tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12193437715148282392024-03-18T21:11:48.627-04:00TrailspottingHiking Rail Trails California Massachusetts New Hampshire Vermont MoreStuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comBlogger261125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-54146461532878430282024-03-15T10:13:00.002-04:002024-03-15T10:32:56.601-04:00South Lykken Trail, Palm Springs CA<br>
• 3 & 4-star hikes<br>
• 2.1 to 4.7 mile options<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 580 to 1090 feet<br>
• Palm Springs, CA | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/southwest">Southwest US</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/33.80851,-116.55187">North, </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/33.77872,-116.54578">South</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbkFHM93-ShIcf27xVKC6LfJdTIKYtZiwXTYRtg8i7nZsK4WE6JTjGKeaT7RXyrIUBwOUZNX4ACGHcSeH3CLiqtoqZGgPKDu4zE8t57YGAfxsgN0iheDeRF99QjxvVOGuNchx1CatfQ7zWsSQbyDfXFVD7If7Lxq8X-kSKV7VsglqRntbuNHak299bveg/s1024/IMG_7638.jpg" width="2048" alt="Looking out over Palm Springs from the South Carl Lykken Trail." /><br>
<i>Looking out over Palm Springs from the South Carl Lykken Trail.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/southwest-usa-hiking-map.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUh2XAlUcOlmtGR0Bebc1lCBcgLDikyF1ZauRoiwJW5rbreH4J2nAhDSLi21ZHzQ-aLeHmlKgD8V7Wm7O8B2TQWsAO8sV9X8kLrGHvJfwwFO3Tvh4sqvBQhILAZlTHa8KgIve5fu_72fQwoP-T4zg-FU-ixYq7ar8O3_DkZaJ5BIURO_HhmvUP4SKXnQ/s200/sw1.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting the Southwest</b><br><span style="color:#000000">See our growing collection of hiking recommendations from the Southwest US states.</span></div></div></a>
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The South Lykken Trail ascends a thousand feet above Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley among desert wildflowers, cacti and maybe even a bighorn sheep if you're lucky enough. Named for a local conservationist and hiking enthusiast, this trail offers stunning views of the city below and mountains beyond.<br>
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We've mapped out three options from which to choose, including out-and-back routes from trailhead to a couple of great viewpoints. We prefer a hike of the full route, either as a one way journey or as an out-and-back route that'll double your distance. In our case we used a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft so we could hike from the far end of the trail back to our parked vehicle.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> S Lykken,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s200/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Johnson View, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s200/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> Kennett View</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1pmJT5jGa4286AlAn0FQADrKdAEo7zco&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="683" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>South Carl Lykken Trail 4★</b><br>
4.7 mi one way, Medium, Gain 1,090 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-e661551-6">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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As a one-way journey we prefer beginning at the south trailhead and hiking into the hills in the direction of Palm Springs. Not only does this afford excellent views of the mountain and the valley panorama below, but it also breaks down the thousand foot of elevation into a more gradual two-stage ascent. Approaching from the north requires you to tackle the full climb head on. Not that that's much of a problem though, as the trail has only a moderate incline and involves no large steps or rock scrambling.<br>
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Compared with the desolation of the desert below the foothills around Palm Springs are resplendent with vegetation including several cacti species, a variety of bushes and grasses, and between November and April expect to find wildflowers scattered over the hillsides. The trail offers no protection from the desert sun, so be sure to time your hike appropriately and pack sunscreen and plenty of water.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kFv1JR0knFzkP_tk2_k2_xTN7rVLqpIO8A-tt9JDc-8C9pScks0OqgIB8hcLKxS6-HefeA7TQSgkLfUZzrEBhQg4nTYYKe6JWj2Ze6wj2uC90NN6PNEpbfwURKUGRHfqGJxlQYYApwII4t3hsV5t0u_MdKHxABEDbl_lVH5E4LQgijiY8EqgyDOQf2xd/s1024/IMG_7595.jpg" width="2048" alt="A steady climb from South Lykken Trailhead" /><br>
<i>A steady climb from South Lykken Trailhead.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s200/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> <b>Josie Johnson Vista 3★</b><br>
3.3 mi, Out & Back, Medium, Gain 1,010 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-c450082-5">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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The closest trailhead to Palm Springs leads you on a thousand-foot climb up the Josie Johnson Vista Park, a small mountain lookout spot that features several picnic tables. On the way, peer down into Tahquitz Canyon where you can see people on the 1.7 mile loop trail to <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/tahquitz-canyon-falls-palm-springs-ca.html">Tahquitz Canyon Falls</a>. Though the hike to the Josie Johnson viewpoint doesn't feature any waterfalls, it does offer a spectacular overview of the sprawling city of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. <br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s200/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> <b>Simonetta Kennett Vista 3★</b><br>
2.1 mi, Out & Back, Gain 580 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-632cee9-7">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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The shortest of the three hikes also requires the least amount of elevation gain, but still offers some great views from the Simonetta Kennet Vista viewpoint. Situated south of the city, the viewpoint includes a couple of picnic tables and is a great place from which to watch the sun set and for the mountain to cast it shadows over the valley. Of course, remember to bring a headlamp if you're hiking in the evening for the return trip back to the trailhead.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-V_u15JLCl-sB5Hp-_ktIHo3nRtYmADJEKD62mau3wGOqoJ4KPIzhLYiHRv1ujJZWdhflfiZGEM1zELxMZW54cLyrnQvO_L1hIMcZ6QxaVfhQbZ_weLV2bCbeveUVUYiTlQwhAO0dTjlK_dZQI-6gL80m3s6ffiYN5zJ8s_upgPWZMcM8ExmkJX-sjx35/s1024/IMG_7626.jpg" alt="A hiker rounding a bend in the trail, with the city below." /><br>
<i>No steep drop-offs. This hillside trail offers comfortable hiking.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-4MY3RxIiJDKwEUUsRRJxzjNDQ8DOBTXqo_BHQpVMCZ_dkpwd-lohs-pznnjCnEDJUOZT_Jky3KoPcLIrEM491n4MBUclbDKy_xcAL5jtL7ksASpUbpPhM_So8iUsvXP-3uqlEiL7ij7w_XAq1Ttk28SFi-8pBT8XRR8oHagdfdGGAyIxY719cueuu4G/s1024/IMG_7642.jpg" alt="A gecko sunning itself on the rocks." /><br>
<i>A gecko sunning itself on the rocks.</i><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXVBNyjWcjJOOlnHRE-KbLr-rrP90vFnkGuBUfb_Jk7LVQVEjPCuYe0dBwpdRgf1TR4aW03CxRHaePTaIrRlJ7erehF950erPv8AHaN7Qvk73nEsCKU6p_UqYdhAAPl3evSNRMMc-lgsovYl3Y7AX3qkMbfobZZx0rPBABZmsDz44lEDh8FT-b8vraMMC/s1600/IMG_7612.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXVBNyjWcjJOOlnHRE-KbLr-rrP90vFnkGuBUfb_Jk7LVQVEjPCuYe0dBwpdRgf1TR4aW03CxRHaePTaIrRlJ7erehF950erPv8AHaN7Qvk73nEsCKU6p_UqYdhAAPl3evSNRMMc-lgsovYl3Y7AX3qkMbfobZZx0rPBABZmsDz44lEDh8FT-b8vraMMC/s1024/IMG_7612.jpg" alt="Spectacular panoramic views from the South Lykken Trail." /></a><br>
<i>Spectacular panoramic views from the South Lykken Trail.</i><br>
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Free roadside parking is available at both trailheads we've marked on our map. The northern location isn't actually a trailhead, but is the closest available parking spot and you'll find the actual trailhead well-signed at the end of West Mesquite Avenue. Please do not use the Tahquitz Canyon parking lot on private property at the top of West Mesquite Avenue, which is available for the paid hike that leads to Tahquitz Canyon Falls - for which we have a separate <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/tahquitz-canyon-falls-palm-springs-ca.html">Trailspotting review</a>.<br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sbnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=74223&actid=50">Official,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/south-lykken-trailhead">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/879117887307711/">Comment on this article</a><br>
• Nearby trails: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=33.80407355551387%2C-116.50970611572265&z=10">Show on map</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-45572160103521712172024-03-14T08:08:00.000-04:002024-03-15T10:13:56.802-04:00Skull Rock Nature Trail, Joshua Tree CA
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• 4-star hike<br>
• 1.7 mile loop<br>
• Easy difficulty | Gain 140 feet<br>
• Twentynine Palms, CA | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/joshuatree">Joshua Tree National Park </a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/33.99213,-116.06837">Trailhead</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig9s78VjJmIMeUU3dpzSwsMdBkzXqO_3sbjh6P00NPHjT8af1cXJZaVdjkzPUqnkvQh01wCbJyJ0xw-J7Y_BjvhtByuwaCAhiBS1N33dI8jvg5kBw-4sYNI4rmJvMGzaMgyTW9awFJbmuEfIXl5Un2TjM3bZpYLPEzAfsLNflJK_Io5-_CLSDJeaEzl580/s1024/IMG_7541.jpg" width="2048" alt="Skull Rock in Joshua Tree National Park teeming with visitors" /><br>
<i>Skull Rock, teeming with visitors.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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Located next to the main highway and situated in the middle of the park, this sandstone rock carved out by the elements is usually teeming with visitors. If you can find a space to park along the road you could join them by hopping out and then back in your car, or alternatively you could park closer to the Jumbo Rocks campground and embark on this short hike that takes in the surrounding scenery on the way to Skull Rock.<br>
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We advise a clockwise route on the Skull Rock Nature Trail that begins by the campground crosswalk and leads along mostly flat paths through sandstone outcroppings adorned with a variety of vegetation and scurrying lizards. Though mostly flat, there is a brief incline that rewards the hiker with a scenic overlook across the park to the wind-worn smooth features of Jumbo Rocks.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Skull Rock Nature Trail</small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1CDWO-LpzTvd8XUQTa5xa82lONUapqQk&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Skull Rock Nature Trail 4★</b><br>
