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ALL ROADS LEAD TO ADVENTURE

Jan 20, 2023 03:48PM ● By Janani Varatharajan

A Road Trip for Every Region

WHITE MOUNTAINS REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for the White Mountains.

A bounty of outdoor adventure, epic scenery, and performing arts too. Wander through the White Mountains this winter for a memory making winter getaway.

Snowshoeing, Fat Biking and Cross Country Skiing (Waterville Valley) Winter adventure for all adventure seekers! Waterville Valley Adventure Center offers rentals for fat bikes, snowshoes, and cross country skis. So get your gear and head out on the miles and miles of groomed trails around the Valley.

Tubing at Loon Mountain Resort (60 Loon Mountain Road, Lincoln) For a fresh dose of mountain air and an adrenaline rush too, slide down a slope on a snow tube. Loon offers tubing day and night, and their tubing area offers lift service. 
 
Mt Washington Cog Railway, (3168 Base Station Road, Mount Washington) All aboard for a winter excursion you won’t soon forget. The Cog takes visitors 4000 feet up Mt Washington to the newly expanded Waumbek Station to warming huts, a firepit, hot refreshments and spectacular panoramic views.
 
Snowmobling (Lincoln & Gorham) What better way to embrace winter than snowmobiling. There’s nothing quite like cruising through woods, fields and forests in the White Mountains. Sledventures has gear, rentals and guided tours. Or check Northeast Snowmobile Rentals with easy access to trails, amazing terrain and incredible views!  

Big Day Brewing, (20 Glen Road, Gorham) Cap off a day of winter adventure in the White Mountains with a sampling of craft beer and creative food. Big Day Brewing has it all on tap with live music most weekends, too. 
    
Wild Rose Restaurant at the Stonehurst Manor (3351 White Mountain Highway, North Conway) Stop by the Wild Rose for a hearty helping of Italian food. This charming dining spot offers visitors delicious food served alongside spectacular mountain views.

M & D Playhouse (2760 White Mountain Highway, North Conway) Located in the historic Eastern Slope Inn Playhouse, M&D Playhouse offers live theater in an intimate setting. Check their calendar to see what’s playing next time you’re in town.

Kancamagus Scenic Byway Photo Opp (Route 112 Lincoln to Conway) Stunning scenery in the fall, this byway is truly breathtaking in any season. If weather permits take this scenic drive and behold the winter wonderland along the route. Hint: be sure you bring along your camera for the ride.

If your winter road trip involves visiting prospective colleges and universities, NH is home to a diverse mix. Click (HERE) to explore schools in the region.

SEACOAST REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for New Hampshire's Seacoast.

The winter months are a perfect time to experience all the seasonal sights, arts and culture and incredible culinary dishes you’ll find on a road trip around the Seacoast. Uncover all the beauty and charm in the off-season.

Wagon Hill Farm (156 Piscataqua Road, Durham) A local hot spot for a favorite winter activity. Wagon Hill is well known as a popular sledding spot so get your family and sled and get ready to make memories. Build in a little time for a walk or snowshoeing on the trails that lead to the coast.

Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club (135 Congress Street, Portsmouth) Experience extraordinary live entertainment in this spectacularly restored landmark located in historic downtown Portsmouth. Jimmy’s offers a wide array of acts in their lively venue, and a creative culinary scene too.

Winter Wine Festival (588 Wentworth Road, New Castle) Celebrate winter by pairing wine and the amazing cuisine from the historic Wentworth by the Sea Hotel. Held in late January and early February, this annual wine festival offers multi-course Vintner’s Dinners, flight nights and Jazz Brunches.

Atlantic Grill (5 Pioneer Road, Rye) Seafood is a staple on the Seacoast, even in winter! Sample award-winning seafood chowder at the Atlantic Grill is serving up – the perfect mix of lobster, scallops, shrimp, haddock, and clams in a creamy broth.  

Odiorne Point State Park (570 Ocean Blvd, Rye) Discover the beauty of a winter stroll along New Hampshire’s rocky coast as you explore the network of trails that winds through this picturesque State Park. Consider bringing along snowshoes to try the trails that way.

Route 1A Photo Opp (Rye) Enjoy a quiet, peaceful drive down Route 1A.  The route hugs the coastline offering spectacular ocean views. Stop for a photo opp at one of the many scenic spots along the Seway. Bonus: the roads are a lot less crowded this time of year.

Smuttynose Brewing Company (105 Towle Farm Road, Hampton) Swing by the state’s original craft brewery for a flight or a full poor. Sample their iconic Finestkind IPA or try one of their  classic New England IPAs. Hungry? There’s a farm to table restaurant on site too.

If your winter road trip involves visiting prospective colleges and universities, NH is home to a diverse mix. Click (HERE) to explore schools in the region.

GREAT NORTH WOODS REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for the Great North Woods.

Snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling, hiking and a winter festival too! A road trip through the Great North Woods this season has all the makings of a trip that will have you coming back year after year.

