Snow-capped mountains define the gorgeous blue sky, while evergreen forests below are flocked with cascades of fluffy white. Pristine rivers, antique covered bridges, and castles made from ice come together to make Loon Mountain a winter fairytale land.
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Perfectly situated in the middle of New Hampshire is the town of Lincoln, home to Loon Mountain. Known for its family-friendly vibe, the area attracts outdoor enthusiasts to partake in everything the beautiful White Mountains have to offer. From skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, hiking, and other various winter activities, Loon offers a rustic, casual mountain ambiance that puts everyone at ease.
Loon is a family-centric ski resort situated next to Lincoln’s delightful downtown area. It is a wonderful spot for a winter getaway.
1. The Mountain Is King
Loon Mountain Resort is home to 370 skiable acres across the slopes of three peaks. Loon Mountain Resort offers 61 trails and glades, six terrain parks, and 10 lifts. The newest lift, scheduled to be operational in spring 2021, is the Kanc 8, sporting heated seats and a tinted bubble. Capable of transporting 3,500 skiers per hour, this chair is a game-changer in keeping the lift lines short and increasing your total vertical run time.
Six terrain parks grace the slopes including two kid-focused parks — the Burton Riglet Park and the Lil’ Stash. For the more advanced trickster, the Superpipe clocks in at 425 feet long with massive 18-foot walls. Give it a try, or watch experienced snowboards put on an exhibition, but make sure it is on your daily run list.
Loon is at the beginning of a 10-year plan to propel the resort into the spotlight as a premier New England destination. The plan, Flight Path: 2030, focuses on taking Loon Mountain to the top of the charts transforming it into skiing greatness.
Loon is a great place to up your skiing or snowboarding game. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or just looking for a few technique tweaks. With customizable private lessons, you can spend 1 hour, 2 hours, or all day with a coach dedicated to getting you to the next level. Want to ski backcountry, learn to tackle the halfpipe, or just explore the basics? You can name your game. There is no excuse; it’s time to get out and enjoy the rush.
2. Time To Give Nordic Skiing A Try
Nordic skiing has long been a sport where you can enjoy your surroundings while expending some energy. Gliding along beautiful trails through snow-covered fir forests and along ice-topped streams is a lovely way to engage with nature.
The Lincoln Woods Ski Trails in the White Mountain National Forest offers 8 miles of trails for skiers, snowshoers, and winter hikers. With five distinct trails, the area offers a variety of conditions. The visitor center is the best source of information on daily trail conditions. The Lincoln Woods Trail and the Pine Island Trails are rated easy. The Pemi East Side Road, the Black Pond Trail, and the Franconia Falls Trail are more challenging since they require some uphill climbing. However, you are rewarded with gorgeous views while getting a great workout.
Whether you are considering cross-country, telemark, or alpine skiing, the Village Ski and Snowboard can get you set up with rentals. Renting equipment locally is the best way to give a new sporting adventure a try or to explore state-of-the-art technology before committing to a purchase.
If you are new to Cross-country skiing, Jill Browne has some great tips for newbies in “7 Cross-Country Ski Tips For Beginners.”
3. Wander Through Ice Castles
Have you ever wandered through a castle, going room-to-room exploring and enjoying every turn? New Hampshire has its own version of castles, the dreamy Ice Castles. Ice artists take you on an ice crystal journey through tunnels, gorgeous sculptures, towering rooms, and a unique sensory experience.
Spend an hour or more marveling at the delicate structures formed by hand, one icicle at a time culminating in a frozen fairytale castle.
4. Ski-Biking On Snow
This new sport is not for the faint of heart, but if you have an adventurous spirit, it’s worth trying at least once. Sno-Go is a cross between riding a bike and skiing. Loon Mountain Resort has a Sno-Go rental program. With your Sno-Go rental, they offer a twice-daily guided tour to get you up and riding in no time. It is built like a tricycle with three short skis in place of wheels. To ride, you stand on the Sno-Go using the handlebars and your body weight to navigate your way down the slope. In general, it is easier to operate than traditional skis or snowboards.
