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Basecamp of the White Mountains in New Hampshire

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Lincoln

Hike Safe, Leave No Trace

June 6, 2023

hike safe nh

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. 

hike safe nh

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.

hike safe nh

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: 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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. 
  4. 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.
  5. 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. 

hike safe nh

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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!
  3. Be careful with fire – Burn local (down and dead) firewood, use campfires and fire rings safely, and extinguish fires completely every time.
  4. Keep wildlife wild – Observe animals from a distance, refrain from feeding them, and always store your food securely.
  5. 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.

hike safe nh

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

visitnh.gov

Filed Under: Adventure, Hiking, Outdoor, Year Round Tagged With: Adventure, All Ages, Attractions, Fall, Family Fun, Franconia Notch, Lincoln, outdoor activities, Seasonal Activities, Summer, What to Do, white mountains

Laconia Motorcycle Week® Returns for its 100th Year

April 26, 2023

laconia bike week

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. 

 

640px-Weirs_Beach_Sign_New_Hampshire

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!

franconia_notch_state_parkSamuel Eastman 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 Craft Beverages & 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!

motorcycle ride

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov

Filed Under: Events, Summer Tagged With: Adventure, Attractions, bike week, Events, Franconia Notch, laconia, laconia bike week, laconia motorcycle week, Lincoln, motorcycle week, north woodstock, Seasonal Activities, Summer, weirs beach, What to Do, white mountains

The History and Bright Future of the Hobo Railroad

March 20, 2023

hobo railroad

Have you heard about the Hobo Railroad? It’s celebrating its 35th year! This incredibly popular attraction is a one-of-a-kind train experience that you can have during spring, summer, fall, and winter right in the beautiful White Mountains region. 

In honor of its anniversary, we sat down with Jennifer Franz to learn all about it.

hobo railroad

The Beginning of the Hobo Railroad

The track that is currently utilized by the Hobo Railroad dates back to the 1800’s. At that time it was owned by the Boston, Concord, and Montreal Railroad. 

Franz says, “It was used as one of the primary routes north for tourists making their way from cities like Boston, Hartford, and New York to the pristine lakes and mountains of northern New Hampshire as well as to points further north including the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont and Montreal, Canada.”

She continues, “In the early 1900’s the rights to the rail line were sold to the Boston and Maine Railroad who kept the line active between the Lakes Region and Lincoln, New Hampshire in support of the paper mills and other businesses that depended on passenger and freight service.”

However, the passenger service level dwindled with the rise of automobiles and the creation of highways in the 1950s, and by the 1970s when the paper mills closed, freight service was no longer needed and shut down completely. At that point, the rail line was purchased by the State of New Hampshire and eventually offered for lease.

The railroad lease opportunity was music to Ed and Brenda Clark’s ears! In the 1980s the couple reached an agreement with the State of New Hampshire and created the Hobo Railroad, which opened in Lincoln, New Hampshire on June 15, 1987. 

Franz says, “The Clarks have continued to operate and grow the railroad operation successfully for the past 35 years. Brenda, Ben, and Jennifer share the responsibilities of daily operations. The economic development of this area was completely due to the development of the rail line.”

The Past and Present

Many have ridden the rails over the years and it may interest new riders to know that back in 1987 a ticket cost just $5! Today, the costs are still very affordable. Adult tickets are $22, child tickets are $17, and toddlers (age three and under) are absolutely free.

Other changes include the addition of two other locations in the Lakes Region and a fourth location called Rail Bike Adventures.  

While some things like costs and locations have changed, much hasn’t. Franz says, “We pride ourselves in keeping with a traditional, vintage railroad experience.” 

hobo railroad

Vintage Charm

The Hobo Railroad uses restored vintage coaches to take passengers around the area. The first four cars did some traveling on their own all the way from Hoboken, New Jersey! Then other 1950s MBTA cars from Boston, Massachusetts joined the team. 

Franz says, “All the cars were restored on property in Lincoln, New Hampshire by the Clark family and their employees.”

hobo railroad

So Much to See

Have you heard the song “Over the River and Through the Woods”? Well, that’s essentially the route that the Hobo Railroad runs. Riders are taken quite literally over the Pemigewasset River and through the stunning woods. 

“Along the way, passengers can expect to see trees, the river, and if you’re lucky, the wildlife in the area,” says Franz. 

But there’s more! Franz continues, “You also get glimpses of the mountains, wildlife, campers, kayakers, and canoers.”

There’s a lot to see and each season offers something new and special.

hobo railroad

Train Experiences by Season

The Hobo Railroad operates from late May through October and again from Thanksgiving through mid-December. We recommend you come back during each season because there are advantages to each. 

The season of renewal is all about fresh sights. Franz explains, “Passengers get a ride through the forest and watch as the trees and plants emerge from their winter slumber. In the spring the wildlife becomes more active, especially the birds.”

While in spring the Railroad sticks to weekends only, summer really heats up with seven-day service and Nature by Rail on select Thursdays throughout the season. 

“Passengers will see the trees and flowers in full bloom. Many people are out fishing, tubing, or kayaking in the river. People enjoy camping along the riverbed. In the summer, the wildlife you may see includes birds, deer, turkey, and bear,” says Franz. 

