Attractions

Discover the Best Ways to View Fall Foliage

September 23, 2024

Discover the Best Ways to View Fall Foliage in the Western White Mountains

As autumn sweeps through the Western White Mountains, the region transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of vibrant reds, oranges, and golds. Whether you’re a leaf-peeping enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the crisp mountain air, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of fall foliage in this stunning area. From scenic drives to thrilling aerial views, here are some of the best ways to take in the season’s splendor.

A classic way to enjoy the fall colors is by taking a leisurely drive along the Kancamagus Highway or Franconia Notch Parkway. These scenic routes wind through some of the most picturesque landscapes in New England, offering numerous pull-offs and overlooks to admire the colorful canopy. Traffic can get heavy over the weekends, opt for a midweek trip for a less crowded trip.

For a quieter, more serene experience head West on Route 112 towards Vermont where you’ll see not only the beautiful foliage, but rugged cliffs and Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves where you can immerse yourself into the foliage.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, hiking trails such as Lonesome Lake, Artist’s Bluff, and Mount Pemigewasset provide panoramic vistas that showcase the vibrant foliage against the rugged mountain backdrop. Each trail offers a unique perspective, making them perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Plan head and arrive early. Follow signs for parking as these are very popular hikes.

If you’re looking for a more unique way to view the foliage, consider taking a scenic train ride with the Granite Scenic Railway. These historic railways offer a relaxing journey through the heart of the mountains, where you can sit back and enjoy the changing colors from the comfort of your seat. For a truly breathtaking experience, hop on a gondola at Loon Mountain Resort or take a scenic ride on Cannon Mountain’s 80 passenger aerial tram, views that will leave you in awe.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are plenty of active ways to immerse yourself in the fall colors. Try paddling at Echo Lake at the base of Cannon Mountain to see the vibrant leaves reflected on the water and possibly catch a glimpse of a black bear on the ski slopes. Hit the downhill mountain biking trails at Loon Mountain Resort or enjoy the paved bike path through Franconia Notch for an exhilarating ride. You can also explore off-the-beaten-path areas with a guided ATV tour or soar through the treetops on a zipline at Alpine Adventures.

Speaking of fun, you’ll want to check out some of the traditional fall events, like Oktoberfest at Loon Mountain Resort or start spooky season early with the Ghost Light Tour at North Country Center for the Arts at Jean’s Playhouse. You’ll definitely want to fuel up before your adventures or end the day at one of our family friendly restaurants where you’ll enjoy the flavors or fall through unique cocktails, autumn brews and tempting savory fall dishes. There’s a cuisine choice for every palate!

However you choose to experience it, fall in the Western White Mountains is a season you won’t want to miss.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.

Copyright (C) 2024 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Guided Options for Exploring the Western White Mountains

April 29, 2024

The White Mountains region is vast. Even if you’re a long-term local, there’s still more to discover. Given the breadth of activities, history, and more, sometimes a helping hand is just what you need to get the most out of your vacation or staycation. Let us direct you to some resources that can guide you forward.

Alpine Adventures of all sorts

There’s no shortage of tour options at Alpine Adventures! Try a Super Skyrider Zipline Tour where you can enjoy three hours of the biggest, highest, and fastest options they have to offer. You could take advantage of the Timberline Zipline Tour with dual ziplines. You could get psyched up for the Tree Top Zipline Tour which is perfect for all levels. And you could also jump on board with the Side X Side tour that takes you off-road! No matter what you choose, there are options to suit your tastes.

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves individuation

You can be your own guide at Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves! With one mile of boardwalk and 11 astounding caves to explore, this could be an all-day adventure for you, your family, or a group of friends.

Are you seeking a bit of mystique with your exploration? Consider a lantern tour! This could be a fun, active date night or something special for friends. They also offer group rates for larger packs of people. And of course, they also offer add-ons like mining options that captivate all ages. No matter who you want to tour with, this is a great choice of destination.

Loon ski lessons

If you are interested in learning a new skill from the professionals consider a ski lesson from the experts at Loon! They offer private lessons for ages two and up and group lessons for various age groups at affordable rates. They even offer rentals if you don’t have your own equipment! Stress-free and fun-filled!

Ride the Railways

A standby and tradition for locals and tourists alike is the Mount Washington Cog Railway. Using classic steam and modern biodiesel locomotives, you and your group can climb the tallest peak in northeastern North America with ease and enjoyment. This is truly an unmissable touring opportunity. The views are something else!

The Granite State Scenic Railway is a beloved destination for rail enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you step aboard the vintage train, a sense of nostalgia washes over you, transporting you to a bygone era of steam locomotives and scenic journeys that offer breathtaking views of the White Mountains. Whether you’re a history buff captivated by the romance of rail travel or simply seeking solace in the serenity of nature, the Granite State Scenic Railway promises an unforgettable experience.

Muddy Paw Dog Sled Kennel doggy tours

Do you love dogs? Take a tour with them! Even when the snow has left the mountains, you can do a K9s & Kisses tour where you can spend intimate time with man’s (or woman’s) best friends. You can also take a 2 Mile Cart Tour with a snowless sled dog tour!

SledVentures snow and dirt experiences

Offering guided tours at beginner, intermediate, and expert levels, SledVentures is a top choice for those who want to experience snow aboard a snowmobile. Though this winter has already turned into spring, you can still try a SledVentures, but in ATV mode. Enter DirtVentures!

Out Back Kayak: ATV Tours and Snowmobile Rentals snow and dirt fun

Also offering guided ATV and snowmobile tours is Out Back Kayak: ATV Tours and Snowmobile Rentals! They can provide tours ranging from thirty minutes to one and a half hours to anyone 12+ with either an OHRV license or a driver’s license.

Team O’Neil Rally School thrills

Have you ever wanted to drift like the stars in Fast & Furious? This is kind of like that, but totally safe! Team O’Neil Rally School offers a thrilling experience from professionals you can trust

Whether you’re seeking private training or group experiences, there’s always a way to get a fresh perspective on driving.

The concierge experience

Are you looking for adventure, but aren’t sure where to start? RiverWalk’s Adventure Concierge service can help! They know better than anyone how to help you make the most of your White Mountains trip. Excursions, special occasions, and anything else you can dream up are not beyond the scope of their knowledge.

Guiding you home

If you’d like to move here, there are plenty of fabulous real estate agents who can help you live here! Some include Alpine Lakes Real Estate, Century 21 Mountainside Realty, and Polimeno Realty. And if you simply want to feel like you’re home while visiting, choose one of these options for vacation spots – Woodstock Farmhouse, Loon Reservation Service, Randy’s Lil Red Caboose, or Franconia Notch Vacations. Whether you stay for a lifetime or a seasonal stay, you’ll be more than welcome by our expert area hosts.

Being hospitable

Even the waitstaff and bartenders in the White Mountains can serve as tour guides! After all, they’ve seen and heard it all from guests. Some of the best are from Woodstock Inn Brewery. Get a beer, a meal, and an itinerary from people who know the area personally.

Regional knowledge

If you’re looking for a guide to any kind of business or attraction in the area, the Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce is here to help. As far as online resources, we have a comprehensive member business directory here and we also produce helpful blogs (like this one you’re reading) each month to ensure you know what’s fresh and fun in our region. You can also always call or email us if you’d like to speak with someone personally.

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Whether you’re here for a trek up a beautiful mountain or looking to reconnect atop a zipline, a guided White Mountains experience is waiting for you. We can’t wait to see your smiles.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.

Copyright (C) 2024 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Scott Rice: A Standard in Our Community

March 26, 2024

Even if you haven’t visited the White Mountains region, you may have experienced some of Scott Rice’s work. Scott is the owner of Woodstock Inn Brewery, which makes its delicious beer available across New England. However, his involvement with the community began long before he started his business.

Scott has been in the area since 1974 and shows no signs of leaving. He said, “I worked at the Jack O’ Lantern Resort during my college summers. After college in 1976 I started working as a ski instructor in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and here in the summer until around 1980 when I decided to buy our house and go out on my own. Our community is very, very important to my wife and me and I love seeing how my kids are now following down the same path.”

You’re family too

Scott’s business is a lot like him. It’s warm, open, and focused on the best possible experience for his family, his team, his guests, and his larger community.

“We are a family business that tries to treat our employees as family and hope that they treat our customers as their family. Many of our customers have become our family over the years. We have watched them bring their infants in after skiing for a quick bite and now many of those little babies have gotten married here at the Inn. It’s a full circle.”

Scott is focused on making everyone feel at home.

Fully invested

“I have always felt strongly that we need to support the community that supports us,” said Scott. And support it he does! Scott provided me with quite a list of ways.

He said, “The whole family is involved as volunteers and of course fundraisers. My son Keegan just did a photography shoot at the Lincoln Library that received all the proceeds. We like to use our facility in the off-season to donate and support many organizations such as the Vets Rest Stop. In the past, I have been Chamber president, a member of the Governor’s Council on Tourism, a long-time town of Woodstock planning board member, and a 40-year member of the local Rotary Club. Currently, I’m a Woodstock Selectperson and President of the North Country Center For the Arts. My wife Peg is on the local senior advisory board and the Bridge Project with my daughter Molly.”

A landmark community business

Though Woodstock Inn Brewery isn’t officially designated as a landmark, it has been a mainstay of Main Street for decades and many parts of it include local history.

“The Inn started over 40 years ago when we bought the over hundred-year-old Clement house that had been deserted for almost twenty years. He was the postmaster in town before he passed. So the main building had been a Main Street fixture for many years. We renovated it and put in the first water heater.

“Previously, it was heated in a tank on top of the kerosene stove. With a lot of sweat equity, we started with four guest rooms, lived in the attic, and had thirty restaurant seats. We served breakfast and dinner on Friday and Saturday. Since then the Inn Brewery has grown organically, adapting and trying to cater to our ever-changing customers.

“Today we have 40 rooms, three houses that we rent, and 450 restaurant seats including our function room. Many years ago we moved the original railroad station from Lincoln that was going to be torn down and added more local history. Over the years all the additions have made the place quite a maze to maneuver in. Fun fact! If you walk through the bars and restaurants, a lot of the fun antiques that you see were given to us by various locals throughout the years that they found in their homes and thought we might enjoy.”

True humility

Though many of the questions we asked Scott focused on his role in the community, he regularly referred back to the value of working together as a group. This speaks directly to his character.

When asked what he thought was the most important thing to consider if someone wanted to get more involved in a local community, he said, “Having a local vibrant community is a team effort. Everyone needs to participate in organizations that support businesses and families. The senior members of our community need to work with the young families and community members to have a well-rounded group of individuals working to make our town the great place it is. There is enough business for everyone and we all need to work together to support our residents and increase visitors to our area.”

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Scott Rice is not only a Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce member, he’s a model community leader. We are proud to know him.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.

Copyright (C) 2024 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

New Hampshire Ski Clubs: Then and Now

February 20, 2024

With Cannon Mountain, Waterville Valley, Loon Mountain, and Bretton Woods all close by, New Hampshire has become well-known as a ski destination. However, not all of its visitors know about the ski clubs that have become mainstays in the state as well as in nearby Vermont.

Ski clubs have many benefits. For example, they are top choices for people who want to take the next step in their athletic journey without the restrictions of lofty costs and they are also perfect for those who want to belong to a ski and outdoor-focused community.

To learn more, we interviewed Jeffrey Partington to get the inside scoop about the hyper-local and long standing Old Colony Ski Club as well as the details about the place ski clubs have carved out in our state’s rich ski history.

Where It All Began

New Hampshire’s first ski clubs began popping up after ski trails were first cut on Mount Mansfield in Vermont and then Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire. The first in our area was Old Colony. “There are four ski clubs in Lincoln/Woodstock, Old Colony (1938), Lexington (1964), Penguin (1968), and Snow Chasers (1970s),” said Partington.

The Rise of a New Hampshire Sport

The popularity of skiing in New Hampshire grew despite World War II and after its end.

“At least three of the Old Colony founders lost their lives in World War II. Skiing made a resurgence due to the many European emigres who settled in Vermont and New Hampshire during and after the war. In addition, members of the famed 10th Mountain Division began to open ski areas in the western United States. The 10th Mountain Division was assisted by the National Ski Patrol who recruited skiers to be soldiers because they already possessed the skill rather than the army trying to train soldiers to ski,” said Partington.

Partington continued, “After the war, like many other activities, skiing flourished. There were ‘Ski Trains’ that brought skiers to the New Hampshire Mountains (mostly in Conway) from Boston on weekends. This fed the local hotel industry in Conway and helped the creation of many ski clubs in the area. About 15 ski clubs are operating today in North Conway, one in Twin Mountain, and four in Lincoln/Woodstock.”

