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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 105 km of trails, 76 of 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.
New for 2005/06 there is a yurt warming hut, which 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 weekends/holidays there will be hot drinks, soups and snacks at the yurt.
Waterville 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.
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 $17 for a full day, $13 for a half day.
XC ski equipment rentals cost $18 for classic equipment, $22 for skate
ski equipment ($16 and $20 for half day respectively). Snowshoes are
$15 for the day and $13 for a half day. This year telemark equipment
rentals are available for $27. All of the rental categories are available
for kids aged 6-12 or seniors above 65 at lower fees.
The Nordic Snowsports School features a one and a half hour group lesson for $45 or the Starter Kit with lesson, trail fee and rental and $49 skate. A private lesson is $45 for an hour and kids can get a weekend 2-hour lesson for $28 or $34 with rental equipment.
Guided
ski tours are $40 ($55 with rentals) and snowshoe tours are $25 ($35
with rentals). This winter, Waterville Valley will feature a special
Kids Terrain Park with a groomed snow play area that will be used for
fun and skills development. Snowshoe Tours include options such as gourmet
lunch outings, women's groups, moonlight and ecology treks. Call for
more details.
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.