10 Best New Hampshire Ski Resorts to Visit This Winter

Explore New Hampshire's snowy slopes this winter! Our ski resort guide features ten amazing destinations perfect for every ski trip. From family-friendly Pats Peak to challenging trails at Cannon Mountain, find your ideal mountain. Discover affordable ski packages, explore cozy lodging options, and plan your unforgettable winter vacation. Get ready for skiing and snowboarding in the White Mountains, with plenty of snow conditions information available!

New Hampshire, the Granite State, is a winter wonderland for ski enthusiasts. With its stunning mountain ranges and reliable snowfall, it boasts some of the best ski resorts in the Northeast. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's a slope for everyone. Here's our curated list of 10 top New Hampshire ski resorts to check out this winter.

1. Loon Mountain Resort

Located in Lincoln, Loon Mountain is known for its diverse terrain and stunning views. With three distinct peaks, it caters to all skill levels. Loon offers extensive snowmaking, ensuring great conditions throughout the season. Don't miss the gondola ride to the summit for breathtaking panoramas.

2. Bretton Woods

As New Hampshire's largest ski area, Bretton Woods offers a vast network of trails and glades. With a high-speed gondola and multiple chairlifts, you can spend more time skiing and less time waiting in line. The Omni Mount Washington Hotel at the base adds to the resort's luxurious appeal.

3. Attitash Mountain Resort

Attitash, in Bartlett, is a popular choice for families and experienced skiers alike. It combines two mountains, Attitash and Bear Peak, providing a variety of terrain. With challenging steeps and gentle slopes, it offers something for every skill level. The après-ski scene is also vibrant, with plenty of dining and entertainment options.

4. Cannon Mountain

Cannon Mountain, located in Franconia Notch State Park, boasts the highest vertical drop in New Hampshire. Its challenging trails and stunning scenery make it a favorite among advanced skiers. While not for the faint of heart, the views from the summit are well worth the effort. Plus, it's close to the iconic Old Man of the Mountain profile site.

5. Waterville Valley Resort

Waterville Valley, nestled in the White Mountain National Forest, is a charming resort with a family-friendly atmosphere. With a dedicated learning area and plenty of intermediate terrain, it's a great place to learn to ski or snowboard. The resort village offers a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination.

6. Cranmore Mountain Resort

Cranmore, in North Conway, has a rich history dating back to the early days of skiing. While not the largest resort, it offers a convenient location and a variety of terrain. Cranmore is particularly well-suited for families, with a dedicated kids' area and plenty of beginner-friendly slopes. The town of North Conway also provides numerous shopping and dining options.

7. Gunstock Mountain Resort

Gunstock, located in Gilford, offers stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee. With a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails, it caters to a wide range of skill levels. Gunstock also offers night skiing, allowing you to enjoy the slopes after dark. In addition to skiing, Gunstock provides other winter activities, like snow tubing and cross-country skiing.

8. Pats Peak

Pats Peak, in Henniker, is a smaller resort known for its affordability and family-friendly atmosphere. With a variety of terrain and night skiing options, it's a great place for a quick getaway. Pats Peak often has early-season openings and late-season closings, making it a reliable choice for skiing throughout the winter.

9. Ragged Mountain Resort

Ragged Mountain, located in Danbury, is a hidden gem with challenging terrain and stunning views. With a high-speed lift and a variety of trails, it's a great choice for experienced skiers. Ragged Mountain is also known for its excellent snowmaking capabilities, ensuring good conditions even when natural snowfall is scarce.

10. Dartmouth Skiway

Owned and operated by Dartmouth College, the Dartmouth Skiway in Lyme, New Hampshire, offers a more intimate skiing experience. While smaller than some of the larger resorts, it provides a relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices. It's a great option for families and beginners looking for a less crowded environment.

New Hampshire Ski Resort Comparison

To help you decide which ski resort is right for you, here's a quick comparison:

Resort	Location	Vertical Drop	Terrain	Key Features
Loon Mountain Resort	Lincoln	2,100 ft	Diverse, all levels	Three peaks, gondola, extensive snowmaking.
Bretton Woods	Bretton Woods	1,500 ft	Large area, varied	Largest in NH, high-speed gondola, Omni Hotel.
Attitash Mountain Resort	Bartlett	1,750 ft	Two mountains, diverse	Attitash and Bear Peak, vibrant après-ski.
Cannon Mountain	Franconia	2,180 ft	Challenging, advanced	Highest vertical, stunning views, for experts.
Waterville Valley Resort	Waterville Valley	2,020 ft	Family-friendly, intermediate	Learning area, resort village, family focus.
Cranmore Mountain Resort	North Conway	1,200 ft	Convenient, family-friendly	Kids' area, North Conway location, historic charm.
Gunstock Mountain Resort	Gilford	1,400 ft	Varied, all levels	Lake Winnipesaukee views, night skiing.
Pats Peak	Henniker	710 ft	Affordable, family-friendly	Early/late season, night skiing, value.
Ragged Mountain Resort	Danbury	1,250 ft	Challenging, expert	High-speed lift, excellent snowmaking, hidden gem.
Dartmouth Skiway	Lyme	968 ft	Intimate, affordable	Dartmouth College-owned, relaxed, great for families.

This winter, make the most of the skiing season by exploring the diverse and exciting ski resorts that New Hampshire has to offer. Whether you're looking for challenging terrain or a family-friendly atmosphere, you're sure to find the perfect mountain to suit your needs. Don't forget to check snow conditions and resort websites for the latest information before you go!