According to the 1990 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, most of the Mount Washington Valley area is in Region 4b; the more mountainous sections are in 4a. The nearest city for which detailed long-term data is available is Concord, NH, which has weather similar to the non-mountainous Mount Washington Valley region.
The region’s largest industry is tourism. The Valley is a year round vacation community attracting visitors from New England’s urban centers, and from many foreign countries. It is a favorite among Canadians. Surrounded by the 750,000 acre White Mountain National Forest, and set at the base of Mount Washington – the Northeast’s highest peak- the Valley is a natural playground. The busiest months on an extended basis are July and August. Other months of the year show peak business for shorter periods – particularly the September/October foliage season, Christmas/New Year week, holiday and special event weekends throughout the year. In winter, some of the finest downhill and cross-country skiing in the East can be found. Outdoor skating rinks, plus a brand new indoor rink, the Ham Arena, offers public skating, lessons, and hockey league playing. Warmer weather brings swimming in crystal clear lakes and streams, canoeing, rafting, hiking, camping and biking. Golfers have a choice of six courses. There are online catalogues of both winter and summer recreation resources.
