white mountains

Ice Castles New Hampshire: A Frozen Wonderland

December 1, 2022

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 White Mountains are home to a wide array of lodging options, dining options and fun winter activities like snowtubing, ice skating, 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.

Shop Small Snowflake Search

November 16, 2022

Welcome to the Shop Small Snowflake Search!

Your Guide to Shopping Locally This Holiday Season

November 7, 2022

The holiday season is fast approaching, and you know what that means – Santa is checking his list for who is naughty or nice. Shop locally this holiday season and support the local businesses and artisans who call the western White Mountains home. Who doesn’t want a piece of the White Mountains?

Lincoln Sign Company

For a truly unique gift for a business owner in your family or a fun sign for your home, visit Lincoln Sign Company for a beautiful custom sign. From business signs to house numbers to ski chalet and vacation home names, Lincoln Sign Company can do it all. The full-service shop does it all from design to production to installation and maintenance.

Call or email the shop to schedule an appointment to create the ultimate custom holiday gift for your favorite loved ones or even yourself.

Polly’s Pancake Parlor

For over 75 years, Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill has been serving up world-famous pancakes smothered in real New Hampshire maple syrup. Did you know you can actually take home many of the delicious food products to recreate your favorite Polly’s breakfast at home? You can shop at the restaurant or at home!

While Polly’s can’t sell you your favorite server/pancake maker, you can buy one or all of their famous pancake mixes from original to gingerbread to oatmeal buttermilk. All you need to do is add the eggs, milk, and butter. Of course, a pancake breakfast isn’t complete without maple syrup! You can purchase the liquid gold right at Polly’s too! Choose from a variety of sizes, including up to one gallon. Don’t forget to pair the maple syrup with the pure maple spread for the perfect bite of maple sweetness. Polly’s maple syrup is personally selected for color and flavor from Fuller’s Maple in Lancaster.

Pick up holiday gifts for all your friends and family at Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill or shop online at https://pollyspancakeparlor.com/shop/.

Harman’s Cheese & Country Store

No holiday party is complete without a charcuterie board and there is no better place to shop for the essentials than Harman’s Cheese & Country Store. Famous for their cheddar cheese, you can choose from a variety of their famous natural premium grade, cheddar made in update New York. The smoked cheese with either habanero or horseradish is always a crowd pleaser.

While cheese can certainly be its own food group, fill your stockings with other Harman’s favorites like locally made jams, jellies, pickles, and more. The Wozz Sour Cheery Spiced Wine Spread is always a great choice for a holiday party. Not sure where to start or to get for that person who has everything, choose any of the gift combinations and take credit for the wonderful gift! You can purchase items in their Sugar Hill store or online at https://webstore.harmanscheese.com/.

Beverages

The Lincoln/North Woodstock is home to quite a few breweries, wineries, and cideries so there is no excuse not to find the perfect liquid holiday gift. For over 25 years, Woodstock Inn Brewery has been one of New Hampshire’s premier craft breweries. With about 25 beers on tap throughout the year, there are a lot of options to choose from in the brewery or locally at many of the grocery stores across the state.

One Love Brewery in the Lincoln Village Shops also sells their beer and a variety of hoodies, t-shirts, and more. Beer on tap can be purchased as a 64 oz Growler and makes that perfect holiday gift for your favorite beer lover. Just down the hallway from One Love Brewery is Rhythm Handcrafted Beverages with all your favorite hard ciders, meads, and hard seltzers. Shop in the Rhythm Studio or purchase your favorites and have them shipped to 37 states.

With all the holiday parties coming up, don’t forget to purchase a hostess gift. Wine makes the perfect gift, and you’ll find a variety of options at Seven Birches Winery in Lincoln. Made locally in New Hampshire, Seven Birches makes a variety of red, white, and even fruit wine like strawberry and apple. Shop at the winery (after taste testing first, of course!) or purchase online and have the bottles shipped.

Burgeon Outdoors

Proudly made in New Hampshire, Burgeon Outdoors offers a collection of men’s, women’s, and youth base layers and outerwear to get you warm and dry in all your adventures from shoveling your driveway to summiting Mount Washington on a bluebird day. Made in their studio in the Lincoln Village Shops, all products are handmade by local White Mountain residents. Products are designed and tested on some of the toughest terrains in the Whites so you know they will last for years to come. The Highlander Hoodie is a favorite that can be worn on the trail or around town. And you can’t go wrong with the Flume base layer perfect for every adventure in and out of the mountains.

Stop by the Studio in the Lincoln Village Shops and shop in person and meet a few of the stitchers who make the garments or shop online at https://www.burgeonoutdoor.com/.

Experiences

Give the gift of experiences this year and make memories that will last a lifetime with your friends and family. If the pandemic has taught us anything over the past few years, it’s that life is short and precious. The western White Mountains have no shortage of fun things to do. Into adventure sports? Purchase a gift card for ziplining at Alpine Adventures or a day of skiing at Cannon Mountain. Need a family-friendly activity for the young grandkids? Splash in the pools at Whale’s Tale Waterpark or go mining for treasures at Lost River Gorge.

Maybe your favorite loved one had a hard year and needs a weekend away to recharge or perhaps they are celebrating a life milestone? Book a weekend away with a spa day at the RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain and Solstice North Day Spa. The options are endless in the western White Mountains!

Craft Beverages in the Western White Mountains

November 4, 2022

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

In 2020, the Woodstock Inn Brewery celebrated its 25^th 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 Handcrafted Beverages 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 Handcrafted Beverages was launched in 2020.

Rhythm, named after the beautiful flow of music and nature, offers a variety of craft ciders, mead, hard seltzer, and fruit wine 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 into other fruit-based fermented drinks. All the ciders are made like fine wine is made, with plenty of time for aging to develop unique flavors, aromas, and textures.

Mead is the oldest alcoholic beverage in the world and a favorite of many ancient civilizations like the Vikings and Romans. With four different flavors, you’ll be sure to find something that tastes delicious from the Classic Mead to the Blackberry-Blueberry-Raspberry Mead. Completing the trifecta of alcoholic beverages is the newly added Hard Seltzer. With three different fruity flavors, you can experience summer throughout the year.

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 Handcrafted Beverages, please visit https://rhythmbeverages.com/.

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 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!

Haunted Hikes and More in the White Mountains

August 23, 2022

Fall is more than colorful leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, and apple picking. It’s ghost stories and Halloween candy as well. Founded on June 21, 1788, New Hampshire is the ninth oldest state in the country with a long history before that as well, which is why there should be no surprise that the White Mountains are full of bizarre and haunted stories.

Bomber Crash Site on Mount Waternomee

On January 14, 1942, a Douglas B18-A bomber carrying a crew of 7 was on it’s return flight to Westover Air Field in Massachusetts. Met with darkness and bad weather, the pilot became disoriented and began their descent thinking they were nearing Westover. Unfortunately they were actually over central New Hampshire, and crashed into the side of Mount Waternomee (a shoulder peak on the east side Mount Moosilauke). As the crew attempted to escape from the wreckage, the plane caught fire causing the bombs they were carrying to explode. Five members were injured but miraculously survived, though were then met with deep winter snow. Residents of Lincoln and North Woodstock heard the explosion and saw the flames. And so despite the harsh conditions, a team of over 50 volunteers ventured out into the dark winter night and successfully rescued the 5 survivors.

Today the crash site can be accessed from a 5 mile hike off Walker Brook Road in Woodstock. Visitors have said it was a very eerie, but worthwhile experience.

Betty and Barney Hill Abduction

Betty and Barney Hill of Portsmouth, NH were returning home after a trip to Montreal in the middle of the night on September 19, 1961. As they reached Franconia Notch, they began carefully observing a strange light moving around in the night sky. Upon making their way through the Notch, about 1 mile South of Indian Head Resort, the lights quickly descended towards the travelers and appeared to be some sort of spacecraft. This UFO with large windows hovered above the Hills, close enough for them to make out humanoid creatures inside. The couple then claims to have completely lost 2 hours of time and were unable to explain the missing time. Their encounter ended up being one of the first well-documented and reported UFO abductions in the U.S.

Today, along the couple’s route is a gas station which displays a commemorative mural. Some information on the UFO sighting is also located inside the Irving Express. There is also a historical marker for the encounter on Route 3 near Indian Head Resort. And make sure you swing by the Woodstock Inn Brewery to see if ‘Lost Time’ pale ale is on tap. It’s a homage to the close encounter.

Mount Willard Trail

Mount Willard Trail is a 3.1-mile out-and-back trail that leads to one of the most iconic vistas of Crawford Notch. However, it is also home to one of the worse tragedies in the White Mountains. Samuel Willey Jr. moved his family to Crawford Notch in 1825. Only a short year later, the White Mountains experienced one of the worst rainstorms in history, which created a huge landslide that tore through the Willey’s land. A ledge protected their house but killed his family and two hired hands. All bodies except three of the children’s were found. According to a hiker on Trail to Summit, the three children who were never found haunt the notch today.

Mount Chocorua Loop Trail

Offering 360-degree views of the White Mountains, Mount Chocorua Loop Trail is a 10.1-mile challenging loop trail. Named after the famous Pigwacket tribe chief, Mount Chocorua is said to be haunted by Chief Chocorua’s cries after his son died in the care of the Campbell family. Before Chief Chocorua jumped to his death, he cursed all white settlers. Hikers have reported hearing the eerie cries of the famous chief.

Crawford Path Trail

Mt. Washington was originally called Agiocochook, which loosely means “Home of the Great Spirit” and probably to no one’s surprise, the summit and surrounding trails have been reportedly haunted. The Crawford Notch Trail is a difficult 15-mile out-and-back trail that will bring you to the legendary summit of Mt. Washington. If you’re peak bagging, make sure you take the Mt. Eisenhower and Mt. Monroe Loops to cross a couple of additional 4,000-footers on your list.

