can put up your feet after a long day of exploration and adventure. Stay-NH offers a variety of accommodations to make your NH visit one to remember. Choose from conveniently and scenically located log cabins, ski chalets, modern condominiums, and more. Book your NH stay today!

Let It Snow: Explore the Wonders of New Hampshire This Winter!

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