5 reasons New Hampshire is the winter wonderland of your snowy dreams

Now that December is officially here all you can think about is taking a winter vacation. You want to swap the city for somewhere you can embrace full-on holiday mode — a true winter wonderland. We’ve got just the place.

We’re talking about the US state filled with quaint towns, amazing shopping, and adventure: New Hampshire. Enjoy the beautiful landscape featuring stunning mountains and lakes, making it easy to have multiple epic experiences in one trip.

It takes just three and a half hours to drive to New Hampshire from Montreal, and eight hours from Toronto, making it the perfect opportunity to round up your favourite people for the road trip of the year.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s a look at some of the things you can enjoy during your winter trip to New Hampshire.

Scenic winter hiking

Winter hiking in New Hampshire is definitely on a whole other level (pun definitely intended). Take in the stunning vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee from the top of Mount Major, or hike to Lonesome Lake Hut on Cannon Mountain where you can set your eyes on the jaw-dropping Franconia Range across a clear glacial tarn.

Try out the second southernmost 4,000 ft. peak of Mount Pierce, offering breathtaking views of Mount Washington. The view is something you definitely need to see during your visit to New Hampshire. Remember to dress warm and check out New Hampshire’s hike safe information before you hit the trails.

Epic skiing and snowboarding

There are no ski resorts in the cities of Toronto or Montreal, and if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, you probably already visited the resorts closest to you in your province. This winter, take on a new challenge at one of New Hampshire’s epic resorts. There is terrain for all levels of ability, from beginners to experts. This includes all you first-time skiers and snowboarders.

Cannon Mountain is home to the historic Taft slalom trail that will give you the perfect adrenaline rush. Vista Way is another epic trail at the resort that will leave you hungry for more alpine adventures, and if wooded areas are your thing, check out the enchanting Rosebrook Glades at Bretton Woods. You will not be disappointed.

Tax-free shopping

If you haven’t started your holiday shopping just yet, you might want to hold off until you visit New Hampshire. There is no sales tax on purchases which means you can shop to your heart’s content without having to worry about being faced with a huge VAT bill when you reach the checkout.

Sound too good to be true? This is the norm in New Hampshire and it gives you even more of a reason to treat yo’self before the New Year. Shop at outlet stores, NH Made, or visit some of the quaint antique shops — all tax-free.

The sleigh rides

Immerse yourself in the true beauty of New Hampshire’s winter wonderland when you go on an unforgettable sleigh ride. It’s one of the cosiest experiences you’ll enjoy during your trip, and it’s a spectacular way to explore the state.

Or if you’re going on a special trip with your other half, opt for the more romantic private couple’s sleigh ride where you can sip champagne and indulge in locally-made chocolates. Choose the area you want to explore and get ready for the ride. This beats shovelling snow back home any day of the week.

Winter ziplining

You don’t have to be a ski or hiking enthusiast to take in postcard-worthy vistas of New Hampshire. Ziplining gives you the opportunity to see the scenery from an entirely different view. Feel the rush as you glide and ride at one of the many ziplining locations in the state.

Head to Alpine Adventures, where you will have multiple zipline courses to choose from that offer fabulous views of the White Mountains as you soar 200 feet above the forest floor at speeds up to 60 mph.

Check out Visit New Hampshire now and start planning your trip to the ultimate winter wonderland.