Embracing the Chill!
January transforms New Hampshire’s White Mountains into a premier winter destination, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping alpine sports to cozy fireside retreats. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or looking for a peaceful escape, here is how to make the most of the region this month.
Top Outdoor Adventures
Alpine & Nordic Skiing: Hit the slopes at world-class resorts like
Bretton Woods , known for perfectly groomed trails, or Loon Mountain, which features diverse terrain and a popular superpipe. For a classic Nordic experience, explore the 30km of groomed trails at the
Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing: Experience the quiet beauty of the snow-covered forest. Family-friendly options include the trek to Mt. Willard for views of Crawford Notch or a visit to the frozen
Arethusa Falls For a moderate climb with a stunning frozen lake payoff, try Lonesome Lake
.
Unique Experiences: Take a scenic ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which travels partway up the mountain for breathtaking winter vistas. For something truly memorable, book a dog sledding adventure with Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel in Jefferson.
January 2026 Events & Festivals
Jackson Snow Sculpting Invitational (Jan 23–25, 2026): Watch artists transform massive blocks of snow into intricate sculptures in this beloved community tradition.
Frost & Flame at Cranmore (Jan 31, 2026): A family-friendly festival featuring fire dancing, ice carvings, and caricature artists at Cranmore Mountain Resort.
White Mountains Brewfest: Usually held in late January in Lincoln, this event is a must for craft beer fans to sample regional brews with live music.
Ice Castles: Located in North Woodstock, these glowing icicle formations typically open by mid-December and remain a highlight through January, offering tunnels and slides.
Safety & Preparation
January in the White Mountains is beautiful but can be extreme.
Check the Forecast: Always monitor the MWOBS Higher Summits Forecast before heading out; conditions change rapidly at higher elevations.
Layer Like an Onion: Avoid cotton. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating fleece, and a windproof outer shell.
Essential Gear: Pack the "10 Essentials," including a headlamp (with extra batteries), a paper map, and traction devices like microspikes or snowshoes.
Stay Hydrated: Use wide-mouth bottles instead of hydration bladders, as tubes can freeze quickly in sub-zero temps.
Cozy Off-Mountain Stops
After a day in the cold, warm up at local favorites:
Breweries: Visit Schilling Beer Co. in Littleton for views of the icy river or Rek'-lis Brewing Company
in Bethlehem.
Sweet Treats: No trip to Littleton is complete without visiting Chutters, home to the world's longest candy counter.
It may be cold, but there is still so much to do in The Mount Washington Valley and beyond.
