Loon Mountain Resort, Lincoln

A gondola soars high above the slopes of Loon Mountain Resort, taking adventurers up the mountain. Below, skiers dart between trees on glade-covered trails, and snowboarders launch from kickers in the terrain park. In the summer, inquisitive hikers roam on the slopes. Encompassing more than 2,100 vertical feet across three towering peaks, Loon Mountain beckons outdoor explorers whether there's snow on the ground or the air fills with summer warmth.

In the winter, the three peaks challenge skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels with varied New England terrain. Steep drops and tight turns pervade slopes named Rip Saw, Walking Boss, Flume, and Speakeasy. Meanwhile, the West Base area offers lessons for children and adults, and a disabled sports program ensures all visitors learn the skills necessary to hit the mountain.

In warm weather, outdoor activities abound, especially in Aerial Forest Adventure Park. Here, adventurers glide down five zip-line courses, traverse Tibetan-style bridges, and scale ladders to escape their moms yelling that it's time for dinner. Year-round, the gondola ferries riders to the 3,500-foot summit of Loon Peak, where they can explore glacial caves or take in panoramic views of the White Mountains.