Gilford is located in central New Hampshire on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and the northern slope of Belknap Mountain. Gilford’s vacation rentals have attracted travelers since the early 1800s when farmers supplemented their income by renting to summer boarders. By the early 1900s, winter sports enthusiasts were also vacationing in Gilford for the cross-country skiing and ski jumping. Alpine skiing was also soon popular and Gunstock Mountain introduced the area’s first motorized ski lift and a snow train to transport skiers from Boston. The natural beauty of the mountains and lake continues to appeal to visitors today.
Gunstock Mountain Skiing
Gilford is a family-friendly town with activities for every member of the family.
Gilford activities are seasonal, but there is plenty to do in every season. Gunstock Mountain Resort is popular for its skiing and snowboarding trails and also offers snow tubing, snowshoeing, off-road Segway tours, a treetop adventure, and ziplining. Swim in Lake Winnipesaukee at the Ellacoya State Park. There’s usually a breeze and you can relax on the sandy beach and dine in the picnic area. Don’t miss Funspot – the largest arcade in the world! View Gilford from the sky in a unique biplane tour of the area.
Lake Winnipisaukee
Discover Gilford on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Gunstock Mountain Resort is a fun family destination with breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and activities for everybody and every season. Pepi Herrmann’s Crystal Gallery & Museum showcases some of the finest hand-cut crystals by a master crystal cutter with one-of-a-kind customized creations. From May through November, sample a diverse selection of locally-produced wines at Stone Gate Vineyard. Experience a show at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, formerly Meadowbrook – a 900 seat amphitheater on the shores of the lake.
New Hampshire Snowmobile Association
Gilford has a season for everyone.
From December through February, relish cold weather sports like skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling, or curl up with a book in front of a roaring fire. Watch the area bloom to life in spring from March through May. Wildflowers burst through the thawing ground and you can visit maple sugar houses for demonstrations on making maple syrup. The lake region comes alive in summer from June through October with area tours, water sports, and an abundance of hiking. The spectacular colors of fall ignite the imagination and experience the crisp, mouth-watering taste of freshly-picked apples.
Wildflowers
Get up close and personal with nature in Gilford.
Gilford vacation rentals allow visitors to enjoy every seasonal pastime imaginable. Belknap Mountain, at the southern point of the town, is the highest point in the area with an elevation of 2,384 feet. Almost 28 percent of the town is covered by water. Discover Gilford’s nature and wildlife with your family and friends. You may be lucky enough to spot a peregrine falcon, moose or speckled fawn. Gilford is the best possible place to experience and enjoy all that nature has to offer, from amazing wildlife to majestic mountains to a sparkling lake.
