Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Right from our Backdoor!
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Dexter's Inn, a historic country resort-inn with beautiful views and expansive grounds, has partnered with Norsk, one of New England’s best-known cross-country ski operators, to provide an on-site commercial cross-country ski & snowshoe center in the Lake Sunapee region of central New Hampshire. Officially known as Dexter’s Inn Trails by Norsk, the nordic operation includes a groomed network of trails, equipment rental, lessons and a small ski shop. The trail system begins right at the inn’s backdoor, extends through our 20-acre estate, and continues into the surrounding conservation land. Visitors often comment on the panoramic view, the idyllic pastoral setting, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dexter’s x-c ski & snowshoe trails wind their way through forests & fields with minimal road crossings, and are designed to have that old-time natural feel. The experience is quite different from skiing on a golf course, frozen pond, or public park. The 1,350 foot elevation and attention to grooming enable conditions that are not found in many locations. The trail network offers a variety of terrain that allows first-timers, novices, intermediates, and advanced skiers to all find something to enjoy. Trails are rated 35% easy, 45% intermediate, and 20% advanced. The trails are groomed for classical skiing only (no skate skiing), and all trails are open to snowshoers, who are asked to stay to the far right. There are approximately 25 km of trails that are groomed and open to both inn guests and the public on weekends, holidays, and school vacation days. Overnight guests of the inn are also welcome to use the trails on weekdays after payment of the daily trail fee, as are seasons-pass holders.
Trails are open from 9-5 with daily use fees at a flat rate of $10 per person. Kids aged 5 or younger can ski or snowshoe free when accompanied by a paying adult. Rental gear for adults and children is available with an xc ski package consisting of boots, skis & poles at $15 per day and snowshoes at $10 per day. A Pulk kid’s pull-sled is also available for rent at a cost of $12 for two hours and $20 for four hours. We prefer not to take advance reservations for rental equipment, given the inability of most people to accurately describe the size/length of the proper equipment for themselves. Better to let us size you up in person and select the best gear for you. Lessons by a certified instructor are available at $15 for a group lesson, $40 for a private lesson, or $55 for a semi-private lesson (2 people) with $15 for each additional person. For first-time skiers, there is “We Love Beginners” package that includes a daily trail pass, equipment rental, and group lesson for the special rate of $30. Group lessons are typically scheduled for Saturday and Sunday mornings, but we encourage you to call ahead if you are interested in a group lesson, because knowing how many students there will be will enable us to have adequate teaching staff available. Private lessons are scheduled by appointment, so call ahead to schedule a mutually convenient time.
We are committed to providing a fun, non-competitive, affordable, family-friendly activity that allows you to enjoy some fresh air, experience nature, get some low-impact exercise, and spend some quality-time with your family & friends. We believe that cross-country skiing & snowshoeing is a life sport that can be enjoyed by all ages. We also believe that it should be fun and low stress, and we will do our best to make it so for you.
We believe that our facility is particularly well-suited for groups, given our ability to combine skiing & snowshoeing with meeting space, lodging, meals and other on-site activities. If you would like to discuss bringing your youth group, church, business, or civic organization for a day-of-fun, meeting, retreat, or team-building activity, please contact us via either email or phone (800 232-5571 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800 232-5571 end_of_the_skype_highlighting) so that we can discuss what we can do for you.
Information on current ski conditions and a printable trail map can be found by clicking here.
Dexter’s Inn has comfortable accommodations, food service, a welcoming atmosphere, and hospitable spaces for the public to relax. The inn features a cozy warming room with fireplace, a formal living room with fireplace, a game room, and a home entertainment room. Brunch/Lunch is available on Saturdays & Sundays from 10 AM - 2 PM when the x-c ski & snowshoe center is open. Brunch/Lunch menus can be found on our dining page. Snacks & beverages are available at all times.
Accommodations include 10 varying-sized guest bedrooms in the Main Inn and 7 guest bedrooms in the Annex, each with a private bath. Rates range from $110-$185 per night based upon double occupancy, plus 9% tax. Groups of up to 10 people can use the Holly House Cottage at $300-$450 per night, plus 9% tax. A full breakfast is included with each overnight stay. Children of all ages are welcome, with the understanding that parents are responsible for their children’s behavior at all times. With sufficient advance notice, baby-sitting can be arranged. Pets are welcome in some rooms by special advance arrangement, with the understanding that pet owners are responsible for any damages that may occur. No smoking is allowed anywhere inside. Dexter’s Inn currently does not have a liquor license, but guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages (byob).
Alpine skiing is available at nearby Mount Sunapee, Ragged Mountain, Whaleback and Pat’s Peak. Whaleback and Pat’s Peak offer night skiing and tubing. Shopping and other entertainment is available in the adjacent towns of New London & Newport or about 30 minutes away in Lebanon & Hanover (home to Dartmouth College). Additional information on other activities in our area can be found on our Area Attractions page.
Driving directions can be found on our map & directions page.