A Brief History of Old Colony

Though skiing started in the late 1920s and early 1930s it wasn’t at all the formal sport it is today. “Farmers put up tow ropes on their land to make extra money in the off-season. Cannon Mountain had the Taft Slalom Trail cut by the Civilian Conservation Corp in 1933 and that was a major expansion of more difficult terrain and a racing course. In February 1933, the Ski Bulletin described this as a ‘ski run equaled by nothing in the East.’ The Civilian Conservation Corps returned in 1938 to cut new trails and create a parking lot on the property. This mountain expansion gave rise to the sport of skiing in New Hampshire. As this was in the Great Depression, ski clubs began to form to make skiing more affordable and provide social activities based around the sport,” said Partington. Enter Old Colony!

While The Old Colony Ski Club is a New Hampshire-based ski club, it was actually formed in Quincy, Massachusetts. “The name ‘Old Colony’ and our logo comes from the Plymouth Colony formed in 1620, south of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, which was referred to as the Old Colony,” he said.

In the beginning, Old Colony had just 10 members. Together, they incorporated the nonprofit club on December 23, 1940. The first club purchase was also a group effort but with a larger group of members. “Our club originally saved up and borrowed money from the membership to purchase a clubhouse in New Hampton, New Hampshire in the late 1940s. At the time they had 100 members in a three bedroom, two bath house and needed a larger clubhouse, preferably closer to ‘the big hill’, Cannon Mountain,” said Partington.

And Old Colony continued to grow! In just under 20 years they would reinvest in a different property to support the goals and membership size. “In 1957 they searched and found our current location which was previously the Daniel Webster Inn and Cottages. The funding again came from member loans or assessments on the membership, and the sale of the New Hampton property. New Hampton was 43 miles from Cannon, our current location is 10 miles from Cannon and has 14 bunk rooms that easily accommodate the membership,” he said.

Nowadays their members can enjoy Cannon and nearby Loon Mountain, which is even closer.

For those who would like further details on the original members and other aspects of the Old Colony Ski Club history, a full account can be accessed here.

The Original Members Versus Today’s Members

When it was founded, Old Colony’s members were generally in their teens and 20s. This has gotten later over the years. “Our demographic is usually recreational skiers, snowboarders, and hikers who enjoy our unbeatable location in the White Mountains year-round.” said Partington. “In addition we try to do our part to support the community with affordable accommodations for someone who works part-time at Loon or Cannon Mountain.”

We asked Partington who the ideal ski club member is today and he explained that it came down to those who wanted to invest significantly in skiing.

The Ideal Member

He said, “A typical person ideal for a ski club is someone who has entered the sport and has taken the leap to try to ski more than 10 times per year. The sport can be prohibitively expensive if the skier is trying to stay in a hotel and does not have a season pass. The passes generally do not pay for themselves unless you go more than 10 times per year. After equipment is purchased the next expense is lodging. That is where ski clubs shine, they provide affordable accommodations and a social atmosphere for fellow enthusiasts to share information and insight.”

A Club for All Seasons

Even with “ski” in the title, members can come to a ski club during all seasons.

Partington said, “In winter there are Ice Castles, snowmobile rentals, snowshoeing and wine and cider tastings indoors.”

He continued, “In summer, Loon Mountain has ziplining, gondola rides, caves on top, and other activities. Special events include the New England Brewfest in June, the Highland Games in September, and the White Mountain Octoberfest in October. Last fall saw a fantastic display of Sand Castles on the Ice Castles location, hopefully, they will return. Cannon always offers a great tram ride, and Franconia Notch is second to none for hiking including the Basin and the famous Flume Gorge. Another favorite is the Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves, and on those lazy hot summer afternoons you can rent a kayak or a tube and head down the Pemigewasset River.”

In general, Partington noted that if you’re a hiking enthusiast, Old Colony’s location is unbeatable. He said, “We have access to most of the 48 4,000-footers within a short drive and we are in the middle of the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire.”

A True Community

Ski clubs, Old Colony included, are generally 21+ outfits due to their nature, so there are a lot of fun adult activities to take part in. Some are travel-based and others are simply for socializing and entertainment.

“The club generally does one local trip per year to Burke Mountain. Individual members will also do trips to other local mountains, generally Sunday River and Sugarloaf. We try to do one big organized trip per year. Lately, we have been alternating between West and East for our trips. Since 2016 we have traveled to Jackson Hole, Big Sky Montana, Lake Tahoe, Breckenridge, Utah Canyons, Chamonix, France, and next year we are off to Kitzbuhel, Austria,” said Partington.

Beyond travel, Old Colony offers many social events and has live bands monthly during the winter.

Happy 86th!

Old Colony is celebrating its 86th season. Would you like it to be your first year as a member? Take a look at their website to learn all about their membership options to get started.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.

Copyright (C) 2024 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Year-Round Alpine Adventures

January 24, 2024

Alpine Adventures’ amazing outdoor attractions aren’t reserved for warm and snow-free weather only. As the White Mountains region is a winter fun-derland, when the flakes fly, there’s just as much to see and do there. Let’s get into all the excitement you can experience.

Snowshoe Tours

If you’d like to stretch your legs during winter, Alpine Adventures has over 300 private acres for anyone over age ten to tour. The tours take one-and-a-half hours and are fully customized to the group’s abilities and desires. This is a top option if you’d like to see The White Mountains National Forest and Barron Mountain from a new vantage point.

All the following are included with the tour:

A short off-road tour
The guided tour itself
Trekking poles
Snowshoes
Micro-spikes, if needed
Transportation back and forth from Barron Mountain

Tip: It’s advised that you layer up your clothing, wear boots, and bring a pack to carry your essential items so that you can take full advantage of this experience.

Here are some good-to-knows before you go:

Participants must be over the age of ten to snowshoe and must have an adult with them.
The standard maximum group size is eight people, but special requests can be made and accommodated.
No experience is required, so this is ideal for someone who wants to try a new hobby.
Uphill and downhill hiking is part of the experience, so be prepared to work out.

You can book your snowshoe tour for just $49 per person.

Off-Roading

“Where we’re going, we don’t need roads” is as true as it was in Back to the Future as it is at Alpine Adventures, because you can go fully off-road there too!

While you can certainly take an off-road trip in summer, spring, and fall, going off-road in the winter means climbing Barron Mountain in a six-wheel drive Swiss army transport vehicle called a Pinzgauer to enjoy the stunning snowy landscape including an unparalleled view from the peak.

The Pinzgauer can hold up to 11 people, so bringing a group is a wonderful idea!

Here are some good-to-knows before you go:

Riders need to be under 300 pounds to participate.
Children under three are not able to ride.
This ride can get bumpy, even if it’s low-speed, but that’s definitely a part of the fun!
You should wear close-toed shoes and warm clothes in the winter.
These tours are good to go in most weather conditions, so plan accordingly.
A GoPro is recommended over a traditional cell phone for pictures.
Have more questions? They have a strong FAQ list available here.

A one hour and fifteen minute tour costs $54 per person.

The Winter Skyrider Tour

Have you been to Alpine Adventures before? If so, we assume that you may have already taken advantage of some of their ziplines like Treetop, Timberline, and Super Skyrider, but did you know that you can try all three at once if you book a Winter Skyrider Tour?

This special winter-only experience is a unique way to enjoy the White Mountains landscape.

The Winter Skyrider Tour includes:

Four separate ziplines
Two suspension bridges
Time inside the Treehouse, which is heated by a wood stove
Two racing ziplines for challenging friends and loved ones
Off-road transportation to the course in a Pinzgauer

Here are some good-to-knows before you go:

For safety reasons, this experience can only be taken advantage of by persons between 70-240 pounds.
People under the age of 16 must have an adult with them to supervise.
All tours begin at 41 Main Street, Lincoln, New Hampshire.
Make sure to bring and wear winter boots as they’re required.
There’s a comprehensive list of FAQs right here.

You can book your two-hour tour for a nominal $109 per person.

Thrillsville

If you’d rather go the self-guided route, Thrillsville, Alpine Adventures’ aerial course that is situated high above the town of Lincoln, New Hampshire.

During winter, Thrillsville includes:

Bridges
Cargo nets
Rope ladders
A treehouse
A brief training session on how to clip and unclip the smart belay system
A solid introduction to aerial courses so that you can eventually progress to enjoying other more advanced ones.
Three difficulty levels.

Here are some good-to-knows before you go:

For safety, thrill seekers must weigh between 50 and 250 pounds.
Participants must be at least 48 inches tall with the ability to reach up to 70 inches and no taller than six-foot-five.
Adults must be on the property if a minor is navigating Thrillsville.
Everyone needs to wear close-toed shoes.
Do you have additional questions? Check these FAQs out.

You can book your one-and-a half hour time slot for $39!

No matter what experience you try, remember:

You should plan to arrive 15 minutes in advance of your tour.
If you need to cancel, do so 48 hours or more in advance.
If you don’t have one of your own, Alpine Adventures rents GoPros for $39 per day!

Are you ready to live up to their tagline, “We seek adventure where others only dream”? We thought so! Book now and enjoy. And remember, this is your adventure destination in all seasons.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.

Copyright (C) 2024 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Everything You Should Know About White Mountains Attractions

October 19, 2023

If you’ve begun considering a trip to the White Mountains, the amount of activity choices has likely been slightly overwhelming (in a good way). But we’re here to help! While many of these attractions can be enjoyed throughout multiple seasons, we’ve broken them down by seasons you might want to take advantage of.

Ready to get started? Great! So are we!

Fall is about trains & trams

The leaves are turning and cider, pumpkins, and apples are coming into season. Have you considered enjoying the foliage from a different perspective? We suggest a train or a tram! Here are some great options.

Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

All aboard the dinner train! The Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is an incredibly unique attraction that allows riders to enjoy a five-course meal while speeding along 20 miles of track along the Pemi River Valley. Available from May-October, this two-hour experience will be one you’ll always remember (and want to repeat!)

Website: Nhdinnertrain.com Phone number: 603-745-3500

The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

It’s hard to believe it, but you can reach the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain in less than ten minutes using this tram. And, if you reserve in advance, you can save $3 off your ticket price.

Ticket prices by age are as follows:

13+ round-trip ride: $28
6-12 round-trip ride: $23
5 and under: Free with an adult
New Hampshire Senior (65+): Free Monday – Friday with an ID

Website: Cannonmt.com/things-to-do/attractions/tram Phone number: 603-823-8800

The Granite State Scenic Railway

With 54 miles of track between Tilton and Lincoln, New Hampshire, the Hobo Railroad is a mainstay attraction in the area, especially in fall. Both the trains and the tracks have unique histories and the experience is incredibly unique. Riders can start their journey in Lincoln, Meredith, Weirs Beach, or Laconia, New Hampshire. Choose your own adventure!

Website: gsscenic.com/ Phone number: 603-745-2135

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

The Cog Railway includes both classic steam and modern biodiesel locomotives. They’re first, which was steam-powered, summited Mount Washington from 1869 until 2008 and nowadays you can book various stream and biodiesel trips some of which summit, and others that take you to the mid-mountain Waumbek station instead.

Website: Thecog.com Phone number: 603-274-5404.

Winter is great for ice adventures

The New Hampshire Ice Castles

Where can you experience ice slides, caverns, archways, crawl tunnels, the Mystic Forest Light Walk, snow tubing, the Polar Pub, the Winter Fairy Forest, sleigh rides, and Arctic Alcoves in one location? The New Hampshire Ice Castles!

Oprah.com reviewed it as follows “Magical…Twinkling and sense-defying and straight out of fairy tales.”

Weekday tickets are just $20 for ages 12 and up and are only $15 for ages 4-11. During the weekend the price climbs just slightly to $29 and $22 respectively, but we think you’ll agree that the price of this spectacle is well-worth paying for. When they release, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance as they frequently sell out and won’t be available on-site.

Website: Icecastles.com/new-hampshire Phone number: 866-435-2850

Spring is about thrills

Alpine Adventures

Alpine Adventures is actually open year-round, but spring is a prime time to visit! You have you choice of off-roading on a Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 vehicle, taking a biplane tour, visiting Thrillsville (bridges, cargo nets, rope ladders, a zipline, a treehouse, and more!), or taking a low-speed roller coaster ride. Excitement awaits!

Website: Alpinezipline.com Phone number: 603-745-9911

Clark’s Bears

Trained bears AND a railroad? Yes, please.

