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Resort Comparison

Gunstock Recreation Area vs Waterville Valley Resort

Waterville Valley Resort excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain and walkability.

The Verdict

Waterville Valley Resort leads with 5 wins
Best for Families
Waterville Valley Resort

Ski school from age 3

Best Snowfall
Waterville Valley Resort

87.9" average season

Best Terrain
Waterville Valley Resort

Impressive mountain

Best Value
Gunstock Recreation Area

$0 day pass

Easiest Access
Waterville Valley Resort

Easy mountain roads

Best Village Vibe
Waterville Valley Resort

Charming, walkable village

Gunstock Recreation Area
New Hampshire, United States
$$
Waterville Valley Resort
New Hampshire, USA
$$Ikon

Family

Ski School Age
-
3+
Full-Day Program
-
Beginner Terrain
5.0
8.0
Walkability
5.0
8.0
Village Vibe
5.0
8.5

Mountain

Vertical
1,382'
2,020'
Skiable Area
0 ac
255 ac
Green Runs
19%
20%
Trails
62
50
Lifts
6
11

Getting There

Airport
MHT
MHT
Drive Time
2h
1.3h
Road Ease
5.0
8.0

Cost

Passes
None
Ikon
Day Pass
$0
$109
Cost Tier
Moderate
Moderate

Village

Dining
Limited
Moderate
Grocery
Spa
Pool
Add a third resort to compare

Snowfall Comparison

Live conditions

Gunstock Recreation Area

59.7"

avg season

2024-25 season

49.9" total

84%

Waterville Valley Resort

87.9"

avg season

2024-25 season

79.6" total

91%

Season Accumulation (10-Year Average)

OctNovDecJanFebMarApr
88"44"0"
Gunstock Recreation Area
Waterville Valley Resort

Key Insights

Waterville Valley Resort excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain and walkability.

Key Differences

  • Waterville Valley Resort's beginner terrain score (8.0) exceeds Gunstock Recreation Area's (5.0), making it better for families prioritizing beginner runs
  • Waterville Valley Resort's walkability score (8.0) exceeds Gunstock Recreation Area's (5.0), making it better for families prioritizing walkability
  • Waterville Valley Resort's family village atmosphere score (8.5) exceeds Gunstock Recreation Area's (5.0), making it better for families prioritizing family village experience
  • Waterville Valley Resort offers more terrain variety (255 acres vs 0 acres)
  • Waterville Valley Resort has greater vertical drop (2,020' vs 1,382'), offering longer runs

Best For

Gunstock Recreation Area

  • Budget-conscious families

Waterville Valley Resort

  • Families with first-time skiers (excellent beginner terrain)
  • Those seeking a walkable village experience
  • Families wanting a charming, kid-friendly atmosphere

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Regions

Colorado
Utah
British Columbia

Best For

Best for Beginners
Most Walkable
Best for Toddlers

Guides

First Family Ski Trip Guide
Best Time to Go Skiing