FAQs About the Area

Jackson, New Hampshire offers exceptional four-season outdoor recreation in the heart of the White Mountains. Popular activities include:

Summer Activities:

  • Hiking trails ranging from easy waterfall walks to challenging mountain peaks
  • Canoeing and kayaking on local rivers and lakes
  • Fishing in pristine mountain streams
  • Mountain biking on various area scenic trails
  • Golfing at nearby championship courses in Jackson, North Conway, and other spots

Winter Activities:

All the Inn’s guest rooms are named after falls in New Hampshire (except the Ellis River Cottage which is named for the Ellis River flowing right behind the Inn!).

Jackson is centrally located in the Mount Washington Valley and the White Mountains region. This area features over 100 waterfalls, with several accessible options:

Jackson Falls (https://www.visitwhitemountains.com/listing/jackson-falls/663/) – A spectacular 100-foot cascading waterfall located directly next to the road with no hiking required. Features picnic areas and multiple cascades over granite boulders. You can walk there from the Inn or drive. 

Glen Ellis Falls (https://www.visitwhitemountains.com/listing/glen-ellis-falls/661/) – One of the most photographed waterfalls in New Hampshire, featuring a dramatic 64-foot drop. This fall flows down into the Ellis River.

Diana’s Baths (https://northconwaynh.com/dianas-baths/)  – A series of cascades and pools perfect for families, requiring a moderate 1.2-mile hike.

Arethusa Falls (https://www.visitwhitemountains.com/listing/arethusa-falls/666/) – The tallest waterfall in New Hampshire at 200 feet, accessible via a 2.8-mile round trip hike.

Jackson offers world-class winter sports opportunities:

Cross-Country Skiing:

  • Jackson Ski Touring Foundation (https://www.jacksonxc.org/)  operates one of the most extensive Nordic trail systems in North America
  • Over 150 kilometers of groomed trails
  • Trails connect directly from many inns and hotels

Downhill Skiing:

Jackson and areas close-by offer 19+ scenic trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels:

Easy Hikes (Under 2 miles):

Moderate Hikes (2-5 miles):

Challenging Hikes (5+ miles) – there are countless but here a few:

Jackson is a year-round destination with distinct seasonal attractions:

Fall (September-October): Peak foliage season with spectacular autumn colors, perfect hiking weather, Pumpkin People displays and harvest festivals.

Winter (December-March): Prime skiing season, and other snow activities such as snowshoeing, sleigh rides and ice-skating), and cozy fireside evenings.

Spring (April-June): Waterfall season with snowmelt creating dramatic cascades, emerging wildflowers, and fewer crowds.

Summer (July-August): Warmest weather for hiking, swimming, outdoor dining, and family attractions.

Jackson offers diverse dining from casual to upscale:

Many restaurants emphasize locally-sourced New Hampshire products and seasonal menus. The above are restaurants in Jackson – there are many more in the nearby areas – just ask!

Jackson features unique local shops including the Jackson Historical Society and White Mountains Puzzles. Additional shopping includes:

  • Local artisan crafts and gifts
  • Outdoor gear and equipment shops
  • Antique stores and collectibles
  • Farm stands with local produce
  • Specialty food shops

For extensive shopping, nearby North Conway offers major outlet stores and shopping centers.

Jackson’s central White Mountains location provides easy access to:

Jackson is easily accessible by car:

  • From Boston: 3 hours north via I-95 and Route 16
  • From New York City: 5 hours via I-84 and I-91 north
  • From Montreal: 4 hours south via I-89

The nearest airport is Portland International Jetport (2 hours). Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is also within 2.5 hours.

Jackson stands out for several unique features:

  • Nearly 200 years of welcoming visitors from around the globe
  • Extensive cross-country ski trail network connecting some accommodations
  • Iconic covered bridge (“Honeymoon Bridge” – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honeymoon_Bridge_(New_Hampshire)) and classic New England village charm
  • Central location providing easy access to major attractions
  • Strong focus on outdoor recreation and natural beauty
  • Family-owned businesses maintaining authentic mountain hospitality

The combination of accessibility, quiet setting, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes Jackson a premier White Mountains destination for all seasons.