Unsurprisingly, fall is a favorite time to ride the rails! The foliage views in New Hampshire are legendary and the Hobo Railroad offers a whole new vantage point. 

Franz says, “The fall foliage season allows passengers to see the changing of the leaves. In the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the foliage colors are vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and greens.”

As the temperatures get lower, the Hobo Railroad begins to offer a special kind of winter magic. Franz explains, “During the winter, passengers watch as the river freezes over, the mountains become snowcapped, and we begin to get light dustings of snow.” 

And as winter moves toward the holidays, there’s even more fun to be had. Franz says, “During late November-December, we run our Santa Express trains (weekends only) which offer a unique experience to visit with Santa and enjoy some good old-fashioned family time. At the beginning of the ride, elves go through the cars and hand out letters to Santa. On the ride back towards the station, Santa goes through the cars and hands out gifts to each child, and collects the letters to bring to the North Pole. After the ride is over, there is a family photo opportunity with Santa.” 

hobo railroad

A Perfect Souvenir 

If you want to bring home a piece of the train ride, there’s no better place to get one than the Hobo Railroad’s very own gift shop. Franz says, “Some of the most popular items in the gift shop include: die-cast toy trains, hand-blown glass Christmas ornaments, and sweatshirts/t-shirts.”

Be a Part of the Hobo Railroad’s Future 

Customers can’t get enough of the Hobo Railroad. Franz says, “We have many repeat customers. We have generations of families who come back to visit us.” 

Whether you’re a first-time rider in this, the 35th season, or a seasoned one from 1987, we hope you’ll join the Clarks starting on Memorial Day Weekend 2023. 

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov

Filed Under: Adventure, Attractions, Family Fun, History, Year Round Tagged With: Adventure, All Ages, Attractions, Dinner Train, family friendly, Family Fun, history, Hobo Railroad, Lincoln, Seasonal Activities, What to Do, white mountain history, white mountains

Vets Ride Free! Memorial Day Weekend at Hobo Railroad

March 20, 2023

The Hobo Railroad is extending a well-deserved THANK YOU to all active duty, retired and honorably discharged military Veterans this Memorial Day. Each Veteran will be provided with a free ticket. Thank you for your service!

Tagged With: All Ages, Attractions, Family Business, family friendly, Hobo Railroad, Lakes and Rivers, Lincoln, train, Train Ride

Manufacturing in the White Mountains: Meet Hubbell Burndy

January 25, 2023

burndy

Nestled amongst the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where tourism is the driving industry, Burndy makes its home and is known for pioneering work in the electrical, telecommunications, and renewable energies markets worldwide. The Burndy brand is an important part of Hubbell Incorporated’s electrical solutions business. Burndy creates and builds thousands of different connectors, fittings, and tools.

burndy

Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, Burndy has manufacturing operations in Lincoln, Littleton, and Londonderry. But Burndy wasn’t born in the Granite State. Electrical engineer and science historian Dr. Bern Dibner founded the company in 1924, in Brooklyn, New York. Dibner designed and patented a universal connector that required neither soldering nor welding, allowing a unified grid. Burndy Engineering Company remained family-owned until it was acquired in 1988 by the French corporation Framatome Connectors Internal (FCI). In 2005, Burndy was acquired by Bain Capital.

burndy

In 2009 Burndy became part of Hubbell. This global manufacturer of utility and electrical solutions is based in Connecticut. The company’s dependable products and services enable customers to operate safely, reliably, efficiently, and sustainably. With a history of innovation that extends back to 1886, Hubbell solutions empower and energize communities in front of and behind the meter.

Burndy has two locations in the western White Mountains – Lincoln and Littleton. The Lincoln facility primarily manufactures connectors and fittings, while the Littleton facility makes crimping tools used to put connectors and wires together. Both plants have been in New Hampshire since the 1970s, each with approximately 200 employees.

burndy

Burndy prides itself in hiring locally. The company trains people new to manufacturing and helps develop their potential and growth with the company. For many individuals, a job at a Burndy plant provides good pay and benefits, allowing other family members to work more seasonal jobs. At the Lincoln facility, making over 13,000 different products gives employees opportunity for variety in their work.

burndy

Additionally, with four shifts, employees can enjoy the beauty of the mountains during their time off. The weekend shift is popular, consisting of three 12-hour shifts. It allows families to balance childcare and other obligations or just enjoy the fresh powder and hiking trails without the weekend warriors.

burndy

Burndy has a direct impact on the local community and the Grafton County economy, where many of its employees live and spend their money. The company prioritizes working with as many local businesses as possible in day-to-day operations.

burndy

The electrification of modern amenities, including modernizing the power grid, requires a significant quantity of electrical connectors. Burndy and the entire Hubbell family is well positioned to meet these needs, now and into the future.