Once you’re on the summit of Mt. Washington, it is said that the Tip Top House is haunted. Built in 1853 by Samuel F. Spaulding, the stone house is the oldest surviving building on the summit and is believed to be the oldest extant mountain-top hostelry in the world. The meteorologists living and working on the Mount Washington Observatory may also tell you about the “The Presence” that seems to walk the halls of the weather room at night. And you can’t rule out the Crawford Path Trail itself for having paranormal activity. It’s one of the oldest maintained hiking trails in the United States and has had over 200 reported deaths over the centuries. Certainly, some of those hikers must continue their journey on the other side.

Ghost Light

This fall you can head to Jean’s Playhouse for a unique haunting experience to really get your spooky thrills in. Available for two weekends October 21 – 30, 2022, Ghost Light is a brand new experience that combines a haunted house walk-through with immersive theatre. Each trip through the experience lasts about 45 minutes. For a slightly less spooky experience, there will be a “Daytime Light Fright” on Sunday afternoons.

Visit the Western White Mountains to experience some haunted thrills of the Granite State.

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.

Local Business Spotlight: Lincoln Sign Company

July 6, 2022

Located on Route 3 in Lincoln, Lincoln Sign Company is the White Mountains longest running sign shop. Specializing in dimensional, handcrafted signs, the shop was started in 1972 by Rick Weisbrad, who was a formally trained sculptor. About nine years ago, Roy Whitaker purchased the business from JD and Vicky Iles and has since grown it to include Littleton Sign Company in Littleton and Paquette Signs in Meredith.

As a serial entrepreneur, Roy Whitaker first moved to the Lincoln area to run New England Disabled Sports (NEDS). He fell in love with the mountains and needed to find a way to stay. It just so happened that Vicky was looking to retire, and Roy jumped at the opportunity to purchase the sign business with no real sign-making experience. Despite having no sign-making experience, Roy had years of small business consulting and understood the value of being part of the local community.

Roy was able to learn some of the many skills you need to make the beautiful dimensional signs that you can find throughout the Lincoln and North Woodstock region of the White Mountains from the longtime employee, Lee Lamontagne, who was famous for his hand-carved signs and gold leaf lettering. Over the decades, the small shop has made some famous signs, including the New Yankee Workshop sign back in 1988. In 2005, Norm Abram visited the sign shop to film an episode of The New Yankee Workshop to learn “how a router, a sandblaster, a hand chisel, and a sophisticated computerized machine can be used to carve modern signs.”

Lincoln Sign Company work can be found throughout the region. A few of Roy’s recent favorite signs are RiverWalk Resort and the Gypsy Café, which was recently remade from the original sign built by the company years ago. Roy believes that it is an honor to be asked to make a sign for a company and that it’s important to continue to build upon the craftsman’s genius and skills that came before him. You’ll also see their signs around town at Rhythm Handcrafted Beverages, Arnold’s Wayside Diner, Alpine Adventures, Indian Head Resort and NCCA Jean’s Playhouse… just to name a few!

Roy’s philosophy when it comes to sign-making is all about the vision of the client. As he says, “Everyone has an idea of what they want to see. Most sign companies find out what the client wants and make it. We work with our clients to create their vision together.” Sign making isn’t as simple as carving and painting wood either. You need to have a good grasp of design, composition, electrical, woodworking, painting, and more to make it work. You also need to consider where you put it, how you hang it, and how you light it.

While Lincoln Sign Company specializes in dimensional and hand-carved signs, the shop also does vehicle and hand-painted signs among other types. You can see many of the shop’s high quality art in the form of signage throughout the White Mountains. In addition to creating beautiful signs, Roy also strongly believes in being involved in the community. He currently lives in North Woodstock and serves on three non-profit boards. If you’re interested in working on a sign for your business or home, or just want to see some beautiful signs, visit Lincoln Sign Company for more information.

The Legacy of the Old Man of the Mountain

June 24, 2022

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

The Old Man of the Mountain is also known as the “Great Stone Face” by the Abenaki and “the Profile.” Located in Franconia Notch, 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 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 notch 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 Nielsen 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 Death 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.

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.

Get Your Thrills On in the White Mountains

June 24, 2022

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 rock climbing 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.

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, ride down a four-story ramp in a snow tube onto a BigAirBag Stuntzone, and challenge yourself at an aerial course.

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.

Rock Climbing

Climb to new heights with North County Climbing Center, the only indoor climbing gym in the White Mountains. North County Climbing Center, also known as N3C by the locals, offers both indoor and outdoor ice and rock-climbing experiences for all ages and abilities. The indoor gym has a variety of routes ranging in difficulty, style, and terrain making it the perfect fair-weather day activity or just to try something new. Never climbed before? No problem! Try the Learn to Bely Package to gain knowledge on all the basics. For those who want to transition their skills from the indoor gym to the crags, you can book a private guide or join their crag days.

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!

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 woods and fields of the White Mountains. Muddy Paws Dog Sledding provides year-round dog sledding fun for all ages. During the winter months, Muddy Paws offers several tour options. The 1.5 Hour Tour is the most popular where you have the opportunity to meet the sled dogs and then embark on a five-mile ride. 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.

History of Franconia Notch

June 23, 2022

Franconia Notch is one of the most beautiful places in New Hampshire and attracts people from all over the globe every year. To truly understand the unique landscape and its people, you have to step back in time millions of years ago to the Ice Age.

The Ice Age

Franconia Notch began to form millions of years ago during the Ice Age. The cold temperatures brought very little melting every year leading to the formation of the Laurentide Ice Sheet expanding from Canada into modern day New England. About 12,000 years ago, the ice sheets were over a mile high in most places across the White Mountains. As the ice began to melt and water flowed, Franconia Notch began to form.

As the Laurentide Ice Sheet moved south through New Hampshire, it would shear off pieces of the granite peaks of the White Mountains ultimately creating the deep valley known as a notch in New England. In many places in Franconia Notch State Park, you can visibly see the scrape marks left behind by the ice sheet on exposed bed rocks or the numerous boulders left behind by the glacier.

The popular Flume Gorge was also formed by glacial activity during the Ice Age. The Gorge is comprised of Conway granite that was cooled and cracked in parallel lines as the Laurentide Ice Sheet moved. Basalt, a hard, black volcanic rock, forced up from the earth and began crystallizing into rock dikes. As the ice began to melt about 10,000 years ago, rivers began to form, which eroded the basalt creating the Flume Gorge. Mother Nature truly is incredible!

The Early Days

Similar to the Lincoln/Woodstock Area, the White Mountains was home to the Abenaki tribes for thousands of years before the European settlers even set foot in the “New World.” The town of Franconia was first granted by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth in 1764. It was named Franconia after the Franconian Switzerland region of Germany at the time due to its mountainous landscape.

Franconia started with controversy over its land charter. Governor John Wentworth, Benning’s nephew, regranted the land charter in 1772 as there were claims that the first land grant was not completed in the required time allotment. Franconia developed similar to other towns in the western White Mountains.

During the 19th century, it became a tourist destination of the wealthy families in Boston, New York, and beyond. Richard Taft and Charles H. Greenleaf purchased the Flume House in 1848 and Lafayette House in 1853, two of the first luxury vacation resorts in the area. In 1853, the White Mountain Railroad finally reached Littleton and connected to other major railroads in Boston, Concord, Montreal, and other major cities on the eastern seaboard.

Tourism dipped during the Civil War but began booming again in 1870s and the area saw huge growth in tourism, resorts, and other attractions. The Profile House greatly expanded in 1906 to accommodate the newer wealthy middle class. Tourism to the mountain via rail was popular up until the coming of age of affordable automobiles. The historic Profile House was destroyed by a massive fire in 1923 and never rebuilt, but it laid the foundation for Franconia Notch State Park.

The Iron Age

Outside of tourism, Franconia was famous for its iron mines. The first iron works and mines began around 1801 and operated until the 1880s. Nearby Sugar Hill was also known for its iron. There were two iron works in Franconia. The only surviving stone furnace can be seen on Main Street near the Gale River today on private property, but you can see it from nature trails across the river. That stone furnace was owned by New Hampshire Iron Factory Company and became known locally as the “Lower Works.” The Haverhill and Franconia Iron Works was known as the “upper Works.”

The Birth of Franconia Notch State Park

The birth of state parks in New Hampshire occurred around 1881 with the first state park, Miller State Park, established in 1891. Franconia Notch State Park became an official New Hampshire State Park in 1928. The Flume Gorge is one of the most popular attractions in the park today and was discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old Aunt Jess Guernsey accidentally. During her initial discovery, the was a giant egg-shared boulder suspended between the two walls of the gorge, but a heavy rainstorm washed the boulder away in 1883. That boulder has never been found anywhere.

The Old Man of the Mountain is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic figures being widely featured on the state’s Statehood Quarter, state signs, license plates, and more. The famous natural attraction was a popular tourist attraction for over 200 years before falling down in 2003. Two land surveyors from Franconia, Luke Brooks and Francis Whitcomb, discovered the Old Man of the Mountain in 1805. The legend says the Luke Brooks woke up early one morning and saw the reflection of the granite face in Profile Lake. No one had ever seen it before due to the dense forest in the area.

The Dawn of the Ski Era

The White Mountains is home to some of the best skiing in the East, and Cannon Mountain is one of the oldest ski areas in New England. The Peckett family in Sugar Hill was trying to develop their small inn into a winter destination resort with a ski school and trails. The Pecketts saw the big potential in Cannon Mountain and worked on developing it as a ski mountain. The Richard Taft Trail became the first established trail in February 1933. In 1938, the construction of North America’s first passenger tramway began after Alexander Bright, a member of the 1933 US Olympic Ski Team, had seen passenger tramways in Europe and saw their potential in the White Mountains.