Mount Prospect Ski Tow (Prospect Street, Lancaster) Explore the ski hill at Mt Prospect this winter, small in size, big on fun.  The rope tow gets you to the three runs.  Or hike up the mountain to experience 700 feet of snowy powdery glades courtesy of Granite Backcountry Alliance. No rentals so be sure to bring your own ski gear.
 
Creative Natives (117 Main Street, Colebrook) Find the perfect gift for yourself or someone else at this favorite shop that offers local artisan creations, antiques and vintage consignments all in one stop. 
     
River Walk Nature Trail (Downtown Colebrook) Enjoy a brisk winter walk and take in the natural beauty of the woods and along the banks of both the Connecticut and Mohawk Rivers.  The trail is accessible from downtown Colebrook, be sure to watch for interpretive signs along the way.

Coleman State Park (1166 Diamond Pond Road, Stewartstown) Why not try snowshoeing this winter! The groomed trails around Coleman State Park are a great way to get out and enjoy NH in the winter. Snowshoe rentals available on site. 
 
Rainbow Grille & Tavern (609 Beach Road, Pittsburg) A local favorite for its Woodsman Steak and Mill Cove Pie. The menu in this rustic casual spot boasts plenty of other options too, and did we mention the views of beautiful Back Lake.  
 
Snowmobiling (Pittsburg) No experience necessary for this winter excursion in the Great North Wood! This region is well known for miles and miles of pristine groomed snowmobile trails.  Bear Rock Adventures offers gear, rentals and even a guided tour if you prefer.

Lake Francis State Park  Photo Opp (439 River Road, Pittsburg) Stop by and enjoy the quiet calm at Lake Francis. It’s a beautiful spot for a photo opp while enjoying the serene winter scene. 
 
Nansen-Milan Winter Festival (24 Milan Road, Milan) Mark your calendar for this one! Winter fun abounds at this annual festival. Various winter activities happen throughout January that include ice skating, sled races, ski jumping, snow sculpting, kids races and much more.

If your winter road trip involves visiting prospective colleges and universities, NH is home to a diverse mix. Click (HERE) to explore schools in the region.

MERRIMACK VALLEY REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for the Merrimack Valley region.

Explore all there is to see and do in the great outdoors around the Merrimack Valley Region. From skiing and riding to tubing and walks in the woods there’s plenty to get you out and about. Top off your outdoor adventures with a lesson on the state’s history!

McIntyre Ski Area (50 Chalet Way, Manchester) Discover winter fun for the whole family at the tubing hill at McIntyre. No experience necessary for this winter thrill! The fun doesn’t have to stop at the tubing hill, McIntyre has trails for skiing and snowboarding and a terrain park too!  

New Hampshire Historical Society (30 Park Street, Concord) Brush up on your knowledge of the #603 with a visit to the New Hampshire Historical Society. Located in the heart of the state’s capital, explore exhibits highlighting more than 200 years of Granite State history taking visitors back in time to present day.

Susan N McLane Audobon Center (84 Silk Farm Road, Concord) Connect with nature when you explore the miles of wooded trails at the Audobon Center in Concord. After some time on the trails, take a break and head inside and check out the raptor room and the animal display

Henniker Covered Bridge Photo Opp (Grove Street, Henniker) Put this wooden bridge on your must photo list this winter. The Henniker Covered Bridge wrapped in winter’s blanket is a site worth seeing!

Pats Peak (686 Flanders Road, Henniker) Get another hearty dose of outdoor adventure at Pats Peak. With 28 trails and 9 gladed areas there is skiing and boarding for just about all levels. Or head over to the tubing hill for some downhill family fun!

Pit Stops:

Shop: Take a walk around downtown Concord to explore the variety of shops you’ll find here.  Spruce Home & Company for all your home décor, Gibson’s Bookstore a local independent bookshop offering books, educational toys and a café, and Concord Antiques Gallery with two floors and more than 150 dealers it’s packed with unique treasures sure to catch your eye.

Eat: Red Arrow Diner (61 Lowell Street, Manchester), Crust & Crumb (126 N Main Street, Concord), Smokeshow Barbeque (89 Fort Eddy Road, Concord)

LAKES REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for the Lakes region.

From frozen waterfalls to sled dog races and breathtaking beauty of a wintry landscape. This road trip through the Lakes Region checks all the boxes for a great winter getaway.

Rainbow Falls, (1035 Cummings Hill Road, Plymouth) Located in a nature preserve, this is a great winter hike through the woods that clocks in at about 1.2 miles round trip.  A great way to see a waterfall in winter.  A reminder to be prepared with winter gear.

48 Main Café & Creperie (94 Main Street, Meredith) Sweet and savory is the specialty at this Lakes Region local favorite. Serving up creative crepes and cupcakes, along with coffee, espresso and teas, there’s surely something to satisfy your craving at this café.

Skijoring at Gunstock (719 Cherry Valley Road, Gilford) Hit the trails with your favorite four-legged friend for an afternoon of skijoring. Gunstock offers everything you need for this truly unique experience that pairs you with your pup while skiing.  

