Activities in Laconia & Around
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Gunstock
When the snow covers the ground, Belknap Mountain becomes Gunstock, a ski area with 45 downhill runs on a vertical drop of 1400ft. There are seven lifts, as well as a ski school, day-care facilities and night skiing between 4pm and 9pm Tuesday to Thursday, and 4pm and 10pm Friday and Saturday. Most mountain trails are intermediate, with more advanced than beginner trails. A few hills are dedicated to tubing (two/four hours $15/20) – no equipment and no skill required! Over 30 miles of cross-country trails follow the wooded paths around Gilford. Rental skis are available, as are snowboards and snowshoes.
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Hiking Trails
At 2384ft, Belknap Mountain is the highest peak in the Belknap Range, with numerous hiking trails. The most direct route to the summit is from the Belknap Carriage Rd in Gilford. From NH 11A, take Cherry Valley Rd and follow the signs for the Belknap Fire Tower. Three marked trails lead from the parking lot to the summit of Belknap Mountain, a one-hour trek. The white-blazed trail leads to the summit of nearby Piper Mountain (2030ft).
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Ellacoya State Park
Many lakeshore lodgings have water access, but if your place does not, head for Ellacoya State Park, which has a 600ft-wide beach with lovely views across to the Sandwich and Ossipee mountains. This is an excellent place for swimming, fishing and canoeing.
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Mt Major Summit Trail
Within the Belknap Mountain State Forest, the Mt Major Summit Trail is a good 2-mile trek up that 1780ft peak. The summit offers spectacular views of all corners of Lake Winnipesaukee. The trailhead is a few miles south of West Alton on NH 11; park just off the road.
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New Hampshire International Speedway
In mid-June, the raucous Motorcycle Week draws two-wheeled crowds to the New Hampshire International Speedway, south of Laconia. Races, shows and other spectacles create quite a scene. Bikers are everywhere.
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