How to Do a Winter Weekend in Gorham, New Hampshire

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Just three hours north of Boston, Gorham, New Hampshire, is the perfect spot for a classic New England winter weekend getaway. This lovely little town blends outdoor adventure and cozy mountain charm with a touch of maple-sweetened indulgence. 

Follow this itinerary to have the best winter weekend escape from the city.

Hotel

With its unbeatable location at the bottom of the Mount Washington Auto Road, The Glen House is the ideal home base for a winter adventure in the White Mountains. Cross-country ski or snowshoe through the snow-covered trails of Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, just across the street, or carve down Wildcat Mountain’s 2,100 vertical feet of terrain, only a five-minute drive away.

Though newly built, The Glen House carries the legacy of its four predecessors, welcoming travelers since 1852, when visitors first arrived to explore Mount Washington by horse and carriage. Unlike many of the grand hotels that once dotted the region—many lost to fire or time—this version is designed to endure, with a commitment to sustainability that includes a geothermal heating system, a hydro generator, and Dark Sky-compliant outdoor lighting. Even the décor reflects a thoughtful approach, with a handcrafted quilted moose head above the fireplace—a nod to tradition without the trophy.

The White Mountains feel close enough to touch from the property, making it easy to explore the area. After a day on the trails, The Notch Grille, the hotel’s full-service restaurant, offers a convenient spot to refuel with fresh, locally inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—no long drives required.

Itinerary

Friday

Drive to Glen, stopping at New Hampshire’s many sugar houses for a sweet treat on the way up. We recommend Eldridge Family’s Sugar House, where you can sample the famous homemade maple soft-serve made with maple syrup from the trees right outside.

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Check into The Glen House and settle in for dinner at The Notch Grille, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, where North Country comfort foods are served with a stunning backdrop of Mount Washington. For the most scenic experience, grab a seat in the lounge at sunset—it offers the best vantage point—and be sure to try the half-roasted honey mustard chicken.

Saturday

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Notch Grille before heading across the street to Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center for a SnowCoach tour up the Mount Washington Auto Road. This unique vehicle, equipped with four tracks instead of wheels, is built to handle the snow-covered terrain, climbing up to 4,200 feet. About two-thirds of the way to the summit, you’ll step out to experience Mount Washington’s famously extreme weather—where winds can reach over 100 miles per hour—and take in the breathtaking views. The heated SnowCoach is always just a few steps away if the conditions get too intense.

After your mountain adventure, swing by the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center to pick up ski gear and trail passes before setting out on a classic New England winter experience—cross-country skiing. With 28 miles of trails winding through scenic forests, both groomed and ungroomed routes cater to all skill levels. If you can, try to make it to the warming hut for a well-earned break and sweeping mountain vistas.

Cap off your day with a well-deserved dinner at The Notch Grille. And since you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t skip dessert—seasonal treats made with local ingredients like maple syrup are the perfect way to end a winter’s day in Gorham.

Sunday

Start your morning with a relaxing swim in The Glen House’s heated indoor saltwater pool, which overlooks the snow-capped mountains. Then, grab a complimentary coffee or tea from the lobby and savor it by the outdoor firepit for a peaceful start to the day. After a quick breakfast at The Notch Grille, check out and make the short drive down the road to Wildcat Mountain for a final adventure on the slopes.

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