Western White Mountain Chamber

Basecamp of the White Mountains in New Hampshire

Brew

5 Best Fall Activities in the Western White Mountains

Ready for another beautiful fall foliage season in the Western White Mountains?! Peak foliage is just around the corner, and you’ll want to start planning all your favorite fall activities. Hop in your car and head to the mountains for some fall fun with your family.

 

Fall Scenic Drives

The Western White Mountains are home to some of the best fall foliage scenic drives in the world. There’s a reason thousands of people flock to the region every year to view the incredible kaleidoscope of colors. For the ultimate Western White Mountains road trip, fill up your tank, grab a sweater, lots of snacks, and hit the road.

The Multi-Notch Mountain Ride is approximately 142 miles long and will take you through the best of the White Mountains. Start your journey in Lincoln on I-93 through Franconia Notch State Park and past the former Old Man of the Mountain. Just before Littleton, take the exit to Route 302 and drive through the quaint town of Bethlehem before driving past the majestic Mount Washington Hotel. There are plenty of scenic lookout spots to stop along the way to take your selfies or photos of trees bursting with color. Once past the infamous hotel, you’ll drive through Crawford Notch with the Presidential Range looming overhead. From here, choose to take the Bear Notch Road in Bartlett to the Kancamagus Highway or drive through North Conway and stop for lunch. From Conway, turn west on to Route 112 as known as the Kancamagus Highway, which offers 34.5 miles of breathtaking mountain scenery through the White Mountain National Forest.

The Weeks Act Legacy Trail, a “multimedia driving tour of the White Mountain National Forest guiding visitors to 40 sites across 100 miles”, is nearly the same route as the Multi-Notch Mountain Ride, but includes “an online virtual, mobile, audio or print tour spanning the White Mountains’ famous notches and byways with stops at 40 sites – some well-known signature destinations, others hidden gems”, according to the White Mountain National Forest. Make sure to cross reference these two routes to ensure you don’t miss a selfie-worthy roadside stop!

The Multi-Notch Mountain Ride or Weeks Act Legacy Trail can be broken into a weekend or done in a day. Don’t have a full day? You can just drive the Kancamagus Highway or Route 302 through Crawford Notch. Whatever route you take, it will be beautiful. Keep in mind that parking is limited in areas, and you should avoid parking on the highways or busy roads.

artist bluff

Fall Hikes

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with the changing leaves or views of the White Mountain National Forest from above, you’ll want to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. Hiking is a great socially-distance fall activity for the whole family. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails throughout the Western White Mountains, there is no shortage of trails with great fall foliage views. For an easy hike for the whole family, the Lincoln Woods Trail is a flat 2.7-mile trail that meanders along the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River.

For epic fall views of Franconia Notch, take the short yet steep jaunt up Artists Bluff. For centuries, tourists have climbed the well-worn trail to the open summit on Bald Mountain. It is a popular hike, so get there early, and you may want to bring a face mask just in case. For a more challenging hike, the 8.5-mile Franconia Trail Loop will take you over the peaks of Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack for panoramic views of the White Mountains. Be sure to pack all the essentials, including warm clothes and possibly crampons, since it is not uncommon for it to snow early in the White Mountains at higher elevations.

Wine and Beer Tasting

Over the recent years, tons of breweries and wineries have been popping up across the western White Mountains making it the best destination for craft beer and wine lovers. Start your day off by winetasting at Seven Birches Winery at the RiverWalk Resort. Choose from a variety of in-house made white, red, and everything in between wine. Just a short walk across the parking lot, you’ll find One Love Brewery with their tasty German-style beers and delicious menu of pub favorites.

Discover one of New Hampshire’s original craft breweries at the Woodstock Inn Brewery. With a 30-barrel production facility on-site, you can not only taste your favorite beers but see them made. With creative Western White Mountains names like Exit 32 and Pemi Pale Ale, you find something to like. And make sure to stop at Twin Barns Brewing North Taproom for a great selection of local and “proper beer raised in a barn.” Looking to try something different? Head on over to Rhythm Cider for a delicious mead or cider. Head up I-93 and find even more breweries to try. Remember to drink responsibly.

fall foliage

Scenic Train Rides

Trains were once a primary mode of transportation in the White Mountains, and you can still see the remnants of old railbeds and cars throughout the region. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just someone who wants to enjoy a scenic ride through the mountains to see the fall foliage, you have several options to enjoy. The Hobo Railroad in Lincoln offers fall foliage rides along the Pemigewasset River region. Due to the coronavirus, the train will be running on a limited schedule and capacity to ensure the safety of the public. The Mount Washington Cog Railway and the Conway Scenic Railroad are also open for fall foliage scenic train rides during the autumn months.

