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