There are actually more bear shows in summer, but spring is a fine time to see them too! The shows. Darla and Hildie are the reigning bear-trainers, but the roots of this attraction date back to 1949!

Already seen the bear show? Go on the White Mountain Central Railroad for a 25-minute ride where you’ll get to meet Wolfman…

Website: Clarksbears.com Phone number: 603-745-8913

Summer is for a waterpark

Whale’s Tale Waterpark

This park has earned a Trip Advisor Travelers Choice Award and it’s well-earned. You can surf there at Akua Beach (they offer lessons for beginners and challenges for pros), enjoy their Summer Concert Series, and make the most of their many water attractions like Banzai Pipeline, Beluga Boggin, Castaway Cove, Downpour, Eye of the Storm, Harpoon Express, Jonah’s Escape, and many others.

Website: Whalestalewaterpark.net Phone number: 603-745-8810

And many seasons are good times to visit resorts & have outdoor adventures.

Resorts

Owl’s Nest Resort

Owl’s Nest has it all when it comes to activities! In fall, enjoy golf, tennis, pickleball, platform tennis, horseback hiding, Lake Harold and the Beach, The Boathouse Pool & Bar, the fitness Center, Panorama Six82 Restaurant & Bar, and The SportsNest.

In winter, try snowmobiling on Corridor 11, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on their course, the heated pool with bar, ice skating, platform tennis, the golf simulator as well as some of the restaurant and shopping amenities from fall.

And in spring and summer you’ll be able to play all the outdoor sports as well as shop, dine, and relax!

Staying and playing has never been easier!

Website: Owlsnestresort.com Phone number: 603-726-3076

Mittersill Alpine Resort

This Austrian style four-season destination is tucked away in its own little Alpine Village. One and two bedroom suites with full kitchens are available to rent or own along with three hotel rooms.

While there you can use their indoor and outdoor heated pools, tennis courts, sauna, Jacuzzi, exercise room, game room, and visit Baron’s Pub! A full list of detailed amenities is available here.

Website: Mittersillresort.com Phone number: 603-823-5511

Riverwalk Resort At Loon Mountain

This four-season resort is all about luxury and convenience. On-site you will find a winery, an incomparable Italian restaurant, multiple pools and hot tubs, a game room, a spa, and a fitness center. Once you arrive in your studio or suite, it will be awfully difficult to leave… but if you do want to, they even have an Adventure Concierge to help you plan your visit!

Website: Riverwalkresortatloon.com Phone number: 603-745-7550

Loon Mountain Resort

At Loon Peak, take advantage of their Gondola Skyride, Zipline, Ninja Wild, Caves, Disc Golf, Hike, and Yoga. At their Bike Park they offer lessons, and as a biker you can do cross-country or e-Biking! At their Adventure Center you can try their Zipline, Climbing Wall, and Bungee Trampoline.

Gondola Skyrides, Biking, the Adventure Center, the Glacial Caves, and Disc Golf are spring, summer and fall options while Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing, and Snowshoeing are top winter ones.

And of course, there are many events like the Highland Games and Octoberfest to attend.

Website: Loonmtn.com Phone number: 603-745-8111

Outdoor Ideas

The Rocks Estate

The Rocks has been closed to the public due to an extensive restoration project, but this fall it will reopen!

The target date to re-open trails is October 1 and shortly after on November 1, the plan is to open the Carriage Barn to the public.

The 1,400-acre forest, which is owned and cared for by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, is truly something special.

Website: Forestsociety.org/the-rocks Phone number: 603-383-4186

The Flume Gorge

The Flume is a natural attraction you simply must experience at least once (and hopefully many times) in your lifetime. While the prime visit times (when The Flume is staffed and The Gorge is open) are from May-October, The Flume Gorge Trail is still accessible in winter! Entry fees are quite affordable too.

13 and over: $18 online reservation and $21 at ticket window
6-12: $16 online reservation and $19 at ticket window
Under 5: $0

Website: Nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/flume-gorge Phone number: 603-745-8391

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

Located in the Kinsman Notch is a beauty that only nature could create. Rock walls, boulders, glacial boulder caves, and waterfalls. Take the Forest Adventure Trail, see the treehouse, and walk the suspension bridge. It’s all fair (and fabulous) game from May-October.

Website: Lostrivergorge.com Phone number: 603-745-8031

Polar Caves Park

Enter passageways created by the last Ice Age’s glacial boulder activity and augmented to include boardwalks and stairs for easier exploration. There are a total of nine granite caves. There are also animals onsite including the European Fallow Deer as well as domestic and wild ducks! We know you’ll love both the caves and the animals.

You can visit from May-October.

Website: Polarcaves.com Phone number: 603-536-1888

Charyl Reardon, President of the White Mountains Attractions Association said it best, “The White Mountains region of New Hampshire has so much to offer for visitors of all ages and abilities. From towering peaks, stunning scenery unrivaled anywhere in the Northeast, spectacular waterfalls, tax-free shopping, limitless recreation, and legendary family and natural attractions, the White Mountains is a destination where visitors can create a lifetime of unforgettable memories.”

We hope you see these places for yourself soon!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov.

Copyright (C) 2023 Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Owl’s Nest: A White Mountains Standby

August 29, 2023

Owl’s Nest is well known in the White Mountains region and beyond as a premium golf destination, but today we wanted to dive into some exciting developments and some lesser-known bonuses you can experience should you choose to go there, whether you’re a golfer or not.

Building a Dream Spot

First off there have been a lot of recent upgrades at Owl’s Nest! Charlie Carpenter, their Marketing Manager gave us a full overview of the latest and greatest ones.

“Owl’s Nest has recently seen the completion of the BoatHouse outdoor pool and jacuzzi, and stage; all of which are operational and accessible to the public now; and the Sunset Pavilion, our newest wedding and event venue with a beautiful open-air design, timber framework, and located directly next to our restaurant, Panorama Six82, offering beautiful views of Franconia Notch to the north.”

As if those changes weren’t exciting enough, they’re just the beginning! Whether you’re seeking a unique place to stay, a spot to watch or play a game, or some top cuisine, Owl’s Nest is in the process of building it just for you!

“Owl’s Nest is currently in the process of building a 33-room boutique hotel, Lafayette Lodge; Slice Pizzeria, a 4000-square foot woodfire pizzeria featuring two golf simulators, ten TVs, a large center bar, and an outdoor deck overlooking holes ten and 18 on our course; and Butch’s Brooklyn Deli & Grocery, a one-stop-shop for gourmet deli sandwiches, local coffee, and other culinary delights,” said Carpenter.

Finally, there’s the exciting Vineyard Course renovations. Carpenter said, “The Vineyard is currently undergoing many changes to the course. A ten-acre vineyard has been planted and is growing along the edge of the course. Eventually, the course is expected to have a full winery and vineyard to produce its own branded wine. The course is being renovated in two phases by Robert McNeil and Northeast Golf Company. The front nine holes are currently under construction with the back nine to follow next season. Improvements to the course include a redesign of all holes, tree management, bunker removal and re-structuring, improved irrigation, new cart paths, tee enlargement, practice facility improvements, and more attention to meadow areas to create more openness throughout the course.”

He continued, “The pro shop at the Vineyard Course has undergone a complete redesign, and currently, a new restaurant, the Pemi Burger Bar, is working towards completion directly next to the pro shop. The Stay & Play units for golf groups have also gone through a complete redesign and interior update with brand-new furnishings, amenities, and furniture.”

Why Golfers Choose Owl’s Nest

There are many reasons golfers choose Owl’s Nest. Here’s a list of our favorites. It…

…is an 18-hole Nicklaus Designed Golf Course.

…has terrain that is both challenging and playable.

…is nestled into the mountains that surround the course.

…is forgiving enough for beginners and rugged enough to keep the top golfers in the region coming back year after year.

…boasts some of the highest quality turf in the region.

…has a back nine that is most well known for its intense elevation change and beautifully sweeping views.

…is a prime spot (on a clear day), where golfers with a keen eye can spot up to eight of New Hampshire’s 4000-footers.

Exciting Upcoming Events

Even if you aren’t a golfer, there are plenty of happenings to enjoy at Owl’s Nest. Most recently, they hosted their Annual Summer Bash celebration that included activities for the whole family like beach access to their 9.9-acre lake, and new pool and jacuzzi, lawn games by the pool, a Surf and Turf Lobster Bake Buffet in the LakeHouse venue and an outdoor concert with the Red Daisy Revival Band on their outdoor stage at the BoatHouse. Concert food was provided by Tartaglia’s Woodfire Pizza Truck, Del’s Lemonade, and Full Circle Food Truck and drinks were made available from the BoatHouse bar. There was also a beautiful display of fireworks over Lake Harold after the concert that was enjoyed by all!

It’s never too early to begin planning for 2024, so mark your calendars now!

As for a 2023 event, there’s still the upcoming Annual Beer Walk on Sunday, October 1 and it really is a must! Carpenter said, “It’s a craft beverage tasting festival that will feature a selection of our favorite local and regional craft beverage makers. The Beer Walk is one of the essential fall activities for guests to attend here in the White Mountains and in addition to beverage sampling, will include Tartaglia’s Pizza Truck, food from Panorama Six82, and live music throughout.”

Other Offerings

Not feeling like hitting a golf ball? Try playing pickleball! Owl’s Nest is experiencing a big rise in participation.

Carpenter said, “We’ve seen great progression with our pickleball community at the resort this summer. Our new Director of Racquet Sports, Cos Chiujdea, has immersed himself within our community and has created a fantastic array of offerings. As can be expected, Cos offers a variety of group and individualized lessons that players may customize to fit their playing level and needs. Cos prides himself on being accessible to his clients and is open to their needs and goals within the sport. Cos also offers clinics such as Pickleball 101 for introductory players, and Dinks & Drills which focuses on tactical play and strategies.”

Feeling competitive? Owl’s Nest will be unveiling its first Pickleball Ladder Challenge, running through October! “Teams will compete weekly for the best position at the top of the ladder rankings. The top team at the conclusion in October will be crowned champion!” said Carpenter.

The Owl’s Nest pickleball community is growing every day and the future is bright! Carpenter said, “Tournaments, mixers, and other gatherings will become consistent throughout the season for us and will continue to bring people together through competition and camaraderie!”

Come One, Come All!

At many destinations, you can’t bring the whole family, but at Owl’s Nest, all are welcome!

Carpenter said, “We pride ourselves on being the premier, four-season White Mountain vacation destination for families, friends, and pets alike. We offer lodging accommodations fit for any kind of stay from a couples’ retreat in our Nano Cottages to a family and friends gathering in our beautiful rental homes. Select units are dog friendly for those who want to bring their furry friend along for the trip. At Owl’s Nest, we aim to provide a sanctuary for both kids and adults alike to relax, recreate, dine, and live here.”

Unique Features & Figures

Owl’s Nest…

…is the #6 Ranked Nicklaus Design Course Worldwide by Value

…is the #2 Pickleball Resort in the world by Tennis Resorts Online.

…offers yoga twice weekly in their LakeHouse venue, live music every Wednesday at Panorama Six82 throughout the summer, and horseback rides through the

surrounding mountains with local outfitter, Abenaki Farms.

…has the largest man-made lake in New Hampshire with access to peddle boats, kayaks, and paddle boards for use (9.9-acre Lake Harold)

…hosts over 100 weddings a year cumulatively in the LakeHouse and Sunset Pavilion venues.

…has a sister golf course, the Owl’s Nest Vineyard Course, located in Ashland, New Hampshire.

…is located within a 30-minutes of the Lakes Region and the heart of the White Mountain National Forest.

…is 30 minutes from Waterville Valley, Loon Mountain, and Cannon Mountain.

…is minutes from the Corridor 11 Snowmobile Trial Network, allowing the resort to have a plethora of recreational opportunities in all seasons.

…will eventually have three on-site eateries with a convenience store.

Own a Piece of Owl’s Nest

While Owl’s Nest, like most courses offers valuable memberships, they also provide opportunities to buy a piece of paradise.

“We are now offering residential ownership opportunities with Waterscapes at Owl’s Nest in the newly developed Southlake Townhomes and upcoming North Lake Homes. The South Lake Townhomes are now selling and tours are available for the brand new model home. Reservations are being taken now for North Lake Homes,” said Carpenter. If you’re interested in ownership, more information is available here.

Carpenter said, “With the addition of new real estate opportunities at Waterscapes, we are hoping to build a strong community of families that will be with us for generations to come.”

A Place for You

Locals and travelers alike love Owl’s Nest. “Locals can expect to find a warm and welcoming resort atmosphere with a variety of activities and events to experience each week. From live music, yoga, golf, racquets, and dining, there are plentiful reasons for locals to visit us,” said Carpenter.