Mountain Biking

Hit the mountain biking trails at Loon Mountain this fall. With trails designed and built in conjunction with Highland Trails, the downhill mountain park has over eleven miles of trails with more to come in the following years. Make sure you check out Loon’s Bike Park with a wide variety of freeride, technical and cross country trails. If you prefer flatter ground, Loon Mountain has six miles of cross-country biking trails as well. Once you’re done ripping it up at Loon, head over to the nearly 9 mile Franconia Notch Recreation Path.

Visit the Western White Mountains This Fall

Fall is a beautiful time to visit the Western White Mountains of New Hampshire. With the incredible changing colors and lots of crisp fresh air, it’s the perfect place to experience the fresh mountain air.

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


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

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

pink boots society

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.

one love brewery

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.”

pink boots society

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. 

pink boots society

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.

one love brewery

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.

pink boots society

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. 

one love brewery

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.

one love brewery

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

visitnh.gov

Craft Beverages in the Western White Mountains

New Hampshire is home to over 90 breweries with three in the Lincoln-North Woodstock area. This includes one of the original craft breweries that led the way for many of the newer ones across the White Mountains and beyond. With three breweries and a cidery, there is sure to be at least one drink on the menu that will tickle your taste buds.

woodstock inn brewery

Woodstock Inn Brewery

In 2020, the Woodstock Inn Brewery celebrated its 25th anniversary. Founded in 1995, it was the third brewery to open in New Hampshire. The popular brewery had a humble beginning as a 7-barrel brewpub and has since grown into a multi-million dollar 30-barrel production facility with as many as 15 beers rotating on tap.

Woodstock Inn Brewery creates a variety of craft beers that are “uniquely Woodstock.” Brewing approximately 25 year-round and seasonal beers, there is always something delicious on tap to enjoy after a long hike or a day of powder skiing at Cannon. Pig’s Ear Brown Ale and the 4000 Footer IPA are two of the most popular beers that are always available on tap and in stores. With the change of weather comes a change in the tap lines. Instead of the lighter summer beers, you’ll now find the Autumn Brew Ale, which has hints of apple and cinnamon, and the Clan Scottish Ale, in honor of the New Hampshire Highland Games and Festival held at Loon Mountain every September.

In addition to drinking some tasty pints at the bar, the Brewery Tour, which typically occurs daily, is a great way to learn more about the brewery and their unique beverages. For more information about the Woodstock Inn Brewery, please visit https://www.woodstockinnbrewery.com/brewery/.

rhythm handcrafted beverages

Rhythm Cider

Rhythm Cider is one of the “new kids on the block” in the Lincoln-North Woodstock area found by Seven Birches Winery’s Mark LaClair. For 12 years, LaClair had perfected his wine while experimenting with fermenting other unique beverages such as ciders and meads. All that tinkering paid off as Rhythm Cider was launched in 2020.

Rhythm, named after the beautiful flow of music and nature, offers a variety of craft ciders right at the Lincoln Village Shops in downtown Lincoln. The brand launched with its line of original ciders, including the ever-popular Rhythm Original, Rhythm Blood Orange, and Rhythm Heirloom, but has since expanded. All the ciders are made like fine wine is made, with plenty of time for aging to develop unique flavors, aromas, and textures.

Stop by Rhythm Studio in the Lincoln Village Shops for a tour and tasting. The fruits used in the beverages are all locally sourced to carefully craft unique liquid magic right in the heart of the White Mountains. Art of all kinds created by local artists is incorporated into the labels and the Studio will be hosting trivia, game nights, and crafting workshops throughout the year. For more information about Rhythm Cider, please visit https://rhythmcider.com/.

one love brewery

One Love Brewery

Inspired by German beer halls, One Love Brewery, located in the Lincoln Village Shops, is a great place to enjoy après ski on a cold winter day or just relax after a day wandering near the Pemigewasset River. Known for its delicious and creative food menu, its beer menu is also brag-worthy. Featuring primarily European-style brews, the beer menu changes frequently based on the season. On a cool fall day in the mountains, you can’t go wrong with the Al’s Still Here Oktoberfest or the Marzen Festival.