If you are looking for a new adventure, this might be just the ticket. You will certainly have some great stories to share over your favorite apres ski beverage.
5. Snow Tubing Like A Kid
Snow tubing is a fun event for the entire family. Loon’s 1-hour slots start at 2 p.m. and run until 9:15 p.m. It’s always fun to tube under the lights, making it a special outing. The thrill of zipping and spinning down the tube track will make you feel like a kid again.
6. Explore Scenic Franconia Notch
Franconia Notch is one of the most scenic destinations in New Hampshire. In the winter, it is a breathtaking winter wonderland. The Franconia Notch Recreation Path is a wonderful hike along the Pemigewasset River.
Additionally, the path is lauded for its snowmobile accessibility, scenic cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Many trails are groomed and waiting for you.
Discover the exhilaration of snowmobiling with a tour from SledVentures. Their guided tours include rentals and a mountain of snow. Offering beginner tours like the 60-minute “End of Day Beginner Tour” where you get a feel for snowmobiling to the 4-hour “Mega Midweek Mountain Adventure Tour” for expert riders. SledVentures will take you on an exhilarating snow-filled adventure through the Franconia Notch area.
7. Indulge In Apres-Ski Delights
After spending an exhilarating day on the slopes, an apres-ski nosh and beverage is just what you crave. The Loon Mountain area has lots of great options, from breweries and wineries to cozy restaurants.
The Woodstock Inn Brewery is dedicated to making New Hampshire born and raised beer. From their new Honey Lemon Blonde Ale to their classic Woodstock Inn IPA and the Pig’s Ear Brown Ale, you will have a difficult time choosing your brew. Pair your pint with some awesome pub grub like the Lollipop Lamb Chops or a bowl of their award-winning chili and your apres-ski respite will be the perfect end to your skiing experience.
Seven Birches Winery at the RiverWalk Resort is the perfect place to unwind and not have to leave the resort. The winery is located at Loon Mountain and has a tasting room, wine bar, and winery tours. They offer a “Meet the Winemakers Tour” where you can ask all your winemaking questions. This exclusive tour is only offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Seven Birches Winery is a fun spot to sample locally made wines and discover a new favorite adult beverage.
For a cozy bite or a complete dinner, stop by The Common Man. The moment you walk in, you feel like you are a guest in an Irish family lodge. Grab a seat by the fireplace for a pre-dinner cocktail like the Willet Pot Still Bourbon Smash or a classic, expertly drawn Guinness. After working up an appetite on the slopes, tuck in to a Filet Mignon or a Nantucket Pie. You’ve earned the extra calories.
8. Hunting Covered Bridges
Quaint New England architecture is synonymous with covered bridges. You can find many in the Loon Mountain Area. Lincoln has three of note: Clarks Covered Bridge, the Flume Covered Bridge, and the Sentinel Pine Covered Bridge. There is something nostalgic about walking across a covered bridge, gazing down at the river running below and contemplating a simpler time. And, of course, they make beautiful backdrops for your photos.
For an extensive list of covered bridges in the White Mountains, visit the White Mountains New Hampshire website.
9. Classic Cozy Winter Stays
For a quintessential New England Inn stay, try the Red Sleigh Inn Bed and Breakfast. The quaint rooms give you the feel of old New England charm and are accompanied by the convenience of modern bathrooms. With a lovingly prepared, hearty breakfast, you will be ready for your outdoor exploration, knowing you have a cozy spot to rest your head for the night.
For a new-style, classic ski town resort, look no further than the RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain. Close to everything with top shelf amenities and excellent service, your getaway stay will be filled with great food, spa services, heated pool time, and skating under the stars, and, of course, snow-filled fun.
Pro Tip: When you are finished discovering the wonderful Loon Mountain Resort, your next ski getaway might be Vermont. When researching Vermont ski areas, consider the “8 Best Vermont Ski Resorts for Every Level And Interest.”
