Your Ultimate Guide to Skiing in New Hampshire

New Hampshire may be a small state, but when it comes to skiing, it punches well above its weight. With rugged mountains, charming ski villages, and some of the most scenic slopes in the Northeast, New Hampshire offers a ski experience for everyone—from beginners to seasoned powder hounds. Whether you're looking for expansive trails, family-friendly slopes, or a cozy mountain retreat, this guide to New Hampshire’s ski resorts will help you plan the perfect winter getaway.

1. Cannon Mountain: Classic New Hampshire Skiing

Located in Franconia Notch State Park, Cannon Mountain is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic ski destinations. With a vertical drop of 2,180 feet, it's home to some of the best and most challenging terrain in the state. The mountain boasts over 90 trails, including the famous Rocket run, which provides expert skiers and snowboarders with thrilling moguls and steep pitches.

For those new to skiing or looking for easier slopes, Cannon offers several beginner and intermediate trails, along with an excellent ski school. After a day on the slopes, relax at the Cannon Mountain Ski Area Lodge or take in the stunning views from the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which takes visitors to the summit for spectacular vistas of the White Mountains.

Top Tip: Cannon Mountain is known for having some of the best snow conditions in the state, thanks to its higher elevation and the “Cannon snow” that’s often deep and powdery.

2. Loon Mountain Resort: Family-Friendly Fun

For families and skiers of all levels, Loon Mountain is a fantastic choice. Located in the picturesque town of Lincoln, Loon offers 2,100 vertical feet of skiing spread across 61 trails, with terrain suited for everyone, from first-timers to experts. The resort's Learning Center is renowned for its top-notch instruction, making it an ideal spot for beginners to get comfortable on the snow.

Loon also has a great mix of terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers, and the resort features a robust après-ski scene, with cozy bars and restaurants like The Paul Bunyan Room offering a relaxing spot to unwind after a day on the slopes. Additionally, Loon's snowmaking capabilities ensure that the slopes stay in great shape throughout the winter.

Top Tip: Loon’s North Peak offers some of the best views of the surrounding mountains, making it a must-see spot for scenic skiers.

3. Mount Sunapee Resort: A Hidden Gem

If you're looking for a more laid-back, less crowded experience, Mount Sunapee is the perfect choice. This family-friendly resort, located in Newbury, is often overshadowed by larger resorts but offers a fantastic ski experience with 66 trails and a vertical drop of 1,510 feet. It's a great spot for intermediate skiers who want to explore rolling terrain and wide open trails.

Sunapee is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with excellent beginner terrain at The Sunapee Learning Center. It also has plenty of options for snowboarding and freestyle enthusiasts with well-maintained terrain parks. The resort’s Mount Sunapee Village offers shopping, dining, and après-ski options to round out your day.

Top Tip: For those who want to make the most of their time on the slopes, Mount Sunapee offers some of the best night skiing in the state, with well-lit trails running until 9:00 PM.

4. Bretton Woods: The Largest Ski Area in New Hampshire

At Bretton Woods, you’ll find expansive terrain (465 acres) and the most extensive network of lifts in New Hampshire. Located in the White Mountain National Forest, Bretton Woods is known for its excellent grooming and stunning panoramic views of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast.

With 98 trails and terrain suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, Bretton Woods is perfect for those who want variety. The resort also has one of the best snowboard parks in the region, plus an impressive snow tubing park for families who want a break from skiing. In addition to its slopes, Bretton Woods is known for its luxurious accommodations, including the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort, a grand hotel that offers a full-service spa and other amenities perfect for a relaxing après-ski experience.

Top Tip: Don’t miss out on taking a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which runs up the side of the mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding White Mountains.

5. Wildcat Mountain: Adventure and Views

If you love a more rugged, adventurous ski experience with spectacular views, Wildcat Mountain in Pinkham Notch is a must. With a vertical drop of 2,112 feet, it’s a haven for advanced skiers and snowboarders, offering steep trails and deep powder. Wildcat’s Glen Ellis Falls Trail is a standout run, and expert skiers will find plenty of challenging terrain to explore.

For those looking for great views, Wildcat Mountain offers one of the most iconic vistas in New Hampshire, with sweeping views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy both skiing and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Top Tip: Wildcat has the longest continuous vertical drop in New Hampshire, so make sure you take a few runs to fully experience the mountain's thrilling terrain.

6. King Pine Ski Area: A Hidden Treasure for Beginners

For beginners or those looking for a more relaxed experience, King Pine in Madison is a great option. As one of the state’s smaller resorts, it’s an ideal place to hone your skills without the crowds. King Pine features a variety of trails, a dedicated snowboarding park, and a gentle learning area that’s perfect for novices.

With 17 trails and a vertical drop of 500 feet, King Pine may be small, but it offers some of the best family-friendly amenities in the state. The resort is also known for its snow tubing park, making it a great destination for families who want to experience a variety of winter activities.

Top Tip: King Pine is a great spot for night skiing, with some of the best night slopes in New Hampshire.

Best Après-Ski Spots in New Hampshire

After a day on the slopes, New Hampshire’s ski resorts offer a variety of après-ski options to help you unwind and relax. Some popular spots include:

The Cave at Loon Mountain: A lively, casual pub with great food and drink specials.

The Red Parka Pub at Attitash: Known for its live music and laid-back vibe.

The Berries Bistro at Bretton Woods: A cozy spot with a fireplace and delicious cocktails.

Planning Your Ski Trip to New Hampshire

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just looking to enjoy the slopes with your family, New Hampshire has something for everyone. With its wide range of resorts, stunning views, and welcoming atmosphere, the Granite State is the perfect destination for your next ski adventure. So, pack your gear, hit the slopes, and make this winter unforgettable!