Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
5
Ski & Snowboard Areas • Cross-country Ski Areas • Kayaking & Canoeing
Read more
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Full view
About
Located at the base of the Mt. Washington Auto Road in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire, family-owned Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center offers seasonal activities and events for families, friends and groups of all ages. In the winter, enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snow tubing, as well as tours on the Mt. Washington Auto Road SnowCoach, an unparalleled adventure. We groom over 20 kilometers of trails and have an additional 25 kilometers of un-groomed off-track ski and snowshoe trails that are dog friendly. We rent high quality equipment including skis, boots, and poles along with snowshoes and fatbikes. Our top-notch Ski School offers the best instruction for beginners to advanced skiers. In the summer, take a leisurely 1/2-day wildlife kayak tour, or rent a cruiser bike for the rolling carriage roads. Seek out more challenging terrain with a mountain bike rental, or take a whitewater kayak clinic. Trail pass not required for walking / running. Dogs welcome on all trails!
Gorham, New Hampshire
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2022
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingSimilar Experiences
Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
Booking unavailable on Tripadvisor
Want other options you can book now?
Show optionsTravelers talk about
(196 reviews)
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
875 reviews
Excellent
771
Very good
76
Average
11
Poor
7
Terrible
10
V P
Cape Cod, MA9 contributions
Jan 2023 • Family
This is a wonderful place for all things winter! There is something for everyone in the family. We loved their tubing - very safe (we have been to other places before where our hearts skipped a beat every time one of the children went down the hill), well maintained area and truly enjoyable. Hot cocoa and s’mores for sale at the top was such a nice bonus! We purchased tickets online ahead of time and signed wavers as well, so check in was super fast. I also enjoyed an afternoon of cross country skiing. Their trails are pretty amazing, with lovely views and a nice variety for all skill levels. If you are a novice, I highly recommend staying closer to the tubing hill area and looking for green markers (trail map helps!) as those trails further up mean business. There was no restaurant open in the main lodge, however, there were plenty of tables to sit at if you packed your own lunch.
Written January 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
bobinnh2022
Haverhill, NH6 contributions
Aug 2022
Make it a must every year to take advantage of the relaxed schedule for ATV rides up Mt Washington on the auto road. Like that they have actually paved the top dirt section of the road this year. Always seem to time it right to beat crowds going up and down allowing photos enroute. My secret not to share however. Staff in the main office has always been helpful if warranted situations arise.
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
imaginew0rldpeace
Spencer, MA4 contributions
May 2022
Absolutely amazing. We went on a guided morning wildlife kayaking tour and loved every second of it. We did not want it to end. My husband and I had never been kayaking before or anything even close to paddling. Our tour guide, Nate, was incredible. His entire vibe was spot on - we couldn't have asked for more. I have some physical limitations with my legs and he was incredibly helpful and thoughtful in the best way. He didn't make a big deal about it, which I can't tell you enough how much I appreciated that, and I felt safe and confidant under his watch. He helped me in and out of the kayak and made sure we were all comfortable and prepared before venturing into the water (there was my husband and I and two other gentlemen). He was very informative and knowledgeable. Nate and an additional guide, Andy (who was also so great), took us by van to the Androscoggin River and the sights were beautiful. My husband and I can't wait to go back to do it all over again. We're already planning our next trip back. I highly recommend this experience!
Oh, and, Nate held onto my phone for me and took some awesome pictures of my husband and I in action!! They are memories we will keep forever!!
Oh, and, Nate held onto my phone for me and took some awesome pictures of my husband and I in action!! They are memories we will keep forever!!
Written May 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Danielle
Washington DC, DC2 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
My son (15) and I had an amazing time on a half day guided kayak tour with Clark today! Clark was very knowledgeable about the area so in many ways our tour started before we hit the water. We loved hearing the history of the towns and of the water itself. Clark was as patient as he was kind, explaining all safety details, but also putting our minds at ease as first time paddlers. He was quick to point out osprey, young eagles, and an adult bald eagle as it flew overhead. Paddling was work but we took time to relax and hear the sounds and see the sights (which included moose tracks).
We were happy to know we’d be crossing into Maine on our tour. We found the river to be calm and easy to navigate for first timers. Even at the end when it got more choppy, Clark did a fantastic job guiding us through and building our confidence along the way. And, we were pleased that although chilly and windy on the mountains, once we hit the water it was quite pleasant.
The scenery, the fresh air, the wildlife, and the company made this day a tremendous success. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone, regardless of kayaking experience. We hope to see you again soon, thank you Clark!!
We were happy to know we’d be crossing into Maine on our tour. We found the river to be calm and easy to navigate for first timers. Even at the end when it got more choppy, Clark did a fantastic job guiding us through and building our confidence along the way. And, we were pleased that although chilly and windy on the mountains, once we hit the water it was quite pleasant.
The scenery, the fresh air, the wildlife, and the company made this day a tremendous success. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone, regardless of kayaking experience. We hope to see you again soon, thank you Clark!!
Written June 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Megan Scheid
1 contribution
Feb 2023
Great trip up the Mountain in a snow coach.
Claude the driver of our van was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the area in general and specifically the history and geology of Mt Washington. Which he shared in an informative yet friendly way on the drive up and back.
Mark, the driver of the 2nd van got out once we reached 4300 feet and walked around with the group taking our pictures and even getting in some selfies! The two drives complemented each other well for an overall great experience.
