MERRIMACK VALLEY REGION

Looking for a taste of the outdoors close to New Hampshire’s largest cities? The Merrimack River Valley features many wonderful Forest Society properties that are rich with scenic beauty, wildlife, history, and more The Merrimack Conservation Partnership, a coalition of many groups and agencies, has accelerated conservation efforts in this key two-state watershed, with a focus on protecting water quality The destinations that follow offer trails, woods, and waters providing convenient settings for active living and maintaining wellness a stone’s throw from the state’s major highways

Quiet and peaceful intersecting loop trails, a brookside meadow, and an enormous pine tree that exploded after a lightning strike in 2020 are just some of the features waiting to be discovered at these beautiful Canterbury properties The trails pass through pine and hardwood forests that were lightly managed by land donor Quentin Hutchins Careful forest management has been implemented on the Hutchins tree farm for many decades, which helps contribute to the health and diversity of the lands while improving standing timber The adjoining Ambeau Forest has a similar history of land use, but with slightly better soils, it has hosted a more productive forest over time

PARKING: Mountain Road (Rt 132), Canterbury; Pickard Road, Canterbury (limited spaces at both locations)

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/hutchins-ambeau-forest

Often referred to as “The Floodplain,” the Merrimack River

Outdoor Education and Conservation Area is a highly diverse landscape home to a myriad of aquatic, avian, and mammalian species for visitors to observe throughout the year Located along Mill Brook and the north side of the Merrimack River as it meanders through New Hampshire’s capital city, the property includes a two-mile trail system and ample parking

PARKING: Les Clark Nature Trailhead off Portsmouth Street, Concord

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation

INFO: forestsociety org/floodplain

The trail at the Buxton-Simons Forest begins from the property gate and sign off Flanders Memorial Drive and leads into a beautiful hemlock forest along a marsh. Along the trail, observant visitors will notice that the area was sustainably harvested in 2018. Evidence of forest thinning and a series of patch cuts are visible from the trail These valuable openings will allow light to reach the forest floor and encourage new growth The trail’s elevation increases steadily, leading to the 1,201-foot summit of Mount Wallingford, the highest point in the town of Weare On a clear day, visitors can see the summit of Mount Washington.

PARKING: Flanders Memorial Drive, Weare (fits 2–3 vehicles)

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/bforest-espreserve

In 2019, the Forest Society and the Manchester Water Works joined together to permanently conserve 1,942 acres surrounding Tower Hill Pond in Candia and Hooksett The nearly 2,000 acres are part of the 8,000 acres that the Manchester Water Works owns and manages to ensure clean drinking water for the City of Manchester and surrounding towns The property offers numerous recreational opportunities, including a six-mile trail system of fire roads used by mountain bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and runners There are also several state-designated snowmobile trails, and the stocked trout pond is open for canoeing and fishing

PARKING: Tower Hill Road, Candia

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety.org/towerhillpond

After lying undisturbed and nearly forgotten for more than 200 years, the abandoned settlement of Monson Center was saved from development and protected in 1998 as a recreational and archaeological treasure From 1738–1770, Monson was the earliest inland colonial settlement in the territory that eventually became New Hampshire Today, a 3-mile trail system leads visitors to seven original home sites with biographical markers describing the colonial settlers who once lived there Wellmaintained open f ields and long stone walls provide an ideal setting to contemplate New England’s histor y of colonial settlement The main trails also converge at a sprawling beaver wetland, which hosts an active heron rookery in early summer.

PARKING: Federal Hill Road, Hollis

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation

INFO: forestsociety org/monson-center

More than 2 miles of trail wind through pine-oak forest at the Bockes Memorial Forest, offering peaceful solitude in the heart of suburban Londonderry and Hudson Located within walking distance of a dense residential area, this forest provides important habitat for wildlife Portions of the forest were carefully thinned in 2014, providing opportunities for fox, fisher, coyote, raccoon, and weasel to hunt smaller animals in bigger openings With long views down its woods roads, the Bockes Memorial Forest is an excellent choice for close-to-home leafpeeping and dog walking

PARKING: Mill Road, Londonderry

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety.org/bockesforest

Boundless hiking opportunities await in New Hampshire’s southwest corner! The Monadnock region offers a mesmerizing array of different experiences and levels of challenge You can explore gentle waterside trails or middlesized mountains. Or put your hiking skills to the test climbing to the summit of Mount Monadnock Feeling even more ambitious? Plan a trek along the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway, a 50-mile hiking trail first established by the Forest Society in 1921!

Property Features:

Featured Properties

Other Featured Properties (Forest Society app/online)

Bookended to the north by Hedgehog Mountain Forest and to the south by High Five, the nearly 5-mile Hedgehog Ridge Trail is the connecting footpath between these two irresistibly scenic spots

Choose your own adventure: you can walk the short 1/3-mile trail to the summit of Wilson Hill at High Five to find spectacular views (and a perfect picnic spot); hike Hedgehog Mountain for more sweeping views of the Contoocook River Valley (1 2 miles roundtrip); or challenge yourself to hike nearly 10 miles out and back along the Hedgehog Ridge Trail If you can spot a car at either end of the trail, the 5-mile one way trek may be your perfect compromise!

PARKING: Northern trailhead: Hedgehog Mountain Road, Deering; southern trailhead: Sky Farm Road, Deering

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailheads unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/hedgehog-mountain-forest; forestsociety org/high-five

Explore two miles of looping trails at the McCabe Forest where a secluded section of the Contoocook River slowly meanders along the eastern side of the property The trails along the river pass through floodplain forests where routine spring flooding supports beautiful, arching silver maple trees overhead and large ostrich ferns on the forest floor. Hikers will appreciate the property’s relatively gentle terrain and cool, shady stands of hemlock trees on warm summer days Listen for black-throated green warblers in the spring. Watch for beaver and otter in the river oxbows

PARKING: Route 202, Antrim

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/mccabe-forest

Once owned by the eccentric actress and socialite Antoinette “Madame Sherri” Bramare, this property now draws visitors to marvel at the ruins of her summer castle-style home The site of the ruins, including the iconic decaying stone staircase, is only a short walk from the Gulf Road trailhead A hike beyond the landmark on the Ann Stokes Loop leads to scenic Indian Pond To extend your outing, continue west from the pond on the Mine Ledge Trail up the eastern slope of Wantastiquet Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with excellent views of the Connecticut River Valley from just below the summit

PARKING: Gulf Road, Chesterfield

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/madamesherri

Mount Monadnock’s storied histor y, trail system, and aweinspiring views make summiting this 3,165-foot mountain a rite of passage for many outdoor enthusiasts. Often referred to as “Grand Monadnock,” the mountain serves as the visual and cultural centerpiece of southwest New Hampshire The mountain has been honored as a National Natural Landmark and the Forest Society leases much of the property to the State of New Hampshire to be operated as Monadnock State Park There are numerous routes to the summit, some of which require a parking fee and advance reservations

PARKING: Multiple locations depending on trail choice

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: Parking day pass fee is required at some trailheads; $5 suggested donation at Dublin and Marlboro trailheads. (Note: Advance registration is highly recommended to park at the state park headquarters and Old Toll Road trailheads. Pets are not permitted anywhere on Mount Monadnock )

INFO: forestsociety org/monadnock; nhstateparks org/visit/stateparks/monadnock-state-park

Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Monadnock and beyond from Gap Mountain’s middle and north summits. Aptly named for the prominent “gap” between its middle and south (no view) summits, Gap Mountain is one of the most popular hiking destinations in southern New Hampshire and is well known for its abundant and delicious blueberries that grow on the summits in July and August. The property’s primary trail coincides with the long-distance Metacomet-Monadnock Trail, which provides a direct link to reach the summit of Monadnock by foot.

PARKING: South parking lot: Upper Gap Mountain Road, Troy; north parking lot: Bullard Road, Jaffrey

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailheads unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation

INFO: forestsociety.org/gapmountain

Visitors may spot an otter family playing in the water or a great blue heron fishing on Camp Pond at the Heald Tract, where more t h a n s eve n m i l e s of t ra i l s c r i s s c ro s s t h i s va r i e d l a n d s ca p e S u r ro u n d e d by a p a tc h wo r k of co n s e r ve d p ro p e r t i e s i n t h e

Souhegan River Valley, the Heald Tract features a mixture of wellmanaged habitats along with ample recreation opportunities For an easy stroll, try the Heald Pond Trail, or opt for more of a challenge by taking the Camp Trail or Castor Pond Loop Trail

PARKING: Heald Road or Kimball Hill Road/MacGregor Road, Wilton

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailheads unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/healdtract

