2 minute read

IT’S TIME TO GET OUTSIDE!

Welcome to the Forest Society’s 2023 recreation issue! The Forest Society owns more than 190 properties across New Hampshire, and we want you to explore them On the following pages, you’ll find regional maps highlighting featured destinations, along with property descriptions chock full of things to do and see, parking information, and best times to visit.

This guide includes land protected by conservation easements or deed restrictions held by the Forest Society, noted on the maps with a [CE]. These properties are owned by private individuals or entities such as land trusts, conser vation organizations, or town, state, or federal agencies but they are open to the public.

The easements and deed restrictions limit the type of activities that can occur there, which protects the conservation and open space values of the land

With hundreds of miles of trails to hike on from the North Country to the Seacoast, there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy in this guide. Pro tip: Don’t forget to download the Forest Society’s OuterSpatial app before you go to have detailed maps and trail descriptions at your fingertips To learn more, visit forestsociety.org/app.

Have some fun, be safe, and I’ll see you on the trails and water Ryan Smith, Forest Notes editor

You can help us care for our properties and easements by practicing Leave No Trace. Every outing is an opportunity to practice these principles and ensure our shared resources will be sustained into the future.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Learn about the property you plan to visit ahead of time: do your research and check the weather Have a plan B ready in case you encounter full parking lots Remember to park safely and don’t park in front of gates Care for your pets by knowing their limitations and always keeping them under control.

TRASH YOUR TRASH: Pack out all of your trash, including pet waste, and consider disposing of other refuse you find during your visit

LEAVE IT AS YOU FIND IT: Leave plants, rocks, and historical items as you find them so others can enjoy them, too. Avoid damaging living trees and plants. Common edible plants (e g , berries) may be collected for limited personal consumption Remember to rinse, drain, and dry your boat, trailer, and all water recreation gear after every use to help prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species.

KEEP WILDLIFE WILD: Observe wildlife from a distance, don’t feed them, and store your food and trash securely

SHARE THE OUTDOORS: Be friendly to others you encounter outdoors To limit crowding at our popular destinations, consider visiting on a weekday Use headphones if you choose to listen to music.

STICK TO TRAILS: Walk and ride on designated trails whenever possible If you are using a motorized vehicle, be sure that you are allowed to use it where you are riding Find durable surfaces (e g , rocks) or pull-offs if you need to stop and take a break Bicycles and horses are only allowed on vehicular access roads or specially designated routes.

For more Forest Society guidelines, visit forestsociety org/visitor-use-guidelines

For additional Leave No Trace tips, go to visitnh.gov/leavenotrace, and for safe hiking tips, visit hikesafe.com.