How to Go Skiing in Crotched Mountain, New Hampshire

Head to Crotched Mountain in the New Hampshire mountains if you're looking for 100 percent snow-making coverage and 100 percent lit trails for skiing late into the evening. With a vertical drop of 875 feet and 5 lifts, skiers and snowboarders alike can enjoy an evening exploring the nearly 75 acres of slopes and terrain park.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid credit card

Plan Your Ski Trip to Crotched Mountain

1. Book a room for your ski trip to Crotched Mountain online at the New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development Web site (see Resources below). You can also call the office for reservation assistance at 800-FUN-IN-NH.

2. Stay in Greenfield, New Hampshire, which is only 6 miles from the mountain, for old-style Victorian rooms and a welcoming fireplace. Lodging prices range from budget to moderately priced.

3. Choose a New Hampshire inn where presidents have slept and stay in Hancock with moderately priced accommodations.

4. Explore the New Hampshire countryside near Crotched Mountain and book an inn near Jaffrey, 18 miles from the mountain, for modern accommodations priced from moderate to expensive.

5. Head to Crotched Mountain on Route 47. It's a short 23-mile trip from Manchester, New Hampshire or only 60 miles from Boston.

Enjoy Your Ski Trip to Crotched Mountain

6. Buy your adult ticket online for a full day or save money and purchase a night ticket (see Resources below).

7. Book a skiing or snowboard lesson, even if you're experienced, and take advantage of Crotched Mountain's inexpensive group lessons and moderately priced private lessons.

8. Enroll the kids in the all-day Kids Snow Kamp for ages 4 to 12. Kids can have fun playing and learning to ski and snowboard with certified instructors. Available packages include camp admission, lift tickets and rentals.

9. Rent your ski or snowboard equipment from the ski resort at Crotched Mountain. That way you can easily exchange your skis, boots, poles or snowboard if there's a problem.

Tips & Warnings

• Making room reservations online is a great way to find package deals that combine lodging with lift tickets and meals.
• If you're looking for cheaper accommodations, it's best to avoid holiday weekends and other popular ski times.
• It's always a good idea, for both skiers and snowboarders, to wear a helmet to prevent concussions in the event of a crash.
• Winter weather can change in an instant. Be prepared for the unexpected by packing a winter kit that includes warm clothing as well as extra food and water.