Sublime adventures await at these Forest Society properties stretching across the Upper Valley Region You will find scenic outlooks, lush woodlands, cool waters, and fresh air all providing perfect resources for respite and renewal

Property Features:

Fishing Paddling

Views

Winter Parking

OuterSpatial Outing

Featured Properties

Other Featured Properties (Forest Society app/online)

Farnum Hill is a north-south trending ridge with three distinct summits. At 1,336 feet, South Peak has the highest elevation and magnificent views are afforded in all directions from numerous points along the ridge The hiking trails on the property climb and run along ridges and on gentle loops downslope from the main ridge trail

PARKING: Poverty Lane and Marie’s Way, Lebanon

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: lebanonnh.gov/facilities/facility/details/Farnum-HillReserve-26

One of New Hampshire’s most beloved paddling destinations, Grafton Pond is a 319-acre lake with an almost entirely undeveloped shoreline There are numerous bays and uninhabited islands to explore, offering excellent swimming, f ishing, and wildlife watching opportunities A state-owned boat launch near the parking area offers the best spot for putting in a canoe or kayak The Forest Society owns and manages 933 acres along the shoreline forever protecting the wild experience this lake offers. Watch for loons as you paddle, but keep your distance to reduce stress on this threatened bird species

Note: Gas powered motorboats are not permitted; water levels may vary considerably throughout the season

PARKING: Grafton Pond Road, Grafton

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation

INFO: forestsociety.org/grafton-pond-reservation

A delightful 2-mile loop trail encircles the mixed-wood forest at the Langenau Forest. The trail begins by skirting the edge of a scenic pond before heading into hemlock and spruce woodlands

As you hike around the pond, look for signs of beaver, including chewed stumps and bank slides where beavers regularly scoot on their bellies into the water About halfway around the loop, there are nice views to the southwest along the property’s boundar y The trail system also connects to the SunapeeRagged-Kearsarge Greenway Trail and the Pleasant Lake High Trail, which serve as extended hiking options.

PARKING: Granite Hill Road, Wilmot

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/langenau-forest

Reward yourself with beautiful views of Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee after climbing to the 1,831-foot summit of Sunset Hill at the Hay Reservation. The property abuts other protected lands, including the historic Hay Estate at The Fells (see their public programming schedule), the John Hay National Wildlife Refuge, and the New Hampshire Audubon Society’s Stony Brook Sanctuary.

PARKING: To access the trails, park at The Fells in Newbury and walk directly across Route 103A to the Sunset Hill trailhead

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/hay-reservation; thefells.org

The moderately challenging 2-mile Andrew Brook Trail meanders beside flowing water, cascades, and mossy pools that provide habitat for numerous wildlife species After ascending over two miles, the trail reaches pristine Lake Solitude, a high-elevation lake resting 2,500 feet above sea level. Once you reach Lake Solitude, take a breath and keep going the final third of a mile to White Ledges for a panoramic view. Lake Solitude drains into Andrew Brook, allowing hikers to follow its refreshing waters back to the trailhead This trail serves as an ideal gateway to many natural wonders located in neighboring Mount Sunapee State Park

PARKING: Mountain Road, Newbury

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (Note: About one-eighth of a mile from the trailhead, the Andrew Brook crossing may be difficult when water levels are high. Trailhead unplowed in winter.)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/andrewbrook

Spanning nearly 2,000 acres, the Ashuelot River Headwaters Forest includes superb mountain views and plenty of space for solitude The trail up Silver Mountain climbs, sometimes steeply, t h ro u g h a p i n e , s p r u ce , f i r a n d m i xe d h a rd wo o d fo re s t a n d eventually tops out at 2,160 feet with dramatic westward views of the village of Lempster and the Connecticut River Valley. A timber harvest was carefully conducted in 2021 to support new tree growth by increasing the amount of light reaching the forest floor.