Learn more about Burndy on our website hubbell.com/burndy.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov

Filed Under: Ask The Locals, History, Living Here Tagged With: burndy, community, economy, hubbell, Lincoln, manufacturing, white mountains

A Community That Gives

January 25, 2023

western white mountains

The Lincoln-North Woodstock community is a small, tight-knit community that is always willing to lend a helping hand or help those in need. The local area is home to some important non-profit organizations that provide vital programs and assistance to some of the most vulnerable individuals and families in the Lincoln-Woodstock area and across New Hampshire. If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer your time and expertise or donate your money or gently used items for good, look no further than a few of our favorite non-profit organizations.

loon mountain ministry

Loon Mountain Ministry

Loon Mountain Ministry is a non-denominational church that offers outdoor worship services on the summit of Loon Mountain during the summer and winter. With stunning views of the White Mountains, engaging music, and spiritually uplifting messages, you’ll leave feeling better than you came. Loon Mountain Ministry has many opportunities to give back to the local community, including praying, volunteering, and donating. One of the easiest things you can do for the Ministry and the community is to participate in prayer.

For those looking to get more involved, the Ministry is always looking for some extra hands to help with carrying equipment up the Loon Mountain gondola, serving coffee to your neighbors after a service, or volunteering your time at the Encore Thrift Shop. The Encore Thrift and Coffee, located on Main Street in Lincoln, is a 7,000-square-foot shop with clothing, sporting goods, books, records, and more. Shop at the store and support the mission of the Encore Thrift store. There are also many other ways to get involved with Loon Mountain Ministry, like the missional communities, 811 Youth, Ladies Coffee, and more.

bridge project

The Bridge Project

The Bridge Project began as a Rotary Club initiative in 2016 to provide a space where people could feel comfortable asking for help. Today, the non-profit focuses on assisting at-risk individuals in the community struggling with addiction, poverty, and other challenging life circumstances. Led by local Lincoln-Woodstock resident Tracy Shamberger, The Bridge Project hosts recovery meetings, individual support, youth mentorship programs, and more. The organization has been successful in helping hundreds in need and is always looking for community members to volunteer their time, fundraise, or donate something you no longer need.

The Bridge Project also hosts four events every year. Pedal it Purple – Ride for Recovery Awareness is a family-friendly bike ride in June that raises money for The Bridge Project. For the golfers, there is the Cap’N Bill Golf Tournament held at the Maplewood Golf Club in Bethlehem. The organization also does the annual school supplies and backpack drive and the annual winter coat and clothes collection.

new england disabled sportsNew England Disabled Sports

New England Disabled Sports (NEDS) provides adaptive sports instruction to students of varying abilities that meet certain criteria. Every year, the non-profit provides sports activities for close to 600 student-athletes in the White Mountains. Headquartered at Loon Mountain, the organization provides year-round programs. During the winter season, NEDS offers programs in alpine skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing at Loon Mountain and Bretton Woods. During the summer months, student-athletes can participate in kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, cycling, golf, and downhill mountain biking. NEDS also has a military program for veterans and offers camps.

If you’re an active outdoors person, then volunteering with NEDS might be right up your alley. NEDS is always looking for compassionate and hardworking volunteers to serve as volunteer coaches for various sports. If you’re short of time, NEDS welcomes monetary donations and items on their “NEDS Wish List.”

lincoln woodstock rotartyLincoln Woodstock Rotary Club

The Rotary Club of Lincoln-Woodstock is a dedicated group of Lincoln-Woodstock residents who share a passion for community service. Rotary is a global group of volunteer leaders committed to tackling some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges in their own communities and abroad. There are over 1.2 million rotary members across 200 countries. The Lincoln Woodstock Rotary Club meets Wednesday mornings at 7:00 am at the Woodstock Inn & Brewery. The Rotary’s “Community Chest” project supports various programs and services that help the most vulnerable members in the local community, especially during the holidays.

loon mountain

Loon Mountain Area Community Fund

The Loon Mountain Area Community Fund exists to help improve the quality of life for community members in need. For many years, the resort has operated under a guiding principle that employee involvement and charitable outreach is an integral part of their overall philosophy. Funds are used to help locals facing adversity due to circumstances involving injuries or accidents, medical needs, loss of life, fire, natural disasters, etc.

Funding comes from events like the Golden Gala and through a voluntary payroll deduction program (which Loon matches). Donations are also accepted and encouraged especially from local business in order to help support the overall cause.

In addition to all the non-profit organizations above, shopping local is always a great way to support the many locally-owned, small business owners and the hardworking people that call the Western White Mountains home.

For state-wide information, head to VisitNH.gov

visitnh.gov

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: charity, community, fundraising, giving back, Lincoln, north woodstock, white mountains

Shop Small Snowflake Search

November 16, 2022

Welcome to the Shop Small Snowflake Search!

Filed Under: Adventure, Ask The Locals, Attractions, Dining, Events, Fall, Family Fun, Featured, Hiking, History, Indoor, Living Here, Lodging, Multigenerational Travel, Outdoor, Relaxing, Shopping, Spring, Summer, Uncategorized, Winter, Year Round Tagged With: holiday shopping, Lincoln, shop local, where to shop, white mountains, Winter, Woodstock

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western white mountains chamber of commerce
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North Woodstock, NH 03262, USA

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Lincoln, NH 03251

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