What would you say to over 6000 miles of snowmobile trails to explore? What would you say if I told you that this is twice the number of miles of state highway? It sounds incredible, but it's true. New Hampshire takes its snowmobiling seriously and why not? With seven very different regions to choose from, there is no doubt you will find an adventure to suit you.

Photo is courtesy of www.alpinesnowmobiling.com/aboutourtours.html -- Alpine Adventures

As with anywhere, there are things to take note of before departure. The first thing to note is that registration of your sled in New Hampshire is required. There are many places throughout the state where you may do this, but remember you must have a valid driver's license in order to register your machine. For more information on this, and the fees for trail maintenance, have a look at the New Hampshire Trails Bureau website.

Another great website for plenty of information is that of the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association. It has up-to-date trail information as well as upcoming events they sponsor. You can get into touch with them at info@nhsa.com

The White Mountains offers many opportunities to explore. Alpine Adventures offers daily tours with guides who have extensive experience. The tours are 1 to 3 hours in length with four machines to a guide. This gives the opportunity to view as much as you can during your tour. They can also accomodate larger groups. There are various tours catering to all tastes and levels of experience. The prices range from $55.00 (single rider) to $139.00 (double riders) US. Children under 5 are free and group discounts are available. The cost includes helmets, oil and gasoline. If you are in need of a snow suit, these are also available for rental at a nominal fee.

For much more information, check out the website. It provides links to lodgings in the area, some of which also offer "Snowmobile and Stay" packages. For the personal touch, you can contact them at (888)745-1919 or in Canada at (866)SNO-TOUR. Email enquiries can be directed to Info@AlpineSnowmobiling.com .

Another White Mountains tour company is Northern Extremes Snowmobile Tours located in North Conway. They offer guided tours as well as snowmobile rentals to do your own exploring. The tours are the best for the inexperienced sledder. Lasting from one to three hours, the tours range in price from $45.00 (mid-week single) to $155.00 (weekend double). For specialty tours, such as the sunset, call them for pricing information. Children under 12 ride free and there are group discounts available. It is recommended that you arrive 30 minutes prior to departure for orientation.

Snowmobile rental is by the hour, a half day or a full day. Contact them for rates. Northern Extremes also provides links to lodgings in the area, some of which offer sled packages in conjunction with Northern Extremes. For apres-sled enjoyment, there are also many nightspots to relax in and get to meet some fellow snowmobilers, as well as residents of the area. For all information, get in touch with Northern Extremes at info@northernextremes.com. You can also telephone them toll free at (877) 722-6748.

Found just south of North Conway, is Whittier Sports. With good rates for snowmobile rentals, they also offer guided tours in the Ossipee Mountains. Rates for these tours range from $110.00 to $175.00, depending on the time of the tours that you would like. The cost includes sled rental, helmet, tour guide and gasoline. If you only choose to rent the sled and do your own guiding, the rates vary from $100.00 (mid-week single) to $250.00 (weekend double). These prices also include the helmet. As an added bonus, if you choose to rent the sled for the entire weekend, you will get overnights free of charge. Can't go wrong with that!

You can contact Whittier Sports with your inquiries at whittier@whittiersports.com or give them a call at (603) 539-4799. They also have a fax number, (603) 539-4944.

Located farther north is the Colebrook Country Club . Beautifully situated in the Great North Woods, the Colebrook Country Club even has a snowmobile trail running past the property so you can jump on your sled and go. They provide plenty of snowmobile parking as well. The Club does fill up quickly so book your rooms early! You can either email them at ccclub@together.com or give them a call at (603) 237-5566. Have a look at the site too. Beautiful pictures!

Last but certainly not least, if you don't choose to go quite that far north, there are also plenty of opportunities in and around the Lakes Region including Lake Winnipesaukee. For those that love the chance to view beautiful scenery, you've come to the right place. There is lots of cool info at the Lakes Region page. Check it out!

If you love sledding and beautiful scenery, you can count on finding it in New Hampshire. Why not experience it all!

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