Building the tramway was no small feat, but it finally opened on June 28, 1938, after nine months of construction. In its first year, the tramway carried 163,000 passengers to the summit of Cannon Mountain. With the help of the tramway, Cannon Mountain quickly grew over the decades to become a popular ski resort. Significant investments were made in the 1950s to add more trails and lift projects with the help of state funding. Snowmaking came in the late 1960s. Today, Cannon Mountain is New Hampshire’s highest ski mountain and the birthplace of Olympic gold medalist, Bode Miller!

Franconia Notch is home to millions of years of geological and human history that has shaped the region as we know it today.

Pet-Friendly Travel in the Western White Mountains

June 23, 2022

You’ve probably felt the guilt when you stared in your pet’s sad eyes as you packed your bag for vacation, but did you know that the Western White Mountains of New Hampshire are pet-friendly? Numerous trails, waterways and relaxing public areas are waiting for your pup to romp around on! The greater Lincoln and Woodstock area is also home to a ton of great pet-friendly activities, lodging and dining options, so you don’t have to leave Fido at home on your next vacation. Just remember to book early as pet-friendly rooms get scooped up fast!

Pet-Friendly Swimming Areas & Trails

Please always keep your pet on a leash when using public or private hiking trails in the Western White Mountains.

Lincoln Woods or East Side Trails

Located off Route 112 just East of Lincoln, the Lincoln Woods Trailhead is your basecamp for numerous dog-friendly hikes and dips in the Pemigewasset River. There is a $5 day use fee to be paid at the trailhead (bring cash – cell phone service is limited here), but it is well worth it!

Head to the Ranger cabin and swing a left over the suspension bridge to follow the Lincoln Woods trail for ~3 easy miles along the Pemigewasset River. Take a side trip to Black Pond or Franconia Falls (use caution with Fido or kiddos here). Turn around and go back the way you came when you’re tuckered out. After ~3 miles, the trail reaches the Pemigewasset Wilderness boundary and becomes much more difficult.

Looking for something a bit more off the beaten path? From the Ranger cabin, go right and follow the East Side Trail for ~3 miles miles until you reach Franconia Brook tent site. This easy-graded path follows the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River and has ample opportunities for you and your pup to cool off. Like the Lincoln Woods Trail, turn around and return back the way you came.

JE Henry Trail

The JE Henry Trail can be accessed from a parking area behind RiverWalk Resort off Main Street Lincoln. This mellow 1 mile trail follows the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River and offers plenty of river access.

Elbow Pond

Elbow Pond is a hidden gem located off Hwy 118, west of the town of Woodstock. Canoeing, hiking and swimming opportunities are in abundance. Please be aware that a shooting range is located at the beginning of Elbow Pond Rd.

Wildwood Picnic Area

Wildwood Picnic Area sits along the banks of the Wild Ammonoosuc River off Route 112 West. There are picnic tables, grills, a small pavilion, and plenty of green space for your pup to let out energy.

Pet Friendly Lodging & Dining

Loon Reservation Services – Lincoln & Woodstock

Loon Reservation Services manages vacation rentals at 12 resorts in Lincoln and Woodstock. Choose from one- to four-bedroom condos and townhouses all within three miles of Loon Mountain Resort. Many of the rentals are dog-friendly, so you can bring your pooch along to enjoy all the family fun. An additional pet fee is required, and all dogs must be approved by Loon Reservation Services prior to arrival.

RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain – Lincoln

RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain offers luxury pet-friendly suites overlooking the bubbling Pemigewasset River. Offering a variety of suites to meet any size family, RiverWalk Resort has dog-friendly suites on the first two floors of the resort. Situated in the center of Lincoln, you can take your pup for a walk in the woods or around town.

The Notch Hostel – North Woodstock

Located minutes away from the Appalachian Trail in an 1890 farmhouse in North Woodstock, the Notch Hostel offers an affordable and comfortable place to rest your head at night. The 30-guest hostel primary offers shared rooms with some being dog-friendly. During the summer months, there is a fenced-in yard for your dog to run around and play. Like any dog-friendly place, there’s a resident dog on staff called Delilah Jones who loves attention and treats.

Quality Inn & Suites – Lincoln

The Quality Inn & Suites in Lincoln offers pet-friendly rooms with exterior entrances for an additional pet fee. The rooms are limited so it’s important to book in advance. Located close to all the best attractions and hiking in town, Quality Inn & Suites is a great home base for all your adventures.

Parker’s Motel – Lincoln

Located next door to Franconia Notch State Park, Parker’s Motel is a family-run business with 24 rooms ranging in size. Well-behaved pets are welcomed with advanced booking and a small additional pet fee.

One Love Brewery – Lincoln

Located across the parking lot from the RiverWalk Resort in the Village Shops in Lincoln, One Love Brewery has pet-friendly outdoor dining on its deck. After a day of hiking with your dog, celebrate with a pint and some delicious wings at One Love Brewery. Fido doesn’t even have to wait for your scraps under the table – One Love has a “Patio Pup” Menu just for the doggos!

Woodstock Inn Brewery – North Woodstock

The historic 40-room country inn offers both pet-friendly rooms and dog-friendly outdoor dining. Many of the rooms at the Woodstock Inn Brewery have fireplaces and whirlpool tubs and all the modern comforts of home in a beautifully designed mountain-theme room. Not all rooms are dog-friendly so make sure you book in advance so you can reserve a pet-friendly room for Spot. Don’t forget to bring your pup along with you to the Dam Bar!

Adair Inn – Bethlehem

Built in 1927 in beautiful Bethlehem, the Adair Inn offers three pet-friendly suites and two pet-friendly houses. The Kinsman Suite with views of Mt. Washington and the Franconia and Crawford Suites with views of the Dalton Mountain Range are all pet-friendly with a pet fee. Additionally, the 1811 House and Carriage House are both dog-friendly if you need a little extra space. For lodging guests, well-behaved dogs are allowed on the patio during breakfast.

Book a Vacation with Fido

Fido, Spot, and all their furry friends will love a vacation in the western White Mountains. With a variety of pet-friendly accommodations for all budgets, there’s no excuse to leave your furry pal at home while you explore the beautiful mountains of New Hampshire.

Family Fun at Clark’s Bears

June 9, 2022

It’s not every day you can see dancing bears. Clark’s Bears started from humble beginnings in 1928 and has since grown to one of the White Mountain’s biggest family-friendly attractions. Nestled along the banks of the Pemigewasset River along Route 3 in Lincoln, Clark’s has an abundance of activities for the young and young at heart.

Over 90 Years of History

Clark’s Bears first opened as a roadside attraction by Florence and Ed Clark in 1928. “Ed Clark’s Eskimo Sled Dog Ranch,” featured guided sled dog tours for travelers visiting the White Mountains. Originally from Westchester County, New York, Ed Clark spent three years in Labrador managing raw fur trading posts where he fell in love with sled dogs. Upon his return to New York, Ed brought home a sled dog team and quickly realized New York wasn’t the place for a sled team. Ed and Florence fell in love with the White Mountains and the Clark family still calls it home today.

In 1931, Florence and Ed purchased their first Black Bear and added the famous Black Bear Show to their growing trading post. It wasn’t until 1958 when the Clarks started the White Mountain Central Railroad that the family business started to grow into the modern day park that you see today. Over 90 years later, Clark’s Bears is a family affair. It’s not uncommon to see over 20 family members working at the attraction during the height of the summer.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Clark’s Bears is fun for the whole family! With a variety of rides, shows, and museums, there’s something for everyone at Clark’s. First introduced in 1973 by the longtime employee, Leon Noel, the infamous Wolfman is eager to please in his unruly ways. Just hop on board the White Mountain Central Railroad and look for the famous backwoods recluse and all his antics.

On a hot summer day, cool off on the Anaconda Escape, a 300-foot waterslide comprising of lots of twists and turns, drops, and plunges. If you’re not soaked yet, head over to the Water Blaster Boats for even more splish, splash fun. You’ll definitely want a towel after this ride! Climb to new heights on the Old Man of the Mountain Climbing Tower, a 30-foot replica of the famous Old Man of the Mountain.

Let your feet rest and jump on a Segway for a ride through the park. Clark’s is home to the nation’s first Segway park. Just watch out for the Wolfman! Merlin’s Mystical Mansion will be sure to turn your world upside down and the Yandong Chinese Acrobats will make you question your own flexibility. Catch a crowd-pleasing show full of high-flying tricks and contortions. And, of course, you can’t miss the Bear Show at Clark’s! Two baby girl cubs have been added to the bear family. Make sure you check out the how the adorable new additions have grown this summer!

Take a stroll down Main Street to visit one of many museums and eateries in the picturesque Victorian town. The brick American Museum is full of old-time Americana treasures, like steam and gas engines and old advertising from yesteryear. For car enthusiasts, you don’t want to skip Avery’s Garage with its fully-restored 1931 LaSalle Touring car and Mobil gas pumps. You’ll find antique horse-drawn fire engines at the 1884 Pemigewasset Hook and Ladder Fire Station.

After all the exploring and fun, you’ll be ready to fill your belly. For something hearty, stop by the Whistle Stop Snack Bar for burgers and fries, sandwiches, and more. Pullman’s Lunch has pizza, sandwiches, and paninis. For the classic summer treat, visit the 1890s themed ice cream parlor, Peppermint Salon, for an ice cream sundae. Boxing fans will be excited to hear that part of the bar is from Sharkey’s Tavern’s 145-foot bar in Boston.

On your way out after a long day of fun, stop by Clark’s Main Gift Shop to pick up a few souvenirs to remember your trip to Clark’s Bears. There’s something for everyone and many of the items are made in New Hampshire and the United States.

Plan Your Visit

Clark’s Bears is open from Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend. Days and hours vary so check out their website for more details!

