New Hampshire's Lakes Region is the picture of natural beauty.
When the winter season sweeps in, the expanse of Lake Winnipesaukee freezes over and a blanket of white covers the forested mountains along the shore.
Looking down on the broads, the large open section of the lake, Gunstock Mountain offers the perfect vantage point to take in the winter scenery and enjoy some prime time skiing.
Started in 1937, Gunstock has a long tradition in downhill skiing.
One of the first ski mountains on the east coast of the United States, this alpine gem offers a great ski destination for anyone looking to explore the Lakes Region.
To get the most out of your Gunstock ski getaway you are going to have to plan your adventure accordingly.
Layers, layers, Layers.
Gunstock is situated along the flat open area of Lake Winnipesaukee in central New Hampshire.
The weather can be moody, as most new englanders can attest to, and when a cold front comes in there is very little land mass to block the winds.
Wearing layers will ensure you can keep cool on the warmest days while having the gear to enjoy yourself if it gets cold.
Start beginners off on the right foot.
Generally with any ski vacation there are various ski levels in the group.
This can lead to expert level skiers hanging back with first timers.
Not the optimal way to shred up the slopes on one of your few ski days.
If you do have new skiers in your group, Gunstock has one of the best beginner ski schools in the county.
This comes from years of teaching the local kids how to ski.
Have your fresh skiers try out a day or two in the ski school.
This strategy will help get them adjusted to the mountain and ensure they are able to keep up better when they do join the group.
Get there early.
This rule should apply to any and all ski mountains.
Fortunately Gunstock Mountain is only an hour and a half from Boston.
If you are looking for a full day of skiing, an early start shouldn't be too painful for any city dwellers.
Beating the crowds will ensure you spend less time waiting in line for tickets and decrease your walking distance from the parking lots.
We all know that feeling of lugging our gear a mile and a half to the lodge.
When it comes to ski chairs, mix it up.
Many visitors to Gunstock will stick to the high-speed quad that runs to the summit.
On the midweek days the quad is a sure fire way to maximize your runs.
On the weekends too many people share that same strategy.
Don't be afraid to try some of the other lifts like Tiger Chair.
You will deal with less people on a busy day and it gives you a chance to experience more terrain which is half the point of any ski getaway.
Save your stomach for the après ski.
As with any lodge fare, the prices can be high and the offerings limited.
While Gunstock does a decent job at providing onsite food, the area restaurants also cater to the ski crowd.
For some real local flavor, head on over to the Ellacoya Barn and Grill.
This converted hundred year old barn is a hotspot for die-hard ski fans with plenty of hearty food and cold drinks.
Last but not least, find the right place to stay.
The Lakes Region has a variety of lodging choices from simple motels to full service resorts.
Value is king.
Great ski and stay deals, plus nice amenities are the perfect combination for your Gunstock lodging.
Many of these establishments have been catering to the ski crowd since the beginning.
They know that a hot meal and a hot tub after a day on the slopes equals a happy skier.
With a little research, lodging shouldn't be hard to find.
Gunstock is a great ski experience and families flock to the mountain year after year.
If you have never been, you will soon learn that the slopes almost rival the sites from the top.
Follow a few simple steps and you are sure to have a memorable ski getaway that will keep you returning for years to come.