9 Best Ski Resorts in New Hampshire, 2024/25

1. Bretton Woods

New Hampshire’s largest ski resort with luxury amenities and impeccable grooming.

• Opening Date: 16 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 4 May 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 88 miles (2 hours)

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - 160 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)

Bretton Woods is often considered the classiest of all the ski resorts in New Hampshire, which is bolstered by the fact that it recently opened the first 8-person gondola in the state! With 98 trails spanning three mountains, the paths are thoughtfully organized by difficulty level. Plus, over 90% of the terrain benefits from extensive snow cannon coverage, ensuring optimal conditions. Enjoy night skiing on Fridays, Saturdays, and throughout the holidays, but don’t forget to bundle up—it can get chilly out there! For a touch of luxury, consider staying at the elegant Omni Mount Washington Resort. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of cozy condos and family-friendly townhouses conveniently located near the slopes.

2. Loon Mountain

Family-friendly ski resort with ski-in ski-out lodgings, top-rated terrain parks and easy access from Boston.

• Opening Date: 3 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 71 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - 120 miles (2 hours 45 minutes)

A trip to Loon Mountain makes for a fun and hassle-free family ski vacation, and not only because it’s easy to reach being just a 10-minute drive from Interstate 93. Once you’re here the resort provides everything needed, including a hotel complete with swimming pool and spa in the base lodge plus a bunch of restaurants and bars for evening fun. The ski area is fantastic for honing your skills, featuring mostly blue trails that link to a handful of gentle greens and challenging blacks. To top it all off, you can try out ice skating, snowtubing, snowshoeing and even a zip line ride over a frozen river!

• View Loon Mountain Ski Packages

3. Cannon Mountain

Genuine state park skiing with quieter slopes than Killington and Stowe.

• Opening Date: 29 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) - 80 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 108 miles (2 hours)

Cannon Mountain, located in the heart of Franconia Notch State Park, holds a storied place in skiing history as the site of North America's first World Cup ski race. Renowned for its steep terrain and dependable snowfall, this state-operated resort offers an authentic, no-frills New England skiing experience, free from commercial overdevelopment. Cannon is home to one of the last aerial tramways in North America, whisking skiers up to 2,180 vertical feet—one of the largest drops in the East. With 97 trails and glades, including 33% designated for advanced skiers, it’s a haven for those seeking a challenge. The mountain enjoys an average of 160 inches of natural snowfall annually, supplemented by 97% snowmaking coverage to ensure consistently excellent ski conditions throughout the season. While there’s no slope-side lodging, the nearby towns of Lincoln and Littleton offer a range of accommodation options. After hitting the slopes, be sure to visit the New England Ski Museum, conveniently located next to the Tram Valley Station. It’s a treasure trove of the region's rich ski history and a must-see for enthusiasts.

4. Mount Sunapee

Varied terrain, family-friendly atmosphere and historic New England charm

• Opening Date: 4 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 9 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - 107 miles (2 hours)

Mount Sunapee truly has something for everyone, from challenging bump runs and scenic glades to terrain parks and gentle bunny slopes, making it a welcoming destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Renowned as one of New Hampshire’s most family-friendly ski resorts, it strikes the perfect balance between beginner and intermediate terrain while still offering advanced trails for seasoned adventurers. With a summit elevation of 2,743 feet—lower than Cannon Mountain or Wildcat—Sunapee more than compensates with state-of-the-art snowmaking technology that covers 97% of its slopes, ensuring impeccably groomed conditions throughout the season.

Conveniently located for skiers from Boston and southern New England, Sunapee is a favorite for its easy accessibility. Nearby accommodations enhance the experience, with the charming town of New London, just 20 minutes away, offering boutique hotels, quaint inns and vibrant après-ski options. For those seeking an even closer stay, the lakeside town of Newbury provides cozy chalets and relaxed dining spots. Whether you’re carving through Sunapee’s pristine trails or soaking in breathtaking views of Lake Sunapee, this resort promises a winter escape filled with adventure and tranquility.

5. Wildcat Mountain Ski Resort

Old-fashioned New England resort with incredible terrain and breathtaking views of Mount Washington.

