Skiing Mount Washington's Valley with Kevin Clarke: New England Terrain, History, and Four Mountains
- John Morgan
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
When skiers talk about destinations in the Northeast, Mount Washington Valley belongs at the top of the list. Centered around the town of North Conway, New Hampshire, this compact region delivers something rare in modern skiing: four distinct ski areas — Attitash, Cranmore, Wildcat, and Black Mountain — all within about 15 minutes of town, each with its own personality, history, and terrain. There's a reason North Conway is listed by USA Today as the best ski town beating the likes of Jackson, Aspen, and Ketchum.
In this episode of Where to Ski, host John Morgan sits down with longtime local, ski coach, and World Pro Ski Tour announcer Kevin Clarke to unpack why Mount Washington Valley remains one of the most rewarding ski regions in New England.
Skiing in Mount Washington Valley dates back to the 1920s, when local farmers welcomed winter visitors to supplement their income. By the 1930s, investment followed — lifts, lodges, and ski schools transforming the valley into a Northeast hub.
One of the most influential figures in American skiing, Hannes Schneider, fled Austria during World War II and landed at Cranmore Mountain, where he ran the ski school and resort operations until his death in 1955. Schneider’s techniques helped shape modern ski instruction, making Cranmore a historic cornerstone of American skiing.
Attitash: A Modern Mountain with Old-School Roots
Attitash offers one of the most balanced ski experiences in the valley. Expanded years ago to include Bear Peak, the mountain now blends excellent beginner terrain, strong intermediate cruising, and legitimately challenging expert runs.
Advanced skiers gravitate to Illusion — an FIS-homologated race trail — and the steep, rolling pitch of Avenger, both on Bear Peak. Meanwhile, the Attitash base area features learning zones and progression terrain ideal for developing skiers. Recent infrastructure investments, including snowmaking upgrades and new lifts, have elevated Attitash into a reliable all-level destination.
Mt. Cranmore: Sun, History, and Community
Located right in downtown North Conway, Cranmore Mountain is known for its sunny exposure — locals joke it should be called “Tanmore.” With wide, forgiving trails and excellent race programs, Cranmore is especially friendly to families and intermediates.
The mountain’s modern upgrades contrast beautifully with its legacy, from historic photos of 1930s ski crowds to lively traditions like the Mountain Meister race series, where generations of former racers gather for competition, beers, and bragging rights.
Wildcat: Views, Vert, and New England Grit
If you want dramatic scenery and pure New England skiing, Wildcat Mountain delivers. Sitting directly across from Tuckerman Ravine, Wildcat boasts some of the most stunning views in the eastern United States.
With over 2,100 vertical feet per lap and a high-speed quad to the summit, Wildcat skis fast and hard. Its narrow, winding trails and cold temperatures help preserve snow, making it a favorite for spring skiing. Tree skiing and off-piste terrain shine after natural snowfalls — though Kevin warns that adventurous lines can come with core shots and consequences.
Black Mountain: Revival, Character, and Late-Season Energy
Once on the brink, Black Mountain has found new life under innovative ownership. With upgraded snowmaking, creative events, and a buzzing mid-mountain bar scene, Black Mountain has become a local favorite.
In recent seasons, the mountain has stayed open into May, concentrating snowmaking on key trails and creating a festive spring atmosphere complete with music, beach chairs, and après gatherings that feel distinctly New England.
Why
What makes Mount Washington Valley special isn’t just one mountain — it’s the density of choice. Skiers can chase sun at Cranmore, lap vertical at Wildcat, explore terrain variety at Attitash, and soak up character at Black Mountain, all without long drives.
Add in easy access from Boston, strong snowmaking, deep ski history, and a vibrant après scene in North Conway, and the valley offers one of the most complete ski experiences in the Northeast. North Conway offers more than just skiing. Charming shops, restaurants and bars, as well as multiple cozy hotels and B&Bs are scattered through this valley.
Check out
Best Breakfast - Gemini Cafe & Bakery
Best Tune - Pro Tune
🎧 Listen to the full Mount Washington Valley episode of the Where to Ski podcast at wheretoski.org
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