White Mountain Bicycle Week: Explore the Mountains on Two Wheels

May 2, 2022

Ride into the White Mountain Bicycle Week on two wheels this Memorial Day weekend. New Hampshire is now home to not one but two awesome bike weeks to enjoy. Starting May 28^th, the small mountain towns of Lincoln, Woodstock, and Franconia Notch are coming together to celebrate everything bicycle-related in the Western White Mountains while supporting regional non-profits. Whether you prefer the road or the trail, there is something for all cyclists during White Mountain Bicycle Week.

The 2022 event theme is “bike for the better.” Throughout the week, many of the activities will support local non-profit organizations like The Bridge Project and Lincoln Woodstock Friends of Recreation. The Bridge Project supports those who are vulnerable in the Lincoln-Woodstock communities by connecting them with individual and group support networks. Lincoln Woodstock Friends of Recreation promotes community involvement and support for the broadening of services and activities for all ages in the community.

Bike Week also supports the environment and encourages people to try commuting by bicycle to either work or school throughout the week. For those that live a little too far away from work (or over the mountains!), you can park at one of the local participating “safe parking lot” locations and ride your bike from there.

White Mountain Bicycle Week runs from Saturday, May 28^th through Saturday, June 4^th. Each day features a special “Featured Ride” that will give you a chance to try many of the various biking trails and routes throughout the Western White Mountains. Many of the rides are led by local business owners and cycling enthusiasts. Downhill mountain biking will also be available at Loon Mountain at their state-of-the-art downhill mountain biking course. And stay tuned for over four miles of new terrain opening up later this summer!

On May 28^th and 29^th there is a town-wide community yard sale supporting the Friends of Recreation. All throughout Lincoln and Woodstock, people will be hosting yard sales at their homes and businesses. If you’re shopping, it’s a great time to explore all the sales by bicycle! If you’re interested in selling, you can sign up for the yard sale with Friends of Recreation.

On Tuesday, May 31^st you can ride the Franconia Notch Recreation Trail with Live a Little Fitness’s Margarita Dufresne. Other Meet Up Rides will be led by other local business owners. Wednesday, June 1^st is Bike to School Day for Lin-Wood Public School. Start at the Kanc Recreation Area at 7:00 am and ride down Pollard Road to school with all your kid’s classmates. The ride is open to kids from kindergarten through high school. Later that day from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, kiddos from kindergarten through 8^th grade can take part in the Kids Bike-a-thon that benefits the Lincoln Woodstock Friends of Recreation. For more information on the Bike-a-thon, visit the Bike-a-thon Flyer page.

The White Mountain Bicycle Week is an inclusive event and on Thursday, June 2^nd, children and adults who might not be able to ride a traditional two-wheeled bicycle can enjoy a bike ride using adaptive equipment with New England Disabled Sports. During the event, a NEDS facilitator will help you determine what cycle is best suited for your skill level and give you a chance to explore the trails on it. Reservations for the event are required. Afterward, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, join the Chamber Business After Hours Event at the NEDS Building to mingle with local business owners and community residents. You can even try some of the adaptive bikes, too! The event is open to all current and future Chamber members. RSVPs are recommended.

On Saturday, June 4^th, raise awareness for recovery during the Pedal it Purple to support The Bridge Project. Open to all ages and abilities, the ride begins at the Kanc Recreation Center and has three bike route options. The first is just over a mile long. The second is a 5k (3.1 miles) and the third is just over five miles in length. Each route will take you through the towns of Lincoln and North Woodstock on paved roads. There are prizes for the best-decorated bike and a BBQ lunch is included for all riders. To find out more information and to register, please visit the Pedal it Purple website.

As the White Mountain Bicycle Week gets closer, more information on the featured rides and other events will become available. May is a beautiful time to visit the Western White Mountains and exploring the region on two wheels is a great opportunity to get closer to natural beauty while getting a little exercise!

Basecamp Lincoln/Woodstock: Discover the White Mountains

January 18, 2022

The 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. Our particular region, known as the Western White Mountains, is perfectly located to enjoy the best of New Hampshire’s White Mountains and even the Lakes Region. 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, 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. The Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop is a bucket list-worthy hike offering stunning views of the White Mountains.

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 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 explore experience it all throughout the larger region.

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.

History of Lincoln and North Woodstock

November 15, 2021

A lot of tourists and a few locals commonly think that Lincoln, New Hampshire is named after President Abraham Lincoln, but the town dates back almost 100 years before he became the 16^th President of the United States. The town dates back to 1764 when Benning Wentworth, the Royal Governor of The Province of New Hampshire, granted 32,456 acres to a group of 70 investors from Connecticut on behalf of King George III. The town was named after Henry Fiennes Pelham-Clinton, the 2^nd Duke of Newcastle, 9^th Earl of Lincoln, who was Wentworth’s cousin.

The Beginning

In 1782, Lincoln finally became a town when Nathan Kinsman and a few other people moved to the area to establish the town. It’s important to note that New Hampshire was home to indigenous people long before European settlers even landed on Plymouth Rock. The Abenaki populated much of New Hampshire, including the White Mountains.

During the 19^th century, Lincoln was primarily a tourist destination for the wealthy city-dwellers who wanted to escape the hot city summers for some fresh mountain air. Stephen Russell opened the first hotel just below the Flume in 1808. The new railroad built in 1882 brought thousands of tourists and several hotels to the area, but it wasn’t until James E. Henry came to Lincoln in 1892 that the town would see real growth.

The Logging Empire of JE Henry

In 1892, JE Henry, who built the town of Zealand, purchase several thousand acres of virgin timber and moved his logging operations to Lincoln. At the beginning of the 20^th century, Henry built and owned almost the whole town – the mill, school, company store, hospital, jail, boarding house, hotel, and most of the houses. He also built the East Branch and Lincoln Railroad, which became the largest logging railroad in New England spanning 72 miles. Construction of the railroad began in 1894 and was built over several years. The last train to run on the rails was in 1948, outliving all the other logging railroads in the region.

For several decades, JE Henry grew his small logging operation into a massive empire of lumbar and paper attracting more and more workers and their families every year and putting Lincoln on the map. JE Henry died in 1912 and his three sons who worked alongside him sold the company and most of the town in 1917 to the Parker Young Company for $3 million (or approximately $64 million in 2021 money).

The Rise of Modern Tourism

The paper mill ran until it was shut down in 1981. Today, much of the local economy is focused on tourism and outdoor recreation. Sharman Adams, who was born and raised in Lincoln, served as a Congressman, two-time New Hampshire governor, and chief of staff to President Dwight D. Eisenhower in the 1950s. Upon his return to his hometown in 1958, he realized the town was struggling and needed a new industry besides the ailing papermill.

A profile outdoorsman, Adams decided to snowshoe up Loon Mountain one day and discovered the mountain would make the perfect ski resort. Construction of Loon Mountain began in the spring of 1966 and opened for the first skiers on December 27, 1966. Five hundred people showed up on opening day to enjoy the 12 trails, two lifts, and one toilet. Over the decades, Loon Mountain has grown into the modern-day ski resort that you know and love. The popularity of Loon Mountain and the White Mountain National Forest has since attracted lots of hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and shops.

The Growth of Neighboring Woodstock

The small neighboring town of Woodstock, New Hampshire has a similar story to Lincoln. Royal Governor Benning Wentworth established the town in 1763 with the name of Fairfield. In the 1790s a group of people from Southern New Hampshire purchased the land rights from the original grantees and divided the land in 231 100-acre lots. The town became known as Peeling.

Farming was not super successful in the town due to its granite mountainous terrain. Logging and tannery became the primary industries in the town, along with maple syrup production. Similar to much of the region, tourism was also popular in the mid-19^th century. The town officially became Woodstock in 1840.

At the time of the name change, there were four sawmills and logging began to grow fast. Logs cut in the region were floated down the Pemigewasset River into the Merrimack and finally to the sawmills in Lowell, Massachusetts. Hardwoods logged in the region were used to make bobbins for the textile mills in Southern New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

The government began purchasing large land tracts to form the White Mountain National Forest in 1911. Logging stopped in 1915 when the Woodstock Lumber Company went defunct after a huge mill fire in 1913.

For more information and an abundance of old photos about Lincoln and the surrounding area, visit the Upper Pemigewasset Historical Society website.

The Western White Mountain Beverage Trail

June 11, 2021

Known for its hiking trails and ski mountains, the Western White Mountains is also home to a growing number of breweries, wineries, and restaurants. After a long day of skiing or hiking, nothing tastes better than a cold beer. Or maybe you’re celebrating a special anniversary and you are looking for the perfect bottle of wine to celebrate. With a variety of places with many just walking distance away from each other, there’s no shortage of beverages to taste test in the Western White Mountains.

Woodstock Inn Brewery

Visit one of New Hampshire’s original microbreweries located in the heart of the Western White Mountains. Started over 20 years ago with a seven-barrel system, the Woodstock Inn Brewery nestled on Main Street in North Woodstock has now grown to a 30-barrel production facility and lab. The Brewery offers eight year-round brews, including their 4000-Footer IPA, Old Man Oatmeal Stout, and Pig’s Ear Brown Ale. Each season, they also brew special seasonal flavors to be enjoyed on the patio after a long day of hiking or by the fireplace after an epic powder day. No matter what your tastebuds like, there is a beer on tap or in cans waiting for you at the Woodstock Inn Brewery.

One Love Brewery

Located in downtown Lincoln in the historic Henry Paper Mill, One Love Brewery is a German-style beer pub. Brewed in-house and featuring creative names, the beers at One Love are typically German lagers, but you’ll also find some hoppy varieties on tap. Make sure you pair your pint with something delicious from the menu. The starters menu is eccentric featuring items such as Ravioli Tikki Masala, Empanadas, and Poutine. And, don’t miss the burgers! If beer isn’t your drink of choice, then you’ll want to try a cocktail. From White Peach Sangria to Pain Killers, you’ll find something to quench the thirst on a hot day. Did we mention that the deck at One Love Brewery is dog-friendly?