1.7 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 140 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-3384ace-7">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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After crossing the road and satisfying your curiosities at Skull Rock, the loop trail continues South. Though early sections of the return trail are ill defined, follow a route parallel to the highway and you'll have no problems with wayfinding. Eventually the trail takes a left turn and drops you off at a marked trailhead in Jumbo Rocks Campground. From here you'll need to walk 0.4 miles along the camp road back to your starting position.<br>
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This nature trail offers a pleasant desert stroll away from the throngs of sightseers that head directly to Skull Rock. Ourselves, we prefer the nearby <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/split-rock-loop-joshua-tree-ca.html">Split Rock Loop Trail</a> that offers a dramatic and varied terrain with views in all directions and surreal stone formations that you can anthropomorphize to your heart's content.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoD_uk4DWRkNqXiYgXMSHDy4PJRBmQZDInaWe9LPkBL8wo3iiGG_oY00t_V_IyvqDbUhJjpa9fTreT9h6lyU4Eh3ZcbygZ3myXcCOKEK_fFwaxNTG51t2D4L9osBFS1V4Obb-VlDSRVivXmU0gZFDXY3LCvqJkXz9ZdQEszRk2bgF6RVFgk4zm0R1l10u/s1024/IMG_7524.jpg" alt="Two hikers on a dusty stepped trail, heading for Jumbo Rocks. A highway intersects the photograph." /><br>
<i>Hikers heading towards Jumbo Rocks.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQvSxPLLuOpO7qSxiMTcCD7_A9VnyZt-BP1Jj0ac56J1H32DJxuWqLUgy3ePGJfHmomsAVL1Wo-t0-0TPnj6665cSGbLhTDsMknHEObcQJPZs9bpO4hJYCD_0KmiqkDPux89kiqPG3EGZ_1vb0cYOR-WoGbA7qo2INC_nVRKg9SAz3oYQIANub6lLrUny/s1024/IMG_7537.jpg" width="2048" alt="Skull rock from a distance, among a large collection of windswept and rounded boulders" /><br>
<i>Does it look more like a skull from a distance?</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/skullrock.htm">Official,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/skull-rock-nature-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/874955991057234/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/gear.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgeJzBopiiUATZo0LhTfGuk72nu7VDPql4rXgShv__jimeuCNOKBVPHnDuM8kH5vz5vojRxVCYcPfhZavG1vD-Cg0JRv8TbxJdwmGFe9HDR8WvSFNW2tR2EixgaXmHO7YUHXyo8B2vkiJ93GE1TQ5we2Y5QWKo0SjJh8lqLikHzHv1AXcuv5eCob3tw/s200/Gear.png" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting gear suggestions" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Gear Suggestions</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Learn about our trail essentials, hiking equipment, tips, bicycles and photography gear.</span></div></div></a>Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-55980364917010770272024-03-09T11:20:00.003-05:002024-03-10T11:32:17.728-04:00Fox Forest, Hillsborough NH<br />
• 4-star hike<br />
• 2.8 to 6.2 mile options<br />
• Easy difficulty | Gain 350 to 1,010 feet<br />
• Hillsborough, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/newhampshire+monadnock">Monadnock Region</a><br />
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.1382,-71.91353">Trailhead</a><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhSUhMyCDowVKQZCGOhsQ5NrfVE2ij6UOkmCnVvk-ZgLivNySuyme6bm3aLlMbZiXAj45AmNRJmBY32JEaf9hwjhbNugzovPTIjJxeNCuAtWvxKYj3shssKlsGlcSKkob1SIlMEHVNQ3YPKadkRFYF10j7bSkqme0IoTBE0-bCklHtqEEpVt0_mUe0A/s1600/IMG_3622.jpg" width="2048" /><br />
<i>Boardwalk viewing kiosk at Mud Pond Bog.</i><br /> <a name='more'></a>
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Fox Forest is the state of New Hampshire's forestry research station and features 22 miles of trails within its 1,500 acre woodland plot just North of the town of Hillsborough.<br />
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The public is welcome on the trails, and to explore features that include a small plot of virgin forest and a viewing platform on Monroe Hill. The research center buildings include a museum of forestry memorabilia, but it is only open during the annual field day and at other times upon request.<br />
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<small><nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width="12" /> No Ridge,</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width="12" /> Mud Pond</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s200/BLU.png" alt="blue icon" width="12"/> Harvey Cutoff</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s200/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> So Ridge</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="550" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=17CbMCm2y2rWlB6Uta_XolvmPoFgnKe8&ehbc=808588" width="1024"></iframe><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width="14" /> <b>Mud Pond Loop 3★</b><br />
2.8 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 350ft<br />
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mud-pond-loop-31784d9?u=i">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br />
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This shorter loop sticks to some of the flatter terrain in the park, leading past the virgin forest, a pond viewpoint and on to the Mud Pond which includes a boardwalk and a screened-in kiosk for wildlife viewing during the buggiest season.<br />
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The virgin forest is a small pocket of forest believed to have never seen an axe, featuring a stand of Easter Hemlock and hardwood trees that are over two hundred years old.<br />
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Mud Pond Bog reportedly contains peat deposits up to 30 feet in depth, so you'll probably want to stick to the boardwalk by the shore. There's a great interpretive sign illustrating the wetland's unique flora and fauna. The last section of trail to Mud Pond is quite light - if you find an unmarked trail fork, stay to the left and follow our map (the right-hand goes nowhere, but I've fallen for it twice already).<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcxJvuyLEYwGU8iEb0_fOiGmTE6dZsSUQWeYXqy8EGdAOlTOu6jLA_Xq-segEjN_1BVYbUCEhtp-SOVuCfaUKJ3eSzl7LVt7yBiyt-sqGEAZtr0pBtLsP6runyWuGvQLa_LVGIvLtydbXnrAzFiYZNA0eFO52AMkDJfxvjYg4QWRSZXYIV9uxPafn9w/s1600/IMG_3700.jpg" width="2048" /><br />
<i>On the quiet Ridge Trail you'll likely find trees are your only company.</i><br />
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<b><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width="14" /> North Ridge Loop 4★</b><br />
6.2 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 1,010ft<br />
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-fox-sf-north-ridge-loop-9ddb9dd">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br />
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This longer loop of the Northern side of the park includes a hike up the tallest hills, and includes a viewing platform with partial views towards <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/11/crotched-mountain.html">Crotched Mountain</a>. The route shares an outbound journey past the virgin forest to Mud Pond Bog, then continues on a counter-clockwise tour of Fox Forest's perimeters and towards Monroe Hill. The Ridge Trail eschews switchbacks and instead takes a direct route up and down several hilly slopes. Take care in wet weather and fallen leaves as this makes the gradients somewhat slippery.<br />
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The Monroe Hill tower was something of an anti-climax for us - less than a dozen steps to a viewing platform from where you can see the profile of distant hills and mountains. We wish the stewards of this trail would at least remove some of the taller brush that diminishes the view despite the increased height of the platform.<br />
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The lightly-traveled Ridge Trail can be hard to follow sometimes. The red-on-white blazes are often just too far apart to be useful, and there are several criss-crossing trails and old farm roads, so we'd recommend carrying GPS navigation and using our downloadable route map.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuJVaQT0o7sAmr1HpS6OIoDoUcxgK9T0F9kE-63NvnSKqxYJbtuhV7REdRt4ez1wNJ0-h60ZlqDxeGgdNWi1nVxGenBoIuggQErS1r_F-XcH8TCWRwHKsVunzCxD-vzwGNaeD-pi4PGkJ5hmetOvoFi5JwwZwc1X4R2ytaVrdjCwHPCgmDtF3D5_orw/s1600/IMG_3680.jpg" width="2048" /><br />
<i>Straining for views on the Monroe Hill viewing platform.</i><br />
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<b><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s200/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> South Ridge Loop 2★</b><br />
5.2 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 520ft<br />
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-58d2d62-6">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br />
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Trails on the south side of the road have fewer features to offer, but you are more likely to have the whole forest to yourself. You'll find yourself surrounded by verdant evergreen trees, and its particularly pleasant to find such greenery in New Hampshire's fallow seasons when other trails may appear somewhat barren.<br>
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Maintainance isn't great on this lower half of Fox Forest however, so expect to be stepping around many fallen branches while having to keep a careful eye out for the continuing trail. The lack of maintenance is so lacking on the furthest part of the trail that we recommend you take the Harvey Road cut-off route instead. It was difficult to follow the trail close to the southern perimeter and if it wasn't for the bright painted blazes on the trees and our smartphone directions we don't think we'd have been able to follow it. For this reason alone we give this loop two stars.<br>
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<b><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s200/BLU.png" alt="blue icon" /> Harvey Cutoff 3★</b><br />
4.5 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 430ft<br />
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-df6d233-10">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br />
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This is our preferred route on the south half of Fox Forest, combining the best sections of the South Ridge Trail and some abandoned and overgrown local roads that make for easier hiking.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGxFE6G9lAGddMnjIZx79YiXcmDIfrY2IJWnEbT1fcEW9zCTWYSs0PHuG9IeoOo6mxSUo0KAty8qyXcHXrvJo_kBa4ibPBc0nEUMMtAodrpWVHoNom-myefJIgvChL1QAJb2gWgecay0vlQkBhlOmsCLZvpmMeBHSCJ6fQJPD8GFDybOf-lJfTA8QkQ/s1600/IMG_3579.jpg" width="2048" /><br />
<i>Small creek crossing, heading out towards the Mud Pond Bog.</i><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAANS876y39xaZHgMrY61Q6AlQyGQBPaZNlUhWovtXEhLvJ5AkikR1W1bcln1pFRWPJcJcz-71U8xUBhDKAtbcrFdwxuleoHr9Y45ucOa72aLL7nRKgrnjrMnEFPn10aKfeaHyo4QOh_eaWmTZ1cPWZUcQrLCAF4GGWydM7CRhex4FjTEWT1ojADxl4eN/s1024/IMG_7835.jpg" width="1024" alt="fungi clinging to trees" /><br />
<i>Fungi clinging to trees.</i><br />
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Tangents:<br />
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.nh.gov/nhdfl/documents/fox-trails-2017-color.pdf">Official map (PDF)</a><br />
