17 Dec Winter Things To Do In The Lakes Region
One of the most exciting times of year within the Lakes Region of New Hampshire is the winter season. The region embraces the snow and offers a variety of things to do both outdoors and indoors throughout the snowy season. If you are planning an upcoming winter adventure to the Lakes Region, take a look at these must-do winter activities!
Get In The Holiday Spirit With Gift Of Lights
If you are looking for a way to get in the holiday spirit, then look no further. Perhaps one of the most unique ways to celebrate the holidays is to view over 3.5 million Christmas lights! Experience the Gift of Lights, a scenic drive through two and a half miles full of sparkling and festive lights at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The attraction is open from late November to the beginning of January and consists of over 520 different displays representing 80 unique scenes. After viewing the magical lights, take a pit stop to enjoy roasting some marshmallows over the open fire pits onsite to make delicious s’mores with your friends and family.      Â
Shred The Slopes At Gunstock Mountain
The Lakes Region is home to Gunstock Mountain, the closest major ski mountain in proximity to Boston. Gunstock has an extensive list of winter offerings including alpine and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, lessons, snow tubing and more! With 7 ski lifts and 48 trails designed for all levels of skiers and riders, Gunstock is the perfect place to spend a snowy winter day. The mountain offers many exciting events throughout the winter such as visits with Santa, Belknap County Mondays, Ladies Night and multiple exhilarating races. There are several restaurants located right at Gunstock Mountain offering everything from breakfast to dinner and providing the perfect opportunity to refuel during a successful day at the mountain. Â Â Â Â Â
Hit The Trails With A Winter Hike
The Lakes Region is one of New Hampshire’s top scenic areas with the surrounding lakes and mountains setting the most picturesque landscape during all four seasons of the year. The region is full of hiking trails and nature paths, the majority of which can be trekked throughout the entire year.  Hiking provides the opportunity to explore natural surroundings, get exercise and witness some of the most breathtaking views!  Throughout the winter, the Summit Resort offers snowshoe rentals to explore the onsite walking trails, one of which connects to our neighbor, Prescott Farm, providing miles of interesting nature trails. Keep a close eye on the snow as you may find fascinating animal tracks from by-passing deer, rabbits, fox and more. There are also multiple nearby mountains to hike, many of which providing breathtaking views from the summit!  Â
Fish From The Ice
The Lakes Region has a total of 273 lakes and ponds, all of which freeze over during the winter season. The iced over bodies of water provide the perfect platform to play hockey, figure skate and even fish on! Winter anglers use ice augers to drill a hole through the ice underfoot to fish through. They either jig their line or set tip-ups over the hole which pop a flag up indicating that a fish has taken the bait attached then reel it in. The Lakes Region hosts an annual Ice Fishing Derby where fishermen and women compete for the grand prize of $15,000!
Imagine It’s Summer
After a full day of winter adventures, the best way to unwind is to relax and pretend it is summer. The Summit Resort’s indoor pool area is the perfect location to do just that. Located within the 25,000 square foot amenities center, our heated pool and Roman Spa hot tub is exactly what is needed following a cold, snowy winter day. Guests of all ages enjoy the tropical drinks from the convenient poolside bar after a few exhilarating runs down the waterslide. We suggest exploring the hidden grotto before kicking back to relax in the oversized hot tub.