LINCOLN-WOODSTOCK, N.H., Dec. 19, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- The moderate paces of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing provide the best way to see the woods, fields, and rime-frosted ridges of the winter landscape, and New Hampshire's Lincoln-Woodstock region -- amid the stunning scenery of the White Mountain National Forest -- offers some of the most spectacular trekking in New England. Whether you choose cross-country skiing on groomed trails or opt to snowshoe into the back woods, the region offers breathtaking trails for all ability levels and numerous options for equipment rentals, lessons, and guided or self-guided outings.
The Lincoln-Woodstock area straddles Interstate 93, the main north-south thoroughfare of New Hampshire. Just inside the White Mountain National Forest, it is an easy reach from points south, offering visitors a winter sports getaway in some of the most spectacular scenery in the East. More than 50 lodging choices include several -- types of packages with accommodations that range from classic country inns, to fully equipped condominiums, to full-service resorts.
The Lincoln Woods Trail, just outside Lincoln on the Kancamagus Highway, is a haven for snowshoers and Nordic skiers. Sheltered by a canopy of trees, the trail leads to Black Pond, Franconia Falls, and the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Experienced trekkers can head off into the backwoods to explore trails leading to other stunning vistas.
"If you can walk you can snowshoe," is an old proverb that still holds true -- particularly with today's high-tech, durable snowshoes that are designed for a variety of terrain and snow conditions. Cross-country skiing (also called Nordic skiing) is equally easy to learn, and with your body weight distributed over the surface of long, straight skis, you can skim along on top of deep snow. Two rental outfitters in Lincoln-Woodstock offer visitors the chance to try snowshoeing or Nordic skiing with experienced guides. North Country Adventures offers half-day snowshoe tours that include lunch from the Sunny Day Diner, rental, transport, and guided instruction for $39.95. Out Back Kayak rents snowshoes and Nordic skis for $15/hour and also offers guided tours.
The Mountain Wanderer Map and Bookstore in Lincoln sells White Mountains maps and guidebooks, and proprietor Steve Smith is happy to offer trail advice to visitors. "The Flume Trail has an excellent snowshoe loop and is also great for cross country. Lincoln-Woodstock is a great place for these sports."
Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln offers 35 km of meticulously groomed trails that wind along the Pemigewasset River with loops for all abilities. Snowshoers can explore Loon's network of both alpine and cross-country trails. Rentals, lessons and workshops, and trail passes are available at Loon's Adventure Center.
Franconia Inn's 105 km of trails on National Forest land and Franconia Notch State Park offer scenic and loops for all ability levels. The inn's cross-country ski escape includes two nights lodging, gourmet dinners each evening, a trail pass, and Nordic ski or snowshoe rentals from $145 pp/do. The Nordic Centers at both inns also offer lessons for beginners.
For more information please call the Lincoln-Woodstock Chamber of Commerce at 603-745-6621 or visit www.lincolnwoodstock.com.