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Cross-Country and Snowshoeing at
the Nordic Center at Waterville
Valley - PO Box 540, Waterville Valley, NH 03215
The Nordic Center at Waterville Valley (603-236-4666, www.waterville.com) has 70 km of trails, which are groomed and tracked for skating and classic skiing through the White Mountain National Forest. This cross-country center is known for its wide trails, which are dependably well groomed for both classic and skate skiing. Waterville is nestled in a high valley within a ring of mountains in the White Mountain National Forest. The town is a planned community where everything is at a skier's fingertips. There's the great trails, a fitness center, indoor skating rink, and the Town Square (where the Nordic Center is located), which features a variety of restaurants and shops. But most significantly, Waterville Valley and its services and amenities make it great for families. Relax in the condo with video rentals and they can even help you find babysitters for an evening.
The yurt warming hut is a traditional Mongolian circled wall tent. Skiers and snowshoers can reach the yurt on Bob's Lookout Trail as a 10 km destination and take a break from the elements or enjoy a picnic lunch in comfort. On holiday weeks there will be hot drinks, soups and snacks at the yurt. In the springtime folks sit on the deck basking in the sunshine.
Waterville
has two separate trail networks including the South End and the North
End. The resort claims to have the least number of road crossings compared
to other New England trail systems of its caliber. Snowshoers are welcome
to trek along the skate-groomed lanes. Trails lead to easily accessible
points of wonder including Greeley Ponds, Snow's Mountain, Cascade Brook,
and the Big Pines. Ask for assistance at the Nordic Center to reach
these destinations.
The North End trails are at a higher elevation and can be accessed off the Tripoli Road to a parking lot at Depot Camp. A National Forest parking pass for this lot is needed and it is included when you obtain the trail pass at the center. The trails in this area will remain open while many other trail systems are shut down. You can get there by shuttle or by car and if the lot is overcrowded you can use the alpine ski area lots (4 or 6) and ski down the Pipeline Trail.
You can bring your dog on the
first half kilometer of the Livermore Trail in the North End but the
Forest Service requires that the dog be leashed. Dogs are also allowed
on the Village Trail from the Town Square, but Fido is not allowed on
the other trails.
Rentals
and lessons are available at the Nordic Center, as are guided cross-country
and snowshoe tours for all levels and ages. Cross-country trail fees
are included as part of the Winter Unlimited lodging package. Otherwise,
daily tickets cost $19 for a full day, $17 for a half day (12:30-4 PM).
XC ski equipment rentals cost $19 for classic equipment, $23 for skate
ski equipment ($17 and $21 for half day respectively). Snowshoes are
$15 for the day and $13 for a half day. Telemark equipment rentals are
available at the alpine ski area. All of the rental categories are available
for kids aged 6-13 or seniors above 65 at lower fees.
The Nordic Snowsports School features a one and a half hour group lesson for $42 or the Starter Kit with lesson, trail fee and rental and $46 skate. A private lesson is $48 for an hour and kids can get a weekend 2-hour lesson for $33 or $43 with rental equipment. Lessons are also available at lower prices for seniors and youth.
Guided ski tours are $40 ($55 with rentals) and snowshoe tours are $25 ($35 with rentals). Snowshoe Tours include options such as women's groups or moonlight treks. Call for more details.
Specials:
Two fer Thursday offers 2 trail passes for the price of one on
non-holiday Thursdays. After 2 Next Day offers skiing free after
2 PM if you pay for the next days trail pass. When the trail adventures
are over, take a break in the Nordic Center by the fireplace or check
out the clothing, equipment and accessory products in the retail area
located in the center. Leading companies of XC ski equipment and clothing
are represented and the center's knowledgeable staff can help you select
the right items to fill your needs. There are also horse-drawn sleigh
rides and ice skating at the indoor ice arena.
Waterville Valley is located on Route 49, 11 miles from Exit 28 on Route I-93. It is about 2 hours from Boston. Once in the area, follow the signs to the nordic center. CCSAA area.