My wife and I stood at the precipice of excitement. For me, the seasoned mountain biker, this was a chance to rediscover the magic of the trail while also giving my wife the gift of a new experience. For her, it was an entirely new world—an opportunity to embrace the thrill of mountain biking for the first time.
The day began with a buzz of excitement as we headed to the bike rental shop in Waterville Valley. With the Freedom Pass in hand, we were granted a 2-hour standard mountain bike rental each day of our stay. The friendly staff at the shop issued us helmets, stressing the importance of safety on the trails. The staff also took the time to ensure we had the right-sized bikes, fitting them to our comfort and making sure we were all set for an unforgettable ride.
With our bikes and helmets secured, we set off towards the ski lift that would take us up Snow’s Mountain. Along the way, we passed by the historic 9-hole golf course, which we unfortunately didn’t have the chance to experience ourselves. Created in the late 1800s by summer residents seeking outdoor fun, the golf course officially opened in 1898, making it one of New Hampshire’s oldest courses. Its open and casual atmosphere has endured through the years, offering golfers of all ages and abilities a chance to enjoy spectacular views of the White Mountains as they play.
We also caught glimpses of the 18 award-winning clay tennis courts, which were part of the renowned Waterville Valley Tennis Club. Named one of the Top 50 tennis resorts in America by Tennis Magazine and ranked number 13 in the world by Tennis Resorts Online, the club offers exceptional facilities and programs for all tennis enthusiasts.
At the base of the ski lift, our bikes hooked to the lift chairs ahead of us and we followed, enjoying the scenery. As the chairlift carried us upward, we admired the golf course and tennis courts from above, making mental notes to return for these experiences in the future. Someday soon, maybe, but for that morning, the mountain biking adventure ahead beckoned, promising an immersive encounter with the natural wonders of Waterville Valley.
As the ski lift gently ascended Snow’s Mountain, a serene sense of anticipation washed over us. The rhythmic clanking of the lift’s machinery accompanied the tranquil rustle of leaves in the breeze, creating a soothing symphony that set the stage for the adventure ahead. With each passing moment, we rose higher above the valley floor, granting us sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The forest canopy enveloped us, providing a cool respite from the warm summer sun. The quietude of the moment allowed us to savor the tranquility of nature and to mentally prepare for the thrilling journey that lay ahead.
Our ascent came to a gentle stop at the mountain’s summit. To our surprise and delight, a retired opera singer stood by, greeting us with a warm smile and a melodious voice. With a touch of theatrical flair, he helped us off the lift, offering encouraging words and imparting local wisdom about the best routes down the mountain. His presence added an enchanting touch to the adventure, reminding us that the journey ahead was not just about mountain biking, but also about immersing ourselves in the unique charm of Waterville Valley.
We had our choice of trails, over 50 miles of them. No terror-inducing double-diamond high adventure this time, we chose the wide, well-established path that gently led us mostly downhill through scenery and serenity.
The path wound its way through the dense forest, revealing snippets of the surrounding natural beauty as we rode along. A beautiful stream glistened in the sunlight, its babbling waters providing a soothing soundtrack to our ride. The trail seemed to have a life of its own, guiding us through a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds. Butterflies danced in abundance, adding a touch of enchantment to our surroundings. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and we could feel the thrill of adventure coursing through our veins.
While we took it slow and easy, it was easy to see how seasoned riders could test their mettle on the more challenging paths.
Waterville Valley’s mountain biking trails catered to all levels of skill and courage, promising an exhilarating experience for everyone. Yet, even on our leisurely journey, we felt the magic of the trail unfold before us, as if the mountains themselves were welcoming us into their embrace.
The descent offered an opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in nature’s splendor.
The forest canopy provided a cool shade, sheltering us from the sun’s rays. The trail occasionally opened up to reveal awe-inspiring vistas, showcasing the beauty of the White Mountain National Forest. The gentle downhill stretches allowed us to pick up speed and embrace the thrill of the ride, while the more level parts granted us time to savor the sights and sounds around us.
As we continued our mountain biking adventure, my wife’s confidence grew, and her smile widened with each successive turn and momentum-creating slope. It was a testament to the allure of mountain biking and the enchantment of Waterville Valley’s trails.
Despite our careful and leisurely pace, our mountain biking adventure wasn’t completely without mishap. As we descended the trail, taking in the beauty of the forest, a sudden blur of speed caught us off guard. A much faster cyclist zipped past, startling my wife, and causing her to lose balance and take a spill. Thankfully, she arose undaunted, and it served as a reminder to stay vigilant on the trail.
On reaching the base of the mountain, the exhilaration of the descent was accompanied by a sense of accomplishment. We had conquered Snow’s Mountain on our terms, reveling in the thrill of adventure while taking time to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us. My wife’s first mountain biking experience had been a success, and we couldn’t have asked for a more enchanting setting than Waterville Valley.
We traded our downhill glide for a leisurely ride on Waterville Valley’s roadways. Our path led us past the Coyote Grille, our chosen dining venue for the evening. The tantalizing aroma of grilled delicacies wafted through the air, reminding us of our delicious dinner the previous night.
