Summer In Waterville
Waterville Valley is not only a winter playground, it's a year-round oasis for outdoor explorers, nature lovers, and adventure-seekers. Summer brings a new season of outdoor thrills and vibrant events, there's no shortage of ways to have fun in the sun. A summer getaway to Waterville is sure to delight the soul and strengthen bonds. The guide below is a compilation of local recommendations and insider information, all aimed at helping you make the most of your summer vacation.
SUMMER EVENTS
From weekly live outdoor concerts to annual food festivals, Waterville Valley is a hub for summer events. Most events happen in Town Square, a charming cluster of local shops, unique restaurants, and exciting activities. During the summer, several weekly events are 100% free and 1,000% fun!
Local musicians take the Gazebo Stage every weekend during July and August. Waterville Valley is an open container town, so you can enjoy an adult libation in Town Square and groove to live music.
Enjoy outdoor movie nights every Thursday during the summer. Pack snacks, lawn chairs, and blankets, and watch a family-friendly film under the stars.
Every Sunday, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center hosts the Animal Encounter Series in the lower level of Town Square. Expert naturalists present live animals while inspiring and informing animal lovers of all ages. Every week there's a different animal theme, so there's always something new to learn!
Dive into Waterville's intriguing past on a Historical Trolley Tour. These informative tours take place every Sunday and depart from the Town Square trolley stop. Local historians share facts about Waterville's rich history while cruising around town, pointing out landmarks and notable locales.
SIGNATURE SUMMER EVENTS
FREEDOM PASS
Spend the day biking, boating, playing tennis, swimming in outdoor pools, riding Snow's Mountain Chairlift, relaxing in steam and sauna rooms, and more! With the Freedom Pass, you can access many of the best activities in the valley and score exclusive discounts and perks. Freedom Passes are included in lodging stays at Town Square Condos, Silver Fox Inn, and several of Waterville Valley's participating lodges.
HIKING
Waterville Valley is home to 125+ miles of hiking trails, 5 of the White Mountain 4,000-footers, and a plethora of stunning vistas. The town is surrounded by over 700,000 acres of nationally protected land, so there's no shortage of pristine natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a high alpine trek, waterfall promenades or multi-day excursions, Waterville has a hike that will suit every age and stage.
POPULAR HIKES
BIKING
Biking around the valley is an exhilarating way to admire gorgeous scenery and explore the White Mountain National Forest. Waterville has over 50 miles of mountain biking trails, including a lift-serviced trail system. This trail system is perfect for beginner-intermediate bikers. Road biking is also popular given our safe, scenic roadways. Stop by the Adventure Center in Town Square for bike rentals, trail information, and route recommendations from local experts.
DISC GOLF
If you've never played disc golf before, you're missing out. This fun, laid-back sport allows you to engage in some friendly competition while taking in mountain vistas. Waterville is lucky to have two professionally maintained courses. The Town Square 9-Hole Course is a great beginner course with no shortage of scenic tees. Waterville's 18-Hole Course is incredibly unique as it sprawls across the old ski trails on Snow's Mountain. Begin with a chairlift ride to the summit and then play your way down the mountain!
SNOW'S MOUNTAIN CHAIRLIFT
Offering stunning views of Mount Osceola and Mount Tecumseh, Snow's Mountain Chairlift brings you into the heart of the White Mountains. Take in the views with a scenic round-trip ride. You can also take the chairlift up to shorten your hike to Cascades Falls. Every Sunday morning during July, August and September, you can catch the Sunday Morning Church Chair. This non-denominational church service takes place at the summit of Snow’s Mountain in serene birch grove. The chairlift ride is complimentary for the service, with chair loading taking place from 8:30-8:50am.
MORE ACTIVITIES
From boating to golf, rollerblading to swimming, the town of Waterville Valley has an incredible lineup of awesome activities!
AREA ATTRACTIONS
When vacationing in the Valley, there's never really any need to go beyond Route 49. But if you're looking to explore beyond the Valley and experience the spirit of the White Mountains, Waterville Valley makes a fabulous base for exploration. While Waterville Valley is tucked away deep in the White Mountains, it's also centrally located - only 15 minutes away from Interstate 93, with easy access to Franconia, Lincoln, and Conway plus Plymouth and the Lakes Region. Below is a list of excursions, explorations, and activities for families of all ages - all within a 30-minute drive of Waterville Valley.
P.S. Think Snow!