Skiing at Waterville Valley is an absolute blast for all skill levels. Finding affordable lodging while visiting the White Mountains of New Hampshire, is not a blast. Thankfully, Barn Door Hostel is here to save the day! We have a Ski and Stay Waterville Valley Package that can be used any time, with no blackout dates. 2022/2023 Season prices are $110 for a lift ticket (good any day) and a bed in a dorm style accommodation here at Barn Door Hostel. Just book your stay by clicking here. After everything is confirmed, make sure you choose your “Add On” of a Waterville Valley Lift Ticket.
Waterville Valley has it all including a new 6 person bubble chair lift to keep you safe from windy conditions! They even cross-country, downhill Night skiing and a beer league!!
Just a quick trip up I-93 and get off Exit 28. This will put you on the scenic Route 49. Head down this beautiful winding road until you see signs for Waterville Valley Ski Resort. Free parking is available in lots 1-9. There are various shuttle stops located throughout our parking lots, so you don’t have to lug all your gear up to the base area.
As the birthplace of Freestyle Skiing, our slopes will reignite your passion for adventure. With its unique reverse-hourglass shape, groups with varying ability levels can easily ski or ride together. Families of all ages can explore different mountain terrain, without ever worrying about the little ones getting lost or ending up at the wrong base area.
Mountain Name: Mount Tecumseh
Total Acres: 500
Skiable Acres: 265
Longest Run: 1.9 mi.
Summit Elevation: 4,004 ft.
Vertical Drop 2,020 ft.
ON-MOUNTAIN DINING:
T-Bars
Freestlye Lounge
The Marketplace
Schwendi Hut
Next Level Food Truck
Waffle Cabin
The Town of Waterville Valley is a self-contained alpine village, boasting awe-inspiring views of 4000 ft mountain peaks at every intersection and crossroad. Walking and hiking trails weave in & out of Town Square, village shops, and local dining establishments.
We want you to be prepared for your trip, so here are some tips for your first time in Waterville Valley
WHAT TO PACK:
Mittens or gloves and liners
Sunscreen and lip balm - In the higher elevations of the mountain environment, the sun's rays are less filtered. Snow also reflects sun rays, making them even more intense. You can get severely sunburned very quickly. Wind will burn your skin, too.
Hand and toe warmers - Hand and toe warmers will help you stay warm longer. On bitterly cold days put these in your gloves and on the tops of your toes to maximize your skiing and riding.
Neck gaiter or face mask - On those cold and windy days you’ll benefit from wearing a neck gaiter or face mask. These will not only keep you warm, but they’ll protect your face from frostbite and windburn.
Wool socks - Wool helps wick moisture. Regular cotton socks will make your feet go cold quickly and put you at risk of frostbite. Keep your feet warm by wearing a nice pair of wool socks.
Water & snacks - Sun, wind, perspiration, and altitude rob your body of fluids and the cold burns calories quick. Replenish your body with water and snacks. If you forget water and snacks, we will also have some for sale in the Base Lodge.
Goggles and/or sunglasses - Infrared and ultraviolet rays can be extremely harmful to your eyes, especially at higher altitudes. Good quality sunglasses are an important investment. Wind, blowing snow, cold, and fog can also be very uncomfortable to your eyes. Goggles are every bit as important as sunglasses. Always take both with you, even if the day seems perfect. Remember, weather changes rapidly in the mountains. It's easy to be caught unprepared.
DRESS IN LAYERS
Wearing layers keeps you warmer and lets you adjust clothing as the day gets warmer or colder. You can add or remove layers to remain comfortable. The two most important layers are the one closest to your skin and the one on the outside. The best underwear is absorbent and "wicks" perspiration away from your skin. The outermost layer, including pants, should be wind and water-resistant. Clothes such as jeans or sweatpants absorb water, making you wet and cold. You can lose tremendous amounts of body heat through the top of your head. Wear, or carry, a hat at all times. If you don’t have all the gear, check out one of our partner’s Arrive. Rent all the gear you need for a fraction of the price and have it delivered right to your door or destination.
WEAR A HELMET - IT'S A SMART IDEA: Many snowsports enthusiasts wear helmets. The best ones are light, comfortable, warm, and allow you to see and hear clearly. If you use one, you not only provide yourself added protection, you never have to worry about hats. Use a helmet that is specifically designed for snowsports. Rentals are available at Top Dog Rental shops.
UNDERSTAND YOUR FITNESS & ABILITY LEVEL: Snow sports are for everyone - regardless of age, body type, and fitness level. But it's important to work within your own fitness and ability level. Pace yourself, don't venture too far from resting places and shelter, and don't overdo it. We want you to challenge yourself to get better, but do so safely. Consider taking a lesson to help yourself progress to the next level of skiing and riding.
GO WITH THE FLOW: Always be aware of your surroundings.
If you come to a trail merge, look uphill and yield to any downhill traffic just as you would when merging onto the highway.
The skier or rider in front of you always has the right of way.
If you need to pass someone, make sure you’re giving them space to still complete their turns.
The mountain has no speed limit, but be respectful of your speed in learning areas and in popular beginning areas.
KEEP YOUR EQUIPMENT TUNED
Just like a car, your skis and board need regular maintenance for optimal performance. Sharp edges and a nice coat of wax can dramatically improve your experience on the snow. If you don’t know how to tune your gear yourself, drop off your skis/board at Sport Thoma and they’ll take care of all your tuning needs.
ARRIVE EARLY
The early bird catches the worm, and the early skier/rider gets first tracks. Leave Barn Door Hostel early! Parking is easier first thing in the morning and you’ll be treated to untouched corduroy snow or untracked powder on a snow day.
EAT WHEN OTHERS SKI, SKI WHEN OTHERS EAT
The lunchtime hours are busy in the Base Lodge. There are longer lines for food and less seating available. Eat early or eat late. Go in for lunch around 11am and then enjoy the slopes while everyone else is eating. Or work up an appetite by waiting until 1pm for lunch.
Sources: www.waterville.com
