Basecamp: Cardigan Lodge
- Snowshoe above treeline and summit Mt. Cardigan
- Skip the lift lines: classic backcountry ski and snowboard tours of Mt. Cardigan and Firescrew
- Down-mountain ski tour of Mt. Cardigan
- Cross-country ski or snowshoe Mt. Cardigan's lower elevations
- Stay overnight near the summit of Mt. Cardigan at High Cabin
- Winter Fun for Families week: spend February school vacation at Cardigan
- Learn winter skills: Cardigan mountain safety workshops and Sat. evening programs
Just a two hour drive from Boston, Cardigan Lodge is an historic AMC ski lodge located at the base of Mt. Cardigan in New Hampshire's Lakes Region. The newly renovated lodge is a great do-it-yourself destination for families and groups that is open all winter long.
During the 1930s, AMC members were instrumental in creating some of the first ski trails cut in the northeast on the slopes of Cardigan and Firescrew. These are considered classics by many, and today Cardigan boasts 50 miles of hiking/snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
Experience the rewards of winter - less traveled trails and crystal clear views. Winter outdoor enthusiasts comfortable with a lower amenity experience at significant savings can take advantage of self-service rates offered at Cardigan Lodge all winter. Rates start at $29 per person/night for AMC members ($35 non-members), plus tax.
During February school vacation, Feb. 18-22, the lodge will operate on a full-service basis for Winter Fun for Families Week, which will include free, expert-led activities for guests and all meals. Full-service rates start at $58/person per night.
For additional ideas, check out AMC's Winter Planning Guide.
1. Snowshoe above treeline and summit Mt. Cardigan
Before breaking out your skis, dust off your snowshoes and get the lay of the land (not to mention some great exercise) by exploring Mt. Cardigan and Firescrew above treeline. This is also a great way for less experienced backcountry skiers not to miss out on breathtaking views from the bald summit of Mt. Cardigan. As you scan the horizon in different directions, you’ll see Mt. Monadnock, Mt. Washington, and Lake Winnipesaukee, in addition to some of New Hampshire’s other mountainous landmarks.
2. Skip the lift lines: classic backcountry ski and snowboard tours of Mt. Cardigan and Firescrew
Down-mountain, backcountry runs are where Mt. Cardigan and Firescrew have gotten their reputation, making Cardigan Lodge a wonderland for experienced skiers seeking historic runs. Pick your pleasure – it’s approximately three miles from Cardigan Lodge to the summit of Mt. Cardigan via the Duke’s Ski Trail (the first ski trail cut by the AMC), and only about 2.5 miles via the Alexandria and Kimball Ski Trails.
Both the Alexandria Ski Trail and the Duke’s Ski Trail run down the east side of the Firescrew-Mt. Cardigan summit ridge. Make your descent on one of these trails, or take the Kimball Ski Trail.
3. Down-mountain ski tour of Mt. Cardigan
Embark on a longer, 5.5-mile ski tour that hits a number of trails on the ascent and descent. Start out by going up either the Duke’s or Alexandria Ski Trails, then cross the Cardigan-Firescrew ridge on the Mowglis Trail and ski down on the opposite trail.
4. Cross-country ski or snowshoe Mt. Cardigan's lower elevations
Less experienced skiers, families, and those looking to take a break from down-mountain runs will enjoy the open glades and meadows of lower elevation cross-country and snowshoe routes. Classics in their own right, historic ski touring trails include the Back 80, Alleyway, and 93Z Trail. Duke’s Pasture near the lodge is another good place to practice new techniques.
5. Stay overnight near the summit of Mt. Cardigan at High Cabin
Gather a group of friends and stay overnight near Mt. Cardigan's summit at AMC’s High Cabin. For over 70 years, High Cabin has offered a rustic, year-round retreat on Mt. Cardigan for groups in search of a unique backcountry trip. High Cabin’s self-service accommodations include one common room with woodstove and 12 bunks, as well as a kitchen space with propane camp stove.
6. Winter Fun for Families week: spend February school vacation at Cardigan
This February school vacation week, Feb. 18-22, take the family to Cardigan Lodge for Winter Fun for Families week and sample a mix of snow sports - backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and winter skills workshops. AMC's expert staff will offer free, daily winter hiking and snowshoeing skills sessions, as well as share backcountry safety and trail information and local natural/cultural history through informal talks and evening programs. Families can also learn how to build different snowshelters or compete in a three-legged snowshoe race. The lodge's sledding hill adds to the fun. Come in from the cold and join other families for freshly prepared meals and gather around the fireplace for evening programs being offered during this full-service week.
7. Learn winter skills: Cardigan mountain safety workshops and Sat. evening programs
AMC's New Hampshire chapter is hosting its annual Winter Workshops at Cardigan Lodge Jan. 11-13 and Feb. 22-24. Both workshops are designed to teach the ins and outs of safe mountain travel and will include class and activities.
New this winter, every Saturday night AMC experts are offering special evening presentations on backcountry safety, trail information, and local and natural history and lore. These weekly programs are free to Cardigan Lodge guests.
