Waterville Valley

Although visitors have been exploring this dramatic southern White Mountains valley since 1835, and the first ski trails were installed on 3,997-foot Mt. Tecumseh in the 1930s, Watervalley Valley didn't become a major destination until a group of developers led by Olympic skier Tom Corcoran built a full-service ski area here in 1966. That led to a planned resort with several hotels and condominiums, a town square with shops and restaurants, a golf course, and other amenities. Today it's a terrific family-friendly winter-sports destination, but there's also plenty to do in warmer months, including great hiking and mountain-biking. Rates at the resort hotels come with passes that include cross-country ski and bike rentals, access to the well-equipped White Mountain Athletic Club, and other perks—it's a remarkable value.