Loon Mountain is where New England’s alpine heart beats loudest. Just two hours from Boston, this Lincoln-based resort combines big-mountain feel with small-town soul. With its classic New Hampshire steeps, pristine grooming, and mountain-town hospitality, Loon is the go-to escape for weekend warriors and family adventurers alike. It’s fast, friendly, and surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in the East.

Quick Stats

• Location: Lincoln, New Hampshire
• Elevation: 950 ft base / 3,050 ft summit
• Vertical Drop: 2,100 ft
• Skiable Terrain: 403 acres
• Annual Snowfall: ~160 inches (plus 99% snowmaking coverage)
• Number of Runs: 61
• Lifts: 11 (including New England’s first eight-passenger bubble lift)
• Vibe Check: Energetic, family-friendly, and perfectly New England

The Vibe

Loon is the definition of accessible adventure. It’s big enough to feel exciting, yet small enough to feel like home. Locals love it for its steady snow, perfectly groomed cruisers, and tight-knit community. The mountain spans three peaks—South Peak, North Peak, and Loon Peak—each with its own flavor, from wide-open groomers to expert steeps and glades. Après here is laid-back but lively, with local brews and mountain comfort food fueling the good vibes.

Must-Ride Runs

🟢 Greens

• Bear Claw Extension – smooth, scenic, and great for warming up.
• Brookway – easy rolling run that’s perfect for families.

🟦 Blues

• Haulback – fast and flowing, a classic Loon cruiser.
• Flying Fox – long, smooth turns and killer views of the Pemigewasset Wilderness.
• Lower Speakeasy – local favorite with consistent pitch and great grooming.

♦︎ Blacks

• Ripsaw – steep and fast, one of the best advanced runs in New England.
• Walking Boss Woods – expert glades with powder pockets after every storm.
• Angel Street – moguls, speed, and a true East Coast challenge.

Après + Town Stays

Loon’s après scene channels that quintessential New Hampshire warmth—friendly faces, hearty meals, and a cold beer by the fire.

• Paul Bunyan Room – Loon’s iconic après spot with live music and lively crowds.
• Black Mountain Burger Co. – local favorite for burgers, brews, and mountain-town comfort.
• Gordi’s Fish & Steak House – family-owned landmark serving hearty fare and ski nostalgia.
• One Love Brewery – housed in a historic mill, serving top-notch craft beer and Bavarian plates.
• La Vista Italian Cuisine – relaxed spot with Italian comfort food and slope views.
• The RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain – luxury lodging right at the base with spa, pools, and on-site winery.
• The Mountain Club on Loon – ski-in/out hotel with full amenities and mountain views.

Travel Tips

Loon is one of the easiest major ski resorts to reach from Boston—just two hours via I-93. Fly into Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) or Boston Logan (BOS) for the fastest access. Parking fills quickly on weekends, so early arrivals win the day. Loon’s eight-passenger Kancamagus 8 lift keeps lines moving even during busy holiday weeks. Late February and early March are prime—longer days, perfect snow, and fewer crowds.

Fun Facts

• Loon opened in 1966 and has been family-loved ever since.
• Home to New England’s first eight-passenger bubble chairlift, the Kancamagus 8.
• The resort is powered by renewable energy initiatives through Boyne Resorts.
• Loon’s Snow Tubing Park is one of the largest in New Hampshire.
• Named after the common loon, a symbol of the region’s wild beauty.

Why It Made Our Top 50 List

Loon made the list because it’s the perfect blend of accessibility, adventure, and authenticity. It delivers big-mountain skiing without the big-mountain hassle—great snow, great people, and pure New England charm. It’s the resort you’ll visit once and find yourself coming back to for life.