• Public Maps at AllTrails: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/fox-state-forest-ridge-trail-loop">North Ridge Loop,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/fox-forest-loop">South Loop</a><br />
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/606923087860527/">Comment on this article</a><br />
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.1561957985769%2C-71.93320059164051&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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<a href=" https://www.trailspotting.com/p/fire-towers-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkSHENIHeqqwMS4OsOdech7sdUf0i4eB8P_78a-xunVOYnJik_5Sb51NwIg7f9p27T8-lpOaORn4fGuXYL8fDkofzks0FREiapbnnlquVeMuz70KMO2lcAnrSkN2J79I3r_fK_JfjHf_4eGzPKjwCbUcSbXURqW9cNUtvvBK89SWXUy_g5PruiUbF0w/s200/tower.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Image of fire tower" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Fire Towers of New Hampshire</b><span style="color:#000000"><br> Discover our map of NH fire towers and the trails on which to find them.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/gear.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgeJzBopiiUATZo0LhTfGuk72nu7VDPql4rXgShv__jimeuCNOKBVPHnDuM8kH5vz5vojRxVCYcPfhZavG1vD-Cg0JRv8TbxJdwmGFe9HDR8WvSFNW2tR2EixgaXmHO7YUHXyo8B2vkiJ93GE1TQ5we2Y5QWKo0SjJh8lqLikHzHv1AXcuv5eCob3tw/s1600/Gear.png" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Gear Suggestions</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Learn about our trail essentials, hiking equipment, tips, bicycles and photography gear.</span></div></div></a>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2wiwdgt89hv_6j-4bB7nQySu-j9uv3jfL6ltz7bMbcvfyRtVb4pw4WYfng-R4C4hA4f8N8Es8b0T3d3W_n2hMdqHKk3JC-Gds3XW7vm7UhWswD7lC8whHVEfOgLklAbWMUXBuCDMIr_NuCZmtZEWGUYO9BRAZUFAbQIBDYgMaZQQ8tVarQvqP1MOCrw/s1600/fbgroup.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Join our Facebook Group</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Receive new articles around once a week with trail reviews, maps and photos.</span></div></div></a>Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-18481809732168155152024-03-08T12:20:00.000-05:002024-03-09T11:25:58.774-05:00Oak Hill Knowlton Forest, Concord NH<br>
• 3 & 4-star hikes<br>
• 2.9 to 4.7 mile options <br>
• Easy difficulty | Gain 520 to 760 feet<br>
• Concord, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/merrimack">Merrimack Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.28164,-71.51993">Knowlton Forest, </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.27445,-71.52871">Oak Hill</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg31dUjCSogmTwlJtpkCOyKqXTb8GQKWRQpCPUedt1ETNgAFNcJQkJ2RzmX03TZOazQqvuaSZQXuAJKmZ5aJ6xrRqr9tTLjS2uFkeEAxhx6fuzCX8h0nClqWKBAcrzoJGYK3iSRXzT6HO16IVGcNxx7NmFl_c6hssv8MjdraTZnomL-0n5QA7Gw8WBCnLWu/s1024/oak1.jpg" width="1024" alt="Oak Hill Fire Tower" /><br>
<i>Locked cabin, but there's a great view from the stairs.</i><br>
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<a name='more'></a>
<a href=" https://www.trailspotting.com/p/fire-towers-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkSHENIHeqqwMS4OsOdech7sdUf0i4eB8P_78a-xunVOYnJik_5Sb51NwIg7f9p27T8-lpOaORn4fGuXYL8fDkofzks0FREiapbnnlquVeMuz70KMO2lcAnrSkN2J79I3r_fK_JfjHf_4eGzPKjwCbUcSbXURqW9cNUtvvBK89SWXUy_g5PruiUbF0w/s200/tower.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Image of fire tower" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Fire Towers of New Hampshire</b><span style="color:#000000"><br> Discover our map of NH fire towers and the trails on which to find them.</span></div></div></a>
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Popular with Concord residents, the woodland trails of Oak Hill City Forest and Knowlton Forest parks are moderately easy to hike, with few rocky sections and low gradient paths. Trails criss-cross the forest, so we've marked out some recommended routes, all of which include a journey to the top of the recently restored fire tower. Until you reach the summit of Oak Hill where the tower is located, your views are mostly limited to the canopy of oak trees for which the park is named, though there are a couple of good viewpoints worth checking out on the route.<br>
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Hiking to the summit of Oak Hill is worth the ascent. Be sure to climb the stairs to the underside of the locked fire tower hut for the best panoramic views. The fire tower shares the summit with a picnic table, an ancient rusted grading machine and three ugly, but no doubt necessary microwave and radio towers. We worked hard to keep them cropped them out of our photos, of course.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP07y3Gkiv3GAKb79lJtaCBXLd5lP98_n8IVPmTh-aMTG0UZSsgRb7FPb914icA06Ol8GdpRHRHYAOmuBNQxKbzKqiS23DsQ__fRoLbDYGm0QRcwxI2jKlKZEmRfRtTqEr_nYXCpQRCpSkZu2_HvFRVMFaDyRz_wUMWApFGN_s0t0NVLbp0RYkL--1mw" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Knowlton Loop,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwhjCnfS4qHOeViN9gAvuigc96kVdCw2xBEjQ0o8WY3svtVo--JaE9dxZGP04-lWkDOhCaQDmQ1fDpRofikvcNBgWBjD6MYwt6aRJdGgDtB7fTAA05i4dAvs1mV0WRwKyHjb-lMHI0yZb7BTXxk_9mXY9GJx85YdKZMWJS6D8xXQ4jpyhSgl-HWGCsqA" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Tower Trail, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s200/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> Oak Loop</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1HMy1Ty0zSv89gqeTL7jYp1KnpPj0p-o&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0"></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP07y3Gkiv3GAKb79lJtaCBXLd5lP98_n8IVPmTh-aMTG0UZSsgRb7FPb914icA06Ol8GdpRHRHYAOmuBNQxKbzKqiS23DsQ__fRoLbDYGm0QRcwxI2jKlKZEmRfRtTqEr_nYXCpQRCpSkZu2_HvFRVMFaDyRz_wUMWApFGN_s0t0NVLbp0RYkL--1mw" alt="red icon"/><b> Knowlton Loop 4★</b><br>
3.3 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 560ft | The quickest loop trail from trailhead to tower. You could also reduce your hike further to 2.9 miles and 520 ft gain if you took a strict out-and-back route to the tower, but you'd be missing the viewpoint by Swope Loop.<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-614d37f-10">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s200/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> <b>Oak Hill Tower Trail 3★</b><br>
3.8 mi, Out & back, Easy, Gain 570ft | The shortest route from the Oak Hill Park Trailhead to tower and back again along the same trail. We'd rate this as a 3-star trail because it doesn't include either of the viewpoints aside from the one at the top of the tower.<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/tower-trail-1fe46a0">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvdMD27wbj-QIyclzNraWslS_H93L5dGuxM4_lp-g3LgX3HIS9Fh2IUSH3KedVmI9mbH04Iskj6rDTdrsT5pfXs23UEPJG1lXv34W5GYj6ONmuxUeJbj6xsi3nnsmWLLFJyv4BgcJgznb8cjpu9P2maVDM7dS9y66BaaIJ55MO1aVH2ZpF69b1Hc5H1w" alt="purple icon" /><b> Oak Hill Loop 4★</b><br>
4.7 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 760ft | This circuitous route intersects with itself twice, to offer the chance to explore most of the park and take in the two viewpoints as well as the tower on top of Oak Hill. These viewpoints provide great northerly views as far as Mt. Kearsage and Ragged Mountain on a clear day, which is particularly impressive when still so close to the city of Concord.<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-oak-hill-tower-loop-0d73a25">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7F-X0QgpaJzPlJfk4RHL4dbCgKgSUt8-C8lYjeuCe-wu4gTW5TjbI0FwOpXoEuNcZLC0YnHFwgkNFUXR1hyrp_x9kCcWNCPZM6sRl0IP55drRLgitsgMMwVMpBq-EYv1fR-TrLCDg0klg7B5jCm_k3AqASodJEvCvtEy1dR3mY9dP13Te_kq-N4wUj-L/s1024/oak2.jpg" width="1024" alt="The best views are at the Oak Hill Vista on Vista Way."/><br>
<i>The best views are at the Oak Hill Vista on Vista Way.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LSgqsHRySrdipfFEuVEmqhFL0tr_6kreV-Q8yeBBHo_gM3taAXg12FtejwIFk2qRMWTiWVFmh-_vBFsBNdgFG7IQ7ihZdMqdf-QR7FMzTJ4D1U0_QrM-jncX6nvysSb8kbrAI1Cr8H1EDsFuBsyN8En2jreU86cSuPx4SBynFNdnrhecvIoEkO3Q6PHk/s1024/oak3.jpg" width="1024" alt="rusted frame of an old road grader"/><br>
<i>Previous visitors clearly weren't familiar with the meaning of 'leave no trace'.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.concordnh.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9221/Map-12-Oak-Hill-Trails">Official (PDF),</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/oak-hill-fire-tower-trail?u=i">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/337622314790607/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.27440169783535,-71.52840968416187&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn8OA9-TQOT2w7Axyk_dBFaBJ9yNG66CtuGIvvLnZ_Pr0qrHtcp-iOmjuyhU1kkrBz5nbksjs9DueXx2QvH8961thL4rah-JPVRZNQX-BvxuWGZPsvOA1ieRfEsK8-x_BFtHeC4GaxbahDHTDGQ4i_56CE91F3NgKwlRlI2wVGdkrYglkpxpg3G2x4A/s200/covered.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting's New Hampshire Covered Bridge Map and List" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Covered Bridges of New Hampshire</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Maps, directions and links for all New Hampshire's covered bridges.</span></div></div></a>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-9682942682104902612024-03-01T08:49:00.001-05:002024-03-13T13:52:38.570-04:00Eastern Promenade Trail, Portland ME<br>
• 4-star trail<br>
• 1.8 miles each way<br>
• Easy difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Portland, ME | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/maine">Maine</a><br>
• Driving Directions: Marked <span style="color:#0386d0; ">⬤</span> on map<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArbOE5Lk-0aNrygQeI8KUfiDqTwzhABHGBguEyvnQ2RN31WTixp6zuFLIIUkhCqoQsbaZGOzvk0rFJbFpZEHC2rHs2BmUv7XH16ozv56IVa_j475MGLkhAHeJjDlXri5Gkb_98zcDoum9DlOjWVqcMR0MeIJhGxcLAlBDL37fld-iKjpLOIuYG-59f1xS/s1024/IMG_2875.jpg" alt="Cyclist riding on a rail trail adjacent to a narrow gauge railroad train." /><br>
<i>Sharing the trail with the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/trailspotting-rail-trails.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZK8aMLodFGyID0xnJ3Di1ZCZKk3UJY3RXiQrlcftTi4CK1_IG-Ovzx3qEue3NQ3MOjRC1eie_DaaPbl6fLue5Dgu5jvGT_tHBDvWlaod8WQok8LVIgMwnLjpzBcBJjB5BYoekJgiNSExJgE7TpuBbEJ3FXk-iq9ad_zWAPMZIr0c7-Vis6olv9-OvAw/s200/RailTrailMap.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Rail Trail Map of New England" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Rail Trail Map of New England</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Every rail trail, with links to our reviews, photos & detailed route maps.</span></div></div></a>
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The railroads arrived in Portland in 1842, moving agricultural goods onto ships bound for Europe and ferrying passengers as far as Boston - which was served by six trains each day. Portland even boasted four passenger railroad stations and a locomotive works. Thanks to the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad trains still power around the city's Eastern Promenade today, though only running a one-and-a-half mile out-and-back service for sightseers.<br>
