Located in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire, Bethlehem is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant arts scene. Located in Grafton County, Bethlehem offers a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike, with its quaint downtown area, scenic vistas, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. From hiking and skiing to exploring local galleries and shops, Bethlehem provides an idyllic setting for experiencing the best of New England.
Geography
Bethlehem is located in northern New Hampshire, approximately 40 miles southeast of the Canadian border. The town is located within the White Mountain National Forest, surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and pristine rivers and lakes. Bethlehem is affiliated with the United States and is part of the New England region, renowned for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historic charm.
Population
As of the latest census data, Bethlehem has a population of approximately 2,526 residents. The town’s population swells during the summer and winter months as tourists flock to the area to enjoy its recreational amenities and cultural attractions.
Major Landmarks
Bethlehem boasts several major landmarks and attractions that showcase its unique character and appeal. The Bethlehem Heritage Society Museum provides insight into the town’s history and heritage, with exhibits on local industries, notable residents, and historic events. The Rocks Estate, a historic property once owned by the prominent Glessner family, offers guided tours, seasonal events, and outdoor recreational activities. Additionally, nearby attractions such as Cannon Mountain Ski Resort, Franconia Notch State Park, and the Mount Washington Cog Railway provide endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Climate and Weather Overview
Average Climate Statistics
Bethlehem experiences a continental climate, with four distinct seasons characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The town’s location in the White Mountains results in significant variations in weather and temperature throughout the year, with frequent snowfall in the winter months and occasional heatwaves in the summer.
Table 1: Average Monthly Climate Statistics for Bethlehem, New Hampshire
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 20°F | 3.43 inches | 14 |
| February | 23°F | 3.08 inches | 14 |
| March | 32°F | 4.02 inches | 16 |
| April | 43°F | 4.46 inches | 17 |
| May | 55°F | 4.51 inches | 16 |
| June | 64°F | 4.43 inches | 17 |
| July | 69°F | 4.37 inches | 17 |
| August | 67°F | 4.11 inches | 16 |
| September | 59°F | 3.79 inches | 14 |
| October | 48°F | 3.95 inches | 14 |
| November | 36°F | 3.93 inches | 12 |
| December | 26°F | 3.67 inches | 13 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Bethlehem is characterized by cold temperatures and snowy conditions, with average highs around 20°F and lows in the single digits. The month typically sees moderate precipitation, with an average of 3.43 inches. Outdoor activities during January may include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating at local resorts and outdoor rinks. Indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending concerts, or enjoying cozy evenings by the fireplace offer warmth and entertainment during the winter months.
February
February brings similar cold temperatures to Bethlehem, with average highs reaching 23°F and lows in the single digits. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to January, with an average of 3.08 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can continue to enjoy winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, while indoor activities like arts and crafts, cooking classes, and wine tastings provide opportunities for relaxation and creativity.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Bethlehem, with gradually warming temperatures and melting snow. Average highs reach 32°F, while lows hover around freezing. The month experiences higher precipitation levels compared to February, with an average of 4.02 inches. Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and maple sugaring become more popular as the weather improves. Visitors can also explore local trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks to witness the beauty of the changing seasons.
April
April brings milder and more pleasant weather to Bethlehem, with average highs around 43°F and lows in the 20s°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.46 inches. This ideal weather makes April perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing in local streams and rivers. Visitors can also take advantage of the numerous events and festivals that take place in the area during the spring months.
May
May heralds the arrival of spring in Bethlehem, with average highs reaching 55°F and lows in the 30s°F. The month experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 4.51 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can fully embrace the spring weather by engaging in activities such as camping, canoeing, and birdwatching at nearby parks and wildlife refuges. Hiking, photography, and exploring the blooming wildflowers are also popular outdoor activities during May.
June
June brings the onset of summer in Bethlehem, with average highs climbing to 64°F and lows in the 40s°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.43 inches. The warmer weather makes June perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping in the White Mountains. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and picnicking at local lakes and ponds. June offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and community events.
July
July is characterized by warm and humid weather in Bethlehem, with average highs peaking at 69°F and lows in the 50s°F. The month sees similar precipitation levels to June, with an average of 4.37 inches. Despite the heat, visitors can still enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and kayaking in the area’s rivers and lakes. Seeking shade, staying hydrated, and taking breaks indoors are essential during the hottest parts of the day.
August
August continues the trend of warm and humid weather in Bethlehem, with average highs remaining at 67°F and lows in the 50s°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to July, with an average of 4.11 inches. While the weather may be warm, visitors can still find relief by participating in water-based activities such as boating, tubing, and paddleboarding. Additionally, August is an excellent time to explore local farms, orchards, and markets as they celebrate the harvest season.
September
September brings the first signs of fall to Bethlehem, with average highs dropping to 59°F and lows in the 40s°F. The month experiences slightly decreased precipitation, with an average of 3.79 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the milder weather by engaging in activities such as hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the White Mountains. September is also a great time to explore local festivals, apple orchards, and pumpkin patches as they celebrate the autumn season.
October
October showcases the vibrant colors of fall foliage in Bethlehem, with average highs around 48°F and lows in the 30s°F. Precipitation levels remain relatively high, with an average of 3.95 inches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn by participating in activities such as leaf-peeping, apple picking, and scenic drives along the Kancamagus Highway. Hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the White Mountain National Forest offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
November
November brings cooler temperatures to Bethlehem, with average highs dropping to 36°F and lows in the 20s°F. The month sees similar precipitation levels to October, with an average of 3.93 inches. Despite the cooler weather, outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing are still popular choices for visitors. Indoor activities like visiting museums, attending holiday markets, or enjoying live music provide entertainment during the cooler months.
December
December ushers in winter in Bethlehem, with average highs around 26°F and lows in the teens°F. The month experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 3.67 inches. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the colder weather, visitors can still enjoy seasonal attractions such as holiday light displays, festive markets, and sleigh rides. Indoor activities like shopping for unique gifts, attending holiday concerts, or cozying up by the fire offer opportunities for holiday cheer and relaxation.