Between the excitement of snowfall and the buzz of summer vacations, spring often flies under the radar. But for locals, mud season is one of the most satisfying times of the year to experience the White Mountains.

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Snowmelt sends rivers rushing through the Valley, wildflowers begin to bloom across open fields and the trails grow quieter for a few weeks before summer truly arrives. It’s a season defined by contrast—where you can watch kayakers navigate powerful spring waters in the morning and see skiers carving turns up in Tuckerman Ravine by afternoon.

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If you’ve never visited Mt. Washington Valley in spring, here are a few reasons why this underrated season deserves a spot on your calendar. 

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Whitewater Kayaking

As snow melts across the Presidential Range and surrounding peaks, rivers throughout the region surge. For paddlers, this means some of the best whitewater conditions of the year. 

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Great Glen Trails offers guided whitewater clinics for both beginners and more experienced paddlers. Beginners can explore the thrill of this sport and enjoy a fun day on the water, while experienced paddlers can fine-tune their skills and learn new techniques. 

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Lupine Season

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As temperatures climb and the Valley shakes off winter, one of New Hampshire’s most iconic wildflowers begins to appear. Lupines dot fields and roadsides across the region in late spring, creating vibrant landscapes.

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Lupines can be spotted on long scenic stretches of road and open fields in towns like Jackson and Intervale, as well as throughout the surrounding countryside where the blooms appear naturally each spring. Timing varies each year slightly, but late May through mid-June is typically when they are in full bloom.

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Fishing Season

Spring also marks the return of fishing season across New Hampshire. Rivers and streams run cold and clear, creating excellent conditions. North Country Angler should be your first stop for gear, spring fishing tips and help with finding a guide. 

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Local fishing guides like The Swift River Ghillie or Fish Nerds Guide Service help anglers make the most of these early-season opportunities, whether you’re casting along a quiet stretch of river or exploring lesser-known fishing spots throughout the Valley. For many visitors, it’s a peaceful way to experience the outdoors while enjoying one of the region’s most enduring traditions.

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Backcountry Skiing

While the Valley below begins to turn green, winter still lingers high in the mountains.

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Each spring, skiers and snowboarders make the trek to Tuckerman Ravine on Mt. Washington for one of the Northeast’s most iconic spring traditions. Known for its steep terrain and lively atmosphere, spring skiing in Tuckerman Ravine attracts skiers from across the region for sunny laps, tailgate-style gatherings and the thrill of skiing above the treeline well into spring.

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Tuckerman Inferno

A world-class SkiMo race. While the course is determined in the week leading up to the race, the full skimo race will include a hike/skin to treeline, an alpine snow climb with single pitch of fixed line, a ski descent with a section of giant slalom gates, a second alpine snow climb  and a final ski descent all the way to Pinkham Notch. 

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Spring Serenity

Perhaps the most underrated part of spring in Mt. Washington Valley is the quiet.

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Trails feel more spacious, scenic drives are less crowded and the entire region slows down for a few weeks between winter and summer. It’s the perfect time to explore favorite hiking routes, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Saco River or any other sightseeing on your bucket list without the peak-season bustle.

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MWV Chili Cook-Off

This annual event is moving to a new venue this year. Tuckerman Brewing Company in Conway will host the thirteen teams of professional and amateur chefs—representing some of the Valley’s most beloved businesses, nonprofits and community organizations for the ultimate chili battle. Only one can be crowned Chili Champion. Attendees sample and vote for their favorite to determine the People’s Choice winner.

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Spring is a season worth discovering in Mt. Washington Valley. It may not receive the same attention as peak foliage or deep winter powder days, but those who spend time in the Valley this time of year know it's just as special.

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To learn more about New Hampshire vacations, go to www.VisitNH.gov. 

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