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Hopping on the train in downtown is a great way to see the views of the Eastern Promenade, but if you're looking for some excercise or want to explore Portland's peninsula at your own pace, then the paved pedestrian and bicycle trails that run parallel to the narrow gauge railroad tracks are a great option.<br>
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<small><nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QYQtfIbgYs0z0_o6dRoOimF4-ZRZtyH8cXCZfMPruAgI4lF-xDVqTlf1nsxbz-tCy-DWEyuri_swzijNez0cwf7FFlP1WAhikpZSdmDxu0j7rZch9oABZSL6aCTb4mzWhsQmurIdp0_zAseuIbPgPNYDfazZOpdDIjoARXMrHyqHzP02JyEzjSPguQ/s200/GRE.png" alt="green icon" /> Asphalt, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIZcQCxBP-FD4dsNCTrmITREsMCpbi4gke_NLnUSJu2-RvVW21egAZAuycJ-MFQwfqWSbNLZu9twAb6GUEVCmaX0hksOUgM1J560mU8-uy1rG5gPwErSdHYtMDah6KSIguJdGwBkCgDbYpmnqaQ-dtUpb7dkzsqHl_aaAZ7taDGF3IYHKX1353i0V3A/s200/DGRAY.PNG" alt="dark gray icon" /> Live Rail, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s200/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1Sy15v9b8zCJgxG8EjK9P5oHB9SwjCxQ&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="color coded rail trail route on a Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPXkt5TmC7hwL97PKxXjliYLqLvnX0qjUC56soT0UzDNwvPCG4xTdMcohSHsSTnjiqyR_6M7BgAtW9xbzN4hnTCcnQFrBA3Gm8sxf7q7-Lw_aLteuKOYBk8sxlgrLj-FkxmEl_KeEWG8YU00P5Orn6y0D7uD0OK68NP3zdg5BrnxXwCwGudSavdsDyVLp/s1600/01.png" alt="green number one" width="18" > <b>Eastern Promenade Trail 4★</b><br>
1.8 miles each way, Easy, Mostly Flat<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-473447a-7">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Enjoy the sea breezes along this smooth and mostly flat coastal trail that suitable for all ages. Bordered by green parkland and greeting you with wide views of Casco Bay, from here you can also access the East End Beach or rent a kayak from the Eastern Promenade Beach. The trail continues beyond the length of the railway tracks until you reach Tukey's Bridge. From here you can pick up the Bayside Trail and return towards town, or continue on the 3.6 mile full-circuit Back Cove Trail.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUybYw6TRf9cZZ5vvXHeDpmL_VfqXWzjtoKwPDrRVfFtTimXyufNY8R8Lj1zxQu4BO33-u8hMt3_CLXiESOUpR1vMq5jdIn1yn32cJvVp-FFKkbhF_jDI0MMwiTHW9VKUwxNAIZoysubM1PGLbs75IECijyBJ1mPrvJoDcsDGEDving0ZWYRz8pVVR9NBr/s1600/02.png" alt="green number two" width="18" > <b>Bayside Trail 2★</b><br>
1.0 miles each way, Easy, Mostly Flat<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-473447a-7">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Located between Portland and Interstate 295 the Bayside Trail doesn't have much to offer by way of views, and aside from terminating a couple of blocks from Deering Oaks Park it doesn't take you anywhere interesting. The trail leads through commercial buildings and parking lots and includes several road crossings. It's always great to see car-free trails for pedestrians and bicyclists, but this one doesn't offer much for sightseers.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s200/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo" /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Smooth asphalt trails, often with separated bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Mostly flat but with some gradient near Tukey's Bridge.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADT3Vz-pXDWLxcwxp4fab31gjOD74HLWxvhl26Z0aDtfqDmAaXN043q6O1hE2x8U6vKg27crNo8cbA5gmodDcXuDWexEoE7wRmsg8n39faupCzP9ibVsLkqh3-ATJ5ufy3INkKAnF_qdtbJTvftHOQbbVXOaNRDSi7603t_VdaBMeFiNIL31w0nzqk6yy/s1024/IMG_2859.jpg" width="2048" alt="Casco Bay views, and the East End Rail Bridge." /><br>
<i>Casco Bay views, and the East End Rail Bridge.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_o4uU9QH-XlJ7A61JNDP8U4w3ifGvUBGsy0cfuvgCqjfbgsowqiYm73APL1XLVUwdrJsRzUkQm5pZRlHLuM1Pp3MYYMOsaRc6WTMbHTOkSgeDbhtILh8vGXUALKnVedwxdHiwVl2K2_XMHPvLxUfGrNLs4eEhDj6__IlH4gZ41NdbttdRsRO4XmK5n1u/s1024/IMG_2863.jpg" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>Separate trails for pedestrians, cyclists and locomotives!</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDx_z503bubl_tQWEzL1wwZed-OavTmHWoI-hkLnj-I3Av2NN2Q7nWqQ-K1yIJ4H_7SwzVoYTqqOlUZtiY8y76cnIfbs0xmcGHZqy5bw1AcOCNsdpflYYQFAGuOvepwMFgdprLEFarbvRW4_tAF2alN_bxnrMwC1zEReby9YZsRM5INSEncmWaV4aZZ9p/s1600/IMG_2877.jpg" width="2048" alt="A surviving Portland Company works building close to town." /><br>
<i>A surviving Portland Company works building close to town.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.trails.org/our-trails/eastern-prom-trail/">Official</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/867706018448898">Comment on this article</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/fire-towers-of-maine.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkSHENIHeqqwMS4OsOdech7sdUf0i4eB8P_78a-xunVOYnJik_5Sb51NwIg7f9p27T8-lpOaORn4fGuXYL8fDkofzks0FREiapbnnlquVeMuz70KMO2lcAnrSkN2J79I3r_fK_JfjHf_4eGzPKjwCbUcSbXURqW9cNUtvvBK89SWXUy_g5PruiUbF0w/s200/tower.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Image of fire tower" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Fire Towers of Maine</b><span style="color:#000000"><br> Discover our map of fire towers and the trails on which to find them.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn8OA9-TQOT2w7Axyk_dBFaBJ9yNG66CtuGIvvLnZ_Pr0qrHtcp-iOmjuyhU1kkrBz5nbksjs9DueXx2QvH8961thL4rah-JPVRZNQX-BvxuWGZPsvOA1ieRfEsK8-x_BFtHeC4GaxbahDHTDGQ4i_56CE91F3NgKwlRlI2wVGdkrYglkpxpg3G2x4A/s200/covered.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Covered Bridges of New England" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Covered Bridges of New England</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Maps, directions and links for all New Hampshire's covered bridges.</span></div></div></a>
Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-37951530919132448352024-02-29T19:28:00.006-05:002024-03-03T11:22:41.632-05:00Best Trails New Hampshire, Lakes Region<br>
• Day hikes & Rail trails<br>
• 1.7 to 12 mile trails<br>
• Easy & Medium difficulties<br>
• New Hampshire | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/lakesregion+newhampshire">Lakes Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: See trail reviews<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAjEMW6dEW9WP_-YRhDKeVC6Vr7du6UE0LnFikVmrp0jq1YfBLUYGpfW8-jNdgK3Iuvmis5BeQX-Dvk0MYbBhMlmF_eRoZadWl7Og9C6xFBl5jKtXwvwv2Akxi67S64NcnUuHz5F5D7N_Eo_fMaw7JOz_-4ycgwf1DJ-oYMoVpkauT-rDa6mic9Kn_aIG5/s1024/bestnhlakes.JPG" width="1024" alt="Triptych of a cyclist on a covered bridge, people sitting on a rock looking at a lake from Mount Major and a man standing on a railroad bridge."/><br><a name='more'></a>
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The Lakes Region of New Hampshire beckons hikers with its serene lakeside trails and picturesque mountain vistas. Situated amidst the tranquil waters of Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Winnisquam, and Squam Lake among others, the region offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. From the rugged trails of Mount Major overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee to the peaceful strolls along the shores of Squam Lake, hikers can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of the New Hampshire wilderness.<br>
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We list here our favorite trails of the region, summarized below with links to our trail reviews that feature photography and route maps that you can use on your phone for easy navigation. Did we miss your favorite trail? Let us know and we'll be sure to check it out!<br>
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<table>
<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="40%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><span style="font-size: 130%; line-spacing: 100%;">Hiking Trails</span></td><td></td></tr>
<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/11/mt-major-and-quarry-mountain.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFknsLSQM-EoZk_dKjXH8Y6vkKbp5o9595xC_3jbom6cy3-7PKEG9jtySSvGoJZYcMaEeoukxwxK-v61Yd5ROH7f-QxaejxHE77Xpus1EbPxzIhOe5-TpSEfZ0e1HbMdfD-tYq5hjWtI-G3EndfznedDE0_Wy_vxAygONTnI0gZPQhmN5R8zPdt3gkw/s490/IMG_1513.jpg" alt="Sitting on the top of Mount Major overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee"/></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/11/mt-major-and-quarry-mountain.html"><b>Mount Major 5★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Alton, NH</i><br>2.7 to 7.4 miles, Medium, Gain 1,090 to 1,970 feet | Very popular mountain hike with spectacular views across Lake Winnipesaukee.</span></a><br></td></tr>
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<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom:12px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/08/rattlesnake-mountain-squam-lakes-nh.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ppfG0zgBJFZgpAoBJxt-ZYgd4XNcLlOvVWgpTAz0IZ2tbIKeltdyX5XiDZ4PYahfn4SuRDIgn6NvodjERfL4eU1uB0Ih1OzplsYnimX-45Jhcm13rhTah9UUMYppuxQCL-QgtMiTjOINH2O1Vrhu0szO5Bu3bynZI7RKO8EC2joP4TgwxdHmaE2KVQ/s490/IMG_1085.jpg" alt="An anchor on the grassy shores."/></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:12px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/02/little-harbor-loop-trail-portsmouth-nh.html"><b>Rattlesnake Mountain 4★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Holderness, NH</i><br>1.7 to 3.9 miles, Easy, Gain 360 to 990 feet | A great Squam Lake height that provides an excellent lake viewpoint without too much elevation gain.</span></a></td></tr>
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<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom:0px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/03/gunstock-belknap-piper-mountain-loop-nh.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPGS5ZAQvQbqNR-wogS6iJKbNr_0iDIVkYPa3YH8b_ukOMMO5MWHh6joewkkpPCN2cDUEek9HKxpwTormG7Hildc47oW0NL4cu3u75nye-baFiNJYXWUUYDUDM_9223y8dtgXwWkm9i9cOqQFHFc-a5qGpNi13mWYgp4hOD51lBP8LtjUVSeUPDGexQ/s490/IMG_5519.jpg" alt="Enjoying sweping panoramas near the summit of Piper Mountain"/></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:0px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/03/gunstock-belknap-piper-mountain-loop-nh.html"><b>Gunstock & Belknap Loop 4★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Gilford, NH</i><br>5.0 miles, Medium, 1,800 feet | A worthy five mile hike that bags three different mountain peaks, plus a fire tower. You might even find the pub open on top of Gunstock!</span></a></td></tr>
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<table>
<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="40%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><span style="font-size: 130%; line-spacing: 100%;">Rail Trails</span></td></tr>
