Pat's Peak

We found a hidden gem, and her name is Pat's Peak.

We've been taking the kids to the local ski areas to get them started. But the crowds, bus trips from the schools, and the general urban clientele that usually frequent them has been slightly less then optimal.

But we just discovered Pat's Peak in Henniker, NH. There's a roped off magic carpet ultra-beginner area, lots of chairlifts that all go to the top, and there's a beginner trail and a few easy intermediates from the top.

For my kids, the chairlift ride is at least as exciting as the actual skiing, so having a plethora of chairlifts to choose from is a huge plus. And not being banished to a novice area is very cool. We get to ski nice long runs from the top.

It's an area that's tailor made for kids. It's not crowded. There are giant stuffed animals walking around greeting everyone. And there's a candy counter with lots of candy (including Skittles, which are perfect for negotiating with your kids to get them to ski in a pizza) - for a buck.