Gunstock Mountain, NH, Report: Night Skiing During Glow and Throw

Report from Saturday, January 11, 2025

Glow and Throw

Last Saturday, Gunstock Mountain in New Hampshire hosted Glow and Throw, a glowstick-themed night terrain park competition that brought together local skiers and snowboarders.

The event occurred at the Pistol lift’s base, where the mountain’s terrain park crew had created a hike-to rail jam specifically for the competition. Participants showcased their skills on various features while spectators gathered around a cozy fire, enjoying complimentary s’mores provided by the crew. Music from nearby speakers added to the lively atmosphere.

Glow and Throw | Image: Gunstock Instagram

One standout performance came from a young snowboarder who repeatedly and confidently slid the event’s longest feature, a 30-foot rail that proved challenging for many other competitors.

Overall, Glow and Throw was a fantastic experience for spectators, offering a unique opportunity to watch passionate terrain park riders in their element.

Gunstock, thank you for hosting Glow and Throw! The terrain park community needs more mountains like yours—a place that genuinely listens to its passholders and regulars and provides spaces for riders to showcase their talent. Events like this make all the time spent training in the park worthwhile.

We’re thrilled about the Gunstock community and can’t wait to return for another visit!

Conditions

Glow and Throw setup | Image: Brett Ploss

With the most night skiing terrain in the Northeast and lifts running until 9 p.m., Gunstock offers plenty to explore after dark. We started our evening on Ramrod, skiing the blue trails in that area before heading to Tiger, where we discovered some excellent tree skiing. Equipped with a headlamp, we were even able to find untouched stashes of powder under the moonlight—an experience that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Over by Pistol, we spread out and found wide-open runs with minimal ice, a pleasant surprise given the region’s typical conditions. The slopes weren’t crowded, allowing for smooth turns and uninterrupted runs.

Overall, snow conditions were packed powder with some expected icy patches, but coverage on-piste was solid. Compared to neighboring resorts we visited earlier in the day, Gunstock had fewer icy spots, making for a more enjoyable evening of skiing.

The Resort

Gunstock Trail Map | Image: Gunstock website

Gunstock Mountain Resort, located in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, is a ski destination known for its scenic views and family-friendly atmosphere. Just 90 minutes from Boston, Gunstock offers 227 skiable acres with 48 trails and glades, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. With a summit elevation of 2,267 feet and a vertical drop of 1,400 feet, the resort’s longest run, the 1.5-mile-long Flintlock, provides stunning panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains.

Gunstock is celebrated for its well-groomed trails, beginner-friendly slopes, and night skiing, which features 22 illuminated trails for evening adventures. The resort’s eight lifts, including a high-speed quad, ensure quick access to the mountain, while its advanced snowmaking system guarantees consistent conditions throughout the season. The terrain park adds excitement for freestyle enthusiasts, offering a variety of features to test their skills.

Beyond skiing, Gunstock is a year-round destination with activities like snow tubing, cross-country skiing, ziplining, and summer hiking. Its cozy base area features dining options, gear rentals, and a welcoming après-ski scene, making it an ideal spot for families and groups.

With its stunning lakeside location, diverse terrain, and year-round activities, Gunstock Mountain Resort provides a quintessential New Hampshire mountain getaway for outdoor lovers of all ages.