<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom: 20px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/09/cotton-valley-rail-trail-nh.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMg0mRktVTRZFFjxamZ1S2FQ6uCrLf7XNaqwkJ36KpSFiuwEMM5ze8Hfa14qoGX2PWe7zOs9MSLOsT4tYRPwAuJrS9gxirK_OcIb04cmLX3FCWXwYU57EbEXa7yYdtyXrp_z4l_e9GQ_995CACVfqHQX5z8QQdQPQTcnVFEJ0Qezi9PGim8zlC8XOJA/s490/Colin%20Sulloway%20Original.jpg" alt="Riding an historic railroad car on the CVRT. Photo by Collin Sulloway" /></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/09/cotton-valley-rail-trail-nh.html"><b>Cotton Valley Rail Trail 5★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Wolfeboro-Wakefield, NH</i><br>12.0 miles, Easy | A unique lakeside rail trail where historic motorized railroad handcars still run today. Pay heed to our warnings about trail/rail crossings and you'll find this to be one of the best rail trails in the state.<br>
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<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/winnipesaukee-river-rail-trail-nh.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTmH_cKMnsf2zSGpIO-MtH8GnrpjkPJW5WNpV9ngKJsONNRQRMuNkDBGAfUi1N_WH8gUg1LTnniwLPbmsGEhaeAPkfd0FFCOF5P4nYWptRoz4VNpEEi_f_cVx_0FOvWEMucAUnEJ7KJNTxAKBpwGlqhE5ftmHMxUf9eZ2dfCBbnNB0-LEPV4SkItyAQ/s490/DDVJ8385.jpg" alt="investigating the Sulphite Upside Down Bridge near Franklin, NH"/></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/winnipesaukee-river-rail-trail-nh.html"><b>Winnipesaukee River Rail Trail 4★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Franklin-Tilton, NH</i><br>4.9 miles, Easy | This mostly hard-pack trail follows the spectacular Winnipesaukee River between the mill towns of Franklin and Tilton.</span></a></td></tr>
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<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/lake-winnisquam-wow-rail-trails.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPxg7RXAYld4YxXvKiDrW9wi6T7U8xY_0d7MZIaBqXEMgrf1x15RlwqNfWnHtF_8F2QliaBzE1eyiG_s-r4dagUfeTAlyTO_LwD0R5XdUaeFEn0OfSHNYOAFAPM-qGv1PkRuBfNCg3YzOY-RVljq5NCYsv8FE7xNjnZRAWaiAmtLgWpv1ILNqz9ILLQ/s490/Winnisquam.jpg" alt="Cyclists by Lake Winnisquam." /></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/lake-winnisquam-wow-rail-trails.html"><b>Lake Winnisquam & WOW Rail Trails 4★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Laconia-Belmont, NH</i><br>4.2 miles, Easy | Popular paved trail on the Southern shores of Lake Winnesquam provides a scenic and varied tour.</span></a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top"><td WIDTH="30%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/09/village-spur-rail-trail-belmont-nh.html"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOzwvypuinROscbWDK3NGn3HwJysHBvTaEyNG6R9CuHJlfZfH0IO_nOvJitbxwxWvVmJuB4jMP74xfLPopJVBqyWkzHEYaNCp-7WwodY9bb7ETwMy1IwdXZThE6kITHrbagUtUBM1bBGUjbuFToioYQvjExwoRDxZiPvPT8lPvBnB6GL_bBgLdfFz7NiWy/s490/IMG_3149.jpg" alt="riding over the Rail Trail Covered Bridge" /></a></td>
<td width="70%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px; line-height:140%;"><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/09/village-spur-rail-trail-belmont-nh.html"><b>Village Spur Rail Trail 4★</b><br><span style="color:black;"><i>Belmont, NH</i><br>2.1 miles, Easy | This wide grassy trail passes wetlands, pastures and woodland. Features two separate covered bridges en route.</span></a></td></tr>
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</table>
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<span style="font-size: 130%; line-spacing: 100%;">Trail Map</span>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#636363; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: white; padding: 0.05em;">
<span style="float: left; color: #636363;"> <span style="background-color: #ee9c96;"> 3★</span> <span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> 4★</span> <span style="background-color: #ffdd5e;"> 5★</span> </span>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-4557740091384070742024-02-02T07:28:00.004-05:002024-03-03T11:16:54.739-05:00B&M Rail Trail, Amherst NH
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• 3-star trail<br>
• 0.9 miles each way<br>
• Medium difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Amherst, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/merrimack">Merrimack Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.88354,-71.58974">Walnut Hill Road</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvFYCjI_0PRIUDVBs9fkM4wAB_Ge8DzdY0n7QyTIxBfEL5s1E7aIzUquj1opFMw06PzvIh_1B2A0LFJgTks6MadsXmaSsoNdHKzja0tRTeWrGnDW88jxT_OvrD2Jbk92ZJ8XpO7l16ceM2ByKQOa7m3DNvZj8qCIP_vrfVuUFW1ZJ__xtLpTN1X6yo9x4/s1600/IMG_1024.jpg" width="2048" alt="Bicyclist on a flat, forested trail covered in leaves." /><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZK8aMLodFGyID0xnJ3Di1ZCZKk3UJY3RXiQrlcftTi4CK1_IG-Ovzx3qEue3NQ3MOjRC1eie_DaaPbl6fLue5Dgu5jvGT_tHBDvWlaod8WQok8LVIgMwnLjpzBcBJjB5BYoekJgiNSExJgE7TpuBbEJ3FXk-iq9ad_zWAPMZIr0c7-Vis6olv9-OvAw/s200/RailTrailMap.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="New Hampshire's first complete rail trail map" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Rail Trail Map</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>NH's first complete rail trail map. With links to our reviews, photos & detailed route maps.</span></div></div></a>
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The patchwork of available rail trails in New Hampshire range in length from less than a mile to close to sixty miles in length. Presently the Amherst B&M Rail Trail is only 0.9 miles in length, but it does connect up to the <a href="https://www.amherstnh.gov/conservation-commission/pages/pond-parish-trails">Pond Parish Trails</a> and will eventually form part of the proposed <a href="https://www.amherstnh.gov/conservation-commission/pages/pond-parish-trails">Baboosic Greenway</a> project.<br>
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The best parking is a layby next to Walnut Hill Road, identified as parking on the official town map and also indicated on our map here. Heading south on our bicycles turned out to be a minor obstacle course thanks to the roots of the small trees that have sprung up along this former Boston & Maine railroad bed. The light tree cover affords some views eastward to marshland and across Little Baboosic Lake. Check out our YouTube video linked at the bottom of the page to get a better impression of the trail surface.<br>
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As you progress, the woodland becomes more dense and the trail loses its roughness. Before curving west, there's a trail junction that marks the start of the multi-use Josiah Parker Trail leading to the Pond Parish Loop. If you choose to continue on the flat railroad bed and along the curve, you'll know when you've come to the end of the trail as you'll be confronted with clearly marked private property and no trespassing signs.<br>
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<small><nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s200/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s200/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> Rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" alt="red icon"/> Road,</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s200/BLU.png" alt="blue icon" /> Access, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s200/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1p4jhKNvppmwcMxpqgDW7jRYTtAsExno&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="color coded rail trail route on a Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s200/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s200/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> <b>Amherst B&M Trail 3★</b><br>
0.9 miles each way, Medium, Gain 40ft (10ft S-N)<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-de535e2-11">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhamherst.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1p4jhKNvppmwcMxpqgDW7jRYTtAsExno&cid=mp&cv=HhH7lfx3wts.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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We were able to access a further section of rail bed also owned by the Town of Amherst. Note that this is not contiguous with the northern section accessible from Walnut Hill Road and we encourage you to respect all no trespassing signs on private property. Accessing this section requires striding over a road barrier and utilizing a public right-of-way across the edge of private property. Initially the trail is narrow and overgrown, but we presume this was done to deter visitors, because quickly the trail opens up into a wide track bed that's clearly being maintained and used by someone - we assume a local resident who appreciates having this public property to themselves.<br>
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Though you're welcome to explore at your own risk and with due consideration of property owners, there's not much to see along this orphaned section of former railroad and most people will want to wait for this area to be redeveloped for the Baboosic Greenway project. There are some initial open views of a pond next to the busy Route 101 before the trail leads into forested surroundings. Note that this curve continues beyond the green line we've marked on our map and extends onto private property that has not posted any signs, but they're probably not expecting visitors here either. If you're intrepid enough to want to check out this orphaned section you can park at the town's <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.86548,-71.61224">Birch Park Disc Golf Course</a> on Baboosic Lake Road.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s200/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo" /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Relatively flat forested trail. North end has some roots to dodge, but the trail becomes smoother and wider.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS2IMWDz68z7IR3ZH4PACTF6Rgfu4eqDV_wUazuLAum1J16KGOkSwhkjrAU7oh6uR_uYkZLtsav8tn8qdxdjahQpoyDc8Eue_EpiXORovB5h2uIfD_Dg_LQ4lARrsrf9GxSL2IgRCaZb-8R-ZfcmbMI9IeDXqbCcDEFroMvcvpm_JoZsCm7dWUrUoGwUC/s1024/am01.jpg" width="1024" alt="Small pond near the orphaned section of trail." /><br>
<i>Small pond near the orphaned section of trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4q-oVaGnzcgRZwzIpwkw2nqimLQr5AQKNCNFDSzX8mNlMZfIaL38EbZzUdY08AhhWxIms6MTOkomL_AiH40pQ6QIEpRr5Kq66SHJv7rR_lcNP2F14qfYyhdRxOdKyHtFY5OTmbFb-BfeLJKeM5IM2HyRgaFDMzbdgdMxJYke9lyZlsugVtxEnr2vY3vfT/s1024/am02.JPG" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>Orphaned section: Private blue rectangle is apparently a right-of-way.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTnJOYTy32z8VdwUEM0fD3QsIm12L0TATHxj7d0_IsizCM4grGeuVh0YjF-zu-wFyo80X_PMDYvMjgsz5TW74XQ0dptgBlf02Gf3BkJEdoPLvg4C0-vd4p7QrIjDK-OaVMDz4cBIOSf3qcUD2cL5FvEGsgINI78EoSQFsv3yq_l1PzX5-1F2URgqrNQ1S/s1024/Merrimack%20Covered%20Bridge%202021-11-20.jpg" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>Nearby: Merrimack Covered Bridge</i> <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.89621,-71.56358">(directions)</a><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• YouTube Trailspotting: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J1_NphYeks&list=PLr5xrINKGXLOpzSxt11hq37Z3pgFzk3xv&index=2">Cycling B&M Rail Trail Dec 2023</a><br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.amherstnh.gov/conservation-commission/pages/b-m-trail">Official,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/bm-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/856341122918721/?mibextid=oMANbw">Comment on this article</a><br>