Carpenter continued, “Travelers can expect to get one of the most luxurious and authentic White Mountain resort experiences to be found in the area. From beautiful lodging accommodations, world-class facilities and amenities, and convenient access to all the area has to offer, travelers are indeed in for a treat when they visit us.”

We think Carpenter said it best, “Once you’re here, there are few reasons to leave!”

Hike Safe, Leave No Trace

June 6, 2023

Is there anything more soothing to the soul than nature? It has inspired poets, has been the meditative escape of world leaders, and hiking in it is a recreation choice that serves all people from casual walkers to extreme athletes (depending on the difficulty).

“Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.” – Laura Ingalls Wilder

“My wish is to stay always like this, living quietly in a corner of nature.” – Claude Monet

“The poetry of the earth is never dead.” – John Keats

“The spiritual uplift, the goodwill, cheerfulness and optimism that accompanies every expedition to the outdoors is the peculiar spirit that our people need in times of suspicion and doubt…No other organized joy has values comparable to the outdoor experience.” – Herbert Hoover

To be sure, nature, particularly the kind that can be found when hiking in the White Mountains region, is something grand to experience, but before you lace up your boots and fill your backpack, consider these helpful tips on how to help preserve nature and yourself.

SAFETY

hikeSafe and Hike Safe Cards

The hikeSafe is a program provided by The NH Fish and Game Department and the White Mountain National Forest. Together, they promote a code that all hikers and outdoor enthusiasts should follow to keep themselves safe, and they sell the Hike Safe Card.

What’s a Hike Safe Card? It’s your ticket out of having to pay rescue costs should the worst-case scenario happen to you. Also, it’s not just for hikers! Any outdoor explorer, casual and up, can purchase one for $25, and whole families are covered when they pay $35.

How to Avoid a Rescue

Ideally, you’ll never need a rescue, so to make that event less likely, prepare in advance for your adventure by doing all of the following:

Be proactive – Before you run off into the wild, take time to find out what the experience will be like (think terrain type, weather conditions, etc.). This will help inform what type of items you’ll need to pack to be comfortable and ready for anything.
Tell a friend or family member – This advice isn’t exclusive to hiking. Tell someone where you are planning to go as well as your expected return time. And, if you are running behind schedule, update that person. This knowledge will help your close contacts sound the alarm if you end up in a bit of trouble.
Go in groups and stay in groups – We know that there are some who will opt to hike by themselves, but in general, it’s always smart to bring someone along.
Be ready to pivot – Many different factors can disrupt hikes, and that’s perfectly fine as long as you react appropriately to them. If the weather takes a turn or you become unexpectedly tired, it’s time to turn back and take on the hike another day. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst – Rescue services are available, but the best case is to be ready to save yourself. Much of that preparation can be done simply by following the tips above. What you pack and the actions you take could make a major difference, so don’t take the advice lightly.

As noted above, here is an official hiker code you can review here, which inspired our list.

ECOFRIENDLINESS

Nature is beautiful, but it’s made much less so by those who harm its natural splendor. That’s why hikers should plan ahead so that they leave no trace. Here are some ways to preserve the natural majesty:

Carry in, carry out – It’s simple, whatever you bring with you should leave with you. The best way to do this is to pack trash bags for all kinds of refuse. If you pack a lunch full of chip and candy bags, keep them on your person and dispose of them at home. If you hike on a dog-friendly trail, bring bags to scoop up their poop and plan to take them with you. This approach will allow others that come after you to fully enjoy the same experience you did.
Pick up after others – Unfortunately, not everyone is going to obey the rules of courtesy, but you can be someone else’s hero (or just Mother Nature’s) by picking up trash along the way. Bring an empty bag and remove what doesn’t belong. That simple action can be a gift to the next hiker and to the earth, plus it will make you feel good inside! Win, win!
Be careful with fire – Burn local (down and dead) firewood, use campfires and fire rings safely, and extinguish fires completely every time.
Keep wildlife wild – Observe animals from a distance, refrain from feeding them, and always store your food securely.
Share the outdoors –Be kind and respectful to everyone you meet or pass in New Hampshire’s great outdoors. If a trailhead or camping area is already crowded, consider a different hike or destination. We all love the outdoors, but we don’t want to “love it to death”.

Learn more about all of the Leave No Trace Principles and more here.

PREPARE LOCALLY

Did you know that while you prepare you can support our local community? It’s true! Many of the items you need to get ready for a successful, sensational hike are available locally. Here are a few helpful stops you can make.

Mountain Wanderer
- Books, guides, maps, and more are all available at The Mountain Wanderer in Lincoln. They sell products that outline everything from the best hike choices to personal journeys.
- Visit: Route 112, Lincoln, New Hampshire
Burgeon Outdoor
- For all your outerwear needs, stop into Burgeon Outdoor. They have a wide selection of men, women, and children that will help you take full advantage of the outdoors in comfort.
- Visit: 25 South Mountain Drive, Unit A4, Lincoln, New Hampshire
White Mountain Bagel Co
- We recommend White Mountain Bagel Co for a prime before-hike breakfast. Their bagels (and everything else) have raving fans. Here’s just one example:
- “Good coffee. Good hot chocolate. Bagels were tasty and the few sandwiches my family tried were all fresh. Exactly what you want for a quick, easy breakfast.” – Jeremy A
- Visit: 25 Main Street, Lincoln, New Hampshire
Arnold’s Wayside Diner
- For a classic diner experience during breakfast or lunch, run on down to Arnold’s Wayside Diner. They serve breakfast all day long, and it’s delicious!
- Visit: 93 US Route 3, Lincoln, New Hampshire
The White Mountain Visitor Center
- For general information and a host of idea suggestions, there’s no better choice than The White Mountain Visitor Center. Free brochures, a lovely gift shop, and most importantly, a knowledgeable team await your visit.
- Visit: 200 Kancamagus Highway, North Woodstock, New Hampshire
KS Market
- KS Market is a top choice for all kinds of things including snacks, drinks, and gas. They even have a self-serve car wash, camping, RV, and car supplies, and a dump station. Honestly, whatever you might need, before or after a hike (or for any kind of White Mountains adventure) is likely there. Make sure to stop in!
- Visit: 85 Main Street, Lincoln, New Hampshire
Chutters
- While you can certainly get plenty of snacks at some of the previous places we suggested, if you’re really craving candy, Chutters is the place for you. They have the world’s longest candy counter filled with everything from your wildest dreams. It’s truly a can’t-miss.
- Visit: 43 Main Street, New Hampshire

Are you ready to go? There’s so much to see and do! Just remember to prepare, be safe, and be eco-conscious. We must all work together to help keep the world as wonderful as possible.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Get Your Thrills On in the Western White Mountains – Summer

May 4, 2023

Are you an adrenaline junkie or fueled by awesome adventures? The Western White Mountains is the perfect destination to experience year-round adventurous activities. From skiing and dog sledding in the winter to downhill mountain biking and off-roading in the summer, you’ll experience all sorts of thrills that will leave you coming back for more. Choose from a variety of day tours or weeklong adventures to fill your next vacation itinerary.

Loon Mountain Resort

Loon Mountain is a popular place during the winter months, but did you know it’s open during the summer months as well? Enjoy a 1.3-mile scenic ride to the summit of Loon Peak in their four-person Gondola Skyride. At the end of the ascent, enter a high alpine world of refreshing breezes and stunning mountain views encompassing adventure and an array of summit activities. Test your agility, strength and speed in the Wild. Ninja Wild is an outdoor ninja course packed with wilderness-themed obstacles that puts kids (and adults) to the test. Loon also has an impressive downhill mountain biking trail network and bike park!

Ziplining (and more!)

A fixture on Main Street Lincoln, Alpine Adventures provides year-round fun for people of all ages. The Thrillsville Challenge Course is a self-guided ropes course designed with bridges, cargo nets, rope ladders, a treehouse, and much more! It’s fun for all ages and a great add-on to the other adrenaline-filled activities that Alpine Adventures has to offer on their private mountain. Alpine Adventures is most known for its zipline courses and unlike other places in the White Mountains, Alpine has two different zipline tours with varying degrees of length and speed. If high flying fun isn’t quite your speed, the Off-Road Adventure Tour in the Pinzgauers is an exciting way to explore Barron Mountain. And don’t miss the new Side x Side off-road tour where you can explore Barron Mountain in your own Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000s. There are very few places in the world you can ride in a 6×6 Swiss Army Pinzgauer, Zipline across a 1500’ ravine 240’ above the ground at speeds up to 60 MPH, and challenge yourself at an aerial course.

Mt. Washington Cog Railway

The Cog is the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world and takes riders to the 6,288′ summit of Mt. Washington. With an average grade of 25% (some sections approach nearly 38%), it’s also the second steepest! Motive power is primarily provided by a fleet of seven powerful biodiesel locomotives, each custom designed, built and maintained on site. And with a nod to its steam heritage, the railway also continues to operate a pair of coal-fired steam engines in the warmer months, both well over a century old. The round trip to the summit and back is just under 3 hours!

DirtVentures

DirtVentures offer guests exciting ATV adventures and fresh air – which they say, will make you want to move here immediately! Like their snowmobile tours, there are options for both beginners and experienced riders. Get ready to get dirty!

Downhill Mountain Biking

Loon’s Bike Park is a network of over 7.2 miles of terrain located at Loon Mountain Resort. A work in progress, the mountain plans to offer over 25 miles of downhill and cross-country biking trails once completed. Whether you’re new to the sport or an old pro, this is a bike destination for all riders to enjoy. No gear? No problem! Loon rents equipment and also offers beginner lessons to help you get started.

Rally School

Live out your Fast and the Furious dreams with Team O’Neil Rally School in Dalton. Founded in 1997, Team O’Neil is an off-road driving school offering courses in rally driving, winter driving, and off-road driving for people looking for a unique experience. The facility has 583 acres with a road course consisting of corners, blind crests, and other features that you’d only see in the movies. Each course lasts approximately one to five days depending on the course and what you hope to learn. As your lessons conclude, you’ll get to take one of the specially designed cars out on the course to test your new knowledge and experience the thrill of a lifetime!

Dog Sledding

Experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of dogs through the woods and fields of the White Mountains. Muddy Paws Dog Sledding provides year-round dog sledding fun for all ages. During the summer and fall months, Muddy Paws offers snowless tours where you ride in a wheeled cart, so no matter what time of year you visit the White Mountains, you can give lots of belly rubs to the hardworking sled dogs!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

The Legacy of the Old Man of the Mountain

May 3, 2023

Everywhere you look in New Hampshire, you’ll see one of the Granite State’s iconic landmarks – the Old Man of the Mountain. It’s featured on the New Hampshire license plate, road signs, and even the state quarter! But how did the Old Man of the Mountain become part of New Hampshire’s legacy and what happened to him?

The Birth of the Old Man of the Mountain

Located in Franconia Notch, the Old Man of the Mountain is also known as the “Great Stone Face” by the Abenaki and “the Profile.” To understand where he came from, we have to go back thousands of years to the Wisconsin glaciation and the ice age. For centuries, glaciers over a mile thick covered New England. When the temperatures began to warm, the ice started a thawing and freezing cycle that created erosion in the granite bedrock that shaped the unique features of the Old Man of the Mountain. The Old Man overlooked Profile Lake from 1,200 feet above and was approximately 40 feet tall and 25 feet wide.

The Life of the Old Man of the Mountain

The Old Man of the Mountain was first discovered and written about by white settlers in 1805 when Francis Whitcomb and Luke Brooks were surveying the area for the Notch road. While farmers frequently traveled over the road to the markets in Boston, no one had seen the Old Man due to the dense underbrush. Luke Brooks woke up in camp early one morning and went to Profile Lake to gather water for breakfast and saw the reflection of the granite face of the Old Man in the lake.

Of course, the legacy of the Old Man of the Mountain predates white settlers by hundreds of years. Known as Stone Face, the Abenaki believe that a human named Nis Kizos was born during an eclipse. He became a great leader and met a beautiful Iroquois woman named Tarlo at a Kchi Mahadan and fell in love. Tarlo had to return to her village to care for her sickened family and Nis Kizos promised he would live at the top of the mountain waiting for her. Tarlo waited day and night for her through the winter, but unfortunately, Tarlo dies in her birth village from the sickness. Gezosa, Nis Kizos’s brother, went to retrieve Nis Kizos in the spring but he was nowhere to be found. As Gezosa was descending the mountain, he looked back and saw that Nis Kisoz became part of the mountain as a stone face to continue looking for his love.

