How to Plan a Ski Trip to Waterville Valley, New Hampshire

Mike Furgal is Waterville Valley. Furgal has been a ski instructor and member of the mountain's ski patrol for 25 years. His parents had their first date just down the block, and now, his children are instructors here, too. In his spare time, he's even chairman of the local school board. And beyond all that, Furgal is Waterville because he represents all the things the New Hampshire mountain will make you feel: warm, welcomed, and full of joy. 

“Being a ski instructor, I kind of figured I could go to Loon, I could go to Killington, there's a lot of places I could go, but what makes Waterville unique is the valley,” he says, calling it a “self-contained island in a national forest.”

Waterville is most certainly a smaller mountain destination in New England, but it offers all the quintessential elements of a New England skiing experience: a hefty summit at 4,004 feet, more than 2,000 feet of vertical drop, and 62 trails catering to all skill levels. But what makes it unique is its hourglass shape, ensuring all trails converge at the Base Lodge, thus making it the perfect family-friendly mountain so all groups can easily reconnect after each run. 

“You can't get lost. We're a single-base area,” Furgal explains. “Everything comes down to a single place.”

The other thing that makes this destination so charming for families is its alpine village. As kids, my parents and my friend's parents would let us run wild without a care, knowing there was very little trouble we could get into here. 

“We call it the biggest cul-de-sac in the world,” Furgal jokes. “You drive 11 miles into the national forest, and you don't see anything. You don't see another house,” he says. “And all of a sudden, you're in this town, and the only way out is the same way you came in. And I think that makes it magical. You don't get here by accident.” 

There is one more way Furgal and Waterville are tied together. Furgal helped identify the perfect spot for some new glades and assisted in the process of clearing the mountain area, so the mountain decided to name it after him, and now you can ski “Furgal's Forest” any time you wish. Just be careful, as it's a black diamond doozy.

Here's how to plan the perfect ski trip to Waterville Valley Resort.

When to Go

The ski season at Waterville Valley typically runs from late November through mid-April, though opening and closing dates are dependent on snowfall and weather conditions. Those looking for prime ski conditions should plan a trip over January and February, which bring the most reliable snowfall. Anyone looking for thinner crowds can try early December or late March, and if you visit mid-week, those crowds will be even more sparse. These off-season times also offer more budget-friendly lift ticket prices, and you’re far more likely to find deals on hotels. The resort also has a robust calendar of events, so check it out before booking your visit.

Where to Stay

Town Square Condominiums

Located in the heart of Waterville Valley Village, the Town Square Condominiums offer plenty of space for families and groups traveling together. Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and scenic mountain views out of every window, making you feel right at home whether you’re staying for a night or the entire season. Guests staying at the condos also have access to the White Mountain Athletic Club with an indoor pool, hot tubs, and a gym, and they're just steps away from restaurants and bars for easy après-ski.

Silver Fox Inn

The Silver Fox Inn is a cozy alpine-style accommodation that is also just minutes from the ski resort. Here, guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and a warm, inviting lounge with a fireplace that’s ideal post-ski for chatting it up with your fellow travelers. This charming property is perfect for couples and small groups looking for a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere that may be just a little quieter than the condos. 

Golden Eagle Lodge

For a little more luxury, book a stay at the Golden Eagle Lodge, a retreat with 139 condos that include kitchens, fireplaces, and plenty of space for your entire crew to hang out together. Amenities here include an indoor pool, hot tub, and game room.

Where to Eat

Olde Waterville Pizza Co.

For a quick and easy meal post-ski that your entire party with love, head right to the Olde Waterville Pizza Co. The casual pizzeria is a local staple and is known for handmade dough, fresh toppings, and a welcoming vibe. Though the shop also serves subs, salads, and wings, you can’t go wrong with a veggie or meat lover’s pie. 

La Hacienda Mexicana

This family-owned spot serves fantastic Mexican cuisine, including fresh guacamole prepared at your table, mole fajitas, burritos, tacos, and more. Don’t miss the desserts, which include the restaurant's signature flan and fried ice cream.

Coyote Grill

For an upscale evening, book a table at Coyote Grill. The restaurant, located in Town Square, serves a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and creative New England dishes like the haddock with basmati rice, sherry cracker crumbs, and lemon beurre blanc. The restaurant also offers quick bites like spicy fish tacos and chicken wings that will surely hit the spot.

Where to Après-ski

Schwendi Hutte

You don’t need to go far for an après-ski drink. Just ski or board right over to the Schwendi Hutte, located at just over 4,000 feet elevation. The hut serves classic comfort food starting at breakfast, while lunch offers skiers and riders sandwiches, soups, and plenty of chili. The hut also serves beers for those who want a little bevy with a view. Just note, it closes at 2 p.m., but that gives you plenty of daylight to get back down to base.

The Valley Pub

For something off-mountain, try the Valley Pub & Restaurant. The pub has all the usual suspects on its menu — burgers, salads, soups, and sandwiches. It’s also got plenty of beers on tap for something refreshing. Make sure to check out its calendar of events, which often includes karaoke — so have your song ready.

Off-mountain Activities

Ice Skating at the Waterville Valley Ice Arena

Take a break from taking turns on the mountain to spin around the rink at the Waterville Valley Ice Arena. The arena, which is open seasonally, has public skating hours, along with figure skating and hockey lessons. Didn’t bring your skates? That’s okay — you can rent a pair on-site.

Snowshoe and Biking Trails

Waterville is home to more than 40 miles of groomed trails that wind through the White Mountain National Forest, ideal for either snowshoeing or fat biking all winter long. The Waterville Valley Adventure Center & Nordic Center oversees the trails and has equipment available for rent. 

Waterville Valley Athletic Club

Get in some laps, splash around, work out, or just unwind with a visit to the Waterville Valley Athletic Club. The club includes pools, a sauna, a steam room, a weight and cardio room, and tennis courts for warmer months. Just note, the club is a members-only experience, but if you’re a guest at a participating Freedom Pass inn or condo, you may have access, so make sure to ask when you book. 

How to Ride

Tickets

Waterville offers a variety of ways to ski and ride, including single-day, multi-day, and season passes. Typical day passes run between $86 and $139 for adults, but buying in advance and online can save you some money. Additionally, the mountain offers night skiing for just $25.

Rentals

Top Dog Rental Shop, located at the Base Lodge, provides everything you need for a day on the slopes, including boards, skis, boots, and helmets. The shop recommends booking online as early as possible as things can sell out on weekends and over any holidays. 

Skiing and Snowboarding

Waterville Valley Resort features 62 trails, with 14 percent ranked for beginners, 64 percent intermediate, and 22 percent advanced/expert. It also includes access to the glades and to mogul runs that will leave your quads burning. The mountain has 11 lifts, including a high-speed six-seater and a high-speed quad. The resort also has 100 percent snowmaking coverage, ensuring optimal conditions all season long.

Programming

The mountain has a robust ski school that offers private and group ski or snowboard lessons for all ages. Experienced skiers can also book freestyle and mogul clinics with expert instructors, so you can level up to those advanced runs in no time.