<br>
Nearby Trails:<br>
• 7 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/05/granite-brookline-potanpio-rail-trails.html">Granite Town Rail Trail</a><br>
• 12 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/10/goffstown-piscataquog-rail-trail.html">Goffstown-Piscataquog Rail Trails</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=42.877%2C-71.601&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn8OA9-TQOT2w7Axyk_dBFaBJ9yNG66CtuGIvvLnZ_Pr0qrHtcp-iOmjuyhU1kkrBz5nbksjs9DueXx2QvH8961thL4rah-JPVRZNQX-BvxuWGZPsvOA1ieRfEsK8-x_BFtHeC4GaxbahDHTDGQ4i_56CE91F3NgKwlRlI2wVGdkrYglkpxpg3G2x4A/s200/covered.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting's New Hampshire Covered Bridge Map and List" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Covered Bridges</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Maps, directions and links for all New Hampshire's covered bridges.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/gear.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgeJzBopiiUATZo0LhTfGuk72nu7VDPql4rXgShv__jimeuCNOKBVPHnDuM8kH5vz5vojRxVCYcPfhZavG1vD-Cg0JRv8TbxJdwmGFe9HDR8WvSFNW2tR2EixgaXmHO7YUHXyo8B2vkiJ93GE1TQ5we2Y5QWKo0SjJh8lqLikHzHv1AXcuv5eCob3tw/s200/Gear.png" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting gear suggestions" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Gear Suggestions</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Learn about our trail essentials, hiking equipment, tips, bicycles and photography gear.</span></div></div></a>Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-55490245206900473652024-01-26T07:45:00.009-05:002024-03-03T11:17:33.118-05:00Brown's Way Rail Trail, Hillsboro NH<br>
• 3-star trail<br>
• 3.7 miles each way<br>
• Easy difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Hillsboro - Henniker, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/newhampshire+monadnock">Monadnock Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: Marked <span style="color:#0386d0; ">⬤</span> on map<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXaCaqmsv9D7Q8lTb-8J42ODsaRF-XNcbLOec4HxpSDmpBv9-9WQzIwcGAqo_6yeimxoxgAIzC3N4pt_BN4uz46YB1k3SqIfX3MmQDuy1Gy2lAeQTZfo8X-b9PEUt1TNfdDPFr9TI5fGmxaaZEED_zdLwRCDg_RiSXDUtiRG4hzopsdGLVWHZYkVA8OU0/s1024/IMG_6237.jpg" width="1024" alt="View of the river from the shoreline. Wide stretch of water with occasional rocks casting shadows. Forest on the shore, and forested hill behind." /><br>
<i>The trail provides some scenic Contoocook river views.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/new-hampshire-rail-trail-map.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZK8aMLodFGyID0xnJ3Di1ZCZKk3UJY3RXiQrlcftTi4CK1_IG-Ovzx3qEue3NQ3MOjRC1eie_DaaPbl6fLue5Dgu5jvGT_tHBDvWlaod8WQok8LVIgMwnLjpzBcBJjB5BYoekJgiNSExJgE7TpuBbEJ3FXk-iq9ad_zWAPMZIr0c7-Vis6olv9-OvAw/s200/RailTrailMap.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="New Hampshire's first complete rail trail map" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Rail Trail Map</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>NH's first complete rail trail map. With links to our reviews, photos & detailed route maps.</span></div></div></a>
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Situated between Hillsboro and Henniker, Brown's Way is a former railroad route that closely follows the banks of the North Branch Contoocook River. The best part of the trail is the northernmost 2.3 mile section of flat but winding dirt road that offers a mostly quiet and often scenic riverside woodland route. Riding north you'll know when you reach the end of the railbed tour as Browns's Way takes an uphill route away from the river. From here the old rail alignment continues on inaccessible private property and you can't ride on it again unless you travel into Henniker.<br>
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We've mapped a further section of rail trail to the South, linking Contoocook Falls with Hillsboro on a straight and unnamed trail that appears to be signed for ATV use. Riding a bike along this segment remained rather easy, though rough enough that we wouldn't tackle this on less than a hybrid bicycle. There's not much to see on this section, but as it's our aim to find as much rideable former railroad as possible we've been sure to mark it on our map.<br>
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<small>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s200/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s200/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> Rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" alt="red icon"/> Road,</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s200/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1xj3BumQ9m4mi9bBGLSv-iWVWXeO2g9g&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="color coded rail trail route on a Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s200/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s200/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" alt="red icon"/> <b>Brown's Way 3★</b><br>
3.7 miles each way, Easy, Gain 170 ft (60ft S-N)<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-9cb9ed4-5">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhbrowns.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1xj3BumQ9m4mi9bBGLSv-iWVWXeO2g9g&cid=mp&cv=SPJdwmXZRSo.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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Parking is best at the two informal locations marked on our map near Contoocook Falls as we couldn't find any spots closes to the extremes of this trail. Neither of these locations are marked parking spots, so park at your own risk and please do not obstruct roadways or residential properties.<br>
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Just half a mile south of the end of this trail is the derelict Hillsboro railroad station, located on our map behind a Family Dollar store. We also found further railroad evidence a little further along the former route on River Street, where a former rail maintenance car sits proudly, lofted into the air on a small wooden trestle. At Hillsboro the railroad would continue across the river on a now long-gone covered bridge, but we can ride the route again where West Mill Street meets Long Woods Road. See the Hillsboro Rail Trail link below for more information.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s200/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo" /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
2.3 miles of compacted gravel dirt road suitable for most bikes. Shorter 1 mile segment to the south is a little rougher, most suited for hybrid and mountain bikes Trail is mostly flat throughout.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZXFFKHU0XD8IHaUUsCpYrPZQTrYsZtD4xUIO9-hHlf-6YuIgYXsP-FZ90V4q36-PyZM0dhQmwbzRhxdwkzbg78jmwhC1TeRuzU6sIvF3d0FsNJr5-17HRYedFTEh6fE_V6xJEanf7czfJCOrTrHFZs9a5kaz_ZDxYzHmN9WmvjAzENs06MN0gZSiWFfs/s1024/IMG_6235.jpg" width="2048" alt="Dirt road with trees on either side. Out of focus bicycle handlebars visible in the foreground." /><br>
<i>Typical conditions along the 2.3 mile northern section.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZo5gkeCt8aovxnkSFNQJYt-U2SbSqZrupYpHOEyEIjy3M8PhB8l5P8ttM1ncDBI_8Tq8tIKo7dKylv-lSUVFOe7SmhAUOpiBbEQTZVElmQ0Cew9RsT2eIqjvnVGsWS1klumT9AZkr9JimfOyb9-whonm8R6NoZcfmen1d8gkDC8f0tPFByY-5u-Mta4u/s1600/IMG_6222.jpg" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>Former rail car displayed close to Hillsboro tracks at <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?q=43.11434,-71.89371">this location</a>.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• YouTube Trailspotting: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44vM4_K1CNU&list=PLr5xrINKGXLOpzSxt11hq37Z3pgFzk3xv&index=2">Cycling Brown's Way Nov 2023</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/852429289976571">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• 1 mile away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/09/hillsborough-rail-trail-nh.html">Hillsborough RT</a><br>
• 3 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/12/henniker-hopkinton-rail-trails.html">Henniker RT</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.149%2C-71.864&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn8OA9-TQOT2w7Axyk_dBFaBJ9yNG66CtuGIvvLnZ_Pr0qrHtcp-iOmjuyhU1kkrBz5nbksjs9DueXx2QvH8961thL4rah-JPVRZNQX-BvxuWGZPsvOA1ieRfEsK8-x_BFtHeC4GaxbahDHTDGQ4i_56CE91F3NgKwlRlI2wVGdkrYglkpxpg3G2x4A/s200/covered.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting's New Hampshire Covered Bridge Map and List" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Covered Bridges</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Maps, directions and links for all New Hampshire's covered bridges.</span></div></div></a>
Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-87117246750123923822024-01-17T09:16:00.005-05:002024-03-07T14:48:33.419-05:00Perley Brook Reservoir, Gardner MA<br>
• 4-star hike<br>
• 2.3 mile trail<br>
• Easy difficulty | Gain 80 feet<br>
• Gardner, MA | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/central+massachusetts">Central Massachusetts</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.58891,-72.00521">Trailhead</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBNOJS1yO3_B008sM8ptyCguH0GoULuJji5KwJiB3oWS4utgxGy9ug6h6m1Y1_UaZBDrD-vBwf85FtNyjeEVo-RkTOgjoQvG_mt76rNDNicQ-CQ2bLxntvvis9jn0EFxV_YA9Pv5bd-K097kW2UGX-aSZmve_yaYgV_wZlsT_WdlTWNQ7gwXyV4ET6BkH/s1024/IMG_1024.jpg" width="2048" alt="Colorful trees lining the shores of the reservoir. Trees and blue sky reflected in the water." /><br>
<i>Perley Brook Reservoir reflecting on a blue sky fall day.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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Perley Brook Reservoir is a scenic part of the City of Gardner's water supply infrastructure that is a popular location for walking, mountain biking and fishing. Gratifyingly, public land surrounds the entirety of this body of water, including a complete loop trail. Mature woodland encompasses the reservoir, with white pine, red maple and mixed oak trees dominating the area. Small area of wetlands persist close to the water's edge, but the loop trail does a fine job of keeping hikers' feet dry.<br>
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We've identified the most accessible parking location next to the reservoir's dam, which is a great place to begin and end a hike. Expect to find mostly narrow single-track trails and very little elevation gain. Some undulations in terrain do make the route a little more appealing for mountain bikers however.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Perley Brook Reservoir Loop</small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1c-VbKRbdS_I8FdsuEWMFBqjMUCItbKo&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Perley Brook Reservoir Loop 4★</b><br>
2.3 mi, Loop, Easy, Gain 80 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-5e9fb67-7">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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The trail remains close to the water's edge almost throughout the loop trail, providing many great views across the surface of the reservoir. Also check out the small promontory of land named West Point that juts out mid-way along the western shore, affording some of the area's best vistas.<br>
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Neighboring this reservoir loop is the <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/10/north-central-pathway-rail-trail-ma.html">North Central Pathway Rail Trail</a> that provides some great opportunites for furthering your trail adventures. Heading south it takes you towards the even larger Crystal Lake, and to the north it can lead you all the way to the town of Winchendon.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipqyen_OY7kDYIw4A-WojddE2qxaAspd-AbRceOCi7dAOjJ3OrqbrJVrZ6hY05iH4zGbdbuocR1th1Vi08pfPwn9BMf9Wh204LJ4Kt9Q74hfyvTluBRWd9G3wldcWWNJk8_-4JMf_50IhaBD0yJiO74sPwUHel0IRPXyqFr5rw8iHIcTzVJANnZ0jHwaBZ/s1024/IMG_5838.jpg" width="1024" alt="Hiker walking across a small trail bridge. Fall colors in the trees." /><br>
<i>Trail bridge along the route.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7r0gUjN8hyphenhyphen94BilEIHq5zcgiavr17SmX8fL1ZYaQmqQ6psE6TUmjkeTDXoN8oehIdLigzTlHO2qSBVhyMNMlveEX-6BFKpqxQsw9eZWgG1_xvq2l9LjZvCN5UAE2NMwZzP-W2Q-hZTE50p3v_bLdC8IaVSgkADHDchotPAycloTQA0sDU2YiucIk1PwP/s1024/IMG_5881.jpg" width="2048" alt="Reservoir stretches across the frame, with dark silhouettes of trees in the foreground." /><br>
<i>Lots of peek-a-book views from the trail.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/massachusetts/perley-brook-reservoir-loop">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/847744780445022">Comment on this article</a><br>
• Nearby trails: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=42.58891,-72.00521&z=12">Show on map</a><br>
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<a href=" https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-massachusetts.html "><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1N_DYcuwTeJZV3o-5I35uW7Cn4uOiM5K3QLmCk32v3G7R-42RYL8UdDChgyR415MkG_S6aXNxonsyaMJjklip_-zCR8vV7_CFUuIIIukyWL3yv_3CiprKIucenUWNFhtX2jLx1WObgBnj_11hDUNcY_WHVr_81JABIbthMMuAuVAtJSJeodtInocfRg/s200/CoveredBridge.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Covered Bridge Icon" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Massachusetts' Covered Bridges</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Visit our covered bridge map for locations and links to nearby trail reviews.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/gear.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgeJzBopiiUATZo0LhTfGuk72nu7VDPql4rXgShv__jimeuCNOKBVPHnDuM8kH5vz5vojRxVCYcPfhZavG1vD-Cg0JRv8TbxJdwmGFe9HDR8WvSFNW2tR2EixgaXmHO7YUHXyo8B2vkiJ93GE1TQ5we2Y5QWKo0SjJh8lqLikHzHv1AXcuv5eCob3tw/s200/Gear.png" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting gear suggestions" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Gear Suggestions</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Learn about our trail essentials, hiking equipment, tips, bicycles and photography gear.</span></div></div></a>
Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-26646006386857952502023-12-21T14:15:00.001-05:002024-02-11T14:31:17.536-05:00South Manchester Rail Trail, NH
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• 4-star trail<br>
• 1.9 miles each way<br>
• Easy difficulty | Easy elevation<br>
• Manchester, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/merrimack">Merrimack Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: Marked <span style="color:#0386d0; ">⬤</span> on map<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1rEMr5khXUfUPbs0OhqR7n78-KMP7BkC0uWeXUgujFHoUAG81Ct0KDyJFZzH9Xk0PXW1s7aOhfAo2T2ml3sHbMqbCJdCFogoGufhRC1WadMUyrsf2FS8qpI34W3fkoNplZpZX2tWHuXE88FOHpNk8id9SEgh5T3HyPyt-oy4FemmOCBo90g2807_bIl5/s1024/IMG_6749.jpg" width="1024" alt="Recently restored Cohas Brook Trestle Bridge" /><br>
<i>Recently restored Cohas Brook Trestle Bridge.</i> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQWjYn6voPq9LxEKPlpzTZGQHuLqS-E5RKUn1Utxa_KMFEzFentdvB9BjZ3xyHJS_JzERkv8B88OWLzAd9oqce2ie9WGp3UDQa5S7eM22mK_4V4D086wDl5uTf3SEAL8agkYyGmPoE1ucQ1hE8tq9rIlhzhz77K3sAY-Votl6Qd2Bj8s1Ilh8a8H01w/s1600/IMG_5971.jpg"><small>(Before)</small></a><br>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/new-hampshire-rail-trail-map.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZK8aMLodFGyID0xnJ3Di1ZCZKk3UJY3RXiQrlcftTi4CK1_IG-Ovzx3qEue3NQ3MOjRC1eie_DaaPbl6fLue5Dgu5jvGT_tHBDvWlaod8WQok8LVIgMwnLjpzBcBJjB5BYoekJgiNSExJgE7TpuBbEJ3FXk-iq9ad_zWAPMZIr0c7-Vis6olv9-OvAw/s200/RailTrailMap.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="New Hampshire's first complete rail trail map" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Rail Trail Map</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>NH's first complete rail trail map. With links to our reviews, photos & detailed route maps.</span></div></div></a>
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Once the powerhouse of the Northern New England states and still the largest city, Manchester grew up around the many textile textile mills constructed below Merrimack River’s Amoskeag Falls. Railroad routes eventually sprung up in all directions with Manchester at the center, though only one live route remains today.<br>
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The South Manchester Trail is a recently extended route constructed atop an abandoned Boston & Maine Railroad alignment. Though previously only one paved mile was available - alongside Nutts Pond and through a residential neighborhood, the new for 2024 extension doubles its length with a new asphalt paved trail from Gold Street to the outer perimeter of Manchester Airport.<br>
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<small><nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMbsBRCUX9bOK7xEeCM9XQKXuXswQmwzrUDLaKiWjMdjuGnB2bVop4StOPjLmfox5YoAbFPRE30aCxe7_kDBeQFhvKPezLYbSoLPdXYjRd3FDWDxFXAAxXB8YA0sTgtshoq_RDBeYRFdeDSxBLi_EgesI6wYUE79IwKFLYug12-iVc3Vj1XYu3oYt8Ww" alt="green icon" /> Asphalt, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27MW4NOu71ySzP44o0Am634I9_N56maSoDxkQ_lYPoT4JDVTI2qvh8JpOwScNyNHo71hwXCArQsecf5W63Vq7UgJuMtsghYdHHpKa0-_7T930MFoDSiI39BsPEziGWlas-MfYllSf5hmADYtDJdIhwbwz-vHi-Z-CseXHdq2G06odtvyOuH7jqjGKWg/s1600/DGreen.png" alt="dark green icon"/> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwhjCnfS4qHOeViN9gAvuigc96kVdCw2xBEjQ0o8WY3svtVo--JaE9dxZGP04-lWkDOhCaQDmQ1fDpRofikvcNBgWBjD6MYwt6aRJdGgDtB7fTAA05i4dAvs1mV0WRwKyHjb-lMHI0yZb7BTXxk_9mXY9GJx85YdKZMWJS6D8xXQ4jpyhSgl-HWGCsqA" alt="purple icon"/> Very rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIL8D1vw6BDj1MqTxXJBWTJWhaowlinrpKTO0CivXZxzL-HfiJi5X88RywVnwcWv9vb501OzRw2ASOScRn4xO1Zli3Pdnu3lrtpavLwYzbJC-XZLIMuQXMjTpAuuyathqibBjTgJy9lZllAS0L2JyXeCNwVtt9pQADgoPiFxutwJ1GO9CqoJkf4rHlw/s1600/DGray.PNG" alt="black icon"/> Live Rail, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaJ1XyvXjDCQnFowwtk63f5DU_4f-hWynDbU596pQVfrcJGeZA4eMbzDLetviYPGo9Yq4wJU8oo4e067qEkn8C2GK9st_VF1IcgOV9BOVa3wAlpfHWbnHW0GcWxf1ZR0miFLJ8mKuPR-JFQX1H5a3SYf-z0Z2Tpff3c6-OA69fD-hiIUnFU36osIOjQ/s1600/LGray.png" alt="gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1q39W7hB_BJOhnkCUdePNumo1SoIopzcU&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map"></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMbsBRCUX9bOK7xEeCM9XQKXuXswQmwzrUDLaKiWjMdjuGnB2bVop4StOPjLmfox5YoAbFPRE30aCxe7_kDBeQFhvKPezLYbSoLPdXYjRd3FDWDxFXAAxXB8YA0sTgtshoq_RDBeYRFdeDSxBLi_EgesI6wYUE79IwKFLYug12-iVc3Vj1XYu3oYt8Ww" alt="green icon"/> <b>South Manchester Rail Trail 3★</b><br>
1.6 mi ea way, Easy, Elevation nominal.<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-d6428ee--48?u=i">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhsoman.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/kml?hl=en&mid=1q39W7hB_BJOhnkCUdePNumo1SoIopzcU&cid=mp&cv=I3gxqhf1rt8.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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The Cohas Brook Trestle Bridge is the jewel of this short trail. Previously hidden away in a forgotten and overgrown part of the town, the revitalized bridge has also been accompanied by landscaping work to provide a picturesque setting. We've included a link to 'before' photograph to illustrate the hard work that was required to reopen this stretch of railroad alignment as a new rail trail.<br>
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Parking lots are limited near the rail trail, but we have identified a large lot at the Precourt Park sports fields next to Nutts Pond. Street parking is also available in abutting neighborhoods, but please park in a way that is respectful to local residents.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmLc9aNZwZ3TJdXSxp0eqoHpzxcaem6JvCw9aN9xGKCcaBekauVo66dtO3XaPWa_1a2RpHX8Ama57zy1mXcqZQh3FxrKEDSnKtFiAcrLbL0-hu7sr4ME41FmSQJqkuyopx7nZL-HA9KMtfJ4-MMbUQ8gMTJAYEj8HYEHpce27zwLvbEeLSJcWXr5OeIYV/s1024/IMG_6641.jpg" width="1024" alt="New asphalt extension close to the airport."/><br>
<i>New asphalt extension close to the airport.</i> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mLutGyiq2tzham-vBD4tYvBXGJMYBp_MLI32EIvWbqICb3eDrrEyIZmcajKdh4wV1lTmvd3-aEDQS4yCT-R4MJi5jdzAhPyJj9zNnIOygvmm6ekx2A6wFOinry54abaho9jkgals2fGVHodwa3uCyeI2iPXEjw9Spfsgmmw5kHHIZqzp1DVae1g4Qw/s1600/IMG_6051.jpg"><small>(Before)</small></a><br>
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North of Beech Street we have identified the trail as rough, but in reality it's an undeveloped, trash-strewn path that is frequently overgrown and approaching Elm Street is also a muddy mess. This section is not something we'd recommend at this time, but we hope that a future further trail extension comes to pass and will provide an important link to Manchester and to other nearby rail trails like the <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/10/goffstown-piscataquog-rail-trail.html">Piscataquog-Goffstown Rail Trails</a> and Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail.<br>
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There are also plans to create a new bicycle trail link around the perimeter of the airport that links to the <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/05/londonderry-rail-trail-nh.html">Londonderry Rail Trail</a>. We have identified the start of these neighboring rail trails on our map if you're interested in exploring them.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s1600/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo"/><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
1.9 miles of smooth asphalt from S Beech St to Manchester Airport. North of S Beech St is presently very rough and not recommended.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eeDjpJafNnIEaGPMZSSXOIZt8OFqT5IqWHizyIOB5lB9su77fMKNkS4jcOOqX-eeDANsxP--9WL3bopOE2KfSDZvuUbJnKVa8RUd8fa6sdWvXtZUH7gh6O3dwxNc1h3uYxeYqXuspTountGKM8j3rxpKXjhOvTvjqzBo4PVMJGQqYWz0uKjJ2PBUBA/s1600/IMG_6018.jpg" alt="Fishing on the banks of Manchester's Nutt Pond." width="2048" /><br>
