Cross-country skiing enthusiasts in Concord, New Hampshire, may soon benefit from improved winter conditions at Beaver Meadow Golf Course. Recent snowfall and subsequent freezing temperatures have created ideal conditions for snowmaking, positioning the area as a potential local epicenter for Nordic skiing.
After a snowy Tuesday, local skiers flocked to Beaver Meadow on December 3, 2025, to enjoy the groomed trails and exercise. With the onset of consistently low temperatures, the course is set to enhance its appeal through snowmaking capabilities. Sam Evans-Brown, chairman of Ski the Beav, indicated that these improvements are crucial, given the unpredictable nature of New England winters.
The nonprofit organization Ski the Beav has been implementing a three-phase plan to establish Beaver Meadow as a key destination for Nordic skiing. This initiative began with fundraising efforts to acquire a grooming machine. Last year, the group collaborated with Concord Parks and Recreation to test a snowmaking fan gun, which received positive feedback from the community. A survey of 370 local residents revealed that consistent snow conditions could encourage them to ski at least once a week.
Other regions with similar initiatives, such as the Weston Ski Track near Boston and the Quarry Road Trails in Waterville, Maine, have demonstrated the potential for success. Evans-Brown emphasized the need for Beaver Meadow to replicate this success, noting that areas south of Concord enjoy more skiing days due to better snow conditions.
On December 6, 2024, David Gill, Director of Concord Parks and Recreation, oversaw a test run of the snowmaking fan at Beaver Meadow. During the trial, the HKD Super Blizzard produced an impressive 200 gallons of water per minute, shooting it 225 feet into the air. This successful trial attracted skiers from across the capital region, allowing the Concord High Nordic team to train consistently and providing opportunities for local beginners through a “Learn to Ski” clinic that served 80 participants.
This year, Ski the Beav is determined to make snowmaking a permanent feature at Beaver Meadow. The group has raised approximately 58% of its $100,000 goal to fund the purchase of a snowmaker and cover the costs of extending water and power lines to the golf course. Notably, the organization received a $24,000 rebate from New Hampshire Saves, which brought them over 80% of the way to their funding goal. The city council is set to vote on December 8, 2025, on the approval of this rebate funding.
The estimated cost for the necessary utility infrastructure extensions is around $43,000, meaning the organization is close to covering all expenses associated with the snowmaking project. Evans-Brown expressed relief upon receiving news of the snowmaking gun’s completion, stating, “The gun has been built, and they sent me a photo of it all wrapped up. You’ve got a package waiting to be unwrapped.”
Should the city council approve the necessary funding, it is unclear whether the utility work will be completed before the end of the winter season. Nonetheless, Ski the Beav is prepared to connect hoses to transport water to the snowmaker, and Evans-Brown remains optimistic that some snowmaking will commence this winter.
As Beaver Meadow continues to enhance its facilities, it has the potential to not only attract more local skiers but also to elevate Concord’s status in the Nordic skiing community.