The menu had offered an array of tantalizing options, and we couldn’t resist trying the Point Judith calamari, prepared Rhode Island style—tender and spicy, a burst of flavors that danced on our taste buds. Equally enticing was the Prince Edward Island mussels sautéed in a white wine garlic sauce, a divine combination of taste and aroma. Appetizers such as the salad made with julienne pink lady apple, baby greens, shaved red onion, candied pecans, and cave-aged bleu cheese in a roasted shallot vinaigrette, and the Thai spring roll featuring marinated grilled chicken and julienne vegetables, showcased the chef’s expertise in blending unique flavors.
The Coyote Grille’s inviting pub atmosphere added an extra layer of enjoyment to our dining experience. Live music on Fridays lent an air of festivity to the evening, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable dinner. Each bite, accompanied by cheerful tunes and friendly chatter from fellow diners, had made our evening at the Coyote Grille a true delight.
We also made our way past an abundance of lodgings, including the Valley Inn, our chosen haven of comfort which offered more than just a cozy room. It boasted an array of amenities designed to make guests feel right at home. The inviting lobby, adorned with fireplaces and plush couches, created a warm and welcoming ambiance. For those seeking leisure and relaxation, the seasonal outdoor pool provided the perfect spot to bask in the sun. Additionally, the guest laundry and meeting spaces catered to practical needs and business travelers alike, ensuring that every aspect of our stay was nothing short of delightful. With a central location, the Valley Inn provided easy access to the athletic center, offering a range of amenities to relax and unwind after a day of mountain biking.
Our route led us to the Town Square, the heart of the village, bringing us to its quaint shops, charming cafes, and friendly locals enjoying the summer day. The Village Condominium and Town Square Condos stood proudly, offering guests a front-row seat to the vibrant village life. We couldn’t help but feel grateful for the Freedom Pass, which allowed us to explore every nook and cranny of this picturesque destination, making our experience truly immersive and rewarding.
Amidst the picturesque landscape of Waterville Valley lies serene Corcoran’s Pond, adding another layer of charm to this delightful destination. The spring-fed pond provides the perfect setting for leisurely water activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, pedal boating, and stand-up paddleboarding. As the sunlight dances on the shimmering waters, we found ourselves drawn to the tranquil beauty of the lake, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The Freedom Pass provided us with the opportunity to rent any of these watercraft, and we relished the chance to explore the lake’s hidden coves and captivating shoreline. Whether gliding gently across the water or simply basking in the tranquility of the surroundings, the lake at Waterville Valley offered a peaceful respite—a moment of pure bliss amid the grandeur of the White Mountain National Forest.
At the adventure center we dismounted our bikes. We exchanged knowing smiles, relishing the shared memories we had created on this unforgettable journey. The one minor spill, caused by a fleeting moment of surprise, did nothing to dampen the spirit of our adventure. Instead, it became a tale to be told, a testament to the exhilarating unpredictability of mountain biking and the promise of danger and excitement should we take the more rugged trails on our next visit..
Recreating our mountain biking adventure in Waterville Valley is both accessible and rewarding. To begin, securing a Freedom Pass is the key to unlocking the full range of activities this charming village has to offer. The pass not only grants access to the 2-hour standard mountain bike rental each day but also provides the opportunity to explore a myriad of other exciting pursuits, from golf and tennis to canoeing, swimming, and even ice skating at the indoor arena.
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant village center, as shops, cafes, and friendly locals invite you to explore and experience the authentic
The heartbeat of Waterville Valley resides not only in its natural splendor but also in its vibrant cultural calendar. Throughout the summer, the village’s Town Center came alive with a tapestry of events, weaving together concerts, festivals, theater performances, art exhibits, and captivating nature presentations. From friendly competitions to joyous celebrations, there was always something to entice visitors of all ages. Imbued with a sense of community and camaraderie, the village invites visitors to partake in the festivities, promising an enriching experience that added a touch of magic to our summer escape.
If you can’t make it for summer mountain biking, don’t forget that Waterville Valley has an amazing winter adventure waiting for you. When the snow blankets the landscape, the village transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an array of exciting activities to delight snow enthusiasts. Hit the slopes at the ski resort, where well-groomed trails cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Embrace the serenity of the snowy woods with snowshoeing, or glide gracefully across the ice at the indoor ice arena. With its picturesque surroundings and a host of winter activities, Waterville Valley invites visitors to discover its charm in every season, promising unforgettable experiences for all who seek the magic of the mountains during winter.
As we reflected on our adventure, we realized that Waterville Valley was more than just a destination—it was a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be uncovered. We carried with us the memories of our mountain biking adventure—the crunch of tires on gravel, the breeze across our faces, and the laughter that echoed through the forest.
Paul not only writes many of the articles in the pages of this magazine, he is also the publisher and editor of all of the magazines in the Amygis Publishing’s family of travel magazines. He loves exploring, traveling the back roads, experiencing the world, and finding what is unique and memorable about the places he visits.
And he loves writing – poetry, short stories, essays, non-fiction, news, and. of course, travel writing.
For over 20 years, he has shared his explorations with readers in a wide variety of outlets, from groundbreaking forays into the first stirrings of the dot-com boom to travel guides, local newspapers, and television, including Runner’s World, Travel Lady, Providence Journal, and Northstar Travel Media. He currently publishes and writes for Amygis Publishing’s magazines Jaunting, Northeast Traveler, and Rhode Island Roads.