Ziplining at Gunstock Mountain Resort

Summer is Just Getting Started: Adventure Awaits at NH's Ski Areas

July 21, 2026

Melody Nester - Ski New Hampshire

CAPTION: Ziplining at Gunstock Mountain Resort. Click for this and other high-resolution photos.

Conway, NH -- While winter may be months away, New Hampshire's ski areas are packed with ways to make the most of summer. Throughout July and August, New Hampshire’s ski resorts continue to offer a full lineup of outdoor adventures, entertainment, family-friendly events, and scenic mountain experiences that make New Hampshire ski areas the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Visitors can soar through the trees on ziplines, play golf, explore miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, paddle nearby lakes and rivers, or simply take in breathtaking views.

Summer calendars remain packed with events across New Hampshire's ski areas. The 27th Annual Chocolate Fest at Waterville Valley Town Square on July 25 is a sweet summer tradition featuring chocolate-themed treats, family activities, and entertainment. Cranmore Mountain Resort's Arts Jubilee concert series brings nationally recognized musicians to the slopes for unforgettable evenings of live music on Thursdays through Aug. 13. On Thursdays at Pats Peak, Sunset Sessions combine live music, weekly themed menus, cold drinks, and mountain views outdoors on the patio for relaxing summer evenings. Bretton Woods Ski Area's Full Moon Dinner Series invites guests to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by the beauty of the White Mountains. The next Full Moon dinner takes place on July 29. Whether visitors are planning a weekend escape or looking for a spontaneous day trip, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the mountains. A full calendar of events can be found at SkiNH.com/events.

Several ski areas have also expanded their summer offerings in recent years, adding new attractions and events while continuing to build on favorite traditions. From aerial adventure parks and golf and disc golf to relaxing scenic chairlift rides, every resort offers its own unique way to experience the mountains. For those looking to beat the heat, visitors can cool off with water activities at or near many New Hampshire ski areas, including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and scenic river excursions.

Loon Mountain Resort’s Ninja Wild is back for another summer, offering a family-friendly outdoor obstacle course that challenges visitors’ agility and speed. Anyone looking to slow the pace can enjoy a horseback ride through the scenic White Mountains with Franconia Notch Stables, an offering of the Franconia Inn and XC Ski Center. At Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, guests can cool off with a guided kayak tour or explore the Androscoggin River by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. Visitors looking for a one-of-a-kind Mount Washington experience can check out The Mount Washington Auto Road's three-hour Discovery Tour, which offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Mount Washington Observatory and is available on August 29 and September 12.

With school vacations in full swing and weeks of summer still ahead, now is the perfect time to check another New Hampshire adventure off your bucket list. Visitors can browse upcoming events, explore summer activities by resort, and begin planning their next mountain adventure by visiting www.SkiNH.com.

Ski New Hampshire is the statewide association representing 30+ alpine and cross-country resorts in New Hampshire. For more information on ski areas, trail conditions, vacation planning, and updated events at Ski New Hampshire resorts, visit SkiNH.com. For further information about New Hampshire, go to VisitNH.gov.

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