Winter in the White Mountains, NH is one of my favorite times of year to experience this iconic New England region. Between the snow-covered mountain peaks and scenic snowy drives, to the charming small towns and endless winter activities, the area really has something for every kind of traveler in the colder months. Having visited the White Mountains in winter multiple times, I’ve experienced many of the best things to do, hotels, and quiet escapes – and I’m excited to share them with you all today.
From snowshoeing and winter hiking, to scenic gondola rides, cozy inns, and classic New Hampshire winter adventures, there’s far more to do here than most people realize. So, this is definitely a fantastic trip to plan even if you don’t ski! Winter here isn’t just about hitting the slopes – you can enjoy everything from a restful spa day and ice skating, to scenic train rides through the mountains. You don’t have to be a outdoor adventurer to soak it all in – although, there’s also plenty of skiing to be had if that’s what you’re after 😉
In this guide, I’m sharing exactly what winter in the White Mountains, NH is really like, including the best things to do, what to know before you go, where to stay, and insider tips.
So with that, let’s get started!
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What Winter In The White Mountains is Like
In short – cold and snowy, and exactly what you’re probably picturing and expecting. This is one area of New England that tends to be reliably “wintery” in December, January, February, and March. And while it’s not as crowded as the peak fall foliage season, it does draw in a number of tourists for ski season, as there are some really popular ski resorts here.
That said, I’ve never found the winter crowds in the White Mountains to feel overwhelming, and have always felt like the region is more peaceful this time of the year, compared to the fall foliage season.
One important factor to consider, too, is global warming, which has affected winters most dramatically throughout New England. While the effects vary from year to year, I’d be remiss if I was wasn’t honest about the weather fluctuations I’ve experienced first-hand on my winter trips to this region.
There have been years during my White Mountains winter getaways where it got to be in the mid 40s°F for a few days in a row, and I wasn’t able to go ice skating, and the snow started to melt, making snowshoeing and such also difficult. Being that this is a mountain region, it’s not as common to experience these weather shifts as other parts of New England. But just know that it can and does happen from time to time. And skiers, fear not! The ski resorts will make their own snow should the area experience a winter heat wave.
Generally, though, the White Mountains stay cold and snowy throughout most of the winter season.
Top Winter Activities in the White Mountains
Below is a list of all the most fun things to do in the area in the winter, with options for all different preferences. So whether you’re looking to be more adventurous, or something a little more relaxing, I have you covered.
Skiing & Snowboarding
This one goes without saying, of course. You’ll find all kinds of skiing and snowboarding in the White Mountains, and it’s one of the best places in New England for a ski trip. All types of skiing can be found here, including downhill and cross-country, and there are plenty of places to choose from.
Bretton Woods is the largest ski resort in the area, and the best one for skiers of varied ability – so it’s great for both beginners and more advanced skiers. It’s got over 400 acres of terrain to explore, and of course, incredible mountain views. This is where I’d recommend going if you’re skiing with kids, as they also have a Chutters Candy Store right off one of the lifts on the actual mountain! Talk about the perfect reward for kiddos learning to ski (and honestly, adults, too 😉).
Loon Mountain: This one is also a well-rounded ski resort located on the other side of the White Mountains from Bretton Woods. You’ll find varied terrain here, so beginners and advanced skiers will find trails they love at Loon. Plus, there’s a terrain park with ramps and jumps, if you’re looking to practice your tricks. And lastly, Loon also offers Sno-Go rentals, which I’ve never done, but it’s a combination of skiing and fat-biking down a mountain, which sounds perfect for those who are super adventurous and looking for something unique to try.
Wildcat & Cranmore: These resorts are best for more advanced skiers, as they’re known for their steep runs and authentic New England skiing/snowboarding.
Cross-Country Skiing: Some really awesome trails can be found at the Jackson Cross-Country area, Bretton Woods Nordic center, Great Glen Trails outdoor center. For the best views while cross-country skiing, I’d pick Bretton Woods and Great Glen.
Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking
For those who want to get outside in the fresh winter air, but aren’t big skiers, snowshoeing and winter hiking are great options in the area.
For snowshoeing, I really like the trails at the Jackson cross-country ski area. Despite the name, it also offers snowshoeing and equipment rentals, so it’s a great one-stop shop. There’s even a cute little covered bridge you can go under on the trail (pictured above).
However, both of the other places mentioned above – Great Glen and Bretton Woods – also have really nice snowshoe trails, making all of these fantastic options.
For beginner-friendly winter hikes in the area, one of my favorites is the Flume Gorge trail. This is one of the most popular attractions in the area during the rest of the year, but in winter, it’s very quiet and peaceful. The actual boardwalk through the gorge is closed off, but you’re able to walk up to the entrance to see the gorge covered in ice waterfalls, which is really pretty. I also love seeing the red Flume Covered Bridge covered in snow, and walking by the giant glacial boulders along the way.