• Opening Date: 4 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 16 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Mount Washington Regional Airport (HIE) - 32 miles (45 minutes)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 62 miles (2 hours)

It’s far from a luxury resort, but Wildcat’s old-school charm and focus on serious skiing put it in a league of its own. Best suited for advanced and upper intermediate skiers, Wildcat delivers some of the most challenging terrain in New Hampshire, with steep trails, glades and thrilling natural features. On clear days, the summit provides breathtaking views of the Presidential Range, including the towering, snow-capped Mount Washington at 6,288 feet. The resort features trails for all levels from the top, so everyone can enjoy the scenery before skiing back down. After a day on the slopes, head to nearby North Conway—once named America’s Best Ski Town—for après-ski fun at its lively bars and restaurants.

6. Attitash

A well-rounded ski resort featuring two connected peaks—Attitash and Bear Peak—offering diverse terrain, steep runs and well-groomed trails.

• Opening Date: 2 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 14 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Mount Washington Regional Airport (HIE) - 34 miles (45 minutes)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 55 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Looking for some of the best skiing in New Hampshire with terrain suited for all skill levels? Attitash Mountain Resort offers over 300 acres of skiable terrain, split between two distinct peaks—Attitash Mountain and Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain features long top-to-bottom runs and terrain parks, while Attitash is a classic East Coast skiing experience with narrow, winding trails perfect for intermediates and advanced skiers.

The resort sees an average snowfall of 155 inches per season, ensuring great conditions throughout winter. Stay slopeside at the Grand Summit Hotel at Attitash for ski-in ski-out convenience, a relaxing hot tub and easy access to après-ski dining options in Bartlett.

7. Waterville Valley

Small and self-contained intermediate-friendly ski mountain.

• Opening Date: 30 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 14 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Mount Washington Regional Airport (HIE) - 45 miles (1 hour)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 105 miles (2 hours)

With a lift-accessed summit of over 4,000 feet, Waterville Valley Resort is the third-highest ski resort in New Hampshire, just behind Cannon and Wildcat. What makes this mountain unique is that, unlike many high-altitude resorts, it features plenty of blue trails from the top rather than just black runs, making it one of the best East Coast ski resorts for intermediates. The resort’s modern lift system, including high-speed quads, keeps lift lines moving efficiently, even on busy weekends.

The resort is tucked away at the end of a valley, giving visitors a secluded, peaceful atmosphere while still offering plenty of activities off the slopes. Enjoy dog sledding, tubing, ice skating and even an escape room experience. For those looking to unwind, a luxury spa awaits or take a stroll through Waterville Valley Town Square for shopping, dining, and après-ski drinks at La Tasse Café or Mulligans Tap Room. Conveniently located just 2.5 hours from Boston, Waterville Valley is one of New Hampshire’s most accessible ski destinations, making it a great family-friendly choice for a weekend getaway.

8. Cranmore Mountain

Small historic ski area in North Conway, a town consistently voted one of America’s best ski towns.

• Opening Date: 25 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 2 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 49 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Skiers have been carving turns at Cranmore Mountain since the 1930s, making it one of New Hampshire’s most historic ski areas. While its 170 acres of skiable terrain make it the smallest resort on our list, its 56 well-groomed trails provide an ideal training ground for beginners and intermediates. The resort’s sheltered location also gives it a major advantage. Cranmore can often remain open during storms while other ski areas in the region may need to close.

Located minutes from North Conway, Cranmore offers family-friendly winter activities beyond skiing, including New Hampshire’s best lift-serviced tubing park, scenic snowshoeing trails and access to North Conway’s charming downtown, which is home to historic colonial buildings, outlet shopping and cozy après-ski spots. The resort also provides affordable lift tickets and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for beginner skiers looking for a relaxed, classic New England ski experience.

9. Gunstock Mountain Resort

Local's mountain offering plenty of activities for families and friends.

• Opening Date: 6 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 2 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) - 42 miles (1 hour)

Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 55 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Less than a two-hour drive from Boston, Gunstock Mountain Resort is New Hampshire’s closest major ski resort to the city, making it an easy getaway for East Coast skiers. Covering 227 acres of skiable terrain with 49 trails and 8 lifts, the mountain offers a well-balanced mix of beginner (26%), intermediate (36%), and advanced (38%) terrain, making it great for all skill levels. Gunstock's panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee are among the most stunning in New England, and night skiing covers 50% of the trails, making it a great option for extended ski days. Snowmaking covers 90% of the resort, ensuring reliable conditions even when natural snowfall is lower.

 Nearby accommodation has a distinctive rustic charm, with options including country inns, traditional hotels, and family-run B&B’s. The town of Gilford is home to a handful of down-to-earth restaurants and for tax-free shopping head to the Tanger Outlet, less than 20 minutes’ drive away in Tilton.