Biggest and most challenging mountain in NH. It has a reputation of being icy and cold, because it's often icy and cold. It has a north face so that's what you get. With that you also get incomparable views, incredible terrain, low attendance, tons of snow, and the most challenging terrain in NH. This place is like no other because it's owned by the state, not a pvt. company. Employees are park rangers so don't expect resort treatment, you will not be coddled. It's run like a state operation so there is no urgency or sense that anyone is trying to earn your business. This is a no frills, no fluff, no BS place. People here still wear wool and the attitude is typical New England taciturn. Nestled in Franconia Notch, there's no more majestic setting. The Notch has it's own WX system and it can be snowing in there and sunny and 40 degrees just 5 miles south. It gets more snow than anywhere nearby. The often windy conditions make for frequent "free refills". When hitting fresh powder, you can find your tracks filled in on the next run. With all this heartiness it is still the best learning area that no one seems to know about. The Tuckerbrook section is designated for learners and is accessible yet isolated. It has it's own lift and 6 trails that no advanced skiers go near so the learner has no concerns with traffic. It's also the best value in NH with 2 for 1 liftix on Tues and Thurs. In short, the biggest, baddest, boldest, most unforgiving and most glorious mountain in NH.