Loon Mountain — with convenient location (only 2.5 hours from Boston) and proximity to quintessential New England towns has long been a favorite of many skiers and riders. Offering activities as varied as the terrain, there is something for everyone in all four seasons. We recently caught up with Kevin Bell, VP Marketing at Loon, to find out what’s new and exciting about this New Hampshire destination and here are some highlights that we wanted to share with you!
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1. What is different at Loon Mountain this season? What are some of the improvements you’ve made?
Kevin: We were busy this summer. Our snowmakers replaced all the snowmaking pipe on the Flying Fox trail and re-routed the snowmaking towers to the trail’s western edge to take better advantage of prevailing winds. Those two changes have drastically improved the snowmaking efficiency on one of our most popular trails and helped us to open it earlier this season.
We also replaced the deck at the Paul Bunyan Room, our most popular après spot, and did a complete remodel of the adjoining Slopeside Deli. Those are two improvements that will have a big impact on our lunch and après-ski scene this winter.
We also expanded our innovative First Class Beginner’s Weekend program to include snowboarders this winter. Snowboarders who enroll in the program will be treated to an immersive weekend-long learning experience that includes daily lessons, lift tickets, a slopeside learning lounge, and their own new Burton snowboard, plus boots and bindings. We’ve offered the program to beginner skiers for several years, and we’re beyond excited to open it up to aspiring snowboarders this winter.
2. Loon Mountain is known for the terrain parks – How many parks are there for each ability level and what is the most popular park?
Loon has six main terrain parks that cater to every level of skier and rider. Beginners can get started in the Burton Lil’ Stash and Burton Progression Park before moving on to medium-size features in our Little Sister Park. The next step up is Springboard Park, which offers plenty medium-sized jumps and jibs. Finally, there’s Loon Mountain Park. Clocking in at nearly a mile in length, it’s home to the largest features on the mountain, and is arguably our most popular park. At the end of that park, you can drop into New Hampshire’s only Superpipe before riding up on the Gondola for another lap.
3. What kind of activities are available at Loon Mountain that are not ski/snowboard related?
We’ve got a ton of off-mountain activities here at Loon. Head over to the Adventure Center to zipline across the Pemigewasset River, cross-country ski, or snowshoe. We also offer snow tubing, and kids love to ride the J.E. Henry Railroad, our antique steam locomotive that transports people between our two main base lodges.
4. What is your favorite run or feature ?
Cruiser, over on South Peak, is my favorite. It’s a wide-open trail fit for ripping carves – hence the name. It’s especially good on spring days because it’s still getting full sun at the end of the day. South Peak has big views of Lincoln and the surrounding mountain peaks coupled with diverse terrain – it’s where I spend most of my days on the mountain.
6. What is the one MUST-DO for first timers at Loon Mountain?
If it’s a nice, clear day, head up to North Peak. From the summit you’ll find amazing views of the White Mountains, from Franconia Ridge to the North all the way east to Mount Washington. From there, try Upper Walking Boss or Sunset, two of the most iconic, beautiful trails on the mountain.
7. What do families enjoy the most about Loon?
Loon just checks a lot of the boxes for families. It’s big mountain with easy access from the Boston area and southern New Hampshire. There are three mountain peaks – each of them have their own unique feel with varying terrain and stunning views. Plus, the towns of Lincoln & Woodstock offer plenty of lodging options and nightlife.
8. Let’s talk Apres-ski! Where is the best place to enjoy the apres-ski?
The Paul Bunyan Room is my personal favorite après spot. It has 32 beers on tap, the deck is an awesome place to enjoy a beer on warm spring afternoons, and it’s conveniently located near the Gondola. Another great feature is the Mug Club, which has more than 700 members. The Bunyan Room feels more like a community than an après spot, which is what makes it special.
We hope you get the chance to visit Loon Mountain soon, it should be next on your list! From terrain parks for all the young shredders, to the three peaks that feature views for days, there is so much to love about Loon. But there is something special there that Kevin sums up perfectly:
The community of Loon is what makes this place special. It’s a group of passionate people–both guests and staff–who are welcoming. I’m a firm believer that people make places.
Thank you Kevin for taking the time to share your thoughts, and we can’t wait to see you on the mountain!
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