Winter in New Hampshire attracts numerous vacationers each year. Although many visit the state to enjoy the fall foliage, summer hiking and Maple Sugaring season in spring, those that come during the winter months experience something altogether different. A winter vacation offers visitors a wide range of activities from which to choose. New Hampshire, the Granite State, becomes a winter wonderland that delights outdoor enthusiasts and snow lovers alike.
Snowmobiling
New Hampshire, from Nashua to Pittsburg, boasts 6,830 miles of picturesque trails for snowmobilers to navigate. The National Snowmobilers Association and its 115 member clubs offer snowmobilers access to trails leading through welcoming towns. You can find bed-and-breakfasts, shops, restaurants and sled maintenance services in the towns. The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation Trails Bureau website (nhstateparks.org) provides a free download of the annual NH snowmobile map. Snowmobilers often explore the Great North Woods region, which allows rider to cross the international border to Canada.
Skiing
Skiing, the official sport of New Hampshire, home to the first American slalom race, ranks as a favorite among winter visitors. Alpine and cross-country skiers both flock to the slopes. Cross-country ski networks include short routes of only a few kilometers and longer, more intensive trails. World class trail networks may exceed 100 kilometers. Cross country ski places frequently allow snowshoeing, and alpine skiing centers typically offer snowtubing. Alpine skiers enjoy peaks in all regions of the state, however, North Conway remains a popular destination. This region is home to, among other mountains, Sugarbush and Black Beauty, which are beginner-friendly slopes, and Cannon. Cannon reaches an elevation of over 4,000 feet. Cross country and alpine skiers enjoy Bretton Woods, which is known for fantastic mountain views.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing, a centuries old tradition in New Hampshire, proves to be an excellent winter activity for non-skiers. Originally regarded as a means of transportation, snowshoeing came back in fashion when the concept of it turned into sport. Today, miles of snowshoeing trails dot the state; numerous inns and resorts provide lessons and rentals for guests.
Dog Sledding
Many wintertime New Hampshire vacationers delight in local dog sledding tours. Tour operators train guests how to harness and anchor a team of dogs, usually Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes. Sled dogs, who can travel at a rapid pace for up to six hours, take guests over frozen ponds and snow-covered mountain passes. The White Mountains, near the border of Maine, remain a popular destination for dog sledding. Tour operators offer guests full or half-day dog sledding packages.
Ice Fishing
Cold temperatures dominate during the winter months freezing the numerous ponds and lakes scattered throughout the state. Different lakes offer different varieties of fish to catch. Nearly all bodies of water are open for ice fishing. However, some fly-fishing areas and trout ponds remain off-limits. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department posts fishing regulation and licensing requirements on their website. The Let’s Go Fishing program teaches ice fishing courses in January and February.
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