The Old Man of the Mountain became famous across the country because of Daniel Webster who famously wrote: “Men hand out their signs indicative of their respective trades; shoemakers hang out a gigantic shoe; jewelers a monster watch; and the dentist hangs out a gold tooth; but up in the Mountains of New Hampshire, God Almighty has hung out a sign to show that there He makes men.”

Even Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote about the Old Man in his 1850 “The Great Stone Face.” In 1869, President Ulysses S. Grant visited the Old Man. Over the decades the stone formation began to deteriorate. Governor Rolland H. Spaulding began efforts to preserve the Old Man in 1916. In 1945, the Old Man became the official New Hampshire State Emblem and in 1965, a state highway worker named Niels F.F. Nielsen, Jr. became the unofficial guardian of the Old Man of the Mountain. He became the official caretaker in 1987 followed by his son, David Nielsen, in 1991.

The Fall of the Old Man of the Mountain

Over the years, the harsh White Mountains weather started to damage the rock formation. In the 1920s, a crack in the Old Man’s forehead was repaired with chains. In 1957, more extensive “surgery” was conducted on the Old Man to save his iconic granite face. Despite many years of repairs, the Old Man of the Mountain collapsed between midnight and 2:00 am on May 3, 2003, leaving the residents of the Granite State to mourn its most iconic symbol.

Despite the loss of the Old Man of the Mountain, its legacy lives on in the White Mountains. On the first anniversary of the collapse, the Old Man of the Mountain Legacy Fund (OMMLF) installed coin-operated viewfinders near the base where you can see before and after of how the Old Man of the Mountain used to appear. OMMLF completed the Old Man of the Mountain Memorial along the Profile Lake walkway in September 2020 so the Old Man’s legacy could live on forever for future generations to enjoy.

20 Years Since the Fall

May 3rd, 2023 marked 20 years since the fall of the Old Man of the Mountain. While the “Great Stone Face” will never be the same, it seems that the iconic site still holds a special place in visitor’s hearts.

Museum and Historic Site

Today you can visit the Old Man of the Mountain museum and historic site in Franconia Notch State Park. Take Exit 34B off I-93, drive towards Cannon Mountain and then follow the signs. At the museum you’ll discover historic memorabilia and photos about the care, repair and promotion of the state’s official symbol. The museum is open May through late October and admission is free. At the Profiler Plaza historic site you will experience the interactive sculpture that allows you to “see” what the Old Man of the Mountain looked like. There are also several informational plaques located along the trail with history of the mountain and species that were found in the area.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

The Pink Boots Society: Women & Non-Binary Beverage Pioneers in New Hampshire

May 2, 2023

Few have escaped the catchy song, “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’,” but did you know that in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, there’s a group that is putting boots on the ground in the growing brewing industry?

The Pink Boots Society is a global non-profit that takes powerful strides by assisting, inspiring, and encouraging women and non-binary individuals that are making their mark in the fermented and alcoholic beverage industry via education. Today, we’re going to introduce you to the New Hampshire chapter creator and co-owner of One Love Brewery, Jennifer Snyder.

The Beginning

Jennifer’s initial brewing adventure began with her husband. “My husband has been a professional brewer for over 20 years, he lured me in. You know what they say, ‘a family that brews together stays together’ – it’s a family affair,” she said.

While she was brewing before Pink Boots, Jennifer was first introduced to The Society by Teri Fahrendorf, the original founder of the non-profit.

Of Teri and Pink Boots she said, “Her energy just lights up a room. I met her at the BA Conference in Denver, where a Pink Boots Meeting took place. That was my first Pink Boots Meeting. Women from all over the world were there. It was so inspirational, as we are a mostly male-dominated industry.”

Events with The Society

The Pink Boots Society holds group events that welcome others to participate. “When we brew on International Women’s Day it typically begins in New Zealand and follows the sun around the world with women brewing.

“We are inclusive, anyone can brew with us that day. It’s just a really fun community event. Every pint of the Pink Boots Brew is a donation and is given to the Society,” said Jennifer.

Jennifer feels that the awareness her Society work raises is her greatest achievement to date. She said, “The Society raises money for education and training for women all over the world. To be able to advocate for women in our industry is extremely rewarding.”

And Jennifer isn’t alone in the White Mountains area when it comes to Pink Boots work. Other members include Woodstock Inn Brewery’s General Manager, Molly Rice Norby and Twin Barns Brewing’s General Manager, Alisha Wendelboe.

Women-led Brewing

As a woman, Jennifer appreciates the opportunity to brew and the time in which she is brewing. “We are entering an exciting era in brewing where more women are moving into the art of brewing. As our industry is becoming less of a ‘boys club’ – which is refreshing.

Many breweries have traditionally advertised beer by objectifying women. That is being cleaned up a lot. I am proud to be a part of this time in our industry. Women are deemed to be the drivers in consumer decisions – it’s great that marketing is becoming more about the beer than pretty girls,” she said.

As an example of how the industry is changing, Jennifer cited a recent Miller Lite initiative. They’re actually buying back their past outdated advertising and using it to create the forward-facing future of female brewing.

Advice to Others

Jennifer is passionate about pulling in more female-identifing brewers. She knows the value of continued inclusion.

‘We need more people like you who are naturally curious about the evolution of the brewing industry. Brewing is as ancient as history and with today’s brewing techniques combined with consumer-driven passion, it’s evolving even faster than ever,” she said.

A positive force to be reckoned with, Jennifer challenges others to step up and make the most of their lives and careers. “Don’t let anyone hold you back, it’s a great career path and industry. We literally have the best people in our industry – how can you be unhappy when you get to create beer?” she said.

A Day in the Life

While her work with The Society itself is important, Jennifer is a busy brewer every day. “As co-owner of One Love – there are many many hats (oh so many) to wear every day. I can be found anywhere from the brewery, to working in the kitchen, to greeting guests. I love being able to work in all aspects of the daily operations,” she said.

That busyness is only matched by the popularity and variety of her beers. While One Love started their brewery with a beer called Dunkle, it’s their Helles that keeps her customers coming back thirsty.

Pro Tip! One Love Brewery specializes in creative pub food alongside beer. Jennifer loves to pair an IPA with the firecracker nachos. We highly recommend giving them a try when you visit.

Crafting Something Special

It’s the grind and sharing that make brewing special for Jennifer. “It’s extremely rewarding to be able to make beer. For sure it’s hard work but to be able to share a beer with friends that we made is incredible. Many bigger breweries are all automated at this point. Being a small craft brewery we still get to roll up our sleeves and get a little sweaty brewing,” she said.

And the connections she’s made keep inspiring her to do better and better. “I love connecting with our guests and community. I love the creativity of the industry and the fast pace. I also adore my peers, they are for the most part the kindest down-to-earth humans you will ever find,” she said.

Fun Fact! Naming beer at One Love Brewery is a fun process. They use a lot of local references and avoid taking themselves too seriously. “Some beers are named after beats like ‘Untz, Untz, Untz’ ( think German disco beat), and ‘Rue La La is named after one of our pups.’ ‘Al’s Still Here’ is named after my Dad who helped us start the brewery and passed away soon after,” said Jennifer.

Visiting One Love Brewery

One Love Brewery is certainly about incredible beer and tasty food, but they also have musical entertainment with many varied styles. Likely ones you haven’t heard! “Most of our musicians are very local. A few years back we had a ‘Bones Band.’ Yep – they played percussion with real bones!” said Jennifer.

The brewery is located at 25 South Mountain Drive in Lincoln, New Hampshire. We hope you’ll stop by for a beer, food, and fun while you’re in the White Mountains!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Laconia Motorcycle Week® Returns for its 100th Year

April 26, 2023

Summer is on the horizon and with it will come one of New Hampshire’s favorite, longest-running traditions – Laconia Motorcycle Week®. The dates for this year’s motorcycle rally are June 10-18, 2023 and the schedule is actively taking shape.

With it being their 100th year and the fact that this is the world’s oldest motorcycle rally, outpacing other extremely popular rides like Daytona, Florida, and Sturgis, South Dakota, the excitement is palpable. Hundreds of thousands of people come every year to be a part of this historic rally and we expect that this anniversary year will be no exception.

A Brief History of Laconia Motorcycle Week®

The Laconia Motorcycle Week® began in 1916 when a Gypsy Tour first gathered at Weirs Beach to go riding. Just one year later it was made official by the Federation of American Motorcyclists (FAM).

Their goal was simple: “To provide a good time for the riders, and their wives, sisters, and sweet-hearts,” and “To create a more favorable public opinion of the motorcycle and motorcycle riders.”

Today, Laconia is still the home base of the ride, and the spirit of the goals they penned originally live on, but they have expanded to be more inclusive of different types of riders, including women.

They’ve also updated their name over the years from the “New England Gypsy Tour” to the “New England Tour & Rally,” and now they are well-known as the Laconia Motorcycle Week®. It’s an extremely progressive event loved by the entire Lakes Region and beyond.

Where to Explore

Numerous riders take advantage of the event’s close proximity to the White Mountains and reserve a day or two for exploring. The Weeks Act Legacy Trail is an awesome 100-mile driving loop that provides dozens (40 to be exact!) of recreational opportunities along with views that seemingly never end.

While you’re in the area why not stop, smell the roses, and take in the natural beauty? There’s a lot to see and do whether it’s affiliated directly with the week or not! New Hampshire is scenic and special, and luckily, a motorcycle is a perfect way to reach some of the best destinations you can imagine. The “trail” begins and ends near Lincoln, NH, here in the heart of the Western White Mountains, so we’ve put together a local guide that’s sure to please while you’re here!

Franconia Notch State Park

Whether you’ve been there once or one hundred times, Franconia Notch State Park is well worth a visit. The Basin is an especially popular and beautiful spot. This large natural feature dates back to the Ice Age!

Samuel Eastma n described it as, “One of the beautiful haunts of Nature, a luxurious and delicious bath fit for the ablutions of a goddess.”

You can take a walk down the paths, hike, or simply bring a picnic and enjoy the view. Whatever you choose to do, it’s going to be wonderful.

Loon Mountain Resort

Take a break from your ride to take the White Mountain Express Gondola to the summit of Loon peak. This 1.3 mile ride awards you with breathtaking mountain views and clean crisp air!

The Woodstock Inn Brewery

During Laconia Motorcycle Week® it’s not unusual to see bikes of all kinds lining the road to this popular destination. Some riders choose to stay there overnight year after year (a great choice!) while others come for the delicious beer and food.

Insider Tip! The Woodstock Inn Brewery is an innovative spot that runs (tasty) brewing experiments to determine the best kinds of beer to mass produce. While there you’ll typically be able to try something special alongside their signature beers like Pig’s Ear brown ale.

Souvenir Hunting

You’ll certainly want to remember this 100th Laconia Motorcycle Week®, so why not take some time to find the perfect White Mountains souvenir? Visit Arnold’s Antiques on Main Street in N. Woodstock for a blast from the past along with newly collected local items!

Family Fun

You can spend an entire afternoon exploring Clark’s Bears. From local gifts to attractions, train rides, and more, Clark’s is sure to please!

Want the kids to burn off some steam before heading back to the events? Check out Kids Studio Play or Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves for all the fun a kiddo could want!

Kancamagus Highway Adventure

The Kancamagus Highway is a beautiful ride at all times, but we recommend a late afternoon drive for the best views from the many pitstop lookouts. Plus, there’s the added benefit of grabbing dinner on the deck at One Love Brewery! The beer is terrific and they also offer trivia and live music on certain nights.

Scale Mount Washington

There are several ways to enjoy Mount Washington. You could take your motorcycle up the mountain directly, or if you would rather include non-riding family members or friends you can choose to ride the Cog Railway! Either way, there’s no bad way to experience the highest elevation in the northeast.

Where to Eat and Drink

Black Diamond Pub – Enjoy classic New England pub fare and a deep selection of beers, wines and spirits in a lively casual atmosphere.

Woodstock Inn Brewery – When they say “Come hungry”, they mean it! Great atmosphere & live music on weekends!

Common Man Lincoln – Enjoy dinner in our dining room or in our Bar ‘n grill, complete with cozy couches, a fieldstone fireplace, and parlor games. Settle in and make yourself at home!

Merlands Tap & Table – Enjoy a game of shuffleboard or pool and enjoy some of the best burgers around.

One Love Brewery – Take a break from riding on the outdoor patio!

Polly’s Pancake Parlor – Fuel up on the best pancakes around while taking in mountain views in beautiful Sugar Hill.

Pub 32 – No beer or pizza next 32 miles. A classic stop before or after a ride on the Kanc!

