The days are getting longer, the temperatures are climbing, and the White Mountains have officially traded their spring buds for a full canopy of green. Summer is making its way to Waterville Valley, and with it comes the return of the events that have become Valley traditions year after year.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or just looking for an excuse to spend more time in the mountains, now is the perfect time to start filling in your calendar. From parades and fireworks to chocolate festivals, sailboats, art fairs, trail running, and mountain adventures, here’s a look at some of the classic events returning to Waterville Valley this year, plus a few extras to spice things up.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort is rolling out a new mobile application called Smugglers Go designed to streamline and improve how guests can schedule on-demand shuttle rides. This new system aims to provide a smoother experience by functioning similarly to popular ride-share applications, allowing users to easily request transportation around the resort.
Killington and Pico Ski Resorts are undergoing significant investment, committing $25 million across the two properties to elevate the guest experience. This capital infusion is aimed at enhancing facilities, improving snowmaking capabilities, and expanding recreational opportunities for both winter and summer seasons.
The Saddleback Mountain is gearing up for summer with exciting new offerings and passes.
The Endless Summer Pass is available for just $45, unlocking unlimited scenic lift rides and unlimited access to the Saddleback Mountain Bike Park all season long. This pass allows visitors to cruise to the summit, take lap after lap in the park, or mix both activities into a perfect summer day.
The Endless Summer Pass is noted to pay for itself in just two visits.
For dining, Friday through Sunday features a new summer menu at The Pub with refreshing cocktails, wood-fired pizzas, and bold seasonal flavors. Additionally, the Summer Brunch Series returns to The Nest on July 5th, offering fresh flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and mountain views, including a ride on the Rangeley Quad to the summit.
The Sunset Tiki Bar and Grill at Nashoba Valley Ski Area opens on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, offering public access from Wednesdays through Saturdays all summer.
Live music is scheduled for the opening week: Wednesday, May 27, featuring Wally & Dave from 6-9pm; Thursday, May 28, featuring DJ Kim’s Sunset Dance Party from 6-10pm; Friday, May 29, featuring Steve Angellis (4-6pm) and Rock City (7-10pm); and Saturday, May 30, featuring Chuck Clough (4-6pm) and Sugar High (7-10pm).
The venue is designed to host group events, company outings, and corporate functions, featuring an outdoor event area with a private pond, beaches, and large event tents. The Tiki Bar aims to provide a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere for guests enjoying views of the mountain and private ponds.
Something special is taking shape in the mountains of Western Maine with the development of new townhomes in Saddleback.
A limited collection of thoughtfully designed townhomes is coming soon, created for those who value time together, fresh air, and the quiet luxury of life in the mountains. This new community will offer a rare opportunity to own a home that feels both elevated and grounded, deeply connected to the rugged character of the region.
The development promises true slopeside access, expansive mountain and sunset views, and spacious, multi-level homes designed for gathering. The community will feature direct trail access and be surrounded by natural beauty.
This limited offering will consist of just 38 residences.
More details about this exciting new chapter in the Saddleback story will be shared in the coming weeks.
Attractions in Franconia Notch State Park are open starting Friday, May 22nd, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation in the North Country.
Visitors can rent kayaks or pedal boats at Echo Lake and explore hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. Camping is available at Lafayette Place Campground, which offers access to hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming.
The Flume Gorge is open daily from 9am to 5pm. This natural granite gorge extends 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty, featuring towering moss-covered granite walls up to 90 feet high, cascading waterfalls, historic covered bridges, glacial pools, and boulders.
Echo Lake Beach is also open starting May 22nd from 9am to 5pm, providing a spot to relax by the spring-fed lake. Pedal boats or kayaks can be rented from the Lakeside General Store for exploring the water beyond the shore.
The Saddleback Mountain area is preparing for the summer season, with reopening details and new activities announced.
The Pub is reopening its doors this Friday, May 22, offering a spot to enjoy food and views overlooking the lakes and mountains.
The trail season is calling, as the Bike Park and Scenic Lift Rides officially return on July 3rd, bringing family-friendly mountain biking trails and summit views.
The Nest Summer Brunch Series continues, making Sundays special with mountain views, fresh air, birdsong, and food.
Saddleback Mountain was nominated for the Best Ski Mountain in Maine by Down East magazine, and the community is encouraged to vote.
Summer is approaching, bringing new opportunities for outdoor adventure at Bolton Valley.
The lift-served mountain biking park opens on Saturday, June 13. The park offers routes ranging from smooth beginner flow to raw, rowdy downhill lines for all riders.
Season passes for mountain biking will increase on May 13th.
The calendar is stacked with events throughout the summer, including weekly races, community ride nights, Live Music on the Lawn, and signature events. A new addition this summer is the Mountain Air Music Festival, offering all-day music and fun in the fresh mountain air.
Beyond biking, there are miles of hiking trails and scenic lift rides available for those who prefer to hike and explore the area.
Family time is also available at Ralph’s Rec Center, which offers games, swimming, and other activities after a day on the mountain.