Many of the other trails around Flume Gorge remain open in the winter. Just know that they’re not maintained, so you’ll want to come prepared with snowshoes and microspikes, depending on the trail conditions. It’s also good to know that there’s a steep hill that goes down into the woods at the beginning of the trail, so you’ll want to be mindful of this. The rest of the trail is pretty easy, though, with some minor inclines.
A great moderate winter hike is Lonesome Lake in Franconia, which has a few steeper sections. You’ll want to come prepared with the right gear – especially microspikes in case of ice – but the lake views after a snowfall are really pretty here. The trail is only about a 3-mile loop, but in the winter, plan for extra time if you’re traversing through the snow (which will probably be the case in the winter).
There are so many other incredible winter hikes in the area, so you can easily pick a number of them based on your skill level. Just be sure to avoid any trails with exposed cliffs, as these will be extra slippery and risky in the winter, even with the proper gear. Always practice caution when attempting winter hikes, and never hit the trails without being prepared with microspikes, warm clothing, etc. There’s always more of a risk hiking in the winter, and while it’s fun, it’s si important to be safe!
Snow Tubing, Ice Skating & Sleigh Rides
Perfect for family-fun and those who want to skip the slopes, there are plenty of these activities to be found in the White Mountains!
For snow tubing, Cranmore Mountain gets my vote for the best tubing park in all of New Hampshire. Not only do they have 10 lanes, but they also have a magic carpet lift back to the top, which allows you to get more runs in. Plus, they also offer Arctic Lights night tubing after sunset, during which they illuminate the lanes with bright, colorful lights.
While Cranmore is fantastic for tubing, Bretton Woods also has a smaller tubing park at the Nordic Center, but keep in mind that there is no lift back up, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Great Glen also has a similar tubing park, also without a lift. However, Great Glen does have fire pits with s’mores on select days, so you’ll want to be sure to check that out during your visit.
For ice skating, it doesn’t get more magical than Nestlenook Farms in Jackson. I remember the first time my husband and I visited here in the winter, and it really felt like stepping into a storybook or painting. They transform their pond into a gorgeous outdoor skating rink in the winter, complete with two bridges that were designed to reflect a Currier & Ives painting – which is probably why I had that thought about stepping into a painting when I first visited.
Keep in mind that Nestlenook’s ice skating is entirely weather-dependent, so before making a special trip there, be sure to check their website to ensure skating is open that day. They’re very good about updating everything here.
Nestlenook also offers amazing sleigh rides through their farm in custom-made Austrian sleighs. My husband and I did this one year, and it was honestly so fun. They offer different options, including private ones with champagne or hot chocolate, so this is especially perfect if you’re celebrating something special.
Bretton Woods also offers sleigh rides around the property near the Omni Mount Washington Resort, which is also one of the best places to stay during a winter trip to the area (but more on that later in the post 😉).
Scenic Winter Train Rides
There are a couple of really great winter train ride options in the White Mountains to check out!
The first is the famous Cog, which goes up to the summit of Mount Washington in the summer and fall months. However, in the winter, it remains open, and takes passengers up to Waumbek Station, which sits at an elevation of 4000 feet up the mountain – which is almost to the top, but not quite. The train ride up still offers incredible views, and since it’s a higher elevation, you’re almost guaranteed to see pine trees covered in snow, and incredible mountain views on a clear day. Add in the unique experience of riding up a mountain railroad, and it definitely makes for a memorable excursion.
At Waumbek Station, they allow you to disembark once you arrive, and they offer roasted marshmallows for a fun little snack while admiring the views.
Additionally, the Conway Scenic Railroad offers two winter train rides: the Snow Train and the Winter Mountaineer, both of which are fantastic options. The Winter Mountaineer is a longer, 4-hour journey, while the Snow Train is an hour long.
Ice Castles
Located in South Woodstock, no list about winter in the White Mountains is complete without mentioning the famous Ice Castles!
But keep in mind, it’s so much more than a castle. While the castle itself is incredibly impressive, and unique in that it changes from year-to-year, they also have an ice slide, a forest light walk, ice tubing, an ice bar, and sleigh rides.
The season for the Ice Castle is dependent on weather, so be sure to check their website for opening and closing dates, as they’re at the whim of Mother Nature each year.
Spas, Staying In & Winter Self Care
If you’re more into winter vibes, and not so much into winter adventure, the White Mountains are still an awesome place for self-care and relaxation surrounded by nature. Here are a few places to check out:
For a luxury spa experience, you’ll want to head to the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, or the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa. Both of these options offer all the amenities you’re looking for to create a perfect spa day, including spa rest areas, plush robes, and eucalyptus steam rooms. The Omni Mount Washington also has a hot tub, while the Mountain View Grand Resort offers private relaxation rooms you can add-on to your visit for additional luxury.