Rhythm Cider & Seven Birches Winery – Stop into Rhythm Studio or Seven Birches Winery for local handcrafted beverages, included wine, mead and cider.

Twin Barns Brewing Co. North Taproom – This new addition to Main Street in North Woodstock is BYOF, so grab a bite from nearby and settle in with a cold one on the outdoor patio and watch the bikes roll by.

White Mountain Bagel – Looking for a quick but delicious bite on your way through town? Order online and grab a bagel or sandwich to fuel your adventure.

Where to Stay

The traditional way to experience Laconia Motorcycle Week® includes camping as the lodging choice, but that’s far from the only hospitality option! Of course, there are many other options for local hotels and motels, so we encourage you to do research to find one that suits your personal preferences.

Prefer to stay with us here in the Western White Mountains? There are lots of great options ranging from resorts to cabins to campsites and everything in between!

Check out our destination lodging partners below!

Indian Head Resort
800-343-8000

A full-service, family-friendly resort located in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Enjoy four-season lodging, unparalleled views, two pools and hot tubs, fishing and pedal boating on private Shadow Lake, and much more. Located at the southern entrance of the Franconia Notch, we are minutes away from local attractions and outdoor recreation of all kinds. With our variety of thoughtful amenities and features, there is something for everyone, every season to enjoy.

Mountain Club on Loon
800-229-7829

The only resort hotel located slopeside on Loon Mountain. Year-round adventure is steps away.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites
603-745-6700

Holiday Inn Express East Lincoln is only 3.7km from Franconia Notch State Park, Georgiana Falls and Loon Mountain. A complimentary deluxe hot breakfast is served daily. Guests can make use of an indoor pool and Jacuzzi or go hike the local trails, enjoy amazing family friendly attractions, and mountain taste the cuisine of the Western White Mountains. This resort property is 5 minutes’ to Jean’s Playhouse. A 10-minute walk to the center of Lincoln.

Inn Seasons Resorts Pollard Brook
800-228-2968

Luxurious 1, 2 & 3 bedroom condominiums w/ whirlpool tubs include fully equipped kitchen, dining area, full size living room w/ gas fireplace & private balcony. Indoor/outdoor heated pools, outdoor kiddie pool, playground, picnic area & tennis courts.

Woodstock Inn Brewery
603-745-3951

The Woodstock Inn Brewery – nestled in the White Mountains of North Woodstock, NH – is favorite travel destination for many visitors who come to eat, drink and even stay over (breakfast included!) In addition to the inn, bars and restaurants the brewery is celebrating more than 20 years in the brewing industry!

Mittersill Alpine Resort
603-823-5511

Located in scenic Franconia Notch. Enjoy the many nearby historical sights and outdoor activities in the heart of NH’s White Mountain National Forest. Minutes from all area attractions, including nearby hiking and bike trails, and the Cannon/Mittersill Mountain Ski Area.

Quality Inn & Suites
603-745-3661

Spectacular mountain location and superb amenities make the EconoLodge Inn & Suites of Lincoln, NH the very best choice for your lodging in the White Mountains Region. We are centrally located among all major White Mountain attractions. The best value for your hard-earned dollar is here. We are a AAA approved family motel conveniently located just off I-93 at Exit 33!

Kancamagus Lodge
800-346-4205

Affordable Lodging, Convenient Location, Excellent Amenities including two on site restaurants.

Riverbank Motel & Cabins
800-633-5624

Come stay at our quaint and cozy property just steps from Clark’s Trading Post. Our 11 motel units and Pemi cottage provide a peaceful retreat along the Pemigewasset River, while our 3 cabins boast the best river views possible right from your living room window!

Rivergreen Resort Hotel & Condominiums
888-784-7829

Riverfront condo hotel. Rooms range from hotel rooms and studios to one and two bedroom units with kitchens, in-room jacuzzis. Enjoy the indoor pool and hot tub, fitness room, great room and BBQ area with screened in gazebo.

RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain
603-745-7500

Grand new destination experience in the center of Lincoln offering studio to three bedroom suites. Enjoy luxury suites with full kitchens, spacious living areas and soaker tubs, state of the art gym, game room and ice skating rink, year-round outdoor heated pool, on-site winery, day spa and Italian restaurant.

Sugar Hill Inn
800-548-4748

A romantic getaway known for fine dining and warm, inviting guest rooms and cottages. Surround yourself with amazing views, beautiful art, comfort, romance and luxury. Many rooms have gas fireplaces, refrigerators and whirlpool tubs. The Inn is for couples only, no children.

Wilderness Inn Bed & Breakfast
603-745-3890

The Wilderness Inn is snuggled within the White Mountain National Forest in a quaint New England town. Built in 1912 as a lumber mill owner’s home, the inn still has a craftsman style décor that welcomes guests to this “neck of the woods”. Relaxing and intimate ”Craftsman style” B&B.

Inn 32
800-822-7666

Inn 32 lies in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Inn 32 provides affordable accommodations conveniently located on I-93 off exit 32 in North Woodstock.

Nordic Inn
603-745-2230

Condominium Resort, spacious 1, 2 & 3 BR units with gas fireplace, balcony or deck, and full kitchen. Resort offers family game room; racquetball court, indoor pool & hot tub; seasonal outdoor pool & hot tub; full fitness center with cardio & weight rooms; guest laundry facility.

Find more lodging options at westernwhitemtns.com/stay.

New events around the state of New Hampshire are being added to the roster daily. One of the best ways to stay up-to-date is to sign up for The Rally News, which is a magazine and e-news publication dedicated to the rally.

We hope you have Laconia Motorcycle Week® marked on your calendar. It’s an experience many plan for all year long, and it’s totally worth it.

Looking for more things to do while you’re in town for Laconia Motorcycle Week® ? Check out our Full Event Calendar!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

An Indoor Winter Adventure: The New England Ski Museum

March 3, 2023

During the wintertime, there are many outdoor activities to take advantage of in the White Mountains region. While many of us would like to be outside racing down the slopes or tramping across the woodland trails for hours, there are some times when it’s pleasant to spend part of your day indoors. Located at the base of the Cannon Mountain tram is a special treasure worth putting into your Franconia Notch itinerary – The New England Ski Museum!

The New England Ski Museum debuted in 1982 and has since become a staple for locals and tourists alike. Let’s take a look at all the exciting details.

Exhibitions

The permanent exhibition that the museum maintains is called “From the First Tracks to the Fall Line: eight thousand years of skiing.” This collection showcases events that have happened in the ski world dating back to prehistoric times but also houses important “firsts” on Cannon Mountain and details on the career of Bode Miller (he’s a local!).

In addition to the permanent exhibition, there’s an annual show called “Ski Photographers of the White Mountains” that features work from photographers Winston Pote, Christine Reid, Dorothy Crossley, and Dick Smith that were produced from the 1920s through the 1970s.

Together, the photographs cover everything from American mountain soldiers and the social side of skiing to the ski resort life in the post-war years and flyover storm shots. You can learn more about each of the photographic artists here.

And, while you can spend quite a long time in the museum’s primary location, you can also continue your skiing education by visiting the 4,400 square foot Eastern Slope Branch that they launched in 2018, which has its own exhibitions.

Collections

The New England Ski Museum has assembled its collections of clothing equipment, films, news clippings, books, magazines, papers, photographs, theses, and other items via individual and organization-based donations. The donated collections are available, either via exhibition or by membership-only appointments. Details outlining each collection’s contents are available here.

In-Person & Zoom Programs

Even if you can’t make it in person, you can still enjoy the many programs offered by the experts at the museum. Speakers including Jeff Leich, Executive Director emeritus, Jeremy Davis, Board of Directors, and Dr. E. John B. Allen, Board Historian have offered all of the following options at different times:

“Before and Beyond the Lifts: Sketches of Backcountry Skiing”
“Over The Headwall: The Ski History of Skiing in Tuckerman Ravine”
“Tales of the 10th: The Mountain Troops and American Skiing”
“Winter Work: The CCC and New England Skiing”
“Historical Highlights of Wildcat”
“Lost Ski Areas of the White Mountains”
“Lost Ski Areas of Southern Vermont”
“Lost Ski Areas of the Southern Adirondacks”
“Lost Ski Areas of the Northern Adirondacks”
“Lost Ski Areas of the Berkshires”
“New Hampshire on Skis” (arranged through the NH Humanities Council)
“World Wide Military Skiing”
“Women on Skis”
“The Skiing World of Leni Riefenstahl”
“Ski Mountaineering”
“Hannes Schneider: Skimeister to the World”

As you can see, there’s really a topic for everyone to enjoy. And you can have one of these talks presented to you for just a $100 museum honorarium.

Timelines

The New England Ski Museum staff have in-depth knowledge of ski-based historical timelines. Some of them are outlined here, but you can always talk to them in person during your visit to learn more or to ask questions. Timelines are regularly generated to assist in the creation of their exhibitions and contain incredible historical research.

Membership

If you’re a local or frequent White Mountains region visitor, consider becoming a member of the museum! Membership (which starts at just $35 for an individual) provides you with a subscription to the Journal of New England Ski Museum, a discount in the Museum Shop and online, access to the by-appointment-only collections, and more.

Events

We know that we said this was an “indoor adventure” blog, but some particularly exciting times can be had during the events they host outdoors. Their collections may be in the building, but you can help the museum thrive by entering these ones too!

The first event they are offering this year is the 26th Hannes Schneider Meister Cup Race at Cranmore Resort on March 10-12. The event honors Austrian skimeister, Hannes Schneider, but also includes a vintage ski fashion show, music from Bavarian Brothers Band, a ski history documentary film screening, and more. You can learn more and purchase tickets here.

Their second 2023 event will be their Annual Meeting and Dinner honoring Kelly Brush Davission and The Kelly Brush Davission Foundation. The exact date hasn’t been posted just yet, but check back here soon as details should be posted shortly.

Ready to Visit?

Would you like a sneak peek at some of the items waiting to be discovered? Watch this recent fan-made video that walks you through the museum.

When you’re ready to venture out in person, the primary Franconia location of the New England Ski Museum is located at 135 Tramway Drive, Franconia, NH 03580, and can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 603-823-7177. Admission is free.

Happy trails!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Ice Castles New Hampshire: A Frozen Wonderland

January 1, 2023

For Ice Castle ticket information and purchasing please visit their website.

During the cold and snowy New England winter months, it can be tough to adventure outside. Unless you’re a skier or snowboarder, you might think winter is best spent reading a book next to the fireplace until the mercury starts to rise again in the spring. But, the famous Ice Castles in New Hampshire will make you put on all the layers and head to the mountains.

Ice Castles became famous in 2011 when founder, Brent Christensen, crafted his first icy masterpiece in his front yard at his home in Utah. Not only was the ice castle a hit with Christensen’s six kids, but also the whole neighborhood who came to play in the ice. Since 2011, Ice Castles has grown to five locations across North America where kids and adults of all ages can enjoy the pure joy and happiness of the Ice Castles experience.

Did you know that New Hampshire’s Ice Castles is one of the first ice castles in the country? In recent years, the Ice Castles New Hampshire moved to it’s permanent location in North Woodstock on Clark Farm Road. This location has allowed the crew to create larger, more interactive experience for all its guests, as well as the opportunity to add fun, new winter elements each year.

Every year, Ice Castles look a little different, and that’s all due to its lead designer – Mother Nature. Each ice castle weighs about 25 million pounds and takes a team of 20 to 40 artisans to create over the course of many weeks. Every night, the artisans harvest 5,000 to 12,000 icicles, which are then individually sculpted into existing ice formations. The newly placed icicles are then drenched in water to solidify. Each ice castle is about one acre in size and is lit with colorful LED lights for a magical experience.

Along with experiencing the wonders of Ice Castles, the New Hampshire location also offers caverns and caves, ice slides and snow tubing, sleigh rides and a mystic forest light walk through an enchanted forest lined with elaborate ice sculptures. Sleigh rides are available for an additional charge and may be purchased when you reserve your tickets online. New this year is the Polar Pub. Belly up to a frosty ice bar for a winter themed hot or cold beverage.

While it’s always hard to predict the opening date of Ice Castles due to Mother Nature, construction of Ice Castles will start as soon as the daytime temperatures begin to drop below freezing, and it takes about two months to build.

Parking is free at the new location, but on the weekends and holidays, parking may be limited due to the number of people trying to visit. Only a limited number of tickets are sold daily, so it’s best to purchase tickets ahead of time online. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit icecastles.com/new-hampshire.

