where the wild things are
lincoln, new hamshire
190 miles from Providence |
Clark's Trading Post
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Looking to spend a relaxing weekend getting a little wild? Head to the White Mountains, where the wilderness isn’t confined to the forest. HISTORY: Settled in 1790, Lincoln’s lush forests allowed for a lucrative lumber business until the mid-20th century. Nowadays, the gorgeous setting and proximity to the attractions of the White Mountain Region allow for getting back to nature, and other, more eco-friendly pursuits. STAY: at the Mountain Club on Loon Mountain (www.loonmtn.com), which is a popular ski destination in the winter and a great place to relax in the summer. The resort and spa offers spa services, saunas and amenities like wireless internet that you don’t see all that often up north. To get some perspective, take the gondola ride to the top of Loon and take in the spectacular view of the mountain range. PLAY: with the bears in the famous trained bear show at Clark’s Trading Post (www.clarkstradingpost.com), which is celebrating its 80th year. This beloved blast-from-the-past features a classic train ride, attractions, a family circus, and a wolfman more dangerous than the black bears. If you’re looking to get closer to nature, take a Moose Tour with Pemi Valley Excursions (www.i93.com/pvsr/moose.htm), which takes you through the White Mountains in search of the gentle, but terrifyingly huge, creatures. CRAWL: through the lantern-lit caves of Lost River (www.findlostriver.com), which takes you on a trek through Kinsman Notch, the gorge that the river created 25,000 years ago. If you’d rather stay above ground, explore the mountain lakes of Franconia Notch, and bid a fond farewell at the Old Man of the Mountain Museum (www.newhampshire.com/nh-attractions/oldman-museum.aspx), which pays tribute to this beloved landmark, which collapsed in 2003. EAT: at the Gypsy Café (603/745-4395), where the globetrotting menu is great, but the frozen prickly pear margaritas are even better. For something a little more New England-ey, the Woodstock Inn (www.woodstockinnnh.com) has both a casual and a fine dining restaurant, and brews its own beer, which is sold (and poured in restaurants) all over the state. Try the White Mountain Weasel Wheat, which has hints of maple syrup in it. TAKE A HIKE: on any of the trails along the Kancamagus Highway, the windy mountain road that connects Lincoln to outlet mecca North Conway. The Greeley Ponds trail is an easy, flat hike through 2.2 miles of mountain scenery. Even if you’d prefer to stay in the car, the views and frequent scenic overlooks on the 35-mile road make just driving it an adventure. FOR MORE INFO: www.lincolnwoodstock.com |
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