This Tiny New Hampshire Town Is The Grandest Winter Wonderland You’ll Ever Visit
Small-town getaways really are the best, no matter if you are staying for a while or just visiting for the day. Fortunately, New Hampshire has many such small towns, so how do you choose? Well, if you’re a lover of being outside in winter surrounded by spectacular scenery, the tiny town of Franconia is one you should check out.
The town of Franconia sits in the White Mountains. The White Mountain National Forest is located in portions of the town along with the northern section of Franconia Notch State Park. Incorporated in 1764, it has retained its quintessential small-town character.
State-owned Cannon Mountain Ski Area is located in Franconia at the northern end of Franconia State Park. 10 lifts provide access to over 25 miles of trails covering 285 acres. U.S. Olympic skier Bode Miller honed his skills here on the slopes of Cannon.
The Franconia Inn has been welcoming guests and diners to the area since 1863. The inn has a cross-country ski center with over 25 miles of trails and there's also ice skating, tubing, and snowshoeing. It's the perfect place to stay while visiting Franconia.
A short hike brings you to the top of Artists Bluff, famed for its views southward into Franconia Notch. This hike is accessible year-round. Hikers should be properly equipped for winter travel and to turn back if conditions are too icy.
Bridal Veil Falls via Coppermine Trail is a longer hike in Franconia at 5 miles round-trip, but the walking is generally easy. The spectacular sight of the multi-tiered waterfall in its frozen splendor is also a great reward for the trek.
There is lots to do and see here in summer, but a winter visit brings added beauty. The sight of the surrounding forests and mountains draped in fresh snow can seem otherworldly.