During the warmer months, One Love Brewery is dog-friendly with seating available on the patio. Fido even has his own menu featuring his own Good Boy/Girl Dog Beer. And in true pub fashion, One Love Brewery offers its own Mug Club. For more information about One Love Brewery, please visit https://www.onelovebrewery.com/.

twin barns

Twin Barns Brewing Company

Twins Barns Brewing Company is a wonderful new addition to North Woodstock Main Street! The NH business made its debut brewing handcrafted beer in the Lakes Region in 2018. Founders Dave Picarillo and Bruce Walton were traveling consultants who turned their love of beer and brewing into phenomenal craft beverages for all to enjoy.

Join their mug club for discounts and more at both locations. The taproom often features live, local music. Details for these events can be found on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TwinBarnsNorth. Make sure you check out all they have to offer. Crafting IPAs, Lagers, Sours, Ciders and lots more in between, there’s surely something for everyone! For more information about Twin Barns Brewing Company, please visit https://www.twinbarnsbrewing.com/.

Cheers!

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov

What To Do After Skiing in the Western White Mountains

 

apres sk

During the winter months, the population explodes with skiers and snowboarders looking for first trackers on a powder day. Loon Mountain and Cannon Mountain draw thousands of people to the region every year for their awesome family-friendly skiing. After a long day on the slopes, there is still tons to do in the area to keep the whole family busy!

kids play

Burn Some Calories

Still have some energy to burn after skiing? Or, maybe you need a good stretch from a yoga class to feel ready to hit the powder stashes the next day. Live a Little Fitness is a fitness studio for all ages in the heart of Lincoln. The studio offers a variety of in-person studio classes and digital classes. Classes range from gentle yoga to barre to spin and just about everything in between. But, Live a Little Fitness isn’t your regular fitness studio, they specialize in kids’ activities! Kids need to play! Head over to Live a Little Fitness with the kiddos for the BEAM Playzone, which is an interactive video playground for kids of all ages. There’s also Kid’s Yoga Play and the new Studio Play. It’s fun for the whole family.

hot tub

Indoor Pool

Staying at one of the many resorts, hotels, and condos in town? Then you likely have access to an indoor or outdoor heated swimming pool! Nothing feels better after a long day of craving the freshly groomed trails at Loon or Cannon. Bonus points if the resort has a hot tub! The Mountain Club on Loon, Indian Head Resort, InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook, and the RiverWalk Resort at the Loon Mountain are a few of the local resorts that all have a heated indoor pool (or maybe a heated outdoor pool!) and hot tubs for your enjoyment. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!

wine tasting

Wine Tasting

Located in the heart of the RiverWalk Resort, the Seven Birches Winery has two tasting rooms for all your wine tasting. Serving red, white, and a few other colored (hello blueberry!) wines made right in Lincoln, you find a wine that tickles your taste buds just right. Sip at the bar and grab a wine flight or choose from two different wine tasting tours. Whatever you choose, you’ll leave warmer than you arrived.

beer tasting

Beer Tasting

For more adult fun, enjoy all the locally brewed beer in the Western White Mountains. The Woodstock Inn Brewery is one of the original craft breweries in New Hampshire. Growing from a small seven-barrel system to 30 barrels in over 20 years, the Wood Stock Inn brews a variety of brews with clever White Mountains names like 4000 Footer IPA, Pemi Pale Ale, and Lost River Light Ale.

Swing by the Twin Barns North Taproom for refreshing beers, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages. They welcome guests to bring their own food, encouraging the support of other local Main Street restaurants. However, if you get a little hungry while enjoying their beverages, they’ve got a great assortment of snacks for purchase.

Located in the Village Shops, One Love Brewery brews some delicious German-style beers. Not only are the beers, like Czech Your Head and Hoppoptomus Pale, great, but so is the food. You can order both take out food and beer!

massage

Massage

Soothe your sore muscles and relax at the spa. The Solstice North Day Spa in the RiverWalk Resort is a full-service spa that specializes in massage treatments. With seven licensed massage therapists, there is someone seven days a week to provide you with the perfect massage. The Mountain Club on Loon offers a luxurious menu of spa services such as massage, facials, and more. Add a little color to your nails with a manicure or pedicure! Curious about Reiki, call Stacey at Balanced Rock Bodyworks to help focus your energy.

apres ski

Après Ski

Visit Burgeon Outdoor after a day of skiing to stock up on locally-made outdoor apparel for the whole family. Burgeon means “to flourish”, and they stand true to their mission of helping mountain communities flourish through supporting our local community in many different ways. If you’re in town for one of their special events, make sure to drop by:

Après Ski at Burgeon | February 21st | 3:00-6:00 PM
LINWOOD Ambulance Fundraiser | February 23rd | 3:00-6:00 PM
SAR Appreciation Night | March 25th | 1:00-5:00 PM
Summer Hiking Kickoff Party | June 24th | 3:00-6:00 PM

There is tons to do in the Lincoln-Woodstock area for the whole family or just the adults. Enjoy the many opportunities to break a sweat, relax, or enjoy delicious food and drink.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov

Unique Eats in the Western White Mountains

 

mtn club

The Western White Mountains is quickly becoming a culinary hotspot with lots of unique eateries for various options for the whole family. Choose from traditional après ski spots like the Mt Club or Gordi’s or enjoy a quick breakfast at the local bagel shop or bakery. There are a place and menu for everyone in the family!

common man lincoln

Common Man – Lincoln

After a day of skiing, head over to the Common Man in Lincoln and enjoy an après ski drink while you warm up in front of the massive stone fireplace while playing board games. Opened in 1985, the restaurant and bar have been a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. The extensive menu focuses on American cuisine, including all your favorites like prime rib, homemade mac and cheese, and their world-famous crab cakes. If you’re gluten-free, their special gluten-free menu is one of the best around the White Mountains. Just want to grab take-out and enjoy a meal on your couch in front of Netflix? You can order online and pick up curbside! 

Gordi’s Fish & Steak House – Lincoln

A staple of Lincoln, Gordi’s Fish & Steak House is a Western White Mountain classic. Co-owned by Olympic skiers, Gordi and Karen Eaton, the whole restaurant pays homage to the North Country and the past and present ski heroes of the region. Located in the Depot Plaza, you’re greeted by a large carved lobster and a tank full of live Maine lobsters. Lobsters and seafood in the mountains probably aren’t what you expected, but their seafood is fresh and delicious! Don’t miss their other house specials such as the steak and burgers. No matter what you ordered, you’ll love the atmosphere of Gordi’s.

Mtn Club Loon

Mountain  Club – Loon Mountain

Ski-in and ski-out for incredible farm to table meals at Mt. Club at Loon Mountain. Work up an appetite by spending the morning shredding the fresh pow before heading to a late lunch or dinner featuring bold local flavors and epic mountain views. With a focus on local produce, bread, meats, and drinks, the menu changes monthly, but always showcase mouthwatering dishes. Start your dinner with a salad or appetizer before sinking your teeth into scallops, ribeye, or something else. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert!

White Mountain Bagel Co.

White Mountain Bagel Co – Lincoln

Start your mornings off right with a coffee and bagel at White Mountain Bagel Co. Serving homemade bagels baked fresh daily with the choice of your favorite cream cheese, you’ll have all the energy you need to bag the next peak or ski the glades. If you need something a little heartier, choose from their variety of egg sandwiches or lunch sandwiches. If you’re visiting for the week, purchase a dozen bagels and enjoy them all week for breakfast! Short of time while heading to the mountain, order ahead of time online and pick up curbside.

Woodstock Inn

Woodstock Inn Brewery – North Woodstock

The Woodstock Inn Brewery is one of the legends of the North Country. Featuring four bars in one, the Woodstock Inn truly defines the Western White Mountains spirit. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can’t go wrong on the time of day you eat at the Woodstock Inn. The extensive menu features an eccentric mix of hearty and delicious dishes from burgers to salads to seafood and just about everything in between. The large restaurant with its multiple pubs consists of several rooms with varying décor focusing on the historic charm of the region.

One Love Brewery – Lincoln

One Love Brewery is a traditional German Lager House. Their beer is Master Crafted by owner and brewer Michael Snyder, who graduated from the The Seibel School in 2000. Michael has been a professional brewer for 20 years. His passion for German Lagers comes with years of experience and dedication. During your visit pair their beer with an item off their delicious menu including options for the gluten free visitors. One Love Brewery has expanded in the Village Shops this winter. Check out their Love Nest company store and enjoy a beverage in their 21+ cocktail lounge. One Love Brewery family has expanded to Plymouth, NH as well where you’ll find  “Blended” a juicery and smoothie shop and “Stir” a one love test kitchen and brewery. Both locations are at 61 Main Street, Plymouth NH.

No matter where you go in the Western White Mountains, there is always a delicious place to grab unique eats that will satisfy your taste buds.

 

 

 

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov