Gunstock Mountain

Located in the Lakes Region, less than 1 hour southeast of Barn Door Hostel

Skiable Terrain:

-Trail Count: 49+

-Total Vertical Drop: 1350

-Terrain difficulty breakdown:

-15% Beginner, 50% Intermediate, 35% Advanced/Expert

-Night Skiing Available

Summit Elevation: 2300 feet

Lifts:

Total Lifts: 8 Lifts—1 high-speed quad, 2 traditional quads, 2 traditional triples, 3 surface lifts (for beginners)

Snow & Weather:

Annual Snowfall: 120 inches of natural snow

-Snowmaking coverage: 98% of trails are covered by snowmaking

Terrain Parks:

-2 Terrain Parks for all skill levels

-a solid mix of small and medium features perfect for progression learning

Other Activities:

-Winter Activities: Snowshoeing, nordic ski trails, snow tubing, winter zip lining. Nearby restaurants and bars for apres

-Off Season Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, Aerial treetop adventures, scenic chairlift rides

Why Choose Gunstock?

Gunstock Mountain is a great choice for a variety of reasons, especially if you're looking for a fun and scenic outdoor experience. Here are a few highlights:

1. Diverse Activities: Whether you're into skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining in the warmer months, Gunstock offers a variety of year-round activities.

2. Beautiful Scenery: Gunstock provides breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for outdoor lovers and photographers.

3. Great Location: It's located in Gilford, New Hampshire, which is easily accessible and offers a more relaxed, less crowded vibe compared to some of the larger resorts in the region.

4. Family-Friendly: With a range of beginner to advanced trails and a focus on making outdoor adventures accessible for everyone, Gunstock is a great destination for families.

5. Community Atmosphere: Being a smaller, local mountain, Gunstock has a welcoming, laid-back vibe. It's a place where you can enjoy the mountain without the hustle and bustle of bigger resorts.

6. Snow Quality and Terrain: Gunstock is known for having well-maintained snow and a good mix of terrain that suits all levels, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to learn.

If you're looking for a balanced combination of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and a more relaxed atmosphere, Gunstock could be a great choice for you!

Waterville Valley 

Located in White Mountain National Forest, 35 minutes north from Barn Door Hostel

Skiable Terrain: 

- Trail count: 62+ 

- Total Vertical Drop: 2,020 feet 

- Terrain Difficulty Breakdown: 

 - 20% Beginner , 50% Intermediate, 30% Advanced/Expert

-Night Skiing Available

Summit Elevation: 3995 feet 

Lifts: 

Total Lifts: 9 –3 High-speed chairlifts, 2 Surface lifts (for beginners and intermediates), 4 Traditional chairlifts

Snow & Weather: 

-Annual Snowfall: 140 inches of natural snow 

- Snowmaking Coverage: 97% of trails are covered by snowmaking

Terrain Parks: 

- 2 Terrain Parks for all skill levels 

- Snowboarders and freestyle skiers will find features like rails, jumps, and funboxes.

Other Activities:  

- Snowshoeing, ice skating, over 25km of cross-country Nordic ski trails, snow tubing. Fantastic apres scene

- Off Season Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, scenic chairlift rides, swimming, kayaking 

Why Choose Waterville Valley?

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, Waterville Valley is more than just a ski resort—it's a perfect blend of New England charm, diverse terrain, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned skier looking to carve up some challenging runs or a beginner just starting out, Waterville Valley offers something for everyone.

1. Scenic Beauty, Incredible Terrain:

  With over 60 trails spread across 2,000 vertical feet of skiing, Waterville Valley offers a spectacular experience for all levels. From wide open groomers to steep, challenging glades and mogul runs, you'll find terrain that matches your mood and ability.

2. Unbeatable Snow and Snowmaking: 

  With an average of 140 inches of natural snow and cutting-edge snowmaking technology covering 97% of the trails, you’ll be skiing in fresh, pristine conditions all season long. Even in the early season, you can count on excellent snow conditions.

3. Family-Friendly and Fun for All Ages:

  Waterville Valley has long been known for its family atmosphere. Whether it's the kid-friendly snow tubing hill, the ice skating rink, or the variety of activities for young skiers and snowboarders, this is the place where families can make lasting memories.

4. Easy Access and No Crowds:

  Waterville Valley is known for its relaxed vibe and less crowded slopes compared to larger resorts. You’ll spend more time enjoying the mountain and less time waiting in lift lines. Plus, the resort is just a short drive from Boston, making it easy to escape for a weekend getaway.

