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Unusual Outdoor Winter Activities

5 Beginner-Friendly New England Snowshoeing Trails

Looking for a winter escape to the New England area, but aren’t one for a ski or snowboard sesh? Snowshoeing is the perfect way to explore the majestic winterscapes without needing any kind of special skill. Rent a pair of snowshoes and poles, bundle up, pack a thermos of hot chocolate, and take to the trails for a fun day of exploration. Read on to learn more about five snowshoeing trails for beginners in the New England area.

                                                             More Winter Getaways

Beginner-Friendly Snowshoeing Trails

Blue Hills Reservation

Only 30 minutes outside of Boston,Blue Hills Reservationoffers a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Of the more than 125 miles of trails that crisscross through an urban oasis—offering spectacular views of the city and incredible scenery—there is a two-mile loop trail, perfect for beginners, that leads them to the historic weather observatory.

Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center

Ideal for beginners and families with young children, the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center— located at the base of Mount Washington in New Hampshire—is home to 28 miles of flat and gradually rolling terrain. So, take a slow-paced trek through the stunning forests of New Hampshire, then afterward, warm-up and dine at Glen View Cafe, where you can snag a table that looks out at the highest peak of the Northeast.

Smugglers Notch Nordic Center

Located in the same quaint ski town as Smugglers Notch Ski Resort is the Nordic Center which boasts a peaceful and affordable alternative to the neighboring downhill ski resorts. With miles of well-groomed trails for all levels of snowshoers and skiers and affordable rentals and day passes, it's easy to treat the whole family to a day of fun. The center also offers childcare and kid-specific programs and lessons, so parents have the option to go out exploring on their own.

Meadow Lake Trail Snowshoe

The Lake Trail at Northwood Meadows State Park in Northwood, New Hampshire, is a short, easy snowshoe that provides views of the lake and beautiful sections through the woods. This beginner-friendly 1.2-mile loop offers flat, smooth terrain, and since the trail circles the lake, you won't have to worry about getting lost. Oh! And be sure to keep an eye out for winter wildlife as you meander along the shoreline and through snowy woods.

Weir Hill

Considered a “perfect beginner trail,” Weir Hill is a 1.9-mile loop located near North Andover just outside Boston. Weir Hill is great for families and groups that are snowshoeing for the first time. And an added bonus; furry friends are allowed off-leash! This peaceful trail is only used by a handful of dog walkers and snowshoers in the wintertime, and therefore, there are no crowds to fight and no need to worry about showing up early.

About New England Inns and Resorts

The New England Inns & Resorts Association has proudly represented over 300 New England resorts, inns, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and motor inns since 1907. From the grandest luxury resort to the coziest country inn, what ties us together is our commitment to gracious hospitality!

Look to us to help you find the perfect accommodationsfor your next snowshoeing adventure.

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