The weather was cold -12 with the wind chill and the visibility was limited but it was still a trip of a life time. Getting to safely see that climate knowing the warm coach was nearby!!!
Claude the driver of our van was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the area in general and specifically the history and geology of Mt Washington. Which he shared in an informative yet friendly way on the drive up and back.
Mark, the driver of the 2nd van got out once we reached 4300 feet and walked around with the group taking our pictures and even getting in some selfies! The two drives complemented each other well for an overall great experience.
The weather was cold -12 with the wind chill and the visibility was limited but it was still a trip of a life time. Getting to safely see that climate knowing the warm coach was nearby!!!
Written February 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Terry K
Salem, NH4 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
This was the 2nd year in a row that we took the snow coach up and snowshoed down. Ride up was great, drivers were very knowledgeable and engaging, and our safety on our walk down was their #1 concern. We'll be back next year!!
Written January 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Deb
Bristol, Rhode Island5 contributions
Jan 2022
My husband and I have been cross-country skiing at Great Glen for many years. Although we have always LOVED the trails, the employees/management (Nate, Eli, Sue, and Howie), this is the first review I have ever written. COVID has brought many shifts and safety concerns over the past two years, and the Great Glen policies are reasonable and helpful to their customers. Everyone, including employees, that enter the lodge are required to mask. THANK YOU. I recently had a stem cell transplant, and I appreciate this level of protection as we muddle our way through the Omicron surge. Since masks are required, skiers are permitted to come in, put on and store gear in lockers. Unfortunately, the Bretton Woods and Jackson cross-country ski areas do not permit customers in their lodges to change clothes. The recent single digit temperatures make it very uncomfortable to change in cars. Also, Great Glen trails are wide open with no debris; how wonderful it is not to worry about skiing on a branch or some other tree droppings! Finally, I was shocked to see the variety of ski gear, clothing for sale. Bretton Woods has only a small boutique and Jackson has no clothing. I highly recommend skiing at Great Glen. You will be greeted by the most helpful and friendly staff. Just ask for Nate, Eli, or Sue in rentals. You won't be disappointed.
Written January 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
csherm417
1 contribution
Sep 2022 • Family
It was very relaxing and enjoyable. The guide was very skilled with assisting us onto the river and driving the van to the launch site and from the exit point. He was also very knowledgeable about the history and local flora/fauna in the area. A lot of nice scenery, while I was kayaking and got to see a couple of bald eagles (fairly close distance) as well.
Written October 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bob0-1A8B
Rochester, NH1 contribution
Jan 2022
A winter trip up the Mount Washington Auto Road was a lot of fun on a very cold day. The driver and attendant were full of factoids about the history of the road and the mountain. The Snow Coach cannot venture above tree line because they are a little top heavy and the wind speeds above tree line are dangerous. The trip is very safe, warm and a great way to enjoy the tallest mountain in the eastern US in winter. Highly recommended! By the way, the temperature on the summit ( we only went 2/3 of the way up) was -10 degrees F and the wind chill was around -50! When we left the base lodge the temp was around 4 or 5 degrees F. Tips to the crew are appreciated.
Written January 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you so much Bob for your time to leave a review! So glad you enjoyed the tour, and the weather experience on Mt. Washington. We look forward to seeing you here another time!
Written January 14, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amanda
Lancaster, NH3 contributions
Jan 2021
My Boys and I love coming here to snow tube. However, this last experience wasn't the best. The weather wasn't kind to the tubing hill so there was no tubing. There was no refund or change of reservations. I will say the only thing deserving of 5 stars was Roger. People were wet, cold and complaining but Roger made everyone smile and turned a bad situation into something positive. Great Glen you have an AMAZING employee.
Written January 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hi Travelingmom,
Thank you so much for sharing your feedback, both on conditions and on Roger. Glad you can tell how much he truly loves his job here in the winter! Sorry you didn't have a good time tubing. I'll share this feedback both with Roger and with management on how we can better serve our guests when the conditions on the tubing hill are not all that favorable. Again, thanks for your time to share your thoughts.
Written January 23, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mae
Montreal, Canada2 contributions
Are small dogs allowed in the snow coach ride?
Ecolocomotive
Charles Town, WV27 contributions
I do not believe so
ucfknight12
Lowell, MA14 contributions
Can toddlers do the snow tubing?
Nate H
North Conway, NH1 contribution
Sure. They would be under your supervision and would be at no charge.
Call for more details day of. 603-466-2333
-Nate
NicoleLeigh1994
46 contributions
I was really looking forward to renting a bike at the outdoor center and checking out the trails.
I have been snowshoeing here before and had a blast!
I will be in NH from Oct 26th to the 29th. But the outdoor center closes on the 21st! Why is this?! Does anyone have any suggestions of similar places where I could rent a bike and enjoy easy to navigate trails?
Thanks for any feedback!
Nate H
North Conway, NH1 contribution
That time of year you are welcome to walk our trails but the bike rentals are shut down in order to prep the building for winter use.
Jenna G
9 contributions
Could the animal scavenger hunt be done on foot by kids? In other words how widespread are the stations where the kids get their stamps? We are planning a July visit and not all of the kids in our group like to bike.
EGGORHAMNH
Gorham, NH24 contributions
Yes. Absolutely. The stations are spread out over the trail system; only on the carriage roads an not on the single track bike trails. They are very visible and fun to find. Walking is always free on the trails and if you are lucky you could see the live wildlife that call Great Glen home.