Now that we are in the middle of our Christmas to New Year’s Holiday Season, I thought I would talk about a town many of us visit during the upcoming ski season. New Hampshire certainly has an impressive list of ski areas to visit and I will focus on one large one just up the road in Lincoln.
Tucked in the heart of New Hampshire, sprawling across 131 square miles of varied terrain, lies the town of Lincoln. A place that resonates deeply with my personal skiing experiences going back as far as my senior year in high school, Lincoln has transformed remarkably since its incorporation in 1764. From a bustling mill town to a premier ski destination, its journey is a testament to community resilience and visionary leadership.
Lincoln’s early days were defined by the rhythmic sounds of sawmills and paper mills. These industries were the lifeblood of the town, but as they began to decline, Lincoln reached a crucial turning point.
Sherman Adams, a former Lincoln Paper Mill employee who rose to become Governor of New Hampshire and Chief of Staff under President Eisenhower, stepped in at this juncture. He utilized his significant White House influence to garner approvals for the Loon Mountain Ski Area, which opened on December 27th, 1966, effectively reshaping the town’s future. Today, under the ownership and management of Boyne Resorts, who purchased its leaseholds in 2018, this ski area stands as a symbol of Adams’ foresight.
Loon Mountain Through a Skier’s Eyes
I can remember going to the ski area when it opened, and I was pretty impressed with the hexagon-shaped lodge, which was pretty unique back in the day. As a long-time skier on Loon Mountain’s slopes, I’ve observed its evolution from a fledgling ski area into a renowned destination.
The scenic drive from the Lakes Region along Route 93, with New Hampshire’s picturesque landscape unfolding around me, is a cherished ritual. Loon Mountain, with its superior lift system, diverse trails, and several mountain peaks, offers an exceptional skiing experience. But Lincoln’s appeal extends beyond Loon. Skiing destinations like Cannon Mountain and Bretton Woods and Ragged Mountain up the road, as well as Gunstock Ski Resort in our backyard, enhance the region’s winter sports landscape.
Loon Mountain Expansion and Modern Development
Over the past 18 months, Loon Mountain has focused on its Flight Path 2030 Expansion adding 11 new trails and the Timbertown Quad lift at South Peak, plus major snow making upgrades. The ski area also features the Kancamagus 8-place chair lift, which is the first in the east to be developed, transporting guests to the top in under 6 minutes with heated seats and weather blocking bubbles.
The Pemi Base Camp at the base of South Peak is another major improvement. Additional lifts are in the planning stages. There are many luxurious homes under construction and new condominium townhouses at South Peak. The resort has opened 4 new restaurants and the Nest Club is scheduled to open in 2026.
A recent notable development is the expansion at South Peak Mountain at Loon. This project, featuring state-of-the-art lift systems, luxurious ski homes, and new condominiums is moving forward at a fast pace.
The River Walk Resort at Loon Mountain is an extraordinary massive resort with all of the luxury amenities that you would expect from a grand resort, plus there is an onsite winery, two restaurants, award winning spa, ballroom fitness facility and one of the largest outdoor lagoon pools in New England and hot tubs. The resort features 170 luxury units. All of the above signifies Lincoln’s ascent in the skiing world, merging comfortable living with ski-in/ski-out access.
Beyond Skiing: Nature, Attractions, and Daily Life in Lincoln, New Hampshire
Beyond skiing, Lincoln serves as the gateway to the Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5-mile national scenic byway. Renowned for its stunning fall foliage and framed by the majestic White Mountain peaks, this scenic byway offers one of the world’s most exquisite natural displays of color.
Lower Falls along the Swift River is a popular swimming hole, and there are numerous hiking trails along the byway.
The town of Lincoln also thrives in its vibrant day-to-day life. An array of restaurants, cafés, and eateries, complemented by the nearby Woodstock Brewery and two other breweries, provides a rich culinary landscape. Quaint ski shops, retail centers, and outdoor equipment stores dot the main road leading to the ski area.
The town’s accommodation options are just as diverse, ranging from quaint B&Bs, the Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Launchpoint Lodge, InnSeason Resort and many additional hotels/condo developments, plus opulent resorts like River Walk and another new hotel under construction, catering to every taste and preference.
Large portions of the town are within the White Mountain National Forest. The Appalachian Trail crosses the northern corner. A portion of Franconia Notch State Park, the renowned Flume Gorge, and extensive hiking trail networks lie within the town
Events and Year-Round Attractions
The annual Highland Games at Loon Mountain pulls thousands of spectators each year, the Hobo Railroad, Clark’s Bears, and the Whale’s Tail Water Park offer varied experiences for all ages.
During winter, the town transforms into a magical landscape with the enchanting Ice Castles that open on Saturday, December 27th. The Ice Castles features ice slides, caverns and archways, tunnels, snow tubing, Frozen Tap Bar, sleigh rides and more!
Lincoln, New Hampshire Real Estate Market
The real estate market in Lincoln mirrors the town’s appeal. I cannot believe when I pulled up the current median list price of $999,900, with only 9 properties for sale that there was a 75% increase compared to December 2023, when the median list price was only $469,400 with 14 residential listings for sale.
Of the 9 properties that are currently for sale, the lowest price is 51 Pollard Rd at $450,000 and the highest price is at 227 South Peak Road at $2,499,000. The percentage of second homeowners versus primary homeowners is staggering.
The Enduring Appeal of Lincoln, New Hampshire
In essence, Lincoln stands as a living tribute to the power of collective vision and effort. Its evolution from a mill-dependent town to a hub of skiing and year-round recreation is a story that deeply resonates with me.
Each visit, each descent down the slopes of Loon Mountain, reinforces the remarkable transformation of Lincoln. To me, Lincoln is more than a mere destination; it symbolizes the enduring beauty of New Hampshire and the extraordinary capacity of a community to adapt and thrive amidst change.
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group located in Meredith, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Data was compiled from PrimeMLS and is subject to change. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lincoln, New Hampshire
What is Lincoln, New Hampshire known for?
Lincoln, New Hampshire is known for Loon Mountain Ski Area, its role as the gateway to the Kancamagus Highway, and its transformation from a historic mill town into a premier year-round recreation destination.
When did Loon Mountain open?
Loon Mountain Ski Area opened on December 27th, 1966, following approvals secured through the efforts of Sherman Adams.
Who was responsible for bringing Loon Mountain to Lincoln?
Sherman Adams, a former Lincoln Paper Mill employee who later became Governor of New Hampshire and Chief of Staff under President Eisenhower, helped secure approvals for the ski area.
What other ski areas are near Lincoln, New Hampshire?
Nearby ski destinations include Cannon Mountain, Bretton Woods, Ragged Mountain, and Gunstock Ski Resort.
What is the Kancamagus Highway?
The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile national scenic byway known for stunning fall foliage, mountain views, swimming holes, and hiking trails.
What attractions are available year-round in Lincoln?
Lincoln offers skiing, hiking, breweries, restaurants, shopping, Highland Games, Clark’s Bears, the Hobo Railroad, Whale’s Tail Water Park, and winter attractions like the Ice Castles.
What is the real estate market like in Lincoln, New Hampshire?
The real estate market reflects Lincoln’s popularity, with a current median list price of $999,900 and a high percentage of second homeowners.
