Activities

Family Attractions

Family fun is a given in Mt. Washington Valley! Here you can zip, guide, ride, race, skate, play, ski, tube, discover adventure or solve a mystery. You will find something for everyone to enjoy. For more information on attractions adventures in the Mt. Washington Valley, call the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, 1-800-DO-SEE-NH (800-367-3364).

Story Land and Living Shores Aquarium

Attitash Mountain Resort

Monkey Trunks Zipline Park

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton Woods Canopy Tour & Adventure Center

Cranmore Mountain Resort

Wildcat Mountain

Santa’s Village

Mystery NH

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Hiking

North Conway is surrounded by more than 700,000 acres of the protected White Mountain National Forest. Just minutes away you’ll find hiking trails for all abilities – from those who have never hiked to those who are avid hikers.

Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Guide books can be purchased at: Eastern Mountain Sports, International Mountain Equipment, and most local bookstores. To get you started, here’s a few suggested short hikes in the Mt. Washington Valley:

Arethusa Falls:
Trail leaves the parking lot on the west side of Rt. 302 in Crawford Notch. It crosses the railroad and leads left for 50 yds where it turns right into the woods. This trail follows old roads above the north bank of Bemis Brook, which crosses shortly below the falls. The falls are 200ft high, the highest in the state. 1.3 miles, 1 hour.

Black Cap Mountain:
Views of the Green Hills range, this trail is from the height of the land on Hurricane Mountain Rd. At the foot of the ledges a trail leaves right for the Mount Cranmore Skimobile. 1.2 miles, 1 hour.

Boulder Loop:
A gradual climb with some steep pitches which views of Mt. Chocorua and Swift River from the ledges. The trail begins opposite of Blackberry Crossing campground, 6 miles west of the Saco River range station on the Kancamagus Hwy. Take road to the Rt. Across Albany covered bridge. The trail begins a short distance from the bridge on the left. 2.8 miles, 2 hours.

Champney Falls:
Easy walk. The falls have plenty of water in the spring and after heavy rains but are meager in dry season. The trail begins 10 miles west of the Saco River Ranger Station on the Kancamagus Hwy. 1.5 miles, 1 hour.

Crystal Cascade:
The beautiful waterfall located 3/8 mi. up the Tuckerman Ravine Trail. Which leaves from the AMC/Pinkham Notch Camp, part of the Cutler River, which flows from the ravine. .4 miles, 15 mins.

Diana’s Bath:
Short, cool walk. Trail leaves parking lot on West Side Rd, .7 mi north of Cathedral Ledge. ½ mile, 25 mins.

Glen Ellis Falls:
Great views with falls and pool below. Trail leaves opposite of public parking lot just south of Pinkham Notch Camp. Graded and paved. 1/2 mile, 25 mins.

Hall’s Ledge:
Great view of Northern Presidentials. Trail starts opposite The Dana Place on Rt 16. At first fairly level, then moderately steep. 3 miles, 2 hours, & 30 mins.

Mt Kearsage North Trail:
Trail to the summit of Mt Kearsage North, north side of Hurricane Mtn Rd, east of Kearsage Village. 3 miles, 2 Hours & 45 mins.

Rock Climbing

One of the incredible ways to enjoy the beauty of the Mountains and challenge yourself physically and mentally. The Mount Washington Valley offers several professional guide services that we recommend.

International Mountain Climbing School – https://www.ime-usa.com/imcs/
For over 30 years, IMCS has been guiding folks and teaching them the skills to be safe and proficient in the mountains. Mount Washington is our training ground, home of the ‘World’s Worst Weather’. And with world class climbing locations such as Cathedral Ledge, Whitehorse Ledge, Frankenstein Cliffs, and Cannon Cliff; we can teach you the skills you need to enjoy the mountains for years to come whether you’re a raw beginner or seasoned expert.

Chauvin Guides International – http://www.chauvinguides.com/
ROCK CLIMBING • ICE CLIMBING • WINTER MOUNTAINEERING • ALPINE CLIMBING • SKI MOUNTAINEERING
Marc will be your guide! With a diverse background in mountaineering, Marc began by hiking the Appalachian Trail in 1975 and soon after turned to technical climbing. In 1977, he completed a number of big walls in Yosemite including an early ascent of El Capitan’s Tangerine Trip. Marc then began guiding in his home state of NH and became the director of a local climbing school.

EMS Climbing Schools – https://www.emsoutdoors.com/
Eastern Mountain Sports Schools, has been helping people like you try new things, learn new skills, and have more fun outside since 1968. They offer climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and skiing programs for people of all ages at locations throughout the Northeast.