The Western White Mountains are home to a wide array of lodging options, dining options and fun winter activities like snowtubing, skiing, snowshoeing and more. Make a trip out of it! Just make sure to plan ahead. The best time to visit is mid-week when there are less crowds and better lodging rates.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

North Country Center for the Arts: 2022 Summer Season

July 22, 2022

Nestled along the banks of the Pemigewasset River lies one of northern New England’s premier performing arts centers. The North Country Center for the Arts dates back to the mid-1980s when local business leaders and community members came together to explore the possibility of creating a community performing arts center in the Millfront Marketplace in Lincoln. In 1986, the North County Center for the Arts (NCCA) was officially born.

In the summer of 1986, the NCCA produced its first event under a tent at the Mill at Loon Mountain. The two-month-long Children’s Theatre Festival was a huge success and the NCCA hired Van McLeod, the first Producing Director. The following summer, the NCCA transformed the former paper mill in Lincoln into the Papermill Theatre. During its first season, the NCCA performed Carnival, Harvey, Deathtrap, and Cabaret.

After over 80 professional productions, the NCCA performed its final summer season at the Papermill Theatre in 2009. The old paper mill building was demolished that fall, making way for the new facility that is now known as Jean’s Playhouse. Jean’s Playhouse was officially opened in July 2012 and included performances of The Wedding Singer, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and A Grand Night for Singing. The new playhouse is named after long-time NCCA supporter and local leader, Jean Hallager, and is celebrating its 10th anniversary of opening in 2022!

Unlike the Papermill Theatre, Jean’s Playhouse allows for year-round productions and has three different branches of operation – Our Mainstage productions, produced in-house; Our Presenting Acts, such as comedians, musicians, and films; And our Education programming, including IMPACT Touring Children’s Theatre and the StageSetters Youth Program.

The IMPACT Touring Children’s Theatre includes the following 2022 shows: Lost in Wonderland (July 13th @ 10am), Neverland (July 20th @10am), Little Red Riding Hood (July 27th @10am), Return to Oz (August 3rd @10am), Jack & the Beanstalk (August 10th @10am).

The summer 2022 season will kick off in July with the weekend-long outdoor concert – The Sound of Music. The concert was held in 2021 and it was such a hit that NCCA is bringing it back for round two in 2022!

The first show of the season, Cabaret, is only fitting. First performed by NCCA in 1986, the NCCA will be performing Cabaret yet again. Cabaret is your classical musical that focuses on the hedonistic nightlife at a seedy club in pre-WWII Berlin. If you’ve never been to a musical, Cabaret is a great one to see – check it out from July 14th-30th!

Next up is Mamma Mia! Written by British playwright, Catherine Johnson, Mamma Mia! Is based on the songs of ABBA. If you liked the movies, then you don’t want to miss the musical! Mamma Mia is running from August 4th-20th.

The summer season ends with Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps. The play is a parody of a murder mystery and is performed by a cast of four with each actor playing multiple roles. Laughs will be had from August 25th-September 3rd!

The Labor Day Comedy Show will continue NCCA’s comedic theme on Sunday, September 4th at 7:30pm with Greg Boggis hosting fantastic, Boston-Based comedians Paul Nardizzi and Emily Ruskowski.

The 2022 Fall Season at NCCA is sure to be an exciting one. Kicking it off is the 2022 Crafted Concert Series, running on Saturday September 24th, Saturday October 1st, and Saturday October 8th. Shows will be at 7:30pm while food trucks and craft beverage vendors (sponsored by Woodstock Inn Brewery & Rhythm Craft Beverages) will be occupying the parking and green areas outside during the afternoon hours prior to the shows. Be sure to add NCCA to your list of stops during these prime leaf-peeping weekends!

October brings the Columbus Day Weekend Comedy Show on Sunday, October 9th at 7:30pm and the Ghost Light Haunted Attraction, running October 21st-30th. Stay tuned for more details on these events!

Sneak peeks for Winter Programming include the StageSetters Youth Show, running November 11th-13th, A White Mountains Christmas, running December 3rd & 4th, and the Annual Warren Miller Extreme Ski Film on Friday, December 30th.

The best and most affordable way to see the 2022 shows is through purchasing a summer season subscription. The First Call Subscription gives you one ticket to each of the four summer productions for the most affordable price. It gives you access to the best seats as well! If you can’t commit to the whole season, you can purchase the First Call Pairs, which is two tickets to any one of the main stage summer shows.

Has all this excitement got you feeling hungry? NCCA has paired with numerous local dining establishments to offer “Dinner & a Show” deals. Read more here!

It’s rare for small mountain communities to have an award-winning performing arts center that attracts performers from all over the country and world. If you can’t make one of the shows this summer, you can support the NCCA through their Annual Fund or by volunteering as an usher.

The famous Irish playwright, Oscar Wilde, once said, “I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.”

Discover the magic of the theatre this summer at the North Country Center for the Arts.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Get Your Thrills On in the White Mountains – Winter

June 24, 2022

Are you an adrenaline junkie or fueled by awesome adventures? The White Mountains is the perfect destination to experience adventurous activities. From skiing and dog sledding to a professional car rally school and taking a train up the snowy slopes of Mt. Washington, you’ll experience all sorts of thrills that will leave you coming back for more. Choose from a variety of day tours or weeklong adventures to fill your next vacation itinerary.

Ziplining (and more!)

A fixture on Main Street Lincoln, Alpine Adventures provides year-round fun for people of all ages. The Thrillsville Challenge Course is a self-guided ropes course designed with bridges, cargo nets, rope ladders, a treehouse, and much more! It’s fun for all ages and a great add-on to the other adrenaline-filled activities that Alpine Adventures has to offer on their private mountain. Alpine Adventures is most known for its zipline courses and unlike other places in the White Mountains, Alpine has two different zipline tours with varying degrees of length and speed. If high flying fun isn’t quite your speed, the Off-Road Adventure Tour in the Pinzgauers is an exciting way to explore Barron Mountain. There are very few places in the world you can ride in a 6×6 Swiss Army Pinzgauer, Zipline across a 1500’ ravine 240’ above the ground at speeds up to 60 MPH, ride down a four-story ramp in a snow tube onto a BigAirBag Stuntzone, and challenge yourself at an aerial course.

Mt. Washington Cog Railway

With multiple daily departures to their recently expanded Waumbek Station throughout the winter, the Mount Washington Cog Railway is now a YEAR-ROUND attraction! Clear-weather panoramic views from the southern Presidentials to the Canadian border are simply spectacular. Comfortable warming huts on elevated decks, a blazing firepit, and hot refreshments round out a truly unique opportunity to experience Mount Washington (and the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway) in the winter. Schedule, details and much more at www.thecog.com

SledVentures

SledVentures offers guided snowmobile tours suited for every ability from the beginner to the expert. When conditions are appropriate, their tours run every day. They supply you with the newest top of the line Ski-Doo 600cc snowmobiles and protective, new winter gear (please check with SledVentures to ensure they have your specific needs). Their newest tours are Franconia Notch Over The Top Tour and the Mega Midweek Mountain Adventure tour, and their most popular tour is the Bog Pond/ Franconia Notch tour. They also offer private tours and Sled & Stay packages with some of the local hotels and resorts.

Rally School

Skiing and Riding

Home to Olympic gold medalist, Bode Miller, Cannon Mountain is New Hampshire’s highest ski area standing at 4,080 feet. With 97 trails and glades and the longest vertical drop in the state, Cannon Mountain attracts skiers and snowboarders from around New England and beyond every winter. Cannon has three terrain parks where you can progressively work on your big air tricks to wow the crowds of onlookers or just your friends on Instagram. Make sure you hashtag Cannon Mountain! Cannon Mountain is located within Franconia Notch State Park and during the warmer months, it’s a great place to hike.

Known as one of New England’s best ski mountains, Loon Mountain is a favorite among families for its skiing and resort amenities. The mountain offers 61 trails and glades of varying difficulties and from atop the 3,050-foot summit, you have panoramic views of the White Mountains. While the resort is geared more towards beginner and immediate trails, Loon Mountain has quite a few black diamond trails that will get your heart pumping. Angel Street is one of the most notorious black diamond trails offering devilish pitches that pass underneath the Gondola. There’s great tree skiing on North Peak with Walking Boss Woods and Bucksaw. For those with goals of competing in the X Games or just like to show off their tricks, Loon has six different terrain parks and the only superpipe in New Hampshire.

Dog Sledding

Experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of dogs through the snowy woods and fields of the White Mountains. Muddy Paws Dog Sledding provides year-round dog sledding fun for all ages. The 1.5 Hour Tour is the most popular – where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the sled dogs and then embark on a five-mile ride. Make sure to give all the good pups lots of belly rubs!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Basecamp Lincoln/Woodstock: Discover the Western White Mountains

January 18, 2022

The Western White Mountains are New Hampshire’s outdoor playground offering an abundance of year-round activities. From world-class skiing to brag-worthy hikes to unique dining, the area has something for everyone to enjoy. Make our home your basecamp for experiencing it all!

The Greater Lincoln/Woodstock is a great home base for exploring the White Mountains for multiple reasons, but perhaps the most important is its location to I-93. The drive up to the Western White Mountains is an easy two-hour ride north from Boston (depending on traffic). We are also fortunate that our area is home to an abundance of accommodations ranging from campgrounds to hotels to condos and more. Check out our list of lodging options on our Stay Page and base yourself in the Western White Mountains where all of our favorite places to visit are just a short drive away!

Franconia Notch

One of the most beautiful sections of the White Mountains is found in Franconia Notch just up I-93 from North Woodstock. Home to Franconia Notch State Park and Cannon Mountain, the region is an outdoor paradise for adventure lovers.

Franconia Notch State Park is New Hampshire’s most visited state park and for good reason – there’s a ton to do! It’s home to the unique geological feature, Flume Gorge, along with Echo Lake, and Cannon Mountain’s Aerial Tramway. Cannon Mountain, home to Olympic gold medalist, Bode Miller, has the highest skiable peak in New Hampshire. Franconia Ridge is a bucket list-worthy hike offering stunning views of the Western White Mountains and beyond.

Littleton and Bethlehem

A quick 20-minute drive north up I-93 brings you to the small mountain towns of Littleton and Bethlehem. During the Industrial Age, Bethlehem was a popular summer resort destination for wealthy city dwellers in search of fresh air. While many of the grand hotels of yesteryear no longer exist, the picturesque town is well worth the visit.

The small town of Littleton is a bit of a hidden gem packed with tons to do. Its Main Street is award-winning and boasts of locally owned and operated restaurants, cafes, and shops. For beer lovers, enjoy a variety of beers along the Ammonoosuc River. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure you visit Chutters, with the world’s longest candy counter, or enjoy one of some best baked goods in New England. Littleton is also home to PRKR MTN Trails, a network of over 25 miles of mountain biking and multi-use trails, so don’t forget your bike on your visit here.

North Conway and Mt. Washington Valley

The Mt. Washington Valley has long been the major destination area of the White Mountains. The eastern side of the White Mountains is home to North Conway, Conway, and Jackson with multiple alpine and Nordic ski areas, 11 golf courses, family attractions, and lots of tax-free outlet shopping.

North Conway is home to Settlers Green with over 70 tax-free outlets where you can shop for clothing, sporting goods, home goods and more. Whatever you need, you’ll probably find it in Settlers Green. Additionally, the village of North Conway is home to many locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops.

The Mt. Washington Valley region is home to many other resorts and ski areas. Of course, the Mt. Washington Valley is home to the famous mountain and the surrounding Presidential Range. Hiking is world-class and attracts thousands of people every year. Instead of hiking or driving to the top of Mt. Washington, The Cog Railway is a unique experience.

Lakes Region

The Lakes Region area of New Hampshire is less than a 45-minute drive away from the Lincoln/Woodstock area. On those hot summer days where all you want to do is cool off in the refreshing waters of New Hampshire’s largest lake, head down I-93 to the Lakes Region area.

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest draw to the region, there is so much to do along the shores and out on the water. Take a scenic tour on the M/S Mount Washington or sunbathe at the many beaches along Lake Winnipesaukee. Weirs Beach is one of the most popular, but there are others to enjoy. For more information on New Hampshire’s Lake Region, visit the Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce.

Whether you’re coming to the Western White Mountains for outdoor adventures, the arts, or just a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Greater Lincoln and Woodstock area is a great location to serve as your basecamp while you experience it all throughout the larger region.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Railway to the Moon: The Mount Washington Cog Railway

December 17, 2021

Known as the “railway to the moon,” the Mount Washington Cog Railway is the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway. Attracting tens of thousands of visitors every year, the trip up Mount Washington via the Cog Railway is a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Located on the western side of the famed mountain, the Mount Washington Cog Railway departs from the Marshfield Base Station near the Omni Mount Washington Resort. The railway runs year-round delivering visitors to the 6,288-foot summit (or near treeline during the winter months) for a three-hour round-trip tour.

