The lull between leaf peeping season and ski season is a perfect time to explore without the crowds
Stick season in the Western White Mountains is that quiet in-between moment after the leaves have fallen and before the snow truly sets in—a time when the region slows down, the air feels crisp, and you can explore without the crowds. It’s a great season to wander scenic trails and viewpoints that are usually bustling in summer, visit local museums and historical sites that tell the stories of our mountain towns, and watch the early signs of winter unfold as Cannon and Loon Mountain fire up their snowmaking guns. Late in the season, you might even catch the first ski trails opening—proof that winter’s magic is just around the corner.
Hiking
Although the browns and greys of the landscape can feel discouraging, explore enough and you can find the same scenic beauty that exists year round in the Western White Mountains. Visit our hiking in the Western White Mountains and hiking in Franconia Notch blogs for noteable trails in the area. Higher elevations often will be covered in rime ice or light snow, creating a striking divide between fall and winter and the height of our mountains. Views that don’t exist when leaves are abundant or the trees are snow filled are now visible. Wildlife is easier to spot as well!
Snow Making on the Mountains!
As soon as the temperature dips low enough the snow guns fire up on Cannon Mountain and Loon Mountain! The race to open the trails for skiing has begun. Take a hike up Artist Bluff and you can sometimes even watch the snow making in action.
Visit Historical Sites
For a trip into the past filled with educational history, take the time to schedule a visit to the Upper Pemigewasset Historical Society
Check out our History of Lincoln and Woodstock blog to learn even more!
The Mount Washington Cog Railway runs year-round is a blast of the past as you travel up the side of the highest mountain in the North East. When the track becomes too dangerous for travel, the trains stop at Waumbek Station where you can hop off and enjoy hot cocoa and marshmellows around a crackling fire.
Are you into the paranormal? The story of Betty and Barney Hill is not one to miss diving into! Visit the historial marker on Route 3 by Indian Head Resort. For even more historical and potentially spooky explorations, visit our haunted hikes blog.
Enjoy A Spa Day
These November days are a perfect time to slow down and take some me time at one of our spas! Solstice North Day Spa has monthly specials! Viaggio Spa and Wellness Center located in the Mountain Club on Loon offers a complete menu of luxurious spa services: massages, facials, body and healing treatments, and more. Balanced Rock Bodyworks also offers seasonal specials!
Shopping
The holidays are just around the corner, visit some of our local shops! The Christmas Loft has everything Christmas- from ornaments to nutcrackers. Need something for your furry friend? Pop into The Clever Critter Pet Shop & Bakery for some handmade treats. Browse through the works of local artists at Fournier Fine Art Gallery. Create a gift at Fired on the Mountain. The Mountain Wanderer not only has maps and books, but also has local art for sale.
Notes!
November is often a month of rest and recuperation for many of our local businesses. During this quieter season, you may find that some are closed on certain weekdays or have adjusted hours.
Before planning your visit, we recommend checking their websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation and seasonal schedules.
For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.
Copyright (C) 2025 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.
