Favorite Ski Destinations Near Manchester, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is known for low taxes, a high quality of life and an unwielding commitment to living free. 

Perhaps it’s time to add another item to the list: skiing.

With the White Mountains as its backdrop, New Hampshire has established itself as the go-to state for thrill seekers and snow enthusiasts alike. And Manchester, with its plethora of dining and entertainment options, is the perfect place from which to launch your excursions. 

Here’s a look at five of the top (or most convenient) ski destinations near Manchester, New Hampshire:

Loon Mountain

If you look at any list of the top ski destinations near Manchester, Loon Mountain is sure to be near the top. With a 2,100-foot vertical drop, 61 trails, an array of terrain and 11 lifts, the 90-minute drive from Manchester is well worth it. Many people make the drive for the skiing and terrain park, but wind up staying for the dining and lodging, which receive rave reviews. 

Single-day lift tickets start at $48 for novice skiers and climb to $95 for a Saturday or Sunday. 

Learn more about Loon Mountain. 

Bretton Woods

Bretton Woods is known as “New Hampshire’s largest ski area,” but what really sets it apart is the snow quality. Ski Magazine has ranked Bretton Woods as “#1 in the East” for snow quality for four consecutive years. Combine that with 62 trails on 464 acres and you’ve got one of the best ski destinations near Manchester that is well worth the nearly two-hour drive. It’s also one of the top-rated locations for terrain parks. 

Single-day lift tickets will cost you between $60 and $90. And make sure to ask about the night skiing options. 

Learn more about Bretton Woods. 

Waterville Valley Resort

If you’re looking for a resort that is steeped in history, look no further than the Waterville Valley Resort. For decades, it’s been a popular destination for snow lovers and ski enthusiasts from Boston, including members of the Kennedy family. 

Waterville Valley Resort boasts 53 trails, eight lifts and an array of other activities for the entire family–dog sled excursions, snow tubing, indoor ice skating and nordic skiing. It’s location is just close enough to keep you close to home and work, yet hidden enough to allow you to escape, which is why it’s long been the go-to place for elected officials and community leaders to escape for a day, weekend or week in the wilderness. 

Learn more about Waterville Valley Resort. 

Attitash Skiing

With 68 trails spread across 500 acres on two mountains, Attitash offers something for everyone. There are challenging runs, wide-open cruisers and those that wind through large swaths of red spruce and balsam fir. The highlight, though, might be the New Hampshire’s original freestyle terrain parks, which offer X-Game-like opportunities to push yourself to new limits. 

Attitash is in the heart of the Mount Washington Valley, two hours from Manchester. 

Learn more about Attitash. 

McIntyre Ski Area 

It’s not the biggest. It won’t blow you away with altitude. And more experienced skiers aren’t likely to be pushed to their limits. But, McIntyre Ski Area is the only ski destination located in Manchester, and its a great way to spend a getaway day with the kids. With 200-vertical feet of terrain, nine trails, learn-to-ski-classes for all ages, a terrain park and eight tubing lanes, McIntyre Ski Area is the perfect place to introduce beginners to the joys of outdoor winter fun. 

Full-day lift tickets are between $30 and $38, and kids ages 2-3 as well as seniors 65 and older always ride for free. 

Learn more about McIntyre Ski Area.

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