Northern New Hampshire Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing in New Hampshire

Insider Tip:  When snowshoeing and a snowmobile comes by, the driver of the lead snowmobile will often hold up a number of fingers representing the count of other snowmobiles in its group behind it. This neighborly communication is common as snowmobilers and snowshoes are happy to share the trail with each other. 

White Mountain Region

Gorham: Great Glen Trails in Pinkham Notch offers snowshoe as well as cross country ski rentals and lessons as well as easy access to its 25 km of groomed cross country trails to explore in the shadow of Mount Washington and the other giant Northern Presidentials. 

Bretton Woods: The groomed NH snowshoeing trail of the Bretton Woods Nordic Center offers some of the best views in the region. They have rentals for those who don’t have gear with them as well as a ton of additional amenities all worth a visit. 

Nansen Cross Country Ski Club: this hidden gem located in Milan NH has free rentals for folks who need them on winter weekends when the warming cabin is staffed. 100% volunteer driven, an incredibly inexpensive family season pass gains you access to these groomed trails and rentals all week long, along with punch code to the warming hut stocked with free wood for the wood stove to stay nice and cozy during your visit. 

Snowshoeing in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a plethora of opportunities for snowshoeing enthusiasts and no region is more plentiful with snowshoeing options than the winter wonderland of Northern NH. With the highest elevations in the state, diverse landscapes ranging from the rugged White Mountains to serene forests and frozen lakes, Northern NH provides an ideal setting for this fun and welcoming winter activity.

Popular Northern NH Snowshoeing Destinations

Northern New Hampshire, including the Northern White Mountains, Lake Umbagog Region, and Connecticut Lakes Region, offer the best conditions for any snow-based activity. While southern NH may receive 90 inches of snow annually on a good year, Northern NH more than doubles that. The region’s higher elevation, diverse terrain, abundant snowfall, and pristine natural beauty provide an ideal setting for exploring on snowshoes, skis, dogsled, or snowmobiles.

Connecticut Lakes Region:

Pittsburg- Offers well-marked trails around its four large lakes. Numerous trails provide scenic views not only of the pristine frozen lakes but also of the surrounding forests and snow capped mountains. 

Colebrook : Features a mix of wooded trails and open landscapes.Beaver Brook Falls Wayside is a  short, easy trail leading to picturesque waterfalls. Any snowmobile trail or hiking path becomes a snowshoe trail in New Hampshire’s winter. If walking on a trail that may have motorized vehicles on it, make sure to keep your ears open and step to the side when a “snow machine” passes.

Guided Snowshoeing Tours in New Hampshire:

Bear Rock Adventures (Colebrook/Pittsburg) Located in Colebrook and Pittsburg, NH Bear Rock Adventures offers guided snowshoe tours that explore the scenic trails of the Connecticut Lakes Region of NH. 

Lopstick Lodge (Pittsburg) Located in Pittsburg, NH Lopstick has cabins on First Connecticut Lake that are great for anyone looking to snowshoe and also provide guided snowshoeing excursions, with options for half-day and full-day adventures.

Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC): Located in both Pinkham(Gorham) and Crawford (Bretton Woods) Notches both lodges offer great opportunities for Northern New Hampshire snowshoeing. They offer  guided trips and workshops, including family-friendly and backcountry excursions.

Equipment and Gear

Snowshoeing in New Hampshire requires appropriate gear to ensure a safe and comfortable experience:

• Snowshoes: Choose snowshoes based on weight, terrain, and snow conditions.
• Poles: Adjustable trekking poles with snow baskets for balance.
• Footwear: Waterproof, insulated boots are essential.
• Clothing: Layered clothing including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.
• Accessories: Warm gloves, a hat, and gaiters to keep snow out of your boots.

Safety Tips

• Check Weather Conditions: Always check the forecast and trail conditions before heading out.
• Navigation Tools: Carry a map, GPS device, or smartphone with trail apps.
• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Bring water and high-energy snacks.
• Inform Someone: Let someone know your plans, including your route and expected return time.
• Start Early: Begin your hike early to ensure you have plenty of daylight.
• Emergency Kit: Carry a first-aid kit, fire starter, and a whistle.