5. Year-Round Adventure:

The fun doesn’t stop when the snow melts. In the summer and fall, Waterville Valley transforms into an outdoor paradise. From hiking and mountain biking to scenic gondola rides, the resort offers breathtaking views of the White Mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

6. Top-Notch Facilities:

  With cozy lodges, dining options for every taste, and a full-service ski school, Waterville Valley ensures you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you're hitting the slopes or relaxing with a hot chocolate by the fire, you're in great hands.

The Bottom Line: 

For those seeking a blend of thrilling skiing, serene landscapes, and a family-friendly environment, Waterville Valley is a hidden gem in the White Mountains. Whether you're looking for an exciting winter adventure or a laid-back getaway, this resort offers it all—without the crowds.

Come for the skiing. Stay for the memories. 

Waterville Valley—where adventure and relaxation meet.

Tenney Mountain  

Located in the western White Mountains, just 10 miles from Barn Door Hostel.

Skiable Terrain:  

- Trail Count: 40+  

- Total Vertical Drop: 1,300 feet  

- Terrain Difficulty Breakdown:  

  - 20% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 40% Advanced/Expert

-Night Skiing Available

Summit Elevation: 2300 feet  

Lifts:  

Total Lifts: 4—2 Traditional chairlifts (one double and one triple), 2 Surface lifts (one poma for beginners and one rope tow)

Snow & Weather:  

Average Annual Snowfall: 125 inches  of natural snow

- Snowmaking Coverage: 70% of trails are covered by snowmaking  

Terrain Parks:  

- 1 Terrain Park  for beginners

  - Features include rails and boxes for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

Other Activities:  

- Snow Tubing: Separate hill for tubing enthusiasts. Apres scene at Backcountry Bar and Grill in the base lodge

- Off-season activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides during summer and fall.

Why Choose Tenney Mountain?

For skiers and snowboarders looking for an authentic New England mountain experience with thrilling terrain and a laid-back vibe, Tenney Mountain is the perfect destination. Offering everything from expert-level runs to family-friendly activities, Tenney combines classic ski resort charm with a refreshing escape from the crowds of larger, busier mountains.

1. Challenging Terrain for Every Skill Level:

   With over 40 trails and a vertical drop of 1,500 feet, Tenney Mountain offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The advanced skiers will love the steep, challenging lines, while intermediates can enjoy long cruisers and beginner-friendly slopes perfect for learning and progressing.

2. 70% Snowmaking Coverage:

   Snow conditions are guaranteed, thanks to Tenney’s impressive and brand new snowmaking system, which blankets a giant swath of the resort. Whether you're visiting early or late in the season, you can count on fantastic skiing and riding with consistent snow coverage.

3. Less Crowds, More Skiing:

   Tenney Mountain is the ideal place for those who want to skip the lift lines and enjoy a more peaceful, laid-back ski experience. The resort has a relaxed vibe where you can spend your day carving turns on the slopes without the stress of overcrowded conditions.

4. Family Fun in the Snow:

   Families will appreciate Tenney’s welcoming atmosphere, with dedicated areas for snow tubing, a terrain park for freestyle fun, and kid-friendly slopes. It's an ideal place for making lasting memories together—whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying an afternoon of tubing.

5. A True New England Ski Experience:

   Tenney Mountain offers an authentic and AFFORDABLE ski experience, reminiscent of the great New England resorts of the past. Here, you’ll find old-school charm with modern amenities. Enjoy a cozy day on the mountain with no pretensions—just good skiing, good company, and breathtaking mountain views.

6. Year-Round Adventure:

   Tenney is not just for winter sports. In the warmer months, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides with stunning panoramic views of the White Mountains. The resort is an outdoor paradise year-round, offering activities for everyone in your group.

7. Great Location:

   Tenney Mountain’s location in Plymouth, NH, offers easy access from both the Lakes Region and the White Mountains, making it a convenient choice for those staying in the area or making a day trip. It’s also a quick drive from major cities like Boston, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

8. Small Resort, Big Adventure:

   While Tenney Mountain may not have the size and scope of some of the larger resorts, what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character. It’s a place to enjoy real, authentic skiing, get away from the hustle and bustle, and have a great time without feeling like you’re just one of the masses.

The Bottom Line:

Tenney Mountain is an underrated gem in New Hampshire's ski scene, offering fantastic skiing and snowboarding, with the charm and serenity of a smaller, less crowded resort. If you’re looking for a more intimate, hassle-free experience where you can truly enjoy your time on the mountain, Tenney is the place.

Come for the skiing. Stay for the adventure.  

Tenney Mountain—where the real mountain experience is waiting.