Seven Birches Winery

It is not every day you find a winery in the mountains of New England. Seven Birches Winery is a boutique winery with two locations in Lincoln – the Lincoln Village Shops and RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain. Using grapes grown around the world and locally in New Hampshire, you’ll find a large variety of white, red, and everything in between wines. Sign up for a wine tour or taste testing or both and discover delicious wine in the Western White Mountains. Seven Birches also offers a weekly ‘Vineyard Talk’. Join their vineyard manager at 2pm on Saturdays (weather permitting) for a 30-minute Vineyard Talk in the RiverWalk Resort Vineyard. Meet at the RiverWalk Winery Tasting Room at 2pm and you’ll be taken out to the vineyard to discuss vines and future plans. The talk is complimentary and does not require reservations. It’s the perfect thing to do before or after a tour or wine tasting.

Rhythm Handcrafted Beverages

If making wine was not enough, Seven Birches Winery started dipping their toes into making hard cider as well in 2020. Fermented naturally using locally sourced apples, Rhythm Handcrafted Beverages currently offers a variety of flavors including the recently released Blood Orange and Lemon-Lime. The Blueberry Hard Apple Cider is fermented with fresh-press apple juice along with fresh whole blueberries. The Heirloom Cider is barrel-aged, done dry, almost champagne-like, and seasonal so get it before it is gone. Rhythm Studio is located next to the Atrium Wine Bar in the Lincoln Village Shops and has expanded their offerings! Try their locally sourced and produced hard seltzers, fruit wines and more.

Gypsy Café

The Gypsy Café on Main Street in Lincoln is a favorite amongst the locals. Co-owned by award-winning chef, Dan Duris, the Gypsy features food from around the world. While the food is delicious, many people come to the Gypsy just for the drinks as they are some of the best in the Western White Mountains. Their margaritas made with fresh, homemade lemon and lime sour mix are legendary. The drink menu also includes a variety of specialty martinis and other cocktails.

Twin Barns North Taproom

Located right on Main Street N. Woodstock, the North Taproom is Twin Barns Brewing Co’s Northern outpost for proper beer, raised in a barn. Delicious beers, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages will surely delight both locals and visitors alike. The Twin Barns North Taproom welcomes patrons 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. Enjoy live music, community events, year-round patio seating and even a shuffleboard table!

Drink Responsibility!

If you plan on indulging in a few alcoholic beverages in the Western White Mountains, remember to drink responsibly and don’t drink and drive. One of the beauties of the Lincoln/Woodstock area is the closeness of many of the breweries, wineries, and restaurants. You can walk or ride your bike to many of the places. If you are staying at one of the many resorts in the area, they also may have a shuttle that can pick you up at the end of the night.

Discover the delicious beers, wines, and cocktails in the Western White Mountains. And don’t forget to cheers!

Biking in the Western White Mountains

June 10, 2021

The Western White Mountains is an incredible hub for cycling with miles of mountain biking trails weaving throughout the forest, a paved recreational path with stunning views of the mountains, and brag-worthy road cycling routes. Plus, each year we host White Mountain Bicycle Week! Celebrate New Hampshire’s other bike week with the communities of Lincoln, Woodstock and Franconia Notch as we pedal through the great outdoors to support regional non-profits. So, what are you waiting for? Pump up your tires, fill up your water bottle, and hit the trails or road for some two-wheeled fun!

Mountain Biking

Catch a ride on the Northeast’s most technological advanced lift, the Kancamagus 8, and get ready to hit the trails at Loon! Opened in 2019, the new purpose-built downhill mountain biking trails at Loon Mountain are epic! Designed and built by the people who built Highland Mountain Bike Park in Northfield, New Hampshire, the Loon Mountain Bike Park offers a huge variety of freeride, technical, and cross country trails over 9 miles for every level of riders. Learn more about Mountain Biking at Loon.

For the more experienced rider, day passes are available online. If you’ve never been downhill mountain biking then the Your Turn lesson, rental, and ticket package might be just for you. The Whistle Stop Bike Center at Loon Mountain offers downhill, cross-country mountain bike, and e-bike rentals for whatever trails you choose.

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in the White Mountains, hit the six miles of cross-country trails through the forest of lower Black Mountain along the banks of the Pemigewasset River. The East Ridge Trails are open to the public and can be accessed near the Whistle Stop Bike Center. Drive north on I-93 and check out Franconia Area Nemba and Profile Trails. where the terrain is more rocky and technical. Stay at the Franconia Inn and you have direct access to the trails for fat biking and mountain biking year round. Just a bit further north in Littleton is PRKR MTN Trails offering 22 miles of hand-built mountain biking trails for all abilities. And just a little bit further over the border in Vermont is Kingdom Trails. If you’re looking for a mountain biking mecca then you have come to the right place!

Road Cycling

While the mountain biking trails in the Western White Mountains are incredible, we can’t forget about road cycling. If you love to climb, then we have you covered! Cyclists from all over New England come to Lincoln every year to compete to earn bragging rights by riding all 34 miles of the Kancamagus Highway. If you have ever driven the “Kanc” then you know it’s one tough ride, but at least it’s beautiful! From the Conway side, the first 16 miles are relatively easy with a slight grade, but after that, you’ll start climbing towards the sky. The last stretch to the top of the Kancamagus Pass is about a 7% grade and then it’s downhill all the way to Lincoln.

For the overachievers or just the cycling fanatic, the Tour de Notches is one of the legendary New England rides for road cyclists. Start from Main Street in Lincoln and climb north through Franconia Notch on Route 3. In Twin Peaks, take a right on to Route 302 where you’ll ride past the beautiful Mount Washington Hotel and Bretton Woods through Crawford Notch. In Bartlett, take another right on to Bear Notch Road where you’ll climb for five miles to the Kancamagus Highways. By the time you’re done, you rode 77.3 miles and climbed over 5,300 feet in elevation. Make sure you rehydrate with a cool beverage at one of the many breweries or wineries in the Western White Mountains!

Paved Bike Paths

If you have young kids or just prefer a more leisurely ride on a paved path, the Lincoln/Woodstock area is home to a few paths. The Franconia Notch Recreation Path runs 8.7 miles through Franconia Notch State Park and passes some of the park’s most famous attractions. While there is a little bit of climbing on the path, it is relatively easy for any age and riding ability. The Lincoln Loop from Loon Mountain to downtown Lincoln is another great paved, family-friendly loop for all ages. The two-mile path follows along the Pemigewasset River.

Fat Biking

When the snow starts to fly, you don’t have to put your bike away or ride the dreaded trainer in your basement! Fat biking has become very popular in the White Mountains in recent years thanks to groomed trails and local bike shops carrying these bikes that are outfitted with super-wide tires. Both Profile Trails in Franconia and PRKR MTN in Littleton groom miles of trails and many of the local trails. Just like the Lincoln Woods Trail which are great for fat biking.

Hit the Trails or Road This Year

Life is better on two wheels with the wind in your hair (under your helmet of course!). Whether you are a complete newbie or an experienced cyclist, the Western White Mountains offers something for everyone when it comes to biking. We hope to see you on the trails or roads soon!

Wedding Guide to the Western White Mountains

June 7, 2021

Do you hear wedding bells on the horizon? The Western White Mountains is an incredible year-round wedding destination for couples seeking a stunning background on their wedding day. With a variety of resorts and venues, there are tons of options that will fit the style and budget for all couples. Most venues can host weddings ranging from elopements and intimate weddings to large parties of up to 150 guests.

From mountaintops offering panoramic views to rustic, centuries old New England farmhouses, your perfect wedding venue is located in the Western White Mountains. Get married under the summer sun by the Pemigewasset River or amongst the kaleidoscope of changing leaves during the fall or even on the ski hill, the possibilities are endless.

Adair Inn – Bethlehem, New Hampshire

Located halfway between Boston and Montreal, the historic Adair Inn is the perfect setting for your quaint New England wedding. Built in 1927 by famous Washington DC trial lawyer Frank Hogan as a wedding gift to his only daughter, the Adair Inn was literally built for romance and weddings.

If your Pinterest is full of picturesque outdoor garden weddings, then you’ll fall head over heels with the Adair garden. Designed by the Olmsted brothers, all eyes will be on you as you walk down the aisle through large decorative iron gates to exchange your vows. The outdoor tent can host up to 120 guests. For more intimate weddings or elopements, the restaurant, cozy tearoom, and recreation den can be transformed into your ceremony space and reception hall. With an in-house wedding planner, your wedding day will be stress-free and memorable.

Cascade Park – North Woodstock, New Hampshire

Overlooking the rushing Pemigewasset River, Cascade Park is a popular spot in North Woodstock for outdoor wedding ceremonies and wedding photos. The brick pathway leading down to the riverbank makes the ideal walkway for the bride. By partnering with local vendors, such as the Woodstock Inn, you can design your perfect outdoor wedding ceremony overlooking the beautiful river.

Indian Head Resort – Lincoln, New Hampshire

Offering one of the premier locations to say “I do,” Indian Head Resort is a beautiful wedding destination year-round. The resort sits on 180 acres surrounded by the White Mountains. Since the 1930s, Indian Head Resort has hosted hundreds of weddings for couples from around the world. Offering two outdoor ceremony options, your wedding photos will sure to be showstoppers. The Arbor on Shadow Lake offers incredible panoramic views of the mountains especially in the autumn and the Traditional Gazebo is always a crowd favorite.

The Lakeview Room is the ideal location for your reception. With picturesque mountain views, a new patio, and tons of space for a dance floor and tables, you’ll celebrate in style with up to 160 guests. The extensive catering menu offers something for everyone. And don’t forget the grand finale – a fireworks show!