Snowshoeing in Northern New Hampshire offers a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty during winter. With a variety of trails, guided tours, and the necessary gear, enthusiasts of all skill levels can enjoy this winter activity. Whether you’re exploring the rugged terrain of Dixville Notch or the serene forests of Pittsburg, Northern New Hampshire snowshoeing provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature in one of New England’s most picturesque areas.

Northern New Hampshire snowshoeing offers some of the most picturesque and serene experiences in the state. Here are the top places to explore:

Dixville Notch State Park Known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic vistas, this park offers challenging terrain and rewarding views. Its most popular trail is the Table Rock Trail: A steep and challenging trail leading quickly to a stunning viewpoint over the notch. This New Hampshire snowshoeing trail offers breathtaking views of the rugged landscape. The Huntington Cascades Trail is a shorter, easier trail that features beautiful frozen waterfalls, making it a great choice for a more relaxed snowshoeing experience in Dixville Notch. 

Moose Alley (Pittsburg)  is known for it’s frequent moose sightings and its serene hiking trails. The Cohos Trail has many segments, of this long-distance trail, that are perfect for New Hampshire snowshoeing. The trails offer a backcountry experience with chances to spot wildlife, including moose.

Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge features diverse habitats and abundant wildlife, including birds and moose. Multiple trails within the refuge provide excellent opportunities for snowshoeing in a pristine natural environment. These Northern New Hampshire snowshoeing trails are typically quiet and perfect for wildlife observation.

Great Glen Trails (Gorham) Offers a variety of well-groomed trails with stunning views of the Presidential Range. Their network of trails is suitable for all skill levels. The trails wind through forests and open areas, providing beautiful views of Mount Washington and the surrounding peaks.

Milan Hill State Park (Milan) is home to The Nansen Ski Club during the winter season. These groomed trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding region. One of theri top trails would be the Milan Hill Trail:  A loop trail that provides a peaceful New Hampshire snowshoeing experience with the option to climb the fire tower for stunning winter vistas.

Equipment and Gear

Snowshoes: Choose snowshoes appropriate for your weight, terrain, and snow conditions.

Poles: Adjustable trekking poles with snow baskets for balance.

Footwear: Waterproof and insulated boots to keep feet warm and dry.

Clothing: Layered clothing including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.

Accessories: Warm gloves, a hat, and gaiters to keep snow out of your boots.

Safety Tips

Check Weather Conditions: Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out.

Navigation Tools: Carry a map, GPS device, or smartphone with trail apps.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks.

Inform Someone: Let someone know your plans, including your route and expected return time.

Start Early: Begin your hike early to ensure you have plenty of daylight.

Emergency Kit: Carry a basic emergency kit, including a first-aid kit, fire starter, and a whistle.

Northern New Hampshire offers some of the best snowshoeing experiences in the state. From the challenging trails of the Presidential Range to the easier Dixville Notch,  to the wildlife-rich trails of Moose Alley and Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge, there are options for every snowshoer. Equip yourself with the right gear, follow safety tips, and enjoy the winter beauty of this stunning region.

 Love the sound of snowshoes in the morning!!

White Mountain Snowshoeing Trails

The White Mountains region of Northern New Hampshire offers a plethora of snowshoeing trails, ranging from gentle paths through wooded areas to challenging ascents with breathtaking views. Here are some of the best White Mountains snowshoeing trails:

Great Glen Trails This Nordic Center offers a variety of groomed snowshoe trails suitable for all skill levels. Trails wind through scenic forests and fields, providing a peaceful winter experience. Rentals are available. 

Bretton Woods Nordic Center The Nordic Center offers a variety of groomed NH snowshoe trails suitable for all skill levels. Trails wind through scenic forests and fields, providing a peaceful winter experience. Rentals are available. 

 Pinkham Notch and the Tuckerman Ravine Trail: This challenging trail leads to the famous Tuckerman Ravine, known for its rugged beauty and challenging terrain. In winter, the ravine is often covered in snow and ice, creating a dramatic landscape. The trail is approximately 4.2 miles round trip. In the late winter and early spring this trail is packed with skiers making their way to ski in the ravine. It’s a fun thing to experience, sitting on lunch rocks and watching people ski the bowl. 

Snowshoeing in New Hampshire’s White Mountains offers a unique way to experience the beauty of this iconic region during the winter months. Whether you’re exploring gentle trails or tackling the challenging terrain of Tuckerman Ravine, you’re sure to find adventure and breathtaking scenery at every turn.