Lakeport Opera House (781 Union Avenue, Laconia) Enjoy a myriad of live entertainment at this recently restored local landmark.  Enjoy live music, theater and much more in a historic setting with a modern vibe.     

World Championship Sled Dog Derby (Laconia) Cheer on teams of mushers at a weekend of racing in Laconia. The World Championship Sled Dog Derby is a Lakes Region tradition that dates back to the 1930s. Check the Lakes Region Sled Dog Club for race dates and the best spectator spots along the route.

Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway Photo Opp (46 Mount Major Highway, Alton Bay) Head to Alton Bay this winter to see aircraft taking off and landing on frozen Lake Winnipesaukee. Weather permitting, it’s usually open January to March, and is a great place for a cool winter photo opp.   

Tanger Outlets (120 Laconia Road, Tilton) Be sure to factor in time on your road trip for retail therapy. Tanger Outlets is the perfect place to get your fill, offering brand-name and designer outlet stores. And a reminder, shopping is sales tax-free.

If your winter road trip involves visiting prospective colleges and universities, NH is home to a diverse mix. Click (HERE) to explore schools in the region.

MONADNOCK REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for the Monadnock region.

There’s no shortage of adventure during the winter months in the Monadnock Region. Embrace the season with hikes, skiing, sleigh rides, and snowshoeing, capped off with an ice festival!   

Inn at East Hill Farm (460 Monadnock Street, Troy) Plan a family getaway and experience an authentic farm vacation in this classic country setting. During winter there’s a whole host of activities on tap including cross country skiing, skating, sledding and snowshoeing too.

Cranberry Meadow Pond Trail (Old Street Road, Peterborough) Hop on this trail at Old Street Road for a wintry walk to Cranberry Meadow Pond. The trail, just about out to the pond is a beautiful snowshoeing experience. Stop by EMS in Peterborough and rent snowshoes before you go.

Peterborough Diner (10 Depot Street, Peterborough) A classic diner offering hearty helpings of comfort food, and breakfast served all day long. Stop in before or after your winter trek to Cranberry Meadow Pond! 
 
Frogg Brewing (108 Main Street, Marlborough) Hop right into this nano brewery this winter and sip and sample some of their seasonal specialties, in addition to the IPAs, sours and porters the have on tap.

Stonewall Farm (242 Chesterfield Road, Keene) Get family and friends together for a classic New England experience: an old-fashioned sleigh ride! The sleigh ride tours the farm’s forest and fields. If there’s not enough snow, they’ll use a wagon instead!  

Keene Ice & Snow Festival (Downtown Keene) Photo Opp What a winter sight! Mark your calendar and make your way to downtown Keene, on February 4th, to capture professional ice carvers creating works of art out of massive blocks of ice! Plenty of free family activities are scheduled throughout the day too.

Granite Gorge Mountain Park (341 Route 9, Keene) Granite Gorge is open again this season offering winter adventures that include skiing, snowboarding and tubing! While there check out their terrain parks – options for beginners and experienced riders too.

If your winter road trip involves visiting prospective colleges and universities, NH is home to a diverse mix. Click (HERE) to explore schools in the region.

DARTMOUTH/LAKE SUNAPEE REGION

Your winter road trip itinerary for the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee region.

Discover so many ways to embrace and enjoy winter with an adventure packed trip to the Dartmouth Lake Sunapee Region. Make time this season to try something new!   

Dartmouth Winter Carnival (Hanover) This annual event celebrates the beauty of winter and the achievements of Dartmouth’s sports teams. The three-day festival, February 9-12, is free and open to Dartmouth students, locals and visitors. Among the events are the ice sculpture contest and human dog sled races.
 
Eastman Cross Country Ski Center (6 Clubhouse Lane, Grantham) If you’re looking for winter adventure, Eastman is the place! So many activities in one place: cross country skiing,  snowshoeing, skating and sledding, and a bonus rentals are available on site.  

Bubba’s Bar & Grille (976 New Hampshire Route 103, Newbury) If all that outdoor adventure has you hungry head to Bubba’s. A local favorite for their pastas, pizzas, hearty sandwiches, seafood and award-winning chowder. Situated in Newbury Harbor, enjoy the lakeside views!   

Knights Hill Nature Park Trails (463 Country Road, New London) Embark on a peaceful winter walk when you explore the trails here. There are five loop trails to choose with varying lengths. Keep watch for local wildlife on your nature retreat.

Pine Hill Ski Club Photo Opp (220 Mountain Road, New London) Capture the winter wonderland as you cruise the groomed trails that take you through woods and fields and along the brook. Get outfitted for the day with rentals and passes at nearby Nordic Skater.   

Ragged Mountain Resort (620 Ragged Mountain Road, Danbury) Explore the trails at Ragged where you’ll find skiing and riding for all abilities. They’ve also got several terrain parks if that’s your thing, and tubing too!

Haunting Whisper Vineyard & Spirits (77 Oak Ridge Road, Route 4, Danbury) Enjoy the lake and mountain views at this locally owned, family run vineyard while you sip and savor their specialty red, white and fruit wines and their handcrafted spirits.

Source : NH Tourism - https://www.visitnh.gov/