Maple Sugaring Season: Experience New Hampshire’s Sweet Tradition
As winter’s chill begins to wane, New Hampshire awakens to one of its most cherished traditions: maple sugaring season. This period, typically spanning from late February through March, sees the state’s sugar maples yielding the sap that becomes the renowned New Hampshire maple syrup. For visitors seeking an authentic experience, The Wentworth Inn in Jackson offers both a luxurious stay and proximity to this sweet seasonal activity.
The Tradition of Maple Sugaring in New Hampshire
Maple sugaring is deeply rooted in New Hampshire’s heritage. The process involves tapping sugar maple trees to collect sap, which is then boiled down to produce syrup. The state’s unique climate – marked by freezing nights and thawing days—creates optimal conditions for sap flow. This tradition not only celebrates the arrival of spring but also showcases the region’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community engagement.
New Hampshire Maple Month and Maple Weekend
Each March, New Hampshire celebrates Maple Month, during which more than 90 sugarhouses open their doors to the public. Visitors can witness the maple sugaring process firsthand, sample fresh syrup, and enjoy various maple products. A highlight of this month-long celebration is Maple Weekend, scheduled for March 15–16, 2025. During this weekend, sugarhouses across the state host special events, including tours, tastings, and family-friendly activities.
Sugarhouses Near Jackson, NH
Guests of The Wentworth Inn are ideally positioned to explore several nearby sugarhouses:
- Benton’s Sugar Shack: Located in Thornton, this sixth-generation sugarhouse offers a full breakfast Thursday through Sunday year-round, featuring many maple products.
- Fadden’s General Store & Maple Sugarhouse: Situated in North Woodstock, this historic operation dates back to the 18th century and includes a maple museum.
- Chase Family Sugaring: A family-run sugarhouse passionate about maple syrup, offering products at various locations around New Hampshire and at their roadside stand.
The Wentworth: A Cozy New England Retreat
At the heart of Jackson Village, The Wentworth Inn offers guests an elegant yet welcoming retreat for their maple sugaring adventure. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the White Mountains, the inn provides the perfect balance of historic charm, modern amenities, and personalized hospitality.
Guests can choose from luxurious rooms and suites, many featuring private outdoor hot tubs, fireplaces, and scenic views of Jackson’s covered bridge and rolling landscapes. Whether visiting for a romantic getaway or a family retreat, The Wentworth offers an unparalleled experience in comfort and relaxation.
During maple sugaring season, The Wentworth’s 1869 Room Restaurant celebrates the flavors of the season with locally inspired dishes that incorporate fresh New Hampshire maple syrup. From maple-glazed entrees to decadent maple desserts, every meal highlights the rich flavors that define this time of year.
After a day exploring nearby sugarhouses, guests can unwind by the fire pits, enjoy a soothing massage, or take a stroll through Jackson Village’s picturesque setting. Whether you’re sipping on a warm maple-infused cocktail or indulging in a maple-inspired spa treatment, The Wentworth makes every moment of maple season special.
New Hampshire’s maple sugaring season is a time of tradition, flavor, and community. With The Wentworth Inn as your home base, you can immerse yourself in the region’s sweetest annual event while enjoying an unforgettable stay in the heart of Jackson.