Loon Mountain – Lincoln, New Hampshire

Take your wedding to new heights by getting married on top of Loon Mountain surrounded by all your loved ones. Take the White Mountain Express Gondola to the summit where the Amphitheater offers panoramic views of the White Mountain National Forest and more. Continue your epic mountain wedding in the Octagon Lodge. Sitting up to 180 guests, the mountain lodge offers a quaint and rustic feel to your big day. Featuring post and beam construction, a stone fireplace, and incredibly large windows, your wedding photos will certainly be beautiful. Loon offers several wedding packages to meet every budget and vision so you can have your dream wedding.

The Mountain Club on Loon – Lincoln, New Hampshire

The Mountain Club on Loon is another incredible wedding destination. Say “I Do” on top of Loon Mountain and celebrate at the Mountain Club on Loon. Offering both an indoor and outdoor reception space, you can get married year-round with the Mountain Club. The lawn terrace is the perfect place to host a cocktail hour for your guests while you finish your wedding photos. The reception can take place in a tent or in the ballroom. Whether your choose a more intimate gathering or a party of your 150 closet friends and family, The Mountain Club on Loon can help you plan all the little details.

Loon Mtn Ministry – Lincoln, New Hampshire

You can’t get married without an officiant. Look no further than Loon Mtn Ministry! The staff will help you make your ceremony as special as you and a day that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Rocks Estate – Bethlehem, New Hampshire

The Rocks in the small mountain town of Bethlehem is a 1,400-acre property known locally as the Christmas tree farm. Open year-round, beyond the rows of Christmas trees are acres of gardens. Built in 1882 by John and Frances Glessner as their summer residence, the Big House is a 19-room Queen Anne style mansion. Over the years, the Glessners built many other buildings and gardens on the property. Unfortunately, the Big House was removed in the late 1940s. The Rocks is a beautiful place to host an intimate wedding amongst the spring flowers or fall foliage.

Franconia Inn – Franconia, New Hampshire

Built on 107 acres in 1863, the Franconia Inn offers breathtaking views of Franconia Notch and the Kinsman Range. Whether you’re looking for an intimate destination wedding resort with all the activities onsite or a beautiful location for your large wedding party, the Franconia Inn is an incredible place to host a wedding. Offering dates year-round, the historic inn can host both indoor and outdoor wedding receptions for up to 150 guests depending on your location. With a host of onsite activities, guests can turn your wedding weekend into a little vacation!

Woodstock Inn – North Woodstock, New Hampshire

While known for its delicious beer, the Woodstock Inn is also a popular wedding destination in the Western White Mountains. The Woodstock Inn has hosted quaint New England family style wedding ceremonies and receptions in its beautiful gardens and restaurant for decades. With a bed and breakfast, gardens, restaurant, and brewery, you and your guests don’t even have to leave the property during your wedding festivities. And the best part, you can have your own wedding beer!

Woodstock Farmhouse – North Woodstock, New Hampshire

The Western White Mountains newest wedding venue, the Woodstock Farmhouse, will become a fan favorite soon enough. A gathering place since 1890, the Woodstock Farmhouse is a newly renovated New England style farmhouse located on the banks of the Pemi River. If you’ve dreamed of a farmhouse -style wedding, then the Woodstock Farmhouse might be your ideal venue. Hosting small to larger weddings, the venue partners with multiple local vendors to create your dream wedding. Make it a weekend and let your whole wedding party stay in the old farmhouse with all the modern amenities you need for a memorable wedding weekend.

Seven Birches Winery – Lincoln, New Hampshire

Seven Birches Winery is a boutique winery located in the heart of downtown Lincoln. With two locations in the RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain and the Lincoln Village Shops, Seven Birches Winery can host your small wedding reception, happy hour, or provide you with customized wine for your wedding. Their wine also makes great gifts for your wedding party or favors for your guests. The vineyard at the RiverWalk Resort also makes a pretty backdrop for your wedding photos.

Get Married in the Western White Mountains

Your wedding day should be special. Visit the Western White Mountains today to book a beautiful and unique venue for your dream wedding. There are venues and vendors for all size weddings from elopements to large gatherings. Say “I Do” to the Western White Mountains. Check out our Wedding Guide for more information.

Relocate to the Western White Mountains

May 11, 2021

Wake up to the sun rising over the mountains and enjoy your morning coffee on your back deck while the birds chirp in the distance and the wildflowers bloom in the mountainside meadows. The sounds, smells, and views certainly beat the concrete jungle! The coronavirus pandemic has dramatically changed the way we live and work. Many companies are realizing that employees can work productively at home and are giving up their brick-and-mortar office buildings and transitioning to a fully remote workplace. For hundreds of thousands of workers, that means they can now live wherever they want, like the Western White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, large cities, like Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Chicago, have seen an exodus of people moving out of urban areas into more suburban or rural areas. Coupled with low-interest rates for mortgages, the housing market became a frenzy for those who could afford to buy. Jay Polimeno of Polimeno Realty said, “We’ve had a lot of out-of-state buyers who have bought homes sight unseen. Many coming from New England and the Mid-Atlantic region.” From July 2019 through July 2020, the state population grew by 5,500, which may not seem like a lot, but it was the largest population percentage increase in New England. The Carsey School of Public Policy at the University of New Hampshire research shows that the population growth is solely due to in-migration as deaths continue to outnumber births in the country’s second-oldest state.

While New Hampshire has seen an influx of new residents, the White Mountains region is widely known as a second home destination. Many families who own second homes in the area live primarily in Boston and other larger cities, but due to remote work and school, many of these families have transitioned to living in their vacation homes full time. The McClures are one of those families.

From Sudbury, Massachusetts, the McClures purchased their vacation home in North Woodstock in 2015 as their future retirement home. “We were up here skiing over the weekend when we realized we didn’t have to go home on Sunday,” says Chris McClure. “My job was remote at this point and they canceled school and then moved it to remote learning. We planned to move up to the mountains full-time when our youngest went to college, but we figured why not make the move now.”

The Western White Mountains are an incredible place to live year-round. There’s a ton of outdoor activities to do year-round, arts and theater, great food and drinks, and lots of friendly locals. There’s also good medical care and school systems, making it the perfect place to raise a young family. “My kids are very happy here. One goes to Waterville Academy and my youngest goes to LinWood. The main reason we decided to move here full-time was that the community embraced us,” says Chris.

The Western White Mountains have a little of everything when it comes to housing in the area. As a ski destination there are tons of condos, so if you’re looking for full-time living without the responsibilities of shoveling and home maintenance then you’ve come to the right place. There are also houses in town and in rural areas. And if you can’t find your dream home, you can always purchase land to build your own.

The region also offers a unique opportunity for those looking for a career change or business opportunity. As one of the oldest states in the country, New Hampshire is home to thousands of small businesses owned by baby boomers who are looking to retire in the coming years. “Our business broker is very busy with the year. We’ve had lots of folks relocating to the area to run businesses. If you’re looking to purchase an established small business, the White Mountains and North Country offer a lot of opportunities,” says Jay Polimeno.

The Carsey School of Public Policy study found that over 40 percent of recent migrants to New Hampshire were between the ages of 30 and 49 and they primarily moved to be closer to family and employment opportunities. One of the main reasons people continue to stay, however, is for the natural environment and quality of life.

“In Massachusetts, our kids had activities every day – music, computer coding, and soccer. When I was a kid, I’d get off the bus and go play. Now that we’re up here full-time, a neighborhood kid will come to knock on the door and ask if my son can come outside and play. That’s one of the unexpected things we’ve learned while living here – kids can be normal and play outside even during a global pandemic,” says Chris.

With good internet connection in the region, kids can still enjoy their computer coding and French classes while playing youth soccer on the weekends, or hiking and skiing some of the best trails in the northeast. If you’ve dreamt of escaping the concrete jungle to work remotely or even run a business in the mountains, look no further than the Western White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Buckle Up and Go for a Spin at Team O’Neil Rally School

February 18, 2021

Are you ready for an adrenaline rush in the western White Mountains? Head to Team O’Neil Rally School in Dalton for a unique experience that you can’t find in many places. Nestled on 600 acres, Team O’Neil Rally School provides a variety of driving courses open to the public year-round. Whether you’re brushing up on your winter driving skills or want to live out your Fast and Furious fantasies, Team O’Neil Rally School can help you with both. Buckle up, it’s going to be a fun ride!

About Team O’Neil Rally School

Located outside Littleton, New Hampshire, in the small town of Dalton, Team O’Neil Rally School was founded in 1997 by Tim O’Neil. Growing up in the White Mountains, Tim began racing rally cars in the 80s and won five production-based U.S. and North American Rally Championships. In 1997, he came home to the mountains and opened a driving school with the vision of building the best driving school in the world.

Today, Team O’Neil is the world leader in loose surface driver training. The private facility encompasses almost 600 acres with two 300-foot diameter gravel skid pads and a six-mile road course consisting of over 50 different types and combinations of corners, blind crests, and junctions.

A Course for Everyone

Team O’Neil offers a variety of driving courses ranging from one to five days. The single-day rally school course focuses on left-foot braking, weight transfer and eye placement, accident avoidance, and some turns in Ford Fiestas. Each day of the school builds on the prior day skills and you’ll have the opportunity to drive different vehicles, like Subaru Imprezas, 3-series BMWs. By the end of day three, you’ll have the opportunity to take longer runs on the open slalom courses and facility roads. After five days, you’ll experience mock rally races, turbocharged cars, and have perfected the Scandinavian Flick.

Do you want the ultimate thrill? Sign up for the Drift Driving Course that will give you a crash course (without the crashing) on the sport of drifting. This two-day course takes place at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway and you’ll have the chance to learn the ins and outs of drift racing with Ford Mustangs and 3-series BMWs.

Team O’Neil also offers a more practical course, which comes in handy if you live in New England. The Winter Driving School is a single-day driving course that utilizes your own vehicle. Throughout the day, you’ll learn how your vehicle handles and reacts on snow and ice as well as potentially life-saving accident avoidance maneuvers. All driving courses start on select dates and require advance bookings to ensure your spot.

