Bretton Woods Ski Area

Every resort tries to bill itself as a family place. This one really is.

by Contributor

The Scene
Bretton Woods has one of the friendliest staffs and most welcoming lodges, which is a great place to hang by the fire. Couples looking for a romantic spot can ride the lift to the Mountaintop Restaurant. For live music, stop by Fabian's Station, just 100 yards from the base, or drive across the street to the slightly more elegant Bretton Arms, where there's entertainment and excellent food.

The Slopes
A recently opened mountain just west of Bretton Woods has more challenging terrain for experts. This makes Bretton Woods the largest ski area in New Hampshire. It will get even bigger next season with the opening of another peak. On the "older" mountain, runs like Glade West, a long, broad swoop through a small forest, can give pleasure to skiers of any level. Deception Bowl and Darby's Drop are also a gas.

Vital Stats

Vertical Drop: 1,500 feet

Base Elevation: 1,600 feet

Top Elevation: 3,100 feet

Trails: 66

Lifts: 8

Skiable Acres: 375

Beginner Terrain: 31 percent

Intermediate Terrain: 41 percent

Expert Terrain: 28 percent

Snowboarding: Full facilities