Loon Gondola and Summit Ledges
Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of the White Mountains via the scenic Loon Gondola, with unique summit explorations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak foliage colors
Loon Gondola and Summit Ledges
Best Time
Peak foliage colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of the White Mountains via the scenic Loon Gondola, with unique summit explorations.
"The Gondola Ride is a must-do! Affordable, fun, and offers unforgettable, breathtaking scenery."
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your gondola tickets online in advance. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uneven terrain at the summit, especially for the caves. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Loon Gondola Ride
Base of Loon Mountain
A scenic aerial tramway offering breathtaking panoramic views of the White Mountains, especially stunning during fall foliage.
Summit Ledges & Viewing Tower
Summit of Loon Mountain
Explore various lookout points and a viewing tower for unparalleled vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Glacier Caves
Summit of Loon Mountain
Unique geological formations offering a cool, albeit sometimes dirty and claustrophobic, adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Gondola Tickets Online
Summit Experience Varies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Loon Tips and Tricks?
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your gondola tickets online in advance. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uneven terrain at the summit, especially for the caves. :athletic_shoe:
Loon Next Weekend
Is Loon That Bad?
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer, as the cafe is a distance from some attractions. :droplet:
🍔 Pack Snacks or Eat Early
Food at the summit cafe can be pricey and disappointing. Consider eating before you go up. :hamburger:
Gondola line at Loon 4/17/21 going up the Seven Brothers trail 😳
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save money and time by purchasing your gondola tickets online in advance. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uneven terrain at the summit, especially for the caves. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer, as the cafe is a distance from some attractions. :droplet:
🍔 Pack Snacks or Eat Early
Food at the summit cafe can be pricey and disappointing. Consider eating before you go up. :hamburger:
☁️ Check the Weather
Summit views can be obscured by clouds. Clear days offer the best experience. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from the Loon Gondola and summit, especially during fall. The gondola ride is considered affordable and enjoyable for all ages. However, some find the summit 'caves' to be more of a rock crawl with stairs, and the on-site cafe is noted for being pricey with mixed food quality.
"Loon Mountain Resort was an absolute gem for our Wedding Anniversary celebration! We came for the fall foliage and left with unforgettable views. The Gondola Ride is a must-do! And it's affordable, fun for everyone, and a great way to take in the breathtaking scenery. Recommendation: it is best to buy tickets for the Gondola online for a discount! The views were simply stunning, felt like we stepped into a documentary about nature. At the summit, you can grab a bite and a hot drink or cold adult beverage at the cute cafe and soak in the spectacular views. Highly recommend for a day trip with a view during the season of Autumn 🍁🍁🍁!"
JGSam
"This was a beautiful opportunity to spend some quiet time in God's beauty. I know it's the off season but beautiful none the less. Rode up Gondola and the different trails at top were really nice as well as the many look out points. It was a brief overcast with low clouds, so I felt like I was in the clouds with God. Then it cleared to beautiful blue skies."
Tanya Avery
"Loon Mountain is amazingly beautiful! Taking the gondola during winter or the rest of the year is absolutely beautiful. Prices are high, but breathtaking when up there. They have "caves" which, in my opinion, is really rock crawls; can be claustrophobic and get dirty. There is a lot of stairs, so not for everyone! There is a speaking area up top with gorgeous view. Viewing tower, dining area, spectacular viewing areas."
Kim Blanchet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loon Mountain Resort is accessible by car via I-93 North. The gondola base station is clearly marked. Parking is available on-site.
While direct public transport is limited, some regional bus services might operate to nearby towns. It's best to check local transit schedules for options.
The drive from Boston to Loon Mountain is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak travel times.
Information on EV charging stations at Loon Mountain is not widely available. It's recommended to check the official Loon Mountain Resort website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Typically, pets are not allowed on the gondola for safety and hygiene reasons. Always check the resort's specific pet policy before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but purchasing online in advance often provides a discount. Expect prices to be higher during peak fall foliage season.
The most recommended way to buy tickets is online through the official Loon Mountain Resort website for potential discounts and to secure your spot.
Yes, buying tickets online in advance is frequently mentioned as a way to get a discount. Look for seasonal promotions or package deals.
Operating hours vary by season. It's crucial to check the official Loon Mountain Resort website for the most current gondola operating schedule before your visit.
The gondola typically operates during the summer and fall seasons for scenic rides and hiking access. Winter operations may be limited or focused on ski access. Check the resort's website for seasonal availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views from ledges and a viewing tower, explore the 'Glacier Caves' (rock crawls), and grab refreshments at the cafe.
The 'Glacier Caves' involve stairs and can be narrow, dirty, and claustrophobic for some. They are not recommended for those with mobility issues or who are sensitive to confined spaces.
The summit offers spectacular, breathtaking views of the White Mountains. On clear days, the vistas are expansive, and on overcast days, you might feel like you're 'in the clouds'.
Yes, there is a cafe at the summit offering food and drinks, including hot and cold beverages. However, some reviews suggest it's pricey and the food quality can be disappointing.
Restrooms are available at the summit, typically located near the cafe. It's advisable to note their location as they can be a distance from attractions like the caves.
📸 📸 Photography
The gondola ride itself offers incredible aerial shots. At the summit, the viewing tower and various ledges provide stunning panoramic backdrops for photos.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and popular tourist areas for safety and privacy. Check Loon Mountain Resort's official policy on drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant peaks. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
Yes, the unique rock formations within the Glacier Caves can make for interesting, albeit potentially dark, photographic subjects. Be mindful of the tight spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the 'Glacier Caves'; while adventurous, they involve stairs and tight spaces that might be challenging or overwhelming for very young children or those prone to claustrophobia. Bringing snacks and water is a good idea, as summit food can be pricey. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for navigating the summit terrain.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For those interested in unique shots, the 'Glacier Caves' offer opportunities for dramatic, moody photography within the rock formations, though lighting can be challenging. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens to isolate distant peaks. Always check weather conditions, as clear skies dramatically enhance photo opportunities.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
While the 'Glacier Caves' are an attraction, nature lovers will also appreciate the broader mountain vistas and the chance to experience the alpine environment. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, water, and layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Loon Gondola Experience
During the ride, keep an eye out for the changing landscape below and the vast mountain ranges stretching out before you. The enclosed cabins offer protection from the elements, making it a comfortable way to enjoy the views regardless of the weather, though clear days are undeniably best for visibility. The journey up provides a fantastic opportunity for photography, capturing the scale and beauty of the region from a unique perspective.
Pro-tip: Booking your gondola tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This not only often secures a better price but also helps you avoid potentially long queues, especially during peak times like weekends and holidays. This simple step can significantly enhance your overall experience and allow more time to enjoy the summit.
Exploring the Summit Ledges and Beyond
For the more adventurous, the 'Glacier Caves' offer a unique, albeit challenging, exploration. These are not true ice caves but rather a series of interconnected rock formations and crawl spaces. Visitors should be prepared for stairs, potential dirt, and tight squeezes. While some find them 'pretty cool,' others note they can be claustrophobic and are not suitable for everyone, particularly those with mobility issues or a fear of confined spaces.
At the summit, you'll also find a cafe where you can purchase refreshments. While convenient, reviews suggest that prices can be high and the food quality may not meet expectations. Many advise bringing your own snacks or planning to eat before or after your visit to the summit to manage costs and ensure a satisfying culinary experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit