Snow-Covered Bliss: Discovering the Enchantment of the Lakes Region's Premier Ski Havens
Brie Stephens
Brie has always been a devoted enthusiast of the Lake Life lifestyle, with an unwavering passion for New Hampshire and its charming Lakes Region...
Brie has always been a devoted enthusiast of the Lake Life lifestyle, with an unwavering passion for New Hampshire and its charming Lakes Region...
Welcome, snow enthusiasts and winter wanderers! As the crisp chill of winter wraps the Lakes Region in a cozy embrace, we're about to embark on a journey that's both thrilling and visually stunning. Grab your favorite beanie and your trusty skis because we're diving into the heart of the Lakes Region's best-kept secrets – its local ski havens.
Picture this: snow-covered slopes that glisten under the winter sun, a landscape that transforms into a canvas of white enchantment. If you're ready to trade your daily grind for the exhilaration of downhill adventures, you're in the right place. In this blog, we're not just exploring ski areas; we're uncovering winter wonders, and we promise there's more than just snow on the horizon.
So, buckle up (or should we say, strap in?), and let's glide into the magic that makes the Lakes Region a playground for winter aficionados. Get ready to be swept off your feet, not just by the slopes, but by the charm and allure of these local gems. Winter has never looked this good!
King Pine Ski Area
Madison
Looking for the perfect blend of thrills and chills? Look no further than King Pine Ski Area in Madison, NH – your all-ages gateway to the winter wonderland of the Lakes Region!
From bunny hills to black diamonds, and from natural snowshoe trails to a gravity-defying snowtubing hill, King Pine is the epicenter of snow-fueled fun for the entire family. It's not just a ski area; it's a snow-powered playground!
At King Pine, we believe in the magic of powder – that heart-pounding moment as you carve down a slope, the wind rushing past as you conquer each turn. But that's not all! Imagine the joy of speeding down a hill on a snow tube or the sense of accomplishment nailing that first hockey stop. It's all here, waiting for you.
With 20km of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, a rope-pull tubing hill, an ice-skating rink, and slopeside lodging that defines cozy, we've crafted an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. We're not just a ski area; we're memory-makers, ensuring that your winter stories last long after the snow melts.
Ready to elevate your winter game? Visit King Pine Ski Area's website to plan your snow-filled escapade! For real-time updates and sneak peeks, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Embrace the winter magic – King Pine style!
Loon Mountain Resort
Lincoln
Nestled within the snow-draped embrace of Lincoln, Loon Mountain Ski Resort isn't just a ski haven; it's a chapter in the legendary tale of winter. With a vertical drop that makes your heart race and a history steeped in the passion of former governor Sherman Adams, Loon Mountain isn't just a ski resort; it's a snow-covered canvas waiting for your adventure.
Dating back to 1966, when Loon officially opened its slopes, it's been a saga of expansions and triumphs. From the North Peak's CTEC triple to the South Peak's double-black diamond challenge on Ripsaw, each trail is a page in the book of exhilaration.
Loon doesn't just stop at skiing. With a terrain as diverse as the peaks themselves, from Walking Boss on North Peak to the terrain parks boasting accolades from Snowboard Magazine, there's a thrill for every level of adventurer.
As the first New England resort with an 8-seat chairlift, Loon knows how to elevate your winter game. And the excitement doesn't stop there! With plans for a South Peak beginners' area that'll make Loon the largest ski mountain in New Hampshire, this winter wonderland is expanding its horizons.
Dive into the legend of Loon at Loon Mountain Ski Resort's website for the latest updates and trail maps. For a visual feast, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Winter is calling, and Loon Mountain is ready to be your snowy canvas.
Waterville Valley Resort
Waterville Valley
Nestled in the heart of Waterville Valley, Waterville Valley Ski Resort isn't just a destination; it's an invitation to a year-round adventure. As the proud home of New Hampshire's Family Resort, Waterville Valley is more than just a ski getaway—it's a place where memories are made and traditions are born.
From the historic trails carved by the Civilians Conservation Corps in 1937 to the birth of freestyle skiing in 1969, Waterville Valley has witnessed the evolution of winter sports. With the pioneering spirit of Olympian Tom Corcoran and the legendary freestyle skiers like Wayne Wong and Nick Preston, the resort became a hub for innovation.
In 1994, Waterville Valley Resort introduced "The Boneyard," New Hampshire's first terrain park. Today, it stands as a world-class playground that shaped the careers of snowboarding luminaries like Pat Moore and Chase Guldemond. The slopes echo with the cheers of both seasoned pros and first-time thrill-seekers.
Waterville Valley Resort doesn't just host races; it makes history. Since the first World Cup Finals in 1966, the resort has been a stage for skiing legends like Alberto Tomba and Ingemar Stenmark. And the story continues with the Moguls and Dual Moguls World Cup in January 2024—a testament to Waterville's enduring legacy.
With over 72km of professionally groomed Nordic trails winding through the White Mountain National Forest, Waterville Valley isn't just a ski resort; it's an exploration haven. The resort's elevation of 4,004 feet and a vertical drop of 2,020 feet are invitations to embrace winter's embrace.
Waterville Valley Ski Resort isn't just independently owned; it's a community-driven experience. With a thriving local culture, 100% snowmaking, and nightly grooming, Waterville Valley is where families come not just to ski but to relax, explore, reconnect, and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to dive into the Waterville Valley experience? Check out Waterville Valley Ski Resort's website for all the juicy details. For a sneak peek into the adventure, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Adventure awaits, and Waterville Valley is calling!
Cranmore Mountain Resort
North Conway
Buckle up, winter enthusiasts! Nestled in North Conway, Cranmore Mountain Resort isn't just a ski destination; it's a living chapter in the history of mountain sports. As the beacon of Mt. Washington Valley, Cranmore seamlessly blends the charm of winter traditions with the thrill of modern adventure.
Dating back to 1937, Cranmore has been more than just a ski area; it's a pioneer in bringing the joy of mountain living to the masses. From the legendary Skimobile to modern high-speed quads, the resort's evolution mirrors the history of east coast skiing.
With legendary skier Hannes Schneider joining the Cranmore family in 1939, the resort expanded its trails and welcomed the era of freeriding. As one of the first to tackle grooming technology in the 1940s, Cranmore became a trendsetter, setting the stage for future winter adventures.
The resort's journey through various owners and expansions is a testament to its commitment to progress. From the Bank of Boston to the Fairbank Group, Cranmore stands as a living legacy, where each owner has added a chapter to its story of ski and snowboard excellence.
With over 170 acres of skiable terrain, 56 trails, and a vertical drop of 1,200 feet, Cranmore is a playground for skiers of all levels. And when winter takes a breather, the Mountain Adventure Park takes center stage, offering everything from summer tubing to a mountain coaster.
The Fairbank Group has invested $60M to elevate Cranmore into a four-season resort destination. With a vision to share the joy of mountain living, Cranmore welcomes families and adventurers alike to a space where traditions are honored, and new chapters are written.
Ready to carve your legacy at Cranmore? Explore more at Cranmore Mountain Resort's website and get a sneak peek behind the scenes on Facebook and Instagram. Cranmore is where winter's legacy meets the thrill of modern adventure—don't miss out!
Abenaki Ski Area
Wolfeboro
Get ready for a trip back in time with Abenaki Ski Area in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire—the oldest community-run ski area in the U.S. Founded in 1936, this charming spot not only boasts a rich history but also some exciting new features that will make your winter adventures truly memorable.
Step onto the slopes where it all began in 1936, making Abenaki the oldest small ski area in America and one of the country's 10 oldest ski areas overall. Picture the historic rope tow, the lodge's crackling wood stove, and the friendly atmosphere that has defined Abenaki for generations.
Abenaki is stepping into the future with all-new LED lighting, turning Main Hill and Twister into nighttime playgrounds. Night skiing has never been more enchanting, and with lift tickets under $20, this is an affordable adventure under the stars.
For the adrenaline junkies, Abenaki's expanded terrain park is a must-visit. Featuring 4 jumps, 2 rails, 2 boxes, and rotating features, it's a haven for riders and skiers seeking that extra thrill.
Escape the hustle and bustle of larger resorts and embrace the small-town vibe at Abenaki. With 7 trails ranging from green to black diamond, glade skiing, and one of the fastest rope tows on the East Coast, you'll discover a gem where lift lines are a thing of the past.
In a world of pricey lift tickets, Abenaki stands out with weekday rates of $8 for residents and $20 for out-of-town friends. It's the perfect antidote for when the economy tightens its grip, offering top-notch conditions without breaking the bank.
Ready for an unforgettable winter experience? Visit Abenaki Ski Area's website for all the details. Abenaki Ski Area: where history, nighttime thrills, and small-town charm collide for a perfect ride in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region!
Gunstock Mountain Resort
Gilford
Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region, Gunstock Mountain Resort isn't just a winter escape; it's a year-round playground that refuses to be confined by seasons. Whether you're craving the rush of snowy slopes or the thrill of summer adventures, Gunstock has it all and then some.
Gunstock isn't just known as one of the best ski resorts in New Hampshire; it's a snow-covered haven boasting 227 skiable acres and 49 trails. Night skiing, riding, and snow tubing keep the fun alive even after the sun bids adieu, making Gunstock the ultimate winter wonderland just 90 minutes from Boston.
When the snow melts, Gunstock transforms into a summer adventure haven. Zip through the trees, conquer the mountain coaster, and explore the Adventure Park—a checklist of fun things to do in NH for both kids and adults. Gunstock turns ordinary days into extraordinary memories, all against the backdrop of Lake Winnipesaukee's breathtaking views.
Embrace the natural beauty of Gunstock as the backdrop for weddings, meetings, or the perfect vacation getaway. Conveniently located near Boston, Concord, and Manchester, NH, Gunstock offers not just a destination but an experience. The views of Lake Winnipesaukee add a touch of magic to every occasion.
Gear up for your adventure at Gunstock's retail shop filled with ski & snowboard essentials, unique gifts, and souvenirs. And when hunger strikes, multiple dining options from summit to base cater to every palate, ensuring your energy is always at its peak.
Ready to reconnect with winter and outdoor activities? Visit Gunstock Mountain Resort's website for the full scoop and get the behind-the-scenes action on Facebook and Instagram. Gunstock: where the fun never hibernates, and every season is the best season!