Winter in New Hampshire is something special. There’s no shortage of things to do on a cold day. And, when the snow is actively falling? It’s pure magic. But, there’s more to winter than just what you can do to work up a sweat. The weather in New Hampshire is special for a lot of reasons – and this natural phenomenon is one of the most notable. Continue reading to learn a little bit more about experiencing winter at Mount Washington.

Mount Washington is one of the coldest places not just in New Hampshire, but in the entire United States.
mouser-nerdbot / Flickr
While a trip up the Auto Road can lead to some of the most incredible views over the White Mountains, we were recently treated to a view of a different sort from the summit.
Those who looked toward the sun may have noticed a unique halo surrounding the giant orb.
yooperann / Flickr
The phenomenon, known as a "22 Degree Halo" is caused by light that reflects from ice crystals in high cirrus and cirrostratus clouds passing in front of the sun. This can also happen with the moon.
blueforce4116 / Flickr
The "22 Degree" name refers to the radius the halo makes around the sun.
jsenniko / Flickr

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The sight is unmistakable, but it doesn't happen often.
cmichel67 / Flickr
In order to see the halo, the crystals in the clouds must be in a very specific position based on where your eyes are. Standing just a few steps to the right? You might miss it!
tanyariga / Flickr
This also means that everyone you're with might see a different version of the halo. And some might not see it at all!
aezoss / Flickr
The 22-Degree Halo is worth checking for when the weather is cold, but be sure to avoid looking directly at the sun.
mountwashington.org
Mt. Washington has seen its fair share of extreme weather. To catch a glimpse of this, watch the brief YouTube video below, courtesy of the Mount Washington Observatory:

Have you ever experienced this unique phenomenon while spending a winter in New Hampshire? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! And, if you need a place to stay while exploring all that this unique region has to offer, be sure to check out this list of beautiful New Hampshire vacation rentals.

Another great natural wonder in New Hampshire is this magnificent boulder. Yes, we’ve just referred to a boulder as “magnificent.”

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Winter In New Hampshire

Beth C. | January 16, 2024

What is there to do in winter in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire could easily be described as a winter wonderland. For proof of this, look no further than the following list of unique winter attractions and activities in New Hampshire:

  • Santa's Village in Jefferson
  • Gift of Lights in Loudon
  • LaBelle Lights in Derry
  • Santa Express Trains in Lincoln
  • Ice Castles in North Woodstock
  • Portsmouth, New Hampshire
  • Concord, New Hampshire
  • Nashua, New Hampshire
  • Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel in Jefferson
  • Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center in Gorham
  • Bretton Woods in Carroll
  • Nestlenook Farm in Jackson
  • The Wilderness Inn Bed & Breakfast in North Woodstock
  • Conway New Hampshire Cozy Cabin
  • Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods

 

Of course, these are just a handful of all the fun things to do in winter in NH. For more information about all the places listed above, check out our full list of the best winter activities and attractions in New Hampshire.

Which places in New Hampshire get the most snow?

New Hampshire sees a healthy amount of snowfall each winter. The snowiest place in the state is a town called Pittsburg, which gets just above 111 inches of snowfall each year on average. This is well above the state average, which is 85 inches.

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Featured Addresses
Mount Washington, Mt Washington, Sargent's Purchase, NH 03846, USA