PARKING: South Road, Lempster

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (South Road unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/ashuelot-river-headwaters-forest

Right in the heart of vacation country, the Lakes Region is truly a premiere outdoor destination. Each of these Forest Society properties offers unique vantage points with fantastic views of this vibrant area. Whether you are looking to join the fun at busier summits or immerse yourself in tranquil solitude, these reservations offer a wide range of experiences

Property Features:

Featured Properties

Other Featured Properties (Forest Society app/online)

Stretching more than 1,200 acres across the western slopes of Mount Crosby, Cockermouth Forest offers a mix of moderate to strenuous hikes, incredible views, and numerous opportunities for exploration Follow a series of interconnected trails and woods roads to placid Little Pond or enjoy picturesque views of the White Mountains, Squam Lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, and Newfound Lake from Bald Knob and Mount Crosby

PARKING: North Groton Road, Groton

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety.org/cockermouthforest

Three trail options one from the north and two from the south lead hikers to the summit of Green Mountain. While the entire summit is covered in trees, a climb to the top of the fire tower provides stellar panoramic views of New Hampshire and Maine

Extend your trip by taking a 0.25-mile side trail from the summit to the exposed ledge at Hanson Top for excellent views to the south and west. The summit of Green Mountain lies within Green Mountain State Forest and the High Watch Trail and Libby Access Road trailheads are on private property Please respect private property and stick to the trail.

PARKING: Northern parking lot: High Watch Road, Effingham; southern parking lot: Hobbs Road, Effingham

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety.org/highwatch

Reach the highest point in Wolfeboro at 1,419 feet on this marked trail that leads from the trailhead at Moody Mountain Forest through old f ield white pine, spruce, and various hardwoods

Much of this property was once former pastureland and evidence of this history can be found among the stonewalls and juniper bushes that are increasingly being shaded out by overstory trees. Numerous vernal pools and seeps, in addition to perennial streams, can be found throughout, providing a rich environment for plants and animals. Before the summit, the trail leads onto adjacent private property where a cabin is located

Please respect this area From the cabin, a picturesque view of Lake Winnipesaukee awaits.

PARKING: Beach Pond Road, Wolfeboro

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/moodymountain

At 1,786 feet, the summit of Mount Major offers views that are among the best in southern New Hampshire for the effort required Multiple trails (Mount Major/Main Trail, Brook Trail, and Boulder Loop) lead to the summit from the trailhead on Route 11 providing options for a round trip hike ranging from 3 to 3 9 miles Be advised that the upper ledges are steep and dangerous in wet or icy conditions The Brook Trail is a good alternative route in such conditions and an option for a more gradual descent that offers views from the open west ridge that are not duplicated by the Mount Major/Main Trail In fall 2023, the Forest Society plans to greatly improve the sustainability of Mount Major’s Main Trail, the most popular route up and down the mountain For more, turn to page 28

PARKING: Mount Major Trailhead, Route 11, Alton

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION: $5 suggested donation

INFO: forestsociety org/mount-major-reservation

Find sweeping views, cellar holes, and centuries-old cemeteries at this nearly 2,800-acre reservation that boasts more than eight miles of trails, woods roads, and snowmobile corridors

A popular outing is the 1.2-mile round-trip hike to the small peak ca l l e d P h o e b e’s N a b l e , w h i c h fe a t u re s a ra re v i ew of o n e of southern New Hampshire’s unbroken forested landscapes. Pockets of unusual pitch pine forest habitat can also be found along the trail To extend your outing, many other out-and-back and loop trail adventures await off the Burrows Farm Trail.

PARKING: New Portsmouth Road, Middleton

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety org/moosemountains

Discover one of the best-kept hiking secrets in the Lakes Region! The Morse Preserve boasts a family-friendly 1.7-mile marked loop trail that winds through fields and early successional forests to the top of Pine Mountain. Open blueberr y barrens at the summit provide spectacular views of the Belknap Range and Lake Winnipesaukee This property was previously managed as a commercial blueberry farm and more than 70 acres continue to be maintained as important early successional habitat, which also provides excellent berry picking and birding opportunities.

PARKING: Park in the Town of Alton’s Mike Burke Forest parking lot on Avery Hill Road The trail begins approximately 200 feet south of the parking lot on the east side of the road.

