Winter in New Hampshire can be rough. The wind, the cold and relentless snow – it can all be a little much to take when all you can do is dream of summer. While we can’t deny that warm weather would be nice right about now, there are some great benefits to winter here in the Granite State. For one thing, we have this totally crazy airplane runway to call our own!
There’s a wonderful little cove in Lake Winnipesaukee that looks like a regular New Hampshire body of water most of the time.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
But, time your visit right and you might be lucky enough to watch a seaplane land here! This little cove is actually known as the Alton Bay Seaplane Base and it’s a state owned and totally public.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
A seaplane base is amazing all on its own, but what we love best is how it transforms in the winter.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
The ice here is so thick that cars can drive on it and airplanes can land on it!
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
The 3,000 feet of ice is plowed to make for appropriate landing conditions.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
From the air, things might look treacherous.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
And, in some cases landing here can be quite dangerous.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
Because the ice is at its thickest in the middle of the winter, the associated weather of this time of year can make for difficulty in sight and often the airstrip must close completely.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
But when it’s open, it’s common to see pilots of the of the small planes that are allowed here chatting and enjoying themselves.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
The Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway is the only one of it’s kind in the lower 48-states that is officially recognized by the Federal Federal Aviation Administration.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
While you won’t be able to walk on the ice, it’s worth a visit to check it out from the sidelines!
Patrick m / Google
The Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway is located at 14 Mount Major Hwy. in Alton Bay. Learn more about them on Facebook or give them a call on 603-875-3498.
Alton Bay Seaplane Base and Ice Runway / Facebook
Patrick m / Google
For more reasons to love winter in New Hampshire, check out this article. It’ll tell you everything you need to know about staying on Mount Washington during the coldest season to learn all about the chilly conditions and nature.
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