In addition to scheduled group lessons and guided adventures, EMS offers custom private lessons and tours for individuals as well as families, school groups, summer camps, university outing clubs, and company groups. Be sure to ask us about adaptive programs for adventurers with physical or mental disabilities, because the outdoors is for everyone!

Scenic Drives

Sometimes the best way to see the beauty of New Hampshire is by taking a scenic drive. In a car you can cover more ground and enjoy the variety of scenery from mountain peaks, to sweeping vistas and tree-lined back roads. Here’s a couple of local favorites:

Five Mile Circuit Drive: (Jackson)
From the covered bridge, go through Jackson Village on 16A. Take Rt 16B at the schoolhouse. The road that goes up the hill past Christmas Farm Inn to Whitney’s Inn (2mi), where a sharp turn is made to the left. It is about 1.6 mi to Gill Bridge over the Wildcat River, where another left turn is made taking you to Jackson Falls back to Jackson Village. There are great views all along this drive. 6 miles.

Crawford Notch:
At the intersection of Rt 16 & 302 in Glen, follow Rt 302 past Attitash Ski area and Bartlett Village. The road continues through lovely mountain scenery, past the Crawford Notch Park and the site of the famous ‘‘Willey Slide.’’ There will be a steep grade, which will take you past two long, narrow waterfalls to the height of the land and the site of Crawford Notch Depot, which now houses a small museum maintained by the Appalachian Mtn. Club. (well worth the stop). A few miles beyond are the grand Mt. Washington Hotel, site of the famed 1944 Monetary Conference. Here one can retrace one’s way or continue on to Rt2 and east to Gorham, returning via Pinkham Notch and Rt 16. Also, just beyond the Mt Washington Auto Road on Rt302 is the entrance road (not maintained in the winter) to the Cog Railroad which ascends the west side of Mt Washington. This can easily be a ½ or an all-day trip. Mileage will vary with route.

COVERED BRIDGES

Albany Covered Bridge: Albany, 136 ft (1958) 6 mi. west of Conway on Rt. 112 (Kancamagus Hwy)

Bartlett Covered Bridge: Bartlett 183 ft, (1800’s) Rt. 302, 4 and ½ mi. east of Bartlett Village

Conway Saco River Covered Bridge: Conway, 2 spans, 240 ft, (1869) ¼ mi. north on Washington St. off Rt 16

Conway Swift River Covered Bridge: Conway 144 ft, (1869) ¼ mi. beyond Conway-Saco River Bridge, on West Side Road

Jackson “Honeymoon” Covered Bridge: Jackson, 138 ft. (1870’s). At the junction of Rt 16 and Rt 16A, Jackson

Scenic Train Rides

Conway Scenic Railroad

Enjoy some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the East as you travel through spectacular Crawford Notch – past sheer bluffs cliffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks and streams, panoramic mountain vistas, across Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge – en route to Crawford or Fabyan stations.

On the Notch Train, you’ll travel on what was once the Maine Central Railroad’s famed Mountain Division line on tracks that were laid in the 1870s. Enjoy some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the East as you travel through spectacular Crawford Notch – past sheer bluffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks and streams, panoramic mountain vistas, across Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge – enroute to Crawford and Fabyan stations.

Included in the excursion is a layover at Crawford Station, across from Saco Lake (a small pond from which the mighty Saco River originates), and adjacent to the AMC’s Highland Center. Passengers are encouraged to get off the train, stretch their legs, and explore their beautiful surroundings.

There is a cash only snack bar on the train, and Coach passengers are welcome to bring their own picnic lunches. You can eat on the train, or there are picnic tables next to Crawford Station.

Learn more at: https://www.conwayscenic.com/

Tax-Free Shopping

Shopping is one of the top activities on a trip to the Mt. Washington Valley. It’s no wonder why when you consider the hundreds of shopping options from name brand outlets at Settlers Green, to North Conway Village boutiques and specialty shops, plus a visit to quaint Jackson Village for more.

Settler’s Green Outlet Village
The North Conway Outlets offer tax-free shopping at more than 60 stores including New Balance Factory Store, Coach Factory and American Eagle Outfitters. Settler’s Green presents year-round family events, plus there are great places to eat on-site and free Wi-Fi. You can save 30%-60% every day. See a map of the Outlet Village at http://www.settlersgreen.com/shop/maps – Located at 2 Common Court, North Conway, NH 03860.

Settlers Crossing
Stores include the LL Bean Outlet Store and Eastern Mountain Sports. Get savings of up to 50% savings every day on discontinued, end-of-season and overstocked items with the legendary LL Bean guarantee. Eastern Mountain Sports offers outdoor gear and equipment for sports and adventure, including gear for camping, hiking, climbing, kayaking, cycling, and snow sports, plus apparel. – Located at 1498 White Mountain Highway North Conway, NH 03860.

