Bartlett – Nature, Culture and Winter Experiences

When looking for accommodation in Bartlett, different travel interests may influence your choice: views of the White Mountains, hiking, a scenic drive, cultural history or winter activities. The offerings come in different formats, so consider which outings interest you most during your stay. The following destinations and activities can be grouped according to your personal interests.

Mountain Views and Hiking Trails

A one-mile-long auto road leads to 700-foot-high Cathedral Ledge. From there, you can enjoy views across the Saco River Valley toward the White Mountains. Cathedral Ledge State Park is generally open for recreational activities at all times, unless a closure or restriction notice is posted. If you plan to visit, bear this condition in mind and look out for relevant notices.

Another option is the hike up Table Mountain in Bartlett: it is four miles long and described as an out-and-back hike. The trail has exposed rock ledges and offers views of Mount Chocorua and Mount Passaconaway. Table Mountain is accessible via Bear Notch Road and the Attitash Trail.

Bear Notch Road and Winter Activities

Bear Notch Road connects Bartlett Village with the Kancamagus Highway. There are several scenic overlooks along the route. The road is therefore not only a connection between the two places mentioned, but also offers its own viewpoints over the landscape. When planning an outing, you can treat this drive as a destination in its own right rather than simply as access to a hiking trail.

For snowmobiling, Northern Extremes Snowmobile Rentals offers guided tours from its headquarters in Bartlett. Self-guided snowmobile rentals are also available in the White Mountain National Forest. Guided tours and self-guided rentals are different formats, so choose according to which one you are looking for. At Attitash, a free shuttle runs between the Attitash Base Area, the Bear Peak Base Area and the parking lots. Attitash also offers private and group lessons for children and adults. The shuttle and lessons are separate offerings that you can consider individually when planning.

Cultural History and Places to Visit

Bartlett Bridge is a covered Paddleford truss bridge over the Saco River, built in 1851. It adds a historical note alongside the scenery and outdoor activities. If you are more interested in the town’s history, the Bartlett Historical Society and Museum offers insights into the history of Bartlett, including Glen and Intervale. The museum building was formerly St. Joseph Church, built in 1890 and later renovated and converted into a museum. The building is listed in the New Hampshire State Register of Historic Places.

Another place to visit is Story Land in Glen. The amusement park began operating there in late 1954 and features more than 50 attractions, including Roar-O-Saurus, Polar Coaster, Swan Boats, Antique Cars and Teacups. Moo Lagoon is a water-play area within Story Land with water slides and themed sprayers. The different attractions and water area offer different reasons to visit; if you plan to visit Story Land, you can match the options to your group’s interests.

If you would like to compare pages for other towns in addition to Bartlett, you can also find Conway, North Conway and Jackson here.

For the broader travel overview: Carroll.