For the off-road enthusiast, Team O’Neil has something for you, too! Choose from private or team off-road experiences on 600 acres of fun. All you need is your own mid-sized SUV or pick-up trucks, and Team O’Neil will provide you with steep climbs, descents, varying degrees of side tilts, boulders, and more. The TrailCraft Trail Drives can be booked on any day.

Safety First!

When it comes to driving schools, safety is paramount. Team O’Neil takes safety seriously for both drivers and instructors. All courses are taught with a 2 to 1 student to instructor ratio to not only give you the most hands-on learning opportunity but also to ensure your safety. There is an instructor in the vehicle at all times and students are required to wear helmets and a four-point seat belt. Additionally, all vehicles that go beyond the slalom course have full roll cages.

The Vehicles

Team O’Neil has a fleet of over 70 vehicles and a few mechanics to keep them in tip-top shape for students. Depending on how many days you choose for your rally course, you’ll have the opportunity to drive multiple types of cars. Starting with the front-wheel drive Ford Fiesta on day one, you have the chance to drive a Subaru Impreza, BMW 3 Series, Ford Fiesta ST, or Subaru Impreza WRX.

Make Your Driving Dreams Come True

Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, adrenaline junkie, or someone interested in improving their winter driving skills, Team O’Neil Rally School has a driving course for you. Take a peek at their online Rally School TV and prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

What To Do After Skiing in the Western White Mountains

January 11, 2021

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, while safely adhering to health regulations. Don’t let the fun end with the last chair, just make sure you know before you go! Each business has specific protocols in place to ensure everyone is kept safe. Please familiarize yourself with these safety measures so you are fully prepared. Head to granitestatesafe.com to learn more.

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.

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! Deer Park Resort, 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

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

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

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.

Après Ski

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.

The Best Backcountry Trails for Outdoor Fun in the White Mtns

January 7, 2021

Winter is officially here in the Western White Mountains and we’re ready to play. Our ski resorts are open and so is our extensive trail network for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and fat biking. Bundle up and hit the trails for some winter outdoor fun.

The Glades at Loon Mountain and Cannon Mountain

If you’re looking for some backcountry skiing within a resort, both Loon Mountain and Cannon Mountain have you covered with their ski glades. The 3,050-foot North Peak at Loon Mountain offers some excellent off-the-beaten-path glades and trails, such as the Walking Boss Woods. Cannon Mountain, the highest ski area summit in New Hampshire, offers lots of great glad options, especially near the Base lift and Mittersill. Make sure you check the snow conditions as most of the glades only open after a dumping. Cross your fingers for a good winter!

Lincoln Woods Trail

Nestled along the banks of the east branch of the Pemigewasset River in the White Mountain National Forest, the Lincoln Woods Trailhead is a popular beginner-friendly trail for hikers, snowshoers, cross-country skiers, and fat bikers. The trail once belonged to the 72-mile East Branch and Lincoln Railroad built in 1894, so the trail is nice, wide, and relatively flat. Lincoln Woods Trail is part of a larger 9.8-mile trail system that includes other trails such as the Franconia Brook Trail, the Wilderness Trail, and more. One of the best features of the Lincoln Woods Trail is the suspension bridge that spans the Pemigewasset River. Don’t forget to snap a photo for Instagram!

Georgiana and Harvard Falls Trail

Featuring a frozen waterfall during the winter months, the Georgiana and Harvard Falls Trail is a moderate 1.6-mile out and back trail that is great for hiking (with spikes) or snowshoeing. The trail is not marked well, so be careful after a recent snowfall, but the locals will often pack it down and you can follow the footprints uphill.

Mount Pemigewasset Trail

Mount Pemigewasset, also known as Indian Head, is a 2,557-foot mountain in Lincoln and offers incredible views from the open summit. Located near the Flume Visitor Center, the Mount Pemigewasset Trailhead is well marked. The 1.5-mile hike is relatively easy with a few steeper parts. It’s a great hike for snowshoeing to take in the views on a bluebird day of the surrounding White Mountains.

Greeley Ponds Trails

Located off the famous Kancamagus Highway, the Greeley Ponds Trail is a 7.1-mile out and back trail system that is excellent for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. The Greely Ponds are actually located in Waterville Valley and feed the Mad River and there is trail access from Waterville Valley via Livermore Road. But, from the Kancamagus Highway side, the hardwood forest trail leads to two beautiful mountain ponds that will be likely frozen and covered with snow during the colder months. The trail can be rocky so make sure there is enough snow covering for cross-country skiing or take your old beater skis.

Cooley-Jericho Glade

For even more information on backcountry ski trails in the White Mountains, visit the Granite Backcountry Alliance website. The non-profit organization was established to advance the sport of backcountry skiing in New Hampshire and Western Maine and to create and improve ski glades, such as the Cooley-Jericho Glade in the Franconia region. Newly developed in 2019, the Cooley-Jericho Community Forest, also known as Cool J Glade, comprises 840 acres in Franconia, Sugar Hill, Easton, and Landaff. The four glade lines range from 400 to over 800 feet with lots of drops and stunning views of Mount Lafayette.

Visit the Western White Mountains This Winter

The Western White Mountains are ready to be explored. Whether you choose to stick to the ski resorts or head into the White Mountain National Forest for some backcountry fun, make sure you stay safe with Granite State Safe.

How to Dress for Each Season in the Western White Mountains

December 10, 2020

The White Mountains of New Hampshire is home to diverse and sometimes challenging weather. Mount Washington on the eastern side of the White Mountains is home to the most extreme weather observatory on Earth. First opened in 1870, the Mt. Washington Observatory has experienced some crazy weather, like below zero temperature in the height of summer and wind gusts as high as 231 mph, which is equivalent to an EF5 tornado or a Category 5 hurricane!

While the weather in the Western White Mountains isn’t as extreme, it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single hour in the White Mountains, especially if you’re heading above treeline. The Western White Mountains is home to an abundance of incredible year-round outdoor activities, and just because Mother Nature can’t make up her mind, it’s important to be prepared for all different weather events on your adventures.

Winter

The Western White Mountains can be cold. A couple of years ago, the thermometer read negative 20 degrees without the wind chill for several days in a roll. While your first thought might be to skip the ski slope for the day in favor of drinking hot cocoa (or locally brewed beers!) by the fireplace, if you dress for the weather, you won’t even feel the cold!

Justin Walsh, the Operations Manager for Burgeon Outdoors, is no stranger to extreme weather as a mountaineering guide. He says, “surviving the cold depends on your ability to use layers to regulate your temperature. Clothes don’t make you warm. You make clothes warm. Or another way to put it – if your body is like a furnace in your house and your clothes are the insulation.”

The key for dressing for the cold (or really any other time of the year) is layers! Modularity allows you to adjust your “insulation” to be appropriate at any level of exposure and any level of bodily activity. You’ve probably heard this before, but the old adage is true – cotton kills. Avoid wearing cotton and instead choose items made from moisture-wicking materials such as wool, polyester, or Tencel.

When wearing layers, you should have a base layer, such as long underwear, a middle layer of fleece or light down jacket, and then finally a water-resistant outer layer. Need some suggestions? Check out what Field and Stream recommend here, including the Burgeon Outdoor Flume Base Layer. And don’t forget about your head, hands, and feet! Hats are a great way to keep your head warm. In extreme cold and wind, you’ll likely want a balaclava to keep your face warm, too. Mittens are always warmer than gloves but choose what works best for you. If you’re playing in the snow, you’ll want waterproof gloves. Your feet will be happy with thick non-cotton socks, such as Smartwool. Warming packets can also be used on your hands and feet on those bitter New England winter days.

And don’t forget about eyewear! Goggles are great for winter sports as they stay on your head better and help protect your eyes from potential injuries from tree branches or ski poles. On those bring sunny days, sunglasses are a must! Snow makes everything brighter.

Spring

Spring in the Western White Mountains can vary widely from feeling like a cold January winter day to a hot summer day. And that’s all in the same week! Spring in the mountains always starts with New England’s unofficial fifth season – mud season. As the snow melts in the mountains, the ground turns to mud. You’ll definitely want some tough rain boots and waterproof hiking boots if you’re hitting the trails. Snow in the high peaks might not melt well into June and July. If you’re hiking above treeline, remember to bring layers and be prepared for winter-like weather. Crampons or ice traction devices are a must for safety!

As spring proceeds and summer slowly approaches, the black flies and bugs start to emerge from their winter sleep. Bring bug spray and dress to repel the bugs! This might mean wearing long pants and long sleeves to keep them from biting your skin. As the sun gets brighter and hotter and you begin to wear less clothing, remember the sunscreen!

Summer

Don’t blink! Summer doesn’t last long in the Western White Mountains, but those few glorious months are meant to be enjoyed in the sun. While the mercury can climb quite high in the months, the White Mountains remain relatively moderate in the mountains due to the higher elevations. During the warmer summer months, you’ll likely want to don shorts and a t-shirt. Aim to wear moisture-wicking and UFP-protecting clothing items to help protect your skin and stay cool.

The black flies and mosquitoes are notoriously bad in the summer. That means insect repellent is your new best friend. If the bugs really enjoy your blood type, wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants might be the best option for you. Nylon and polyester are fabrics that mosquitoes have a hard time biting through, and avoid dark or bright fabrics as they can attract insects.

Temperatures can drop quickly the higher you climb in the mountains or after dark, so it’s important to pack layers, such as a fleece and warm socks. A hat provides essential sun protection for your face and neck. If you find yourself hiking on one of those rare 90-degree days, a bandana or neck gaiter is a great item to keep in your backpack as you can dunk it in water and wear it around your neck or head to help cool off. If your outside hiking, biking, or enjoying the watersports, remember to pack plenty of water to keep you hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to drink about a half-liter of water per hour of moderate activity.

