While Pittsburg New Hampshire snowmobiling may be what initially draws visitors to the area, it’s the amazing people within the community that bring them back again and again. In fact, it’s from this small community that we’ve found some exceptional staff to work alongside us at the Bear Rock Outdoor Adventure Store. Jodi Gilbert is one of them.
She’s the most adept specialist for ATV and snowmobile rentals New Hampshire has to offer. Technically holding the title of Operations Manager – Rentals and Retail, Jodi is a team lead who assists with everything from in-store sales to e-commerce fulfillment and even getting guests set up in our camping spaces in Colebrook only 19 miles outside of Pittsburg, New Hampshire.
We couldn’t be more grateful to have Jodi on the team—and that’s why this month, we’re shining the spotlight on her:
How long have you lived in the area?
I’m a North Country native, born and raised. There’s just nothing comparable to the sense of community and pace of life out here. Everyone is neighborly, and no one’s competing to win the “rat race.” I moved to southern New Hampshire to study for a few years, but my heart was always with the Great North Woods—so this is where I’m laying down my roots.
How long have you worked at Bear Rock?
I previously worked a summer back in 2016 for Bear Rock’s Northeast ATV rental department, but it was just seasonal work. I loved it though, so when a full-time position opened up in 2021, I jumped at the opportunity. As of July, I’ve spent three wonderful years working here.
What inspired you to join the outdoor adventure industry?
The outdoors has always held a special place in my heart—especially The Great North Woods. After they interconnected all the trails in 2013, my fiance (also a Bear Rock employee) and I bought quads to take ATV tours NH-style—that is, into the deep backwoods, exploring the vastness of the region with our friends and family beside us.
What do you love about the Great North Woods?
I love the undisturbed quietness of the area. Take a cruise past the Notches, and you’ll find a world of pure stillness—there’s really nothing else like it. I also love the variety of activities for all ages in the area. It has the best ATV riding New Hampshire has to offer but also trails for hiking or family walks.
What’s something about the Great North Woods that would surprise people who’ve never been?
The unique friendliness and genuineness of the people. Travel to any other place, and you’ll almost always be treated like a tourist. But spend a week camping or lodging in Pittsburg NH, and you’ll return home telling tales of locals that treated you like family the whole time.
What’s your favorite aspect of working at Bear Rock?
My incredible colleagues make every day at our out door adventure store a literal adventure. Each person brings their unique personality and makes the environment fun—though we all know when it’s time to knuckle down and get work done. I also feel lucky to get to share our love of the region with everyone visiting. Whether it’s their first or twentieth time here, our guests leave with smiles on their faces and a greater appreciation of the North Country.
What’s your most rewarding memory of working at Bear Rock?
Seeing repeat customers come back year after year. Knowing you’ve made a lasting impression that compels people to return is a truly rewarding feeling.
What does Bear Rock do better than anyone else?
When it comes to customer service, industry knowledge, and information about the area, there’s no competing with Bear Rock. Not only do we offer the highest quality snowmobile rentals New Hampshire has, but we back them up with personalized service so that beginners can feel confident and experienced riders can try something new. We also know the best places to ride, fish, hunt, or do whatever activity your heart desires. Our team’s interests are varied, so if one of us doesn’t have an answer for you, someone else definitely will.
What’s your favorite Bear Rock Camping site?
In my opinion, Mountain Grand is the best campgrounds Pittsburg NH has. It’s a grand plot, so you have more room for yourself—and if you’re camping with dogs like we do, you’ll want all the space you can get. The spots near Mountain Grand are well spaced out and separated by natural barriers, so you have a lot of privacy and feel surrounded by nature.
What’s one item you really want to own from the Outdoor Adventure Store?
There are too many to count! If I had to narrow it down to just one, it would be the Royal Canadian Cambridge Boot in Black Lager. They’re stylish, waterproof, and, best of all, rated to a bone-chilling -22℉.
What advice would you give to someone visiting the area for the first time?
Dress for the weather! Bring layers, no matter what time of year it is. In summer, the mornings start cool but can get balmy as the days go on and, in winter, sometimes it feels like you can never get warm enough. The black flies and hot sun are also something to think about in the warmer months, so bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen. Dress for your activities, too. On the seat of a snowmobile, the air becomes so much more frigid, so skiing gear isn’t going to cut it. Make sure you bring something rated for use on a sled. If you need the right gear, you can always buy or rent it from the Bear Rock Outdoor Adventure Store. Oh, and don’t forget the wool socks—your toes will thank you.
What’s your favorite type of guest?
I love seeing families and giving recommendations for scenic routes and stops that everyone from the littles to grandma and grandpa can enjoy. I just melt when they come back wearing looks of pure joy on their faces. I know those smiles mean they’ll be back again next year.
What’s one great tip for adventuring responsibly?
Always take out everything you bring in, especially trash. No one likes a litterbug, and we want to preserve the beauty of the Great North Woods for generations to come.
What’s your favorite: Snowmobile season or ATV/OHRV season?
It’s definitely ATV/OHRV season. The weather is warmer and the days are longer, so riding isn’t weather-dependent like during colder months. My favorite time to ride is autumn when the leaves begin shifting to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Mother nature is absolutely bursting with beauty during that time of year, like a grand finale before her winter hibernation. It’s truly a spectacular time to ride, and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to experience the North Country in all its majesty.