Winter in New England is a mosaic of contrasts that all fit together for a great travel experience. Bright days reflected against a blanket of white snow lead to crystal-clear nights with stars glistening overhead. A day of invigorating outdoor activities is followed by comfort food next to a warming fire. Along the coastline, the beaches take on an otherwordly, somber quality; the ocean goes quiet and its colors become muted and opaque. New England's cities pulse with cultural activities. Winter festivals are great fun as well.
New England Snow Conditions (Courtesy of SnoCountry.com) : Connecticut – Massachusetts
Alpine ski areas range from full service mountain resorts and ski towns in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, to smaller-family oriented ski areas in every state. The medium-sized to larger areas offer great lodging packages, more and longer runs, and a wide variety of off-slope services from spas to sleigh rides. Apres-ski nightlife in the ski towns is exciting and vivid.
Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat tire snow biking are all great ways to enjoy winter in New England up close. Each of these activities are easy to learn. There are Nordic ski areas at major resorts as well as specific cross country ski, snowshoeing, and snow biking venues. Equipment rentals and instruction are available. Many parks and reserves also maintain trails for skiing, snow biking and snowshoeing.
Snowmobiling, too, has grown into a major winter pastime. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine maintain thousands of miles of interconnected snowmobiling trails. Outfitters and guides throughout snow country provide advice, guided tours, and rentals so winter hikers and skiers can explore the back country.
People who don't ski, be assured that there's plenty for you to enjoy at New England's ski towns, starting, simply enough, with the gorgeous surroundings. Beyond that, there are outdoor adventures like snow tubing, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice fishing, and ice skating; and indoor fun at shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can tour and taste at wineries or breweries; get a soak or a massage at a spa; play with your kids at indoor climbing walls and arcades. Find non-skiing fun at Okemo Valley and Ludlow, Vermont; Loon Mountain, Lincoln and North Woodstock New Hampshire; and at Stowe, Vermont.
