Clark's Bears

Clark's Bears is a classic New England roadside attraction in Lincoln, a family-run enterprise that has been drawing visitors since the early twentieth century. The most famous act is the bear show, in which black bears perform tricks for the audience in a tradition the family has kept alive for generations. The park also runs the White Mountain Central Railroad, a narrow-gauge train that circles part of the property and crosses a covered bridge, along with a museum, a fire station exhibit, old-fashioned arcade games, a mini-golf course and a candy and gift shop that evokes a trading post. It is deliberately nostalgic and quaint, which charms families with young children and adults who remember such places from childhood. Visitors should note that opinions about animal acts vary, and anyone with concerns can focus on the railway, museum and other attractions.

A visit takes three to five hours, depending on how many activities you add. Arrive near opening and book the first bear show and train trip, then explore the museum and arcade while the crowds build. Tickets are usually sold as an all-in package for the main attractions, with extras such as mini-golf or special experiences available separately. Check the schedule for seasonal operation, as the park is open mostly from late spring through fall.

The park sits on Route 3 near Lincoln and North Woodstock, close to Loon Mountain, the Flume Gorge and the Kancamagus Highway. That makes it a convenient half-day for a family traveling between Franconia Notch and the Loon area. Combined with a gondola ride or a swim at Echo Lake, it fills an easy day.

Bring cash for the arcade and snacks, and sun protection for the outdoor parts. The railway is an enjoyable stop for rail fans comparing it with the Conway Scenic and Cog railways. Because the park is popular on rainy days when hiking is off the table, expect busy periods when the weather turns. Reserve show times in advance if the park offers that option, and verify opening dates and special events before you go.

Plan the day around the show and train schedule, which are posted at the entrance. The bear show is the best-known act, but many visitors say they enjoy the railway and the museum just as much, and the mini-golf and arcade are good for older children. Keep small bills for the penny arcade, and bring a camera for the covered-bridge train crossing.

The gift shop sells maple products and New Hampshire souvenirs, and the candy counter is a favorite with kids. Parents with very young children can use the benches and shaded areas to rest between attractions, and the restrooms are close to the main paths.

Because the park is popular, plan to arrive within an hour of opening on weekends. If rain is forecast, check the indoor options and plan the museum and arcade first. After the visit, a short drive brings you to the Lincoln and North Woodstock restaurants, or to Loon Mountain for a gondola ride.

Whatever your view of the bear show, the park offers plenty of other attractions. Check current hours, seasonal dates and conditions with the operator before you go, wear layers for changeable mountain weather, and keep a flexible backup plan for the day in case clouds, rain or crowds change what is possible.