Settlers Green Streetside
Settler’s Green Streetside is the destination for the avid shopper. Offering tax-free shopping at a variety of stores including Columbia, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren, Francesca’s, Skechers, and Think Kitchen, you are sure to find savings and deals that cannot be matched! Once you’ve shopped your heart out, grab a bite to eat at Barley & Salt Tap House and Kitchen. Featuring an extensive draft beer list, “street food” menu, and an upscale environment, this restaurant has something for everybody!

Specialty Shops Beyond the Outlets
While North Conway is famous for its outlet stores, you’ll find several other interesting shops, including some just around the corner from our inn in Jackson Village…

Ravenwood Curio Shoppe
Find an eclectic mix of garden sculptures, pottery, paper, vases, bird baths, brass and copper items, and more. This is your place to find oddities and rarities. Open daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays. Learn more at http://ravenwoodcurio.com/ – Find them at 60 Main Street, Jackson, NH 03846.

The Museum of White Mountain Art
Operated by the Jackson Historical Society, the gallery features research archives and 19th century collections of art, as well as selected pieces by the best contemporary artists. Located in the old Town Hall, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Open Saturdays from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. Learn more at http://www.jacksonhistory.org/artshow.html. Find it at 23 Black Mountain Road, Jackson, NH 03846.

R&R Woodworkers
Save room on the ride home for some Adirondack furniture handcrafted right here in Jackson with Vermont northern white cedar, which is naturally resistant to moisture, decay and insects. Learn more at http://www.randrwoodworkers.com/index.html – find it at Flossie’s below.

Flossie’s General Store & Gift Emporium
Here you’ll find a wide assortment of items for purchase, from caps to ornaments and books to furniture and antiques. If you find something you love but can’t fit it in your car, they do ship either USPS or UPS Ground. Some popular merchandise includes maple sugar candy. It is named after the former town clerk and school teacher, Flossie Thurston Giles, who passed away in 2005. Learn more at http://www.flossiesgeneralstore.com/Find it at Route 16A, Jackson, NH 03846 (right next to the covered bridge in Jackson).

The Cassidy Gallery
Features the work of 45 New England artists in mediums including oil painting, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, printmaking, jewelry, wood, ceramics, glass, mixed media, and fiber. They host monthly demonstrations and discussions. Learn more at http://www.cassidygallery.com/ – Find them off Route 16 North, Jackson, NH 03846. Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

White Mountain Photography
At the gallery, you’ll find stunning photographs of White Mountain scenery and wildlife for displaying in your home or office, plus abstract and travel images from the world afar. Dana was recognized in 2013 with two of his images in a National Geographic Travel Contest chosen as “Editor’s Picks”. Learn more at http://whitemountainphoto.com/ – Find his gallery at 95 Main Street, Jackson Village, NH.

Jackson Art Gallery
This gallery features an eclectic mix of contemporary, cutting age work from local artists and artisans producing watercolor monotype, mixed media collage, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass, cards, scarves, handbags, prints and home furnishings. You can find paintings of our local landscape. The gallery is open Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, other days by appointment or chance. Learn more at http://www.jacksonartnh.com/ – Find them at 155 Ridge Road, Jackson NH 03846.

Waterfalls

No where in New England are waterfalls as abundant and accessible for viewing.

Sabbaday Falls: There are three drops in the falls, pretty pools and a pothole formed by the swirling waters and sand. You can’t swim here, but it‘s a great spot for picnics. Directions: Take the Kancamagus Highway from Conway. The Sabbaday Falls Picnic Area is about 3.5 miles west of where Bear Notch Road joins the Kanc. The falls are a short 0.33-mile hike in.


Glen Ellis Falls: The Ellis River plunges 64 feet to the basin below in a torrent of white water here. Make sure to stop and read the signs that describe the geology and history of the area. Directions: The turn-off to the falls is 0.7 miles south of Pinkham Notch on Route 16. This is also the parking area for the Glen Boulder and Wildcat Ridge Trails. A tunnel takes you to the other side of the highway where you turn right to reach the falls. It’s a relatively easy 0.2-mile walk to the falls.

Crystal Cascade: This is a two-tiered spectacular fall, with a dramatic 60-foot wall of water, followed by a 20-foot plunge, ending with the river making a 90 degree turn at the bottom. Directions: Park at the AMC Pinkham Notch Camp and take the path on the left of the Trading Post — the Tuckerman Ravine Trail. The falls are a 0.3-mile walk up. 


Thompson Falls: This is actually a series of falls along Thompson Brook at Wildcat Ski Area. The views to Mount Washington from the highest ledge are worth the trip. Directions: Take Route 16 to Wildcat Ski Area. To reach the falls, take the “Way of Wildcat” Nature Trail from the ski area’s parking lot. At the far end of the trail loop, you’ll find the path to the falls. It’s a 0.7-mile easy trek to the falls. 


