In the greater Upper Valley you can ski Olympic regulation trails, glide alongside ponds, view expansive rolling white hills, and ski under a canopy of trees. Whether you’re trying it out, have kids learning the sport, or visiting the area, we have the cross country experience for you when you need equipment.
Eastman Cross Country Ski Center. Grantham, NH. Enjoy groomed trails along a beautiful golf course gliding along tree and pond lined trails. There are even instructors on site to help you learn the sport. Need a challenge? They have that too; there are trails for all abilities. $14 a day. Website.
Green Woodlands. Dorchester, NH. The place to go for cross country skiing. Green Woodlands is a nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to help people have positive experiences in nature. To this, you can ski for free (even the skis, which you can find in the Barnhouse.) This is truly a natural treasure and gift to the community. You’ll find warming huts stocked with hot chocolate and equipped with woodstoves. Explore over 50 km of groomed trails designed by local Olympian and renowned trail designer, John Morton. Trails range in ability from easier to most difficult. Website.
Oakhill Touring Center and Occum Pond. Hanover, NH. Explore over 25 km of groomed trails. Rent equipment at Occum Pond and explore the easy trails along the golf course and Garipay field or challenge yourself at Oak Hill and complete a 5k, or 10k loop. You can even take lessons at the Dartmouth Ski Center. Children under 5 are free. Day passes range from $5-15, rentals for a day or week from $10-110, and season passes from $55-355. Find up to date trail conditions on their website as well. Website.
Strafford Nordic Center. Strafford, VT. Nordic athlete’s rejoice. Here is a cross country ski area for you with a range of moderate to difficult trails (only two easy). This is a wonderful facility with programs for the Strafford community and members of the Upper Valley. There’s an after school cross country program, a youth rental program, and a nordic club. Try one of the different events offered too: skiing clinics, biathlon clinics, and relays. Lessons are available as well. Grab a day or week pass; prices range from $15-220. Complete a form for a season pass that allows you to ski at other nordic centers. Find trail reports
Dexter’s Inn. Sunapee, NH. Here you can find 30 km of groomed trails, rental equipment, and a ski shop. Find yourself skiing in an idyllic country setting that gives you a peaceful feeling and beautiful views. You can even take lessons. Want to ski ungroomed trails? They have that too. Trails are a mix of ability. Families and beginners will love this facility with its reasonable rates, tranquil atmosphere, and pulk cart rental to pull little ones along. On weekends you can even enjoy hot soup for lunch or a nice dinner at the inn. $18 for a day pass with rentals. Website.
Looking for up to date trails maps on your phone? One local suggested Trailforks.
