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Moose Safari, Mountain Bike Center
Offered at various nights throughout the week, take a van at dusk to join a tour that visits moose hotspots and go on a moose "hunt" to catch them in a spotlight. They sellout very fast, so book as soon as you arrive...if not sooner!
Balsams Mountain Biking
Rent mountain bikes for all sizes for per day or per hour and then hit the numerous mountain biking trails in Dixville Notch. Riding instruction and group and guided tours are available.
Balsams Kayaking
Complimentary kayaking, canoeing and paddle boating is offered on Lake Gloriette, located on the Balsams' property near the pool, but instead, join the 45-minute guided tours on Mud Pond (additional fee). Mud Pond -- named because the lake is black like mud -- is located at the top of Keazer Mountain at 2,322 feet, for fantastic views.
Balsams Hiking
A number of green (easy), blue (moderate) and black (difficult) hikes are available to families. The most popular hike is to the Table Rock, with gorgeous views of Dixville Notch and the Balsams. Don't listen to the staff that says the harder climb is just "hard;" it's nearly a vertical rock climb to the top (although fun and challenging for teens and adults to try, if able). Boxed picnic lunches are available to bring on hikes during the summer months.
Balsams Pool
The swimming pool, which was often empty during our summertime stay, is actually heated, so don't let the cool mountain temperatures scare you off.
Camp Wind Whistle
The complimentary (yes, I said free!) summer day camp program features an array of planned activities posted daily for kids of all ages, many of which get the kids outdoors. The older kids will love the Rope Course and the Dog sledding on grass. For the younger set, I wasn't impressed with the conference room filled with arts and crafts and toys. It seemed dark and dingy in an environment promoting outdoor adventures. Programs begin at 9 a.m. and run through 4 p.m. with breakfast, lunch and dinner (pre-registration required) offered.
Balsams Games
This old-fashioned resort is right out of the film "Dirty Dancing" and games and activities are available at all hours of the day. Badminton, Bocce, billiards, board games and Bridge? They have 'em, as well as host of other games. Ask concierge where to find what you're looking for, or join in organized group events, posted daily on the Activities Board.
Balsams Golf
The Balsams has been offering golf in the mountains since 1897 and offers two courses, including the mountaintop Panorama course (worthy of a lunch at the grill just to take in the views). Children over 12 are welcome to play golf with a parent on the Panorama course; children six and older are allowed play on the Coashaukee course, if the course is not busy. Clinics and lessons are offered, and tournaments are scheduled weekly in the summer months for the guests.
Balsams Ice Skating
During the winter months, a lighted skating rink is available for day and evening skates. Skate rentals are available.
Balsams Game Room
Located on the mezzanine level of the Dixville House, kids can play pinball, ping-pong and video games.
Balsams Movie Theater
During the evenings, the free movie theater in the lower level welcomes families for movies like "The Polar Express," as well as PG movies later in the evening for teens and adults to watch. (Especially a nice touch when televisions are not often found in guest rooms and kids want to "veg.")
Balsams Wilderness Ski Area
Named one of the "world's poshest ski hotels," the Balsams Wilderness Ski Area promises 85 percent of snow cover on its intricate trail system covering between 1,400 to 2,600 feet. Complimentary shuttle service is available from the hotel to the lodge, where rentals are available and the lift operates 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. Unlimited alpine skiing and ski touring ski passes are available to guests on the American Plan. Snowboarding is welcome on the slopes, as well.
Wind Whistle Camps provides ski lessons for kids ages 3 through 13. Tiny Turns, for ages 3 and 4, are one-hour, one-on-one lessons throughout the day. Snow Farm, for ages 4 to 6, and Ski Camp, for ages 7 to 13, are available mornings, afternoons, or for a full day. There is an additional fee for the ski camp program.
Balsams Tennis
Red clay courts can be crowded during the summer months with many clamoring for lessons and tournament play. Group lessons take place daily from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., including children's lessons at 11 and 11:45 a.m. daily.
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