Arethusa Falls: Measuring in at about 176 feet, these are the highest single falls in New Hampshire. A bonus here is Bemis Brook Falls, Fawn Pool and Coliseum Falls can all be visited at the same time. Directions: Take Route 302 from North Conway toward Bretton Woods and look for Crawford Notch State Park entrance. Turn onto a paved road just beyond the park and park on the short side road below the railroad tracks. The trail starts to the left of the private road above the railroad tracks and it’s about 1.3 miles to the falls (2 miles if you take the trail to Bemis Brook Falls, Coliseum Falls and Fawn Pool).

Flume Cascade and Silver Cascade: These falls are easily viewable from the car, but you can get close for a better look. Directions: On Route 302, just below Crawford Notch Depot. 


Ripley Falls and Kendron Flume: An easy hike with swimming holes at the top of the falls and pools upstream. It’s not safe, however, to climb the face of the falls. Directions: The Arethusa-Ripley Falls trail is off Route 302 at the old Wiley House station.

Jackson Falls: These are one of the popular watering holes for locals on a hot summer day. Easily accessible, and part of the federally-designated and protected wild and scenic Wildcat River, they offer wonderful pools and small falls to cool off under. A few picnic tables nearby offer the perfect spot for a picnic lunch, dinner or cocktail. Directions: Take Carter Notch Road about 3/10 mile from Route 16A in Jackson.

Diana’s Baths: The water supply for the area is located above this, so no access is allowed above, but this series of small falls, and pools offers the perfect place to cool off. You’ll hike about ½ mile in, following a well-marked trail to find them. Directions: Access the trailhead from a parking area located on West Side Road, about a half-mile beyond the point where West Side Road turns toward Conway. Be aware: The popularity of this site has led to parking problems along West Side Road, and parking is no longer permitted along the roadside outside the trailhead parking area. If the parking area is full, it’s best to go elsewhere and save this small hike for another day.

For more info visit: http://www.newenglandwaterfalls.com/waterfallsnearnorthconway.php

Winter Sports

Winter in the White Mountains is Awesome! There’s always a lot happening in The Mount Washington Valley – here are some of our favorites.

Skiing and Riding
Perfect location to stay if you want to Down Hill Ski or Snowboard. Close to Attitash Ski Resort, just minutes to five Major Ski areas such as family friendly Black Mountain, Bretton Woods, Cranmore Mt. & Wildcat Mt and within an hours drive of a dozen Major Ski resorts…Sunday River – Cannon Mt. – Loon Mt. and more – Check out your options!

Cross Country Skiing
Our favorite is Bear Notch Ski Network or choose from hundreds of miles of trails with varied terrain options -Skate groomed, traditional and back country. Lessons for the whole family are available. With many other incredible ski areas just a few moments away, such as Jackson Ski Touring, Great Glen Trails, Bretton Woods and more.

Snowshoeing
If you can walk you can snowshoe – it is great fun for the entire family! You can find you own way in the White Mountains or there are several areas such as Great Glen Trails, Bear Notch Ski Network and Mt. Washington Valley Ski Network where you will find both groomed and un-groomed options. Rentals are available at most outdoor shops as well as at the snowshoe areas.

Ice Climbing and Winter Mountaineering
Don’t let a little snow stop you from experiencing the mountains. Winter in the White Mountains is incredible. With the right gear and knowledge you can enjoy hiking and climbing in the winter. We are minutes to the National Forest as well as some great climbing venues such as Frankenstein Cliff and Pinkham Notch a great resource NEice.com. There are many well respected schools locally such as International Mountain Climbing School, Eastern Mountain Sports, . Winter mountaineers are reminded to register before heading out to the hills!

Snowmobiling
In The Mt. Washington Valley winter takes on a life of its own. As the first flakes of snow fall to the ground a fantastic energy fills the air. We roll out the white carpet with hundreds of miles of trails to welcome you to some of the best riding in New England. Local favorites Bear Notch Trail Network and Bretton Woods all the way to Canada. Hop on your snowmobile, rev up your engine, jumping the trails and discover snowmobiling in New Hampshire.

Snow Tubing
Fun for all ages! If you are looking for thrills and excitement in a family safe environment this is a fun option. Cranmore Mt. and Great Glen Trails

Sleigh Rides
Enjoy classic New England Winter Wonderland in a traditional horse drawn sleigh. You will feel as though you have just stepped into a Currier and Ives painting at Nestlenook Farm! Sleigh Rides can be a romantic escape for two (a great way to “pop” the question) or a fun family event filled with songs and hot chocolate.