The Soaking Pot in North Conway is a great option if you’re looking for a little pampering, but not a luxury spa experience. This spa offers relaxing foot soaks, with add-on options for massage and a hot cup of tea. Whether you’ve been outside all day and want to warm up, or you’re just looking for the perfect way to stay indoors and unwind, this is such a great option.
The Christmas Farm Inn in Jackson also has a full spa, which includes a sauna, a hot tub, and steam room.
The Villa Hygge Hotel also has a Nordic spa, where guests not staying at the hotel can book half-day spa appointments to enjoy massage, light bites, the Finnish sauna, and the Himalayan salt lounge. And of course, if you stay at the hotel, you can take advantage of the amenities all day long.
Lastly, there are some options for yoga in the area as well, including Hot Asana and Mountain Kula Yoga.
Scenic Drives & Epic Winter Views
The roads throughout the White Mountains are generally well-maintained, so scenic drives should be in your itinerary. Of course, you’ll want to use common sense, and practice extra caution, specially if you’re not used to driving in the snow. However, I’ve always found it to be pretty easy to drive through the mountains in the winter, and taking some scenic drives with epic views is such a fun activity this time of the year.
The famous Kancamagus Highway is well-known for fall foliage, but it’s also stunning in the winter, too. Especially after a snowfall. This 34.5-mile drive takes you through the heart of the White Mountains National Forest, and offers a few wonderful scenic overlooks for easy sightseeing.
I also love the drive through Crawford Notch State Park, along route 302. In all honesty, I actually prefer this drive a bit more than the Kanc in terms of mountain views. There are fewer places to pull off and enjoy the views, but I find the actual drive itself more scenic. You can’t go wrong with either, though, and both are worth your time.
Please be aware that there are no gas stations on these routes, and you’re also likely to lose cell service. Plan accordingly.
Explore Charming Snow-Covered Towns
Sprinkled throughout the mountains are charming little towns to explore, which feel extra special when covered in snow. My two favorites to see are Littleton and North Conway, and these should definitely be at the top your list when visiting the area.
Littleton has more of a quaint feel, and sits along a river with a covered bridge, and is centered around the town’s Main Street, which was once voted the best Main Street in the U.S. You’ll find some great shops here, including Chutters, which is home to the longest candy counter in the world.
North Conway is centered around the main road that runs through it, so it has less of a quaint feel, but still has an enormous amount of charm. You’ll find the Conway railway station here, which feels as though it’s from another time, Zeb’s General Store, which is a must-visit, coffee shops, and a few other great little shops.
Psst! I have an entire guide on things to do in Littleton, NH, if you need more ideas 😉
Hot Chocolate & Winter Eats
Hot chocolate is a classic winter staple that always hits when it’s cold outside, and this is something you’ll want to have on your itinerary, of course.
Some awesome places to check out for hot chocolate are the Bavarian Chocolate Haus (which is also a fantastic chocolate/candy shop), the Metropolitan Coffeehouse, and Sip & Sweets Café.
I also love the Metropolitan Coffeehouse in North Conway, and Mountainside Café in Lincoln for seasonal drinks that aren’t hot chocolate. Mountainside Café actually does coffee flights, often rotating out really delicious seasonal flavors, so that’s a fun one to check out. Just be sure to check their social media, as they do close sometimes to take breaks.
For cozy winter dining, one fun option are the igloos at the Woodstock Inn & Brewery, which is not far from Ice Castles, if you want to make a night of it and combine both activities. Their igloos are also dog-friendly, and come with heaters, card games, and a bluetooth speaker to play your own music.
I also love Schilling Beer Co. in Littleton. They have heat lamps at their outdoor tables, and provide blankets to use to stay warm. Their pizzas are excellent, and you can also try their own beers.
For breakfast, Polly’s Pancake Parlor is one of those places that lived up to the hype (for me, anyway). The pancakes here are delicious, and everything I’ve ever gotten on their menu is so good. I always go here for breakfast once during my winter trips to fuel myself with a nice, big breakfast before heading outdoors all day.
Lastly, I also love the restaurant and bar at the Christmas Farm Inn in Jackson. Not only is this one of the best places to stay in the area, especially in the winter, but their restaurant and bar are open to the public, and it has such a cozy vibe inside. Plus, their cocktails are amazing (get the oatmeal cookie cocktail, which is their house specialty!), and the food is all wonderful.
Where to Stay in the White Mountains During Winter
Top Pick: Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa
Why I love it for a cozy winter getaway:
It’s the most grand resort in all of New Hampshire, and one of the best in New England. While it’s truly impressive year-round, they do such a great job celebrating everything winter, from sleigh rides, to the nearby skiing in Bretton Woods. With on-site dining and the spa, plus its proximity to The Cog, it’s really a one-stop shop for a relaxing winter retreat if you’re looking for easy and luxurious. The only downside is that it’s a bit more secluded, so you really need to eat at the resort, unless you want take a longer drive to places like North Conway or Jackson. But it’s a wonderful way to have a peaceful, easy, and relaxing getaway.
