Black Bear Lodge - Waterville Valley, NH, White Mountains, NH

As a notable option within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category, Black Bear Lodge in Waterville Valley, NH, White Mountains, NH, stands out as a popular choice for travelers seeking comfortable, condominium-style accommodations amidst the scenic beauty of the White Mountain National Forest. Located at 23 Black Bear Way, Waterville Valley, NH 03215, USA, the lodge offers a welcoming atmosphere, particularly for families and groups, due to its spacious units and comprehensive amenities.

Black Bear Lodge is ideally situated in the heart of Waterville Valley, a picturesque, self-contained village that serves as a hub for outdoor recreation in the White Mountains. Its prime location places guests within walking distance of the bustling Town Square, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, a coffee house, and a country store. The lodge is also just steps away from the vast White Mountain National Forest, offering immediate access to hiking and biking trails. For winter sports enthusiasts, the lodge is very convenient: the Nordic ski trails are easily accessible, and the downhill ski area of Waterville Valley Resort is a quick drive or complimentary shuttle ride away via the resort's private shuttle service. The proximity to the Waterville Valley Ice Arena and Waterville Valley Golf Course further enhances its appeal for different seasons. The natural environment is a significant draw, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation while offering ample opportunities for adventure in a truly beautiful mountain setting.

Black Bear Lodge operates as an all-suite hotel, offering condo-style accommodations that are individually owned, leading to variations in decor and furnishings, yet all are designed to provide a comfortable "home away from home" experience. The suites typically feature full kitchens equipped with a refrigerator, oven, stovetop, microwave, coffee maker, and essential kitchenware, along with separate dining areas and living rooms. Many units are spacious, offering one or two bedrooms and often include pull-down Murphy beds or pull-out sofa beds to accommodate larger families or groups, comfortably sleeping between 4 to 8 guests depending on the unit type (e.g., Cub, Den, Loft, Deluxe Loft). Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs with premium channels, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations and complimentary toiletries.

Guests at Black Bear Lodge benefit from a wide array of on-site and resort-wide amenities, especially through the "Freedom Pass" which is typically included with stays. Key features and services include:

• Pool and Wellness Facilities: The lodge features an on-site indoor/outdoor heated pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and a steam room, providing excellent options for relaxation and recreation year-round. While the on-site pool facilities can vary in condition, guests also have access to the White Mountain Athletic Club, which offers a larger aquatic center, indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, and indoor tennis courts.
• Recreation: Beyond the pools, guests can enjoy an on-site game room and arcade. The Freedom Pass opens up access to numerous activities within Waterville Valley, such as ice skating at the indoor arena, boating (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding) on Corcoran's Pond, mountain biking, and various summer and winter programs offered by the Waterville Valley Recreation Department. Ski and bike storage is also available.
• Guest Services: The lodge offers a 24-hour front desk (though check-in times are typically 4 PM to 8 AM the next day, and office hours may vary), complimentary morning coffee in the lobby, laundry facilities, barbecue facilities, and free self-parking. There's also a complimentary area shuttle service that transports guests to the Waterville Valley Resort ski area, Ice Arena, and other local attractions.
• Meeting and Event Spaces: Black Bear Lodge provides two conference/meeting rooms, making it suitable for small meetings or group gatherings. The wider Waterville Valley Resort also offers extensive function space for larger events, including weddings and corporate retreats.

Black Bear Lodge frequently highlights its value for family vacations and group trips, often promoting its spacious, condo-style suites with full kitchens as an ideal "home away from home." Special deals and packages are often available, especially for direct bookings. These can include discounts for extended stays, specific holiday weekend packages (e.g., Memorial Day Weekend specials with included activities), and loyalty discounts for returning guests. A military discount is also offered for active personnel and veterans. The inclusion of the Freedom Pass is a significant promotional point, as it provides complimentary access to a wide range of resort activities and athletic club facilities, adding substantial value to the stay. The convenience of its location for both winter sports (skiing, ice skating) and summer activities (hiking, biking, golf, pond activities) is a consistent theme in its promotions, appealing to a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Customer reviews for Black Bear Lodge present a mixed, though generally positive, picture. Many guests praise the lodge's convenient location in Waterville Valley, noting its proximity to the Town Square, Nordic ski trails, and the shuttle to the downhill area. The spaciousness of the condo units, particularly the multiple bedrooms and full kitchens, is frequently appreciated by families and groups, providing ample room and the convenience of self-catering. Guests often find the rooms cozy and functional for a relaxing stay between activities.

However, some reviews raise concerns regarding cleanliness and the condition of certain aspects of the property. There have been reports of units not being as clean as expected, with comments about general filthiness in some cases. Guests have also noted that while the units are functional, they can appear "outdated" or "beat up," with some specific mentions of old or broken mattresses. Issues with the pool and hot tub, such as being too cold or not working, have also been reported, though access to the White Mountain Athletic Club facilities provides an alternative. Furthermore, there have been some serious complaints about staff behavior, with reports of rude and inappropriate interactions, particularly towards children and parents, which significantly detracts from the guest experience in those instances. The fact that condos are privately owned means that the quality and upkeep can vary from unit to unit.

Prospective guests should be aware that while the location and access to resort-wide amenities (especially via the Freedom Pass) are significant advantages, the condition and cleanliness of individual units can be inconsistent. It is advisable for travelers to manage expectations regarding luxury and understand that some units may show signs of age. If specific concerns exist, it might be beneficial to inquire about the condition of the assigned unit. Despite the varied feedback on unit condition and some staff interactions, the overall value for money and the prime location for accessing Waterville Valley's attractions remain strong points for Black Bear Lodge.

The main contact number for Black Bear Lodge is (603) 236-4501 or +1 603-236-4501.