Littleton, New Hampshire, nestled in the foothills of the beautiful White Mountains range, is one of America's treasured historic communities. The town was settled on the banks of the Ammonoosuc River just prior to the American Revolution, a site undoubtedly chosen because of its breathtaking natural surroundings and bountiful resources. Littleton was incorporated in 1784 and named in honor of Colonel Moses Little, who fought in the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the Battle of Bunker Hill, and other key struggles of the Revolution. One of Littleton's first thriving businesses—the Littleton Grist Mill—opened in 1798, and despite its age, continues to operate. The fully restored grist mill, along with the Historic Thayers Inn, the Littleton Opera House, and Chutters Candy Store (home of the "world's longest candy counter"), together stand as prized symbols of the town's cultural heritage and economic success. Today Littleton, with a population of approximately 6,000 residents, is an award-winning community, having been ranked as one of America's best small towns in both 1995 and 2005. Among its many virtues, the town is ultimately adored for its charming atmosphere, picturesque scenery full of church steeples and historic architecture, pretty tree-lined streets, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Real estate in Littleton is typically affordable, making it easy for new families and first time homebuyers to settle there. Those searching for homes in Littleton may be surprised at the selection of properties they have to choose from; the town offers unique historic homes, vintage ranches, cute Cape Cods, country estates and more. Littleton also boasts a thriving downtown, which has received many accolades for its planning and preservation, including the "Great American Main Street" award in 2003. Main Street in Littleton is filled with unique gift shops, boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and a two picture cinema all in a quaint historic atmosphere. One block south of Main Street is the Mill Street Riverwalk and covered bridge on the Ammonoosuc River, great for scenic walks, biking, and jogging. One reason that many people choose to relocate to Littleton, NH is the town's abundance of recreational opportunities. The Littleton area maintains over 75 miles of trails in and around the towns of Littleton, Whitefield, Lisbon, Bethlehem, Monroe and Dalton, which are used for a variety of activities from snowmobiling and dog sledding to hiking and horseback riding. Also, Littleton is conveniently close to several recreational areas, such as the White Mountain National Forest, Franconia Notch State Park, and Moore Reservoir. Littleton is less than 10 miles away from renowned Bethlehem golf courses—the Maplewood Country Club and the Bethlehem Country Club—both of which are 18-hole championship courses designed by golf legend Donald Ross. The Bretton Woods ski area and Mount Washington Resort are also nearby, offering thrilling year-round recreation.