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety org/morse

Wide-open spaces and grand boreal forests await you across the White Mountain and North Country regions. Forest Society properties in these areas offer picturesque settings for outdoor pursuits while sparing hikers the challenge of climbing the surrounding high peaks. You’ll find perfect sites to cast a line, take a hike, and sample some yummy maple syrup to boot in the wildest stretch of the Granite State

Property Features:

Fishing

Paddling

Views

Winter Parking

OuterSpatial Outing

Ammonoosuc River Forest

Featured Properties

Other Featured Properties (Forest Society app/online)

Forest Society Program Center

Fed by the pristine waters that flow from the four Connecticut Lakes and Lake Francis, the Upper Connecticut River, including six miles of river frontage at the Washburn Forest, is well known among fly fishing enthusiasts as one of New England’s premier cold-water fisheries The easiest place to access the river and its tremendous trout fishing within the Washburn Forest is from the parking area and trailhead on the east side of Route 3 in Clarksville From the lot, a trail parallels the river for 0 3 miles before connecting to the larger network of woods roads throughout the property’s interior

PARKING: Route 3, Clarksville

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety.org/washburnforest

Enjoy a walk along well-maintained trails through spruce-f ir woodlands to the remnants of an abandoned gold mine now filled with water and rock that is carved into a cliff face A very small amount of gold was removed from the site before it was determined to have limited potential and abandoned Several fields are routinely mowed and maintained as grassy openings for wildlife habitat. A spur trail also leads to a secluded point along the wild Johns River

PARKING: Ridge Road, Dalton

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety.org/daviddanaforest

From the trailhead on North Road in Shelburne, the Peabody Brook Trail climbs moderately along a wide woods road in the Pe a b o d y Fo re s t Af te r a b o u t a m i l e , t h e t ra i l a s ce n d s m o re steeply for a few tenths of a mile to a short spur trail that leads to Giant Falls This 90-foot waterfall can vary from just a trickle to a n i m p re s s i ve l y ro a r i n g ca s ca d e fo l l ow i n g a h e av y ra i n

Extend your hike by heading to Dream Lake or the Bald Cap Peak ledges Much of this land is in the process of being protected by the Forest Society as part of the Mahoosuc Highlands project. For more information, or to contribute, visit forestsociety org/ project/mahoosuc-highlands-shelburne

PARKING: North Road, Shelburne

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/peabodyforest

Donated to the Forest Society in 1978 by the descendants of John Jacob Glessner, The Rocks today is part grand White Mountain estate, part Christmas Tree Farm, and soon will re-open as Forest Society North A major renovation of the 1884 Carriage Barn will be complete in the fall of 2023. Family-friendly woodland trails through the working sugarbush lead to the NH Maple Museum building also known as the Sawmill-Pigpen For the more intrepid, the 1 8-mile Beaver Pond Loop Trail can be extended to include the full 4 6-mile Michael A Gozzo Trail that partially climbs up Garnet Mountain. In fall 2023, new exhibits, classrooms, and a hillside amphitheater will open to the public

PARKING: Use the main Forest Society North at The Rocks parking area at 113 Glessner Road, Bethlehem

WHEN TO VISIT: Year round, daily, dawn to dusk

ADMISSION FEE: $5 suggested donation (mobile only)

INFO: forestsociety org/therocks

This forest protects 273 acres of lowland spruce-fir forest on both sides of the Ammonoosuc River The 1 8 miles of river frontage are a premier cold-water fishing destination where anglers can try to hook Eastern brook trout, brown trout, or rainbow trout. To access the north side of the river, take the Tom Howe Trail, which follows part of the old Boston & Maine railroad bed, approximately 0 4 miles to the designated fishing point along the riverbank

PARKING: Northern trailhead: Route 302, Bethlehem; southern trailhead: Dori Way, Carroll

WHEN TO VISIT: Spring–Fall (trailhead unplowed in winter)

ADMISSION FEE: Free

INFO: forestsociety org/ammonoosucriver

Lost River is so-named because the brook draining from the southeast part of Kinsman Notch disappears below the surface in the narrow, steep-walled glacial gorge Today, the portion of the property that includes the gorge is leased to White Mountains Attractions Association, which provides guests with the opportunity to experience the fun, challenge, and excitement of the river, gorge, boulders, and caves The Forest Society maintains the Lost River Ecology Trail on the property, which is separate from the gorge area and is free and open to the public.

PARKING: Route 112, North Woodstock

WHEN TO VISIT: May 5–October 15 (Visit lostrivergorge.com/parkinfo for specific dates) Note: The Ecology Trail is not accessible off-season when the parking area for Lost River Gorge is gated and locked. The trails close one hour before the gorge closes. Dogs are allowed outside the gorge fee area, but not inside it

ADMISSION FEE: Visit lostrivergorge.com/park-info for prices

INFO: forestsociety org/lostriver; lostrivergorge com