First Timer's Guide

Step 1: Planning Your Trip

Preparing for a ski or snowboarding adventure involves careful planning and consideration of various factors. Whether it's picking the right gear, packing essentials, or discovering what the mountain has to offer, this guide is your go-to resource.

Before You Arrive

Download the Loon app for time-sensitive updates, trail maps, and daily Mountain Report stats.

When To Visit

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, weekdays outside of holiday periods are ideal. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, so arrive at Loon closer to the lift's opening time, rather than later to make the most of your experience.

Checking the Weather

Before your trip, look at our resort webcam for live mountain views. Simply enter Loon's zip code, 03251 or Lincoln, NH, into your preferred weather app to stay updated on the current conditions. Stay informed with daily updates in the Mountain Report.

What to Wear

New England weather can be tricky, changing quickly and affecting how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Dress warmly and in layers, allowing you to adjust as the weather fluctuates. Keep in mind that base temperatures and conditions may differ from those at the summit, so be prepared for varying weather.

If you forget a piece of equipment or need a replacement, Loon Mountain Sports and Trail Blazers are retail shops that are well-equipped with the essentials to keep you moving on the mountain.

Securing Lift Tickets

Day tickets, offer full-day access to open terrain, however they can sell out, so be sure to secure yours as soon as possible. Opting for online purchase in advance can not only save you money but also time. Simply visit LoonMtn.com/tickets and select your preferred ticket option.

Additionally, we offer Afternoon Tickets with flexible pricing based on start times, and Novice Tickets with beginner lift access. If you've planned a long weekend or multiple visits this season, go for the XL 3-Pack, offering three days of skiing and riding for one price, and you get to pick the days that work best for you.

After purchasing online, you'll get a confirmation email. All winter lift access is stored on a reloadable GO Card. Once you have a GO Card, just reload it online and skip the ticket window. When you arrive at Loon, head to any resort Pick Up Box (PUB) and scan your QR code in your confirmation email. Check out the step-by-step process here.

Booking Lodging

Loon Mountain Resort does not own or manage any hotels, condominiums, or lodging properties. We recommend exploring the following properties. Each is affiliated with the Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce, playing an active role in supporting the local community.

Booking Rentals & Lessons

Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced skier or rider, we have the skis and snowboards to meet your needs. Our Rental Shop is fully stocked with HEAD skis and Burton snowboards, boots, helmets and poles – everything you need. Reserving online will help you save time and get out on the mountain more quickly. For more details visit our Rentals page.

We can help with individualized instruction in private lessons. Spaces in sessions fill up quickly, and to ensure you secure a spot while saving time, we highly recommend booking online in advance.

Anyone under 18 who is renting or booking must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Get all the details on lessons here.

Loon is New England’s most-accessible mountain destination, located in New Hampshire’s White Mountains just two hours north of Boston, and 3 miles off the highway. It’s easy to get here, but visit our Directions page if you need more info.

Parking & Shuttles

Loon offers six on-site parking locations. Parking in these lots is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. We highly encourage carpooling or shuttle use, especially during weekends and holidays.

Loon offers convenient shuttle services to and from select local lodging properties including the Village of Loon, Forest Ridge, and more. This eliminates the need to worry about parking to and from the resort. Take a look at the full lodging list and shuttle schedule here.

If you have all of all your essentials and are ready to hit the slopes. Insider tip: parking at Escape Route Lots provides quick access to South Peak’s Timbertown Quad. Situated in the heart of Lincoln, Timbertown Quad is only 1.5 miles away from Interstate 93. For more detailed parking instructions visit here.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

We're proud to have the most charging stations among New Hampshire's ski resorts, offering a total of 13 spots for your electric vehicle. Charging stations operate on a first-come, first-served basis with 10 located at Beach Lot and 3 found at the Children’s Center Lot. See the map here to locate EV Charging Stations in New Hampshire.

If you have all of all your essentials and are ready to hit the slopes, . Insider tip: parking at Escape Route Lots provides quick access to South Peak’s Timbertown Quad. Situated in the heart of Lincoln, Timbertown Quad is only 1.5 miles away from Interstate 93. For more detailed parking instructions visit here.

Whether it's your first-time skiing or snowboarding, need equipment, or need to set up your ticket, we have you covered.

Rentals & Lessons

If you're planning to grab your rentals or gather for a lesson, make your way to the Rental Shop located next to Governor Adams Lodge. Enjoy easy slopeside access to both lessons and the learning area.

Dining & Après

Take a break from the slopes and grab a snack or a beverage with a couple notable options:

Perched 2,733 feet above sea level at the top of the Gondola, the Summit Café serves year-round dining alongside stunning scenery of the White Mountain peaks. Alternatively, head upstairs to the Octagon Lodge to experience The Paul Bunyan Room, known as the birthplace of après at Loon. This slopeside oasis boasts a legendary lineup of draft beers and a spacious deck for relaxation.

Explore our dining and après guide here.

Know the Code

Regardless of whether you're experienced, or a beginner, it's crucial to know the basics and your responsibilities as a skier or snowboarder. Get to know the Responsibility Code and adhere to resort policies – it's your responsibility to do so.