WILDCAT MOUNTAIN

Wildcat’s base is small, and the view across Pinkham Notch to Mount Washington gives even a lunch stop a sense of place. Follow Route 16 south for Jackson’s covered bridge, the Red Parka in Glen and a wider choice of restaurants in North Conway.

Wildcat’s base lodge is at 542 NH-16 in Pinkham Notch, between Jackson and Gorham and just north of the AMC visitor center. From the Boston and Portsmouth side, the Spaulding Turnpike leads into Route 16 north. Allow extra travel time for winter conditions through the notch. Lot A serves the lodge, Lot B the learning area and Lot C the Tomcat Triple and Wildcat Express.

Wildcat's season runs from mid-November through late April, often one of the longest in New England thanks to its high elevation and north-facing aspect. January and February offer the coldest temperatures and deepest snowpack. March brings spring skiing with longer days and spectacular views. Wildcat often has excellent conditions when lower-elevation resorts are struggling. The mountain rarely feels crowded even on peak weekends, but midweek visits offer the most serene experience.

AMC Joe Dodge Lodge has private rooms and bunks at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center. It is a separate road stop from Wildcat. Compare breakfast-only and dinner-and-breakfast plans when booking. For rooms with a pool and town dining, look around Gorham, including Quality Inn & Suites Gorham Riverside and Town & Country Motor Inn. Moose Brook Motel is a warm-season choice.

Jackson and North Conway give you southern valley options. Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods suits a broader White Mountains itinerary, with a separate road journey to Wildcat. Check your winter route from whichever base you choose.

The cafeteria on the main level of the base lodge serves breakfast and lunch. Head down the valley to Glen for steakhouse and pub fare at the Red Parka, or continue to North Conway for a wider dinner choice.

Meet at the Wildcat Pub in the base lodge before driving out of the notch. For an evening meal with a livelier pub atmosphere, try the Red Parka in Glen and check its music calendar.