For a tiny mountain town, Gorham boasts an extensive network of trails and activities. It’s no secret that the North Country has some of the best winter recreation around, and for those who prefer the solace of the wintry woods but are still looking for an exciting (and chilly!) adventure, Gorham tops the list. Within a stone’s throw from downtown, fun-seekers can find XC skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, ice climbing, backcountry skiing, dogsledding, and winter hiking galore.
First and foremost, and especially during the winter months, always remember to plan ahead and prepare! If you’re newer to winter outdoor recreation (and even if you’re not …), it’s important to make sure you understand the potential dangers the outdoors can present and take the proper steps to keep you and your companions safe. For great tips and tricks, see “How to Prep for Winter Fun in the North Country.”
Second, know your resources. For every activity you choose, there’s a great way to learn about it ahead of time. Heading into the great outdoors with a map, a guide, or a friend who knows the ropes can make all the difference between epic fun and epic fail. And if you’re just getting started (and even if you’re a pro), here are a few great resources to check out:
- Haven’t been mushing before? Give Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel a call – (https://dogslednh.com/)
- For great XC skiing and snowshoeing, try Great Glen Trails. They have gear rentals and lessons, too!
- To learn about all the fat biking trails in town, check out the Coos Cycling Club’s trail map
- For great advice on where to hike, check out the AMC’s Joe Dodge Lodge
- Like ice? Try climbing it! Hire a professional guide from the International Mountain Climbing School
- Are you savvy and know how to use a beacon and probe? Check out the glades cut by the Granite Backcountry Alliance
And last but certainly not least, always check the local weather! This region is known for its extreme and often dangerous weather – especially in the Mount Washington region (MWOBS weather), so always remember to check the weather report before heading into the mountains. Fatalities are a reality here, so please plan ahead and prepare properly!
