Did you ever see the movie Big Fish? The scene in which one of the main characters finds a welcoming, beautiful small town hidden in the middle of the woods? That’s what viewing Waterville Valley’s Town Square for the first time feels like.
Whitewashed buildings encircle a courtyard where you’ll find an Information Booth in summer and a Nordic ski track come winter. It’s like Pleasantville with winter sports. And stargazing. The married co-authors of Curious George, Margaret and Hans Rey, summered in Waterville Valley specifically for the dark skies and left their mark on the town.
Is Waterville Valley a town? Is it a ski resort? Well, actually, it’s both, and there are people who lived here, summered here, and skied here as kids, and are now returning to live here permanently as older adults. What’s the magic? Why go? Read on and you’ll find out.
If you’re wondering what makes Waterville Valley, NH an enticing destination, look no further. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking to escape the routine, Waterville Valley has something special to offer. Here’s a curated list of things to do in Waterville Valley NH that will make your trip to this picturesque New England town a memorable one.
Where Is Waterville Valley NH?
Waterville Valley is located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, about a two-hour drive north of Boston, Massachusetts, and an hour and a half northwest of Portsmouth, NH. The town is situated within the scenic Waterville Valley Resort, a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and outdoor activities.
It’s a relatively isolated area, offering a peaceful and natural setting far removed from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Its proximity to major natural attractions like the White Mountain National Forest makes it a go-to spot for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Waterville Valley NH
Waterville Valley Resort has gone through many ups and downs since Tom Cochran opened this ski hill in 1966. After being purchased and run by a corporate entity, the resort lost a bit of its close-knit, family-owned flavor.
But according to Peter Sununu (son of H.W.Bush’s Chief of Staff, John), his brother Chris and other locals have pooled resources to buy much of Waterville Valley and are bringing back the family-friendly, low-key New Hampshire vibe.
One of the best reasons to come here is the “Park Your Car Once” aspect. Between the proximity of Town Square and the Ski Mountain Shuttle bus, you really don’t have to drive anywhere.
EXPERIENCE: The Rey Center, Town Square, Curious George Cottage
The center of Waterville Valley village is achingly adorable – something out of a fairy tale. Waterville Valley most likely informed several of the Curious George books written by summer residents, Margaret and Hans Rey.
Now, the Rey Center offers playtime, crafts, programs, readings, and other events for kids and families. Waterville Valley’s mascot, Bruce the Moose, might even make an appearance, along with Curious George and The Man in the Yellow Hat.
DO: Ski Waterville Valley Resort
Of course, this is how most people first approach this area. While not New Hampshire’s largest ski resort (that would be Cannon for vertical drop and Loon for acreage) Waterville Valley Ski Mountain is a contender with 55 trails and 12 lifts.
Plans are in the works to expand as well. If you’re in your 70’s or 80’s (90’s?) and still look forward to a few runs before lunch, come here.
Waterville Valley is home to the oldest Senior Ski Program in the country – the “Silver Streaks.” For convenience, the Waterville Valley Shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at Town Square or any lodging in town, just three miles from the mountain.
SKY RIDE/HIKE: Snow’s Mountain Chair Lift
It’s a very slow, long ride to the top of this hill adjacent to the Golf Course (not at the Ski Mountain), so don’t plan to ride it back down.
It’s much more fun traversing picturesque waterfalls, swimming holes, and fishing pools and walking back downhill (about a 5-mile hike on Upper Snows, Cascade, and Lower Snows Trails).
RIDE: “Fat” Bikes
The whole area is designed for recreation. Rent a mountain bike and take it up Snow’s Mountain lift and ride down. With an extensive network of well-marked trails, you can choose your adventure based on your skill level. Rentals are available in the town, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment.
PLAY: Golf
If you’re looking for something more laid-back, Waterville Valley has you covered. The Waterville Valley Golf Course is a 9-hole course set against a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned golfers looking for a challenge.
In season of course. Each of the nine holes is marked by a post, sign, and a hanging flower basket; quite possibly the cutest golf course you’ll ever see.
DO: Kayak Corcoran Pond
In summer, there’s a very small pond adjacent to Town Square, where you can practice your paddling. You can go paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply take a leisurely swim. The sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, and the pond is stocked with fish for those who fancy a bit of angling.
READ: Osceola Library
This is one of the cutest libraries I’ve ever seen, and combined with the bookstore in Town Square, renders Waterville Valley one of the most literate, reading-friendly ski resorts in New England.
GO/WINTER: Tubing
On a hill near the golf course, cold parents (or cold kids) can go into the Golf Clubhouse to stay warm while watching the others play. Night lights for tubing are astronomer-friendly, specifically designed to lessen the impact on the area’s dark skies.
DO: Skate
There’s an indoor skating rink! Just make sure it’s not being used by the local Hockey Team.
WORK OUT: Fitness Center
This private club has everything – a massive indoor tennis court, two nearly Olympic-size pools (one inside, one out), a serious cardio/weight room, and much more. When its bitterly cold, oppressively hot, or raining outside, this climate-controlled center is an invaluable benefit to a stay here.
SHOP: Town Square
An indie bookshop in a ski resort? Don’t ya just love it? While your brood is out on the hills, spend some restful hours in Bookmonger, catching up on some best sellers or more intellectual fare. There are also several dress and gift shops: Dreams & Visions Gifts, the Jugtown Country Store, and 1829 Outfitters.
Waterville Valley Restaurants
COFFEE: Jugtown Country Store -Town Square.
It’s Waterville Valley’s version of a General Store, complete with non-perishable pantry food and a selection of coffees already brewed in the morning.
EAT/DINNER: Coyote Grill
Upstairs in the Recreation Center, this chef-owned farm-to-table place is the highest-end eatery in Waterville Valley. Though entrees, like Thai Chicken and Shrimp and Tortilla Chicken, are good, my vote goes to the amazing starters and sides – like the Fried Fingerling Potatoes with Shaved Parm and Asian Steamed Buns, along with crafted cocktails.
EAT ON THE HILL
There are several restaurants on the mountain – T-Bars for great open-faced sandwiches and Waffle Cabin.
Waterville Valley Hotels
If you require a “Luxury Resort” on the level of Aspen or Vail, Waterville Valley is not for you. But if you want comfort that won’t break your budget, check out the following lodgings.
STAY: Golden Eagle Lodge
A “Resort Condominium” hotel, each apartment has a full kitchen and is individually decorated. You can request an apartment that has been “done to the nines” or the bare minimum and pay accordingly. There is no restaurant in the building, but Golden Eagle is a few steps away from Town Square where you’ll find a selection of places to eat.
In its capacity as a hotel, Golden Eagle offers an indoor pool and sauna, daily housekeeping,
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