❄️ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa
Cozy Boutique Inn Pick: The Wentworth
Why I love it for a winter getaway:
This inn seems like it was built for winter stays, between the rich colors painted in the lobby, to the plaid and leather accents throughout the rest of the inn’s design. Additionally, some of the rooms have soaking tubs and fireplaces, and their on-site pub is such a cozy little aprés ski spot. The inn can also arrange massage therapy services for guests staying there.
❄️ Click here to check winter rates & availability at The Wentworth
Winter Vibes Perfection: The Christmas Farm Inn
Why I love it for a cozy winter getaway:
I mean, the name kind of says it all! The entire property feels like Christmas, but also like a classic New England-style inn. Located in Jackson, it’s not far from Nestlebook Farms for their ice skating and sleigh rides, but the inn itself has on-site dining and a full spa (as previously mentioned), and different room types to choose from – with amenities ranging from jacuzzis and fireplaces, to a full log cabin on their grounds.
❄️ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Christmas Farm Inn
Villa Hygge Scandinavian Wellness Hotel & Spa
Why I love it for a cozy winter getaway:
You can really embrace the Scandinavian Hygge lifestyle when staying here. Located in North Conway, this hotel is designed just like an authentic Scandinavian retreat, and inside their rooms, you’ll find a minimal but cozy aesthetic. For each night booked, you’ll receive a 50-minute Nordic sauna experience, and a Nordic breakfast breakfast each morning of your stay. The hotel also has wellness programs, and the full spa, as previously mentioned.
❄️ Click here to check winter rates & availability at the Villa Hygge Scandinavian Wellness Hotel
My Tips For Visiting The White Mountains In The Winter
→ Offline Google Maps to your phone. You’re very likely to lose cell service at some point in your trip. I have Verizon, and always lose service while on The Kanc, and driving through Franconia and Crawford Notches. You’ll be so happy you have the back-up navigation to know where you’re going.
→ Be smart while driving. This, of course, goes without saying, but if the roads don’t look great because of snow, please take your time, or consider staying in. It’s always better to err on the side of safety.
→ By lift, train, and The Cog tickets in advance if you can. You often save money when you buy beforehand, and you’ll save time by not having to stand in lines when you arrive.
→ If you’re renting a car, check with the rental company that a snow brush and ice scraper come with your rental. You’ll be parking outdoors at the hotels, and this really comes in handy!
→ Pack accordingly for the weather. Sometimes, it get very frigid up in the mountains, and other times, it’s more mild (for winter, anyway 😉). You’ll want to come prepared with all the snow gear you need to stay safe and warm.
A few things I definitely recommend packing are:
✓ Merino wool socks to keep your feet warm and temperature-regulated. I swear by these in the winter, and they’re truly the best I’ve tried. Darn Tough socks, Bombas socks, and these ones from Amazon are all fantastic options.
✓ A good winter parka to keep you warm in the snow. Personally, I really like this one from Eddie Bauer – I have an older version of it from years ago, and it’s still in great condition.
✓ Winter boots, of course. I generally pack two pairs – one I can wear out in the snow, and the other pair, a more versatile lower-cut style that can also be worn out to dinner. The ones I use most frequently are the Sorel Out ‘N About boots, and the Sorel Caribou boots. These are both the best winter boots I’ve ever owned, and keep me super warm and comfortable.
✓ Snow pants if you’re planning to do any outdoor activities. Or at minimum, base layers. Merino wool base layers are especially wonderful (much like merino wool socks).
✓ Warm gloves or mittens, especially if you plan to be outside in the snow.
✓ For clothing, keep it casual since it’s a very casual region. You’ll be fine in jeans and sweaters when not on the slopes or having an outdoor adventure.
✓ Sweater undershirts. I swear by these ones, which are lightweight undershirts you wear under sweaters that soak up excess sweat. It allows me to rewear sweaters more frequently, which saves room in my suitcase since those are such a bulky item to have to pack several of. I was really skeptical of these, but decided to give them a shot – and gosh, they work really well for me.
More of my posts you may find helpful:
- Where To Stay In The White Mountains: A Guide To The Towns
- New Hampshire In The Winter
- The Best Winter Getaways In New England
That’s A Wrap On Winter Fun In NH’s White Mountains!
And there you have it! All my tips and recommendations for winter fun in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. After so many winter visits to this area, it’s such a treat to share all these fun activities with you, and help you plan your own winter getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway to unwind with spa days and relaxing drives, or are looking to hit the slopes, hopefully you see that this area really appeals to everyone. Happy planning!