The History

Celebrating 152 years, the Cog Railway was opened to passengers in 1869. However, the beginning of the railway dates back to 1857. Sylvester Marsh, a native of New Hampshire, left his successful career in the meatpacking and grain drying industries in Chicago to move to Boston. Marsh, who struggled with indigestion and other ailments, sought the fresh air of the White Mountains like many wealthy people of the Industrial Age.

The idea of the Mount Washington Cog Railway was born from a mishap. Marsh and a friend set off to hike Mount Washington. Known for some of the worst weather in the world, the weather quickly turned from a beautiful summer day to a life-threatening storm above the treeline. The story goes that Marsh and his friend barely survived by crawling on hands and knees to the Tip Top House.

While spending the night on New Hampshire’s tallest peak, Marsh vowed to build a safer way for visitors to reach the summit. Due to Mount Washington being on state land, Marsh needed to go in front of the New Hampshire State Legislature for a charter. He went in front of the Legislature in 1858 where he was laughed at and jokingly awarded a charter with the promise that once he reached the summit of Mountain Washington, he would continue building a “railway to the moon.”

Building a railroad on the side of a steep mountain is almost impossible. The average grade of Mount Washington is 25 percent with some spots at almost 38 percent. To overcome the steep grade of the terrain, Marsh designed a railway that was built entirely on an elevated trestle system. This meant the tracks would be above ground level. To this day, the Cog is the only railway whose mainline is built entirely above ground level and the second steepest railway in the world (the steepest is the Pilatus Railway in Switzerland).

Again, due to the steep terrain, a traditional railroad was out of the question. Instead, Marsh applied the cog gear and rack technology to create the first mountain-climbing railway. Cog and rack technology is very similar to the sprocket and chain on a bicycle, but it had never been applied to mountain-climbing locomotives and railways before Marsh. Cog gears are located under the locomotive engine, which engages the rack (a spooled center track fixed to the train tracks and looks like the chain on a bicycle). As the cog turns, the locomotive can pull itself forward on the rack and up the mountainside.

Construction of the Cog was delayed by the Civil War that broke out in 1861. A fun fact about Marsh – before he moved back east from Chicago, he got himself into a little land dispute. He hired Abraham Lincoln as his lawyer, which was the last case Lincoln took before becoming the President of the United States.

After the Civil War ended, the first Cog Railway was built relatively fast. The first locomotive called “Hero” was built and delivered from Boston. Due to the locomotive’s unique design, it quickly became known as “Old Peppersass” because its vertical boiler resembled a pepper sauce bottle. The first 600 feet of track was built quickly over the Ammonoosuc River and was used as a presentation to government officials and investors in August 1866.

Before Marsh could begin building the actual railway he had to clear-cut dense forest and turn that timber into lumber to build the trestles and log cabin office. After his investor presentation, Marsh hired over 300 men to continue building the railway to the summit. By summer 1868, the crew reached the halfway point where the mountain transitions from its forests to above treeline sub-arctic tundra. To overcome the harsh and boulder-strewn area, Marsh built the famous “Jacob’s Ladder” that you can experience yourself on a trip on the Cog.

The first official ride of the Mount Washington Cog Railway occurred on August 14, 1868, and the railway has run regularly ever since except for World War I and World War II. Trackwork was completed by the next Spring, and Peppersass reached the summit of Mount Washington with passengers on July 3, 1869 – a feat that not many people thought Marsh could do!

The Modern Times

Today, Wayne Presby is president of the Mount Washington Railway Company, after purchasing it from Ellen Teague in 1983. Over the years, Presby has made significant investments in modernizing its equipment, infrastructure and operations. Under his leadership, the Cog added a new passing track and hydraulic switches, enabling as many as seven trains to run at a time. Recently, a massive re-railing project resulted in heavyweight, 100lb rail replacing lightweight rail first installed in the late nineteenth century. Re-railing the entire 3 mile route with heavyweight rail ensures a smoother, quieter ride, a stronger track system, and less routine maintenance. Opening in 2021, a new 35,000 square foot maintenance facility once again brings year-round repair, fabrication and storage of the locomotives, coaches and other rolling stock back to the Marshfield campus. Previously, equipment was trucked up to a temporary facility in Berlin for winter maintenance. Mr. Presby’s stewardship of the railway has guaranteed that many generations of visitors will continue to enjoy this remarkable operation far into the future.

About the Trains

The Cog was a steam railway exclusively from its inception until 2008, when the first custom designed and built biodiesel locomotive rolled out of the engine shop. Today, motive power is provided primarily by 7 of these powerful machines, and, in the warm weather, two vintage steamers. MW2, built in 1875, and MW9, built in 1908, were both fabricated at the Manchester (NH) Locomotive Works. Steam trips at the railway are very popular, and often sell out months in advance.

Take a Ride

To truly understand the long history and engineering feat of the Mount Washington Cog Railway, you need to book a ride on the railway. A roundtrip ride on the Cog is about three hours. The ride up and down the mountain takes approximately one hour each leaving you an hour to explore the summit of Mount Washington. In clear weather, the Mount Washington State Park at the summit provides 360-degree views of the Presidential Mountain Range from the Observation deck of the Sherman Adams Building. The adjacent Tip Top House Museum, where Marsh first developed his seemingly crazy idea for a railway on Mount Washington, provides a glimpse into 19th century life at the top of New England. Like Marsh, visitors may also experience a small dose of some of the world’s worst weather!

Trains run 7 days a week, year round, with destinations at lower elevations once the summit closes for the winter in late October. With limited seats on the train, it’s important to book your tickets in advance especially during the summer and fall months. You don’t want to miss your opportunity to experience one of the world’s great rail adventures, and New Hampshire’s Premier Attraction since 1869! For schedule, tickets and much more, please visit thecog.com.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

Floating the Western White Mountains

June 11, 2021

Floating the Western White Mountains

On a hot summer day, nothing feels better than cool water behind your toes. The Whites Mountains might be known for their mountains, but the area is also home to some incredible bodies of water that are perfect to dive in or just dip your feet after an early morning sunrise hike. Grab your beach towels, slather on the sunscreen, and cool off in your favorite swimming hole.

The Pemigewasset River

The Pemigewasset River, or more locally called the “Pemi,” runs 65 miles from Profile Lake in Franconia Notch State Park to where it merges with the Winnipesaukee River to form the Merrimack River in Franklin. There are many spots along the Pemi where you can dip your toes or go for a swim. Located in the heart of downtown North Woodstock, Cascade Park is a charming little riverfront park with access to the Pemi. Perfect for the whole family, the smooth sloping rocks and lots of small cascades and pools, make Cascade Park a great place to spend a hot summer day. Bring a tube and enjoy the “rapid waters” of the Pemi! The Woodstock Company sells floats in case you forget yours at home.

The East Branch of the Pemigewasset River is larger and longer than the main branch of the river and wins through the town of Lincoln. The river can be accessed from many of the nearby hiking trails, such as the J.E. Henry Trail behind the RiverWalk Resort and the Lincoln Woods Trail in the White Mountain National Forest. The Pemi is a great place to spend the day kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. If you don’t have your own kayak, you can rent one from Outback Kayak and ATV Tours.

Echo Lake

Located at Cannon Mountain and offering one of the most iconic views in New Hampshire, Echo Lake is a 39-acre lake at the foot of Cannon Mountain and Franconia State Park. Cool off in the refreshing lake while taking in the picturesque views of Franconia Range and Kinsman Range meet creating the infamous notch. Open daily, the calm lake is great for families with young children. The swimming area is roped off and lifeguards are on duty (except during COVID restrictions). The sandy beach is perfect for reading a book in the sun or building sandcastles with the kiddos. Canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats are available for hourly rent.

Lonesome Lake

Wash the sweat off with a dip into Lonesome Lake, a 12.2-acre lake in Franconia Notch State Park. In order to splash in the cool, refreshing mountain water, you’ll have to hike the 1.6-mile Lonesome Lake Trail. The trail is very well marked and accessible through the south parking lot of Lafayette Place Campground. Meander around the small lake by taking the Lonesome Lake Loop. Stop by the AMC Lonesome Lake Hut for a snack break.

Otter Rocks Day Use Area

Drive the scenic Kancamagus Highway towards Conway and stop by Otter Rocks Day Use Area for a picnic and a swim. Most of the swim holes are shallow and great for young children and there’s a larger pool about four feet deep for adults and older kids. The large flat rocks along the river’s edge are the perfect place for your picnic blanket or sunbathing. As an added bonus, there are bathroom facilities available!

Future Riverfront Park

In 2019, the town of Lincoln broke ground on the 18-acre Riverfront Park nestled along the northern bank of the Pemigewasset River, just west of Jean’s Playhouse. Over the next five to ten years, the park will be built to include a multi-use trail system, canoe launch, dog park, playground, and Lin-Wood skateboard park. Stay tuned as we follow the Riverfront Park project in the coming years.

Known as a premier winter destination, the Western White Mountains are truly a year-round destination. Enjoy the dog days of summer in one of the many local swimming holes where you can dip your toes after a long hike or dive headfirst into splish-splashing fun. Don’t forget to bring the sunscreen and carry out your trash!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

All Aboard the Dinner Train!

August 31, 2020

All Aboard the Dinner Train!

For a truly unique dining experience in the Western White Mountains, book your tickets on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train in North Woodstock, New Hampshire. For two hours, you’ll enjoy a delicious five-course gourmet meal cooked by an award-winning chef while taking in the majestic views of the White Mountains.

For full details, pricing and current menus click here.

The Café Lafayette Dinner Train is currently in its 31^st season of serving guests a unique experience in the Western White Mountains. Start your journey at the Train Station in North Woodstock, where you’ll receive your boarding pass and seating assignment. The Dinner Train consists of three unique cars. The Indian Waters car is a 1924 Pullman car featuring ornate woodworking, stained glass, and brass. The iconic car is often used during the fall months. Granite Eagle is a 1952 Pullman dome car and is one of the last dome cars remaining in the United States. During your booking, you have the option to choose the dome seating, which offers incredible panoramic views of the White Mountains. Algonquin is a 1954 Canadian National coach that was previously part of the trans-Canadian railway. No matter what train car you are seated in, you’ll enjoy the unique atmosphere.

Once everyone is boarded and seated for dinner, the Café Lafayette Dinner Train will embark from the Train Station and begin its two-hour journey along the Boston-Maine Line spur through the Pemi River Valley. You’ll travel south through the woods, over three trestle bridges, through the Jack O’Lantern Golf Course, and finally to the turnaround point at a Christmas Tree farm in Thornton. While you’ll want to take in the beautiful scenery around you, you don’t want to miss what is right in front of you on your plate!

All dishes served on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train are homemade by Executive Chef Robin Campbell, an award-winning Paris-trained chef from England who has cooked in some of the best restaurants in Las Vegas. Many of the ingredients are sourced locally in the greater White Mountains region, coming from places like Blackriver Forest and Serendipity Farm. The gourmet meal changes seasonally, and you’ll always have your choice of appetizer and entrée. Once guests are seated, your server will review the menu with you.

Your choice of entrée will always include a chicken, fish, red meat, and vegetarian option. The Café Lafayette Dinner Train can modify and accommodate a variety of dietary needs with advanced notice. Dinner starts with homemade freshly out-of-the-oven rolls followed by an appetizer of your choice, soup, salad, entrée of your choice, and dessert. Each train car has a full bar with an extensive wine, beer, and special cocktail list.

The Café Lafayette Dinner Train is owned and managed locally by a husband and wife team. Ali will answer all your calls and greet you when you board the train while Michael handles all the train maintenance and tends bar in the evenings! Their small staff of servers and chefs are there to tend to all your needs. The Dinner Train does have a business casual dress attire, and children under the age of six are discouraged as two hours in one place may be difficult for the energetic little ones.

The Café Lafayette Dinner Train operates from May through October on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Advanced reservations are strongly encouraged, but last-minute bookings may be available but must be made by phone. The train runs rain or shine, and it’s always beautiful on the tracks! The Café Lafayette Dinner Train is handicap accessible, it’s best to contact them in advance for the best seating option for you.

For full details, pricing and current menus click here.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a unique experience in the White Mountains, visit their website, NHDinnerTrain.com to reserve a table. Between the gourmet menu and incredible views of the Pemi River Valley, you won’t be disappointed (or hungry afterward)!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov