Bear Notch Ski Touring Center — Hotel in Bartlett

I'm not sure if I love cross country skiing, or if I just know I love cross country skiing at Bear Notch. The owners and workers are beyond friendly, they even offer freshly baked bread to all of their skiers if you come early enough! The first few times I adventured out, I did not cross the street and began the trek up the mountain. Here, you pass beautiful waterfalls and truly get lost in nature. There are many trails, so you can go several times without taking the same route. The last time I went, I took their advice and crossed the street. When you ask for a suggested path, they advise this one and say "you go along the river for most of the way." So I would think, "Yeah, that's cool, but have you seen the water falls?" And be on my merry way. Take my word on it, when they say you'll be along the river most of the time, they mean, you'll be on a massive and gorgeous river bank for the majority of your magical journey. Not even George Washington would be able to throw a silver dollar across this river, it's MASSIVE! While you are out in the open for most of this trail, there are ways to find a more wooded, secluded path if that's your thing. While I could go on about the amazing people and scenery you'll experience at Bear Notch, that's not even the best part. This is a very dog-friendly business. They breed dogs here, or so I've heard, and encourage skiers to bring their four-legged family members. On a good day, I'd guess there is a 1:2 dog to human ratio, Not many places can boast about that. Heads up, they...

“Best in the valley”’ I have been skiing at Bear Notch Ski for over 20 years. They never disappoint and have gone from strength to strength over the years adding ever better grooming for both classical and skate and the soup and bread in the warming hut (not in Covid times). They are really expert at grooming, getting the best out of the snow no mater what the conditions are. And to me the biggest draw is that I can take my dogs skiing there. Well behaved dogs are welcomed. And most of the skiers know and appreciate that. Many other local XC ski areas provide zero to one or two trails for dogs. And the clientele at those areas get pretty snooty about even having a dog on allowed trails! Not so at BNST. I’m always sad when the season is over and look forward to the next. Many thanks, as always to Doug, Clifton, John...

What a wonderful place for cross-country skiers (or people who want to get into the sport) with dog(s). Super friendly and helpful staff, meticulously groomed trails, and dog-friendly!! All the dogs I met here are very well-behaved and just happy to be with their humans on the trails. Leash is not required here, and it makes total sense as I can't understand how can one ski with their dog(s) pulling them around on a leash. The hut has a variety of hot soups, hot drinks, and fresh baked bread. Great place to meet people (and dogs alike) and get re-energized. Everything (rental, pass, food) here is so reasonaly priced and I felt so much welcomed! Wish I live closer...