Fall

Fall is one of the busiest times of the year for the Western White Mountains as the weather is great and the leaves are turning into a kaleidoscope of colors. In September, you’ll find that the temperatures during the day are often warm enough to wear shorts, but you’ll want to change into long pants and a sweater at night. Fall is a season of layers, especially as we get closer to winter. A fleece or a light jacket is a must, and eventually, you’ll want to break out lightweight gloves for those early morning hikes when the frost starts sticking around long after you finished your morning coffee.

Like winter, fall in the Western White Mountains can widely varied, and it’s best to be prepared for any weather from 70 degrees and sun to 20 degrees and snow. If you forget your favorite hat at home, Lincoln is home to several shops where you can pick up all your favorite gear. Rodgers Ski & Sport has all the cold-weather gear from your favorite brands. For locally made technical outdoor apparel, check out Burgeon Outdoor at the Village Shops in Lincoln.

Dress Your Best for All Season

The Western White Mountains is beautiful year-round with the right clothing. Bundle up for winter or enjoy the sun during the summer. Whatever you choose, remember that Mother Nature may change her mind in 20 minutes, so bring options!

The Western White Mountains Winter Resource Guide

December 10, 2020

Winter is right around the corner in the Western White Mountains. The temperatures have dropped, and the local ski resorts have started to make snow. The New Year will be here before you know it, and this winter will be like no other.

Plan Ahead

The keys to having a great travel experience (regardless of whether it’s taking place during a pandemic or not), are to find out what you need to know before you go, be respectful of local communities, businesses, and environments, and be prepared to follow guidance that is designed to keep you and the local residents safe. Planning ahead and pre-booking your accommodations, activities, and restaurant reservations are even more important now while many businesses’ capacity is limited due to the pandemic.

Both Loon Mountain and Cannon Mountain have implemented special mountain operations to help keep everyone safe this ski season. If you have an Ikon Pass for Loon Mountain, you must make a reservation online at IkonPass.com. You must purchase your ticket online for daily lift tickets and pick up at a contactless pickup box at the mountain. Lift tickets will be limited, so plan ahead for your desired dates! Cannon Mountain does not plan to require season pass holders to make reservations at this time, but that could change in the future. Limited daily lift tickets will be sold online only.

Other popular winter attractions such as the Ice Castle and Alpine Adventures are open for business with advance reservations. Pick your date and time, book your tickets online, and have tons of fun. Many hotels and resorts have limited capacity due to current state guidelines, so it’s important to book ahead of time, especially during peak weeks, such as the Christmas holidays and school vacation weeks. Hotels have heavily invested in sanitation and cleaning procedures to ensure everyone’s safety.

While You’re Here

Local businesses have worked hard to make your visit as easy, safe, and fun as in previous years. All businesses in the Western White Mountains, including the ski resorts, require face coverings to be worn at all times. Both Loon Mountain and Cannon Mountain will offer limited access to their lodges. You’ll be required to boot up at your vehicles. Lift lines will likely be longer due to social distancing, but with a little patience, you’ll get to the top in no time. Ski school is still in session this winter! With limited capacity and smaller classes, though, you’ll want to book in advance to ensure your spot.

All your favorite restaurants are open and ready to serve up your favorite dishes. Indoor seating is limited, so it is best to call ahead, and many restaurants are now offering take-out menus, so you grab and go.

If you’ve been coming to the Western White Mountains for a while now, then you know what the weather can be like during the winter months. It is important to dress in layers and be prepared for the worst. For winter layers and winter accessories, like hats, gloves, and face coverings, stop by Rodger’s Ski & Sport, Village Ski & Snowboard, and Burgeon Outdoor.

If you’re looking to escape for socially distanced winter fun, then you have come to the right place! The Western White Mountains offers an abundance of opportunities to escape the crowds. With hundreds of miles of hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails, you could spend all day without seeing another person. Granite Backcountry Alliance has tons of great information about the best backcountry ski areas in the White Mountains. For winter hiking trails and tips, visit the Appalachian Mountain Club or AllTrails. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll have fun in the Western White Mountains!

Book Your Next Winter Visit to the Western White Mountains

The Western White Mountains are ready to host all your winter fun. Just plan ahead and you’ll be sure to have a wonderful time.

Explore the White Mountains with your camera and win prizes!

October 30, 2020

Here’s your chance to explore White Mountain back roads and small towns, support local businesses and win prizes with the White Mountains 100-Mile Challenge.

The six chambers and associations of the White Mountains region have collaborated to create the White Mountains 100-Mile Challenge, an exhilarating new way to explore the White Mountains, take photos and win prizes. Offering the ultimate reason to explore the back roads, beautiful vistas, and local businesses throughout the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, the White Mountain 100-Mile Challenge offers the ideal socially distanced itinerary for a day trip, overnight, or longer vacation. Simply explore the historic markers, attractions, shops, restaurants, lodging, recreation businesses on the list, take photos, and upload them to your own social media and WhiteMts100milechallenge.com, and you may just win one of 100 prizes including a future vacation to the Whites.

Here’s how it works: Download the challenge list of stops, ranging from locations like breweries, local historic markers, shops, ski areas, B&Bs, hotels, spas and more in any of the White Mountain communities listed. Take a selfie or group photo at each one of the stops. Then upload your photo to your social media channels with the hashtag #WhiteMts100Miles. Once you’ve visited ten of the business categories on the list anytime between Oct 13-Dec 6, 2020, upload your photos to WhteMts100milechallenge.com here and enter to win prizes. Enter as often as you want, as long as you upload ten photos at a time.

The White Mountains 100-Mile Challenge started on Tuesday, October 13th, and ends at midnight on Sunday, December 6th, 2020. All photos submitted should be taken on site during this time period in order to be eligible. Weekly winners will be announced every Friday beginning October 23rd. The grand prize winners will be chosen Monday, December 7th. All winners will be notified by email.

More than 100 prizes will be awarded over the duration of the challenge along with one grand prize – an Omni Mt Washington Hotel getaway and a White Mountains Attractions Pass for the summer or fall of 2021. Other prizes include items from participating businesses.

“The White Mountains 100-Mile Challenge offers a fun way to discover the communities in the White Mountains between fall and winter,” said Kim Pickering, Executive Director of the Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce and program co-coordinator. “With interest high in getting outside to explore in a socially distanced way, this program will encourage visitors and residents to safely visit and engage with businesses in the White Mountain region through a scavenger hunt style itinerary,” she added.

Communities participating in the White Mountain 100-Mile Challenge are represented by the newly formed consortium of the White Mountains Collaborative including the six chambers of commerce in the White Mountains region, White Mountain Attractions Association and Ski New Hampshire. The communities included in the White Mountain 100-Mile Challenge include Plymouth, Waterville Valley, Campton, Thornton, Lincoln/Woodstock, Woodsville, Bath, Littleton, Lisbon, Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, Twin Mountain, Bretton Woods , Whitefield, Jefferson, Jackson, Bartlett, Glen, North Conway, Conway, Chocorua and Tamworth.

Funds for development and promotion of the White Mountain 100-Mile Challenge were made possible by a special program called the Chamber of Commerce Partnership Assistance Fund, created by the NH Governor’s Office for Emergency Relief and Recovery (GOFERR) to support collaborative efforts among chambers that were ineligible for CARES Act funding through other programs.

To learn more about the program and each chambers’ involvement, contact any of the participating members listed below.

White Mountains Attractions Association

Ski New Hampshire

Mt Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

Franconia Notch Regional Chamber of Commerce

Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce

Littleton Area Chamber of Commerce

Main Street Littleton

Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce

Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods Chamber of Commerce

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.

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)!

Everything is Sweet at Fadden’s Maple Syrup

April 30, 2019

For over 120 years, Fadden’s General Store has been producing award-winning maple syrup for the western White Mountains. Like most early settlers in the White Mountains, the Fadden Family harvested maple sap and sugar to consume and trade for supplies. James H. Fadden and his wife, Ida, opened Fadden’s General Store in 1896.

It wasn’t until James and his son, Norman, purchased a stand of maple trees and built a large sugarhouse that Fadden’s launched into the commercial maple syrup industry. Norman ran the store until 1983 when his son, James H. Fadden Sr., took over and ran it until James (Jim) H. Fadden Jr. purchased and restored the store back to its original beauty in the summer of 2008. Jim ran the store until his passing in December 2018. His son, James, and his mother are continuing the Fadden legacy with the sixth generation.

The Fadden maple stand is located just three miles up the street from the General Store. While the maple grove is home to the old sugarhouse, today the maple syrup is produced in the modern state-of-the-art sugarhouse right behind the General Store on Main Street in North Woodstock. With over 7,500 taps and 17 miles of pipeline, Fadden’s produces approximately 2,000 to 2,500 gallons of maple syrup every year. That’s a lot of pancakes!

Over the decades, Fadden’s has won many awards, including eight Carlisle awards, which is presented annually for the best maple syrup in New Hampshire. Fadden’s most recently won the award in 2018. In 1957, Norman won an award for the best maple syrup in the world. That’s one big title!

When asked what makes Fadden’s maple syrup special, James was modest and said, “I would love to say it’s the cook who makes our syrup unique, but that would be a fib. I would have to say our syrup is good because of the environment where it comes from in our grove. It also may have to do with our cleaning habitats, but it is most likely due to the fact we don’t let our maple sap sit around.”

Fadden’s Maple Syrup is available for purchase year-round, seven days a week at Fadden’s General Store. Maple syrup can be purchased in just about every size jug you can imagine. Bring home a gallon for yourself and lots of smaller jugs for all your friends! Maple syrup isn’t the only thing you’ll find at Fadden’s General Store. “We also carry a lot of locally made things like jellies and jams, honey, maple-scented hand lotions, and chapstick. We also have locally made beers, wines, and meads along with a small grocery section. For our outdoors people, we have a wide range of things from camping and fishing supplies,” said James. Of course, you can find all your favorite gifts like magnets, postcards, and stuffed animals to remember your favorite vacation.