<i>Fishing on the banks of Manchester's Nutt Pond.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAqzD37hwdggqpBXKKlKIjEYm0J5ONjUDr1_ItgMp3cYZBRiswCRxZwY46BXzl20fI-oaisr1wvTkUe8iXybTG67cUUmL-uASDiFHK0Boux5XSlaenlTGtZ_g9ujsRI98K6Deo3YCywnteUjwlLeH4MjcG6U3c2ll8iYvuzD2-VtYNsPVS3eEUKtrRIqa/s1600/IMG_6665.jpg" width="2048" alt="One of several highway crossings south of Gold Street."/><br>
<i>One of several highway crossings south of Gold Street.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/south-manchester-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/478006720752165/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• 1.5 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/10/goffstown-piscataquog-rail-trail.html">Piscataquog-Goffstown RTs (8 mi)</a><br>
• 2 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/12/rockingham-rail-trail-portsmouth-branch.html">Rockingham to Portsmouth RT (28 mi)</a><br>
• 2.5 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/05/londonderry-rail-trail-nh.html">Londonderry-Derry-Windham-Salem-Methuen RTs (21 mi)</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1YQSY_oD9mLEJKUgz8ktmJsGhoB6FZtBK&ll=42.964244255273385%2C-71.4551033580573&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2wiwdgt89hv_6j-4bB7nQySu-j9uv3jfL6ltz7bMbcvfyRtVb4pw4WYfng-R4C4hA4f8N8Es8b0T3d3W_n2hMdqHKk3JC-Gds3XW7vm7UhWswD7lC8whHVEfOgLklAbWMUXBuCDMIr_NuCZmtZEWGUYO9BRAZUFAbQIBDYgMaZQQ8tVarQvqP1MOCrw/s200/fbgroup.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Join our Facebook Group" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Join our Facebook Group</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Receive new articles around once a week with trail reviews, maps and photos.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/gear.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAaIJCWpBG80bVNN-yUvOK2Y48so18kfl-gqoSairzA-9VkE_e-WKttgr9ho0OCB7QyUlG17IlXv8DYetcnW8My5Af3lctksK_IsxHwDoMcvAYYEtVZuwAMFBozCSckKMi0CUo-bSsfa9T5g-AoHwtFLuW3RyFlBGgqqniR1F2psFHpK7jSOIkJbWTQ/s200/bike2.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting Gear Suggestions"/><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Gear Suggestions</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Learn about our trail essentials, hiking equipment, tips, bicycles and photography gear.</span></div></div></a>
Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-24013730538750254892023-12-14T18:58:00.007-05:002023-12-14T19:44:53.602-05:00Free 2024 Trailspotting Wall Calendar<br>
• 12 trails<br>
• Free PDF to download and print<br>
• Links to all trail reviews<br>
• New Hampshire, Massachusetts and US Southwest<br>
• Download Links: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/13IOIUcFWDryZrA1cV03Ra3Lt49J0M8G0/view?usp=sharing">Google Drive,</a> <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/26yuk9nhkpoaeghwdq2xo/2024-Trailspotting-Calendar.pdf?rlkey=pme2e2gl9aj0byhxkf7ltlsq1&dl=0">Dropbox</a><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyD6P_1EVYuMEHU_GqnsfgW15D3pePLV3ms63k-m9o06uhOhmQpBcXyhFxHVtmoC1EBIllU5sNaX_zXhuOxNDSXrzQRNWXvuGGMoriP8m59pvhWfTQZvp1kdC5YAKOqY3F2ouXI_sFHVitYTrMScBwxuj8aYS6OWPxHbe-M6mZlEbdDMgMz7mLuSVRntNH/s1024/Calendar%202024%20Cover%20Page.jpg" width="1024" alt="Mosaic showing all images from the 12 month calendar" /><br><a name='more'></a>
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Thank you for joining us on our trail adventures during the last year! As a small gift we've created the Trailspotting 2024 Wall Calendar using photography from trails that we've hiked and cycled during the last twelve months. If this is something that interests you, please download and print out a hard copy for personal use. The download links are available above the cover picture for this article. Sorry, we have no plans to make a printed version of the calendar available.<br>
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Here's a list of all the trails with links to reviews and maps:<br>
<table>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OtdRy_6tSBSKl0TYGX5F3tyw7nJGFyCbt_QBdx6ikPtw1IsJVtaDXZBxAr_Vmg5aRmV2BybCJWJYQ9jryPSL_rG42CKP7W5dYQtP_JYEgSJxQyWmLlDhPI62hgTnq-kQqpIR5yzpvYOuE7bcknktxCuErUfPxrK3SFG9dGP2Ul6QOv_glnPSJ4bC7g/w150/IMG_5025.jpg" alt="Northern Strand"/> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>January 2024</b><br>
Northern Strand Rail Trail, Saugus MA<br>
<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/02/northern-strand-lynn-rail-trails-ma.html">4★ trail, 9.9-11.0 miles each way, Easy.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0t2y4qL9hnKjvSDIJgwlbmWNXFRUmT-j97Hs2qf482qqADm0ibZOEelzWW9C1SUx7lgb0rkn8Aj2kIfXxnjWEXvHQ0U9f_s7xjnMvzFnGCRW0keBX67gKQNuNHImNmAwsg2oRflV0-LqV7drjfJYdiukgL43P5b98Xd3nM6Fgk66oDBT88NTO_p6g4g/w150/1.jpg" alt="Antelope Canyon"/> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>February 2024</b><br>Lower Antelope Canyon, Page AZ<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/03/lower-antelope-canyon-page-az.html">5★ trail, 1.1 mile loop, Easy, Gain 100 feet.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_JunXpDtIt5JQQX2D3myInLFoIfQg5OSAatMRDJG4kXNyHHmedcKp2sWQ4pnK1-FHqijpYxxGARG4NVBOPa2lLr9wJ-xChjaftYH2_B8-jHHVYr6NkAx1bQ8mwdNZDTbJNiO9NprF4vibjQo04bF2YTq6aitblz8eXAs4ofsuqQjiNBwYVUKEYPh3g/w150/1.jpg" alt="Horseshoe Bend" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>March 2024</b><br>
Horseshoe Bend, Page AZ<br>
<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/03/horseshoe-bend-page-az.html">5★ trail, 1.2 mile out-and-back, Easy, Gain 140 feet.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzPDlFK3iG1xv2WtPZpOwkBoUEFmdUDErSonoX9l2cZ6tMcotZIHO2dJq0SiT0b9vvXa-akOmYp5aSqBIgnGpy-pS3mExUVNKGuR6bixieq-yIeWTBV7ZZN8JLvBiddllmmX_i5UUp4pZMKOZZLZ5hejYp_unTE5dEE7N8Jigvy8D4Olz4W-4hXm38Q/s150/IMG_8483.jpg" alt="Piscataquog Rail Trail Bridge" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>April 2024</b><br>
Piscataquog Rail Trail, Manchester NH<br>
<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/10/goffstown-piscataquog-rail-trail.html">4★ trail, 7.5 miles each way, Easy.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawt4ipwZI6wtqUJJUV9qLMw6eLks--Z3YvSF8rv9j7DcikUNDMnYo59PSQlGknFfuxt7sVhax_lymzYntbdyrDrJxwUu-lo5lFjQfzCMgiYZHJLQBLeHM7-xvrhFoCGCKOzjbriPM48fG20oX4qtZ_tAP9RA7XTbArE0JchYTpVUKCDt0el9syURWCA/s150/1.jpg" alt="Mount Cardigan" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>May 2024</b><br>Mount Cardigan, Grafton County NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/10/mt-cardigan-loop-trail.html">4&5★ trails, 3.0-5.3 mile options, Medium, Gain 1180-1860 feet.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTkhUAUXbrgJNRC1TJI7eATniFdCTy-pcEr5CUJrmgjGF73Oedxr1J4KUm0d6PY582GESM-4I3IVKgh_s3Uz_S_de59feccNmJ_C1Vk7ZDi3a47y6SlJPmzzP57geX_72Tvfveu-QmKqPBSBsACPshuR-Vsyyvk8R4AEz7Nusv0tKPzTUT5SPXDPY5Q/s150/1ps.jpg" alt="Packard Hill Covered Bridge" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>June 2024</b><br>Northern Rail Trail, Lebanon NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/05/northern-rail-trail-nh.html">4&5★ segments, 58.0 miles each way, Easy.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNCEnlupLbA6CDRz-aML6H16NLT_FrLlHNLk5JVaSKbKsL8rjHfKV7zmTTa_H1wEM_jxajepTm0wYTBPe_OQLG0ogJCfdxe_TNyacABwiUDhKsHsME19XooYLDGKszLMMfC3siAk91sMaLBzvdbwmWyUNNJ9Xbh-aAXgYkNg-qJT3D2i-u_0I4QlCHtw/s150/1.jpg" alt="Nobska Light" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>July 2024</b><br>Shining Sea Rail Trail, Cape Cod MA<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/06/shining-sea-bikeway-cape-cod-ma.html">5★ trail, 10.6 miles each way, Easy.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VqmDb7KCJmbxFslfWt8U_CvFqmEPUzFByMxKY0qwVykZZxMkXnkAihrG55xFmvX-sanueJmgPNMdFFQANH1Cj_pzm2nYuV5Ar6GWuX-2CCujZAwCUOPwyIqGvmPAaat3szOiYHvcMnNJFPD13Epc3MatZpyAMoO151BtOO2-GfL-tLVui0FFQR1H82Ld/s150/IMG_3470.jpg" alt="Pawtuckaway South Mountain Fire Tower" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>August 2024</b><br>Pawtuckaway South Mountain, Nottingham NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/09/pawtuckaway-south-mountain-nh.html">4★ trails, 1.7-6.0 mile options, Medium, Gain 440-940 feet.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAP5O2Q1Yc5_8nZ2D2C7Y-nXXUp-shYmVCTevk7r5WE15Px0gf9q4ae4FV1Utm_Z_eG4C083MEq9rylfZu6zFlAlf9j3Pixhnix51YEBs8MdxwFjveripVALKBHc65aNXushp-WsWQBRpWMTK8Qm7IJpwtwVhVEbQBYa2j2mWWQejYRXDX4qkT1CSvaaC/w150/IMG_4952.jpg" alt="Dixville Notch Table Rock" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>September 2024</b><br>Table Rock, Dixville Notch NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/09/dixville-notch-table-rock-nh.html">5★ trails, 1.7-5.1 mile options, Medium & Hard, Gain 960-1860 feet.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbVq1oxlkzO-yJ1DV4VyHmPdtdOVquqJaCiSK1Nf6vCO8obtUmIA6KNP9EEnveGYWW6f-oRhK6ihgaf8wcVDK4r5t_CvthmxkmiETR792reFO_q6zOPy9YRXd18vPcMmsxowC8DWOJyhYQ3Tllce-O2IB1lUy-25sm7PTWZnxYRxMUhP_ElJFrZTubTVF/s150/IMG_4442.jpg" alt="Falls In The River Trail" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>October 2024</b><br>Falls In The River Trail, Pittsburg NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/10/falls-in-river-pittsburg-nh.html">4★ trails, 1.6-2.7 mile options, Easy, Gain 120-200 feet.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOzwvypuinROscbWDK3NGn3HwJysHBvTaEyNG6R9CuHJlfZfH0IO_nOvJitbxwxWvVmJuB4jMP74xfLPopJVBqyWkzHEYaNCp-7WwodY9bb7ETwMy1IwdXZThE6kITHrbagUtUBM1bBGUjbuFToioYQvjExwoRDxZiPvPT8lPvBnB6GL_bBgLdfFz7NiWy/s150/IMG_3149.jpg" alt="Village Spur Rail Trail Covered Bridge Cyclist" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>November 2024</b><br>Village Spur Rail Trail, Belmont NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/09/village-spur-rail-trail-belmont-nh.html">4★ trail, 2.1 miles each way, Easy.</a></td></tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td WIDTH="20%" style="padding-bottom:20px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUj8ehehZ8yVjrygWjXRj0hLrAWTQcosypp9SE5Y0Mbefi7trqLEqkOqqduF9jeulDAm_iRYfctuPoNsjHxpEE80KlJS1k5CoDD0kWtlYulwtbSvsiRvjSaoTPFZGCgM64br-7wpUKSsT5AZiYMbbL9-T9ny1qH8K6TAPa0hY7LvpIuwma1I4PWN3vnlLW/s150/IMG_6491.jpg" alt="Raymond NH Rail Depot" /> </td>
<td width="80%" style="padding-left: 10px; padding-bottom:20px;"><b>December 2024</b><br>Rockingham Rail Trail, Portsmouth Branch NH<br><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/12/rockingham-rail-trail-portsmouth-branch.html">4★ trail, 2.8 miles each way, Easy.</a></td></tr>
</table>
Trailspotting wishes you a very happy holiday season, and here's to wishing you happy trails for next year!<br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-35363198428771632982023-12-14T10:05:00.009-05:002024-03-07T14:48:33.407-05:00Rockingham Portsmouth Branch RT, NH<br>
• 4-star trail<br>
• 28.0 miles each way<br>
• Easy difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Manchester - Rockingham, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/newhampshire+merrimack">Merrimack & </a><a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/newhampshire+seacoast">Seacoast Regions</a><br>
• Driving Directions: Marked <span style="color:#0386d0; ">⬤</span> on map<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUj8ehehZ8yVjrygWjXRj0hLrAWTQcosypp9SE5Y0Mbefi7trqLEqkOqqduF9jeulDAm_iRYfctuPoNsjHxpEE80KlJS1k5CoDD0kWtlYulwtbSvsiRvjSaoTPFZGCgM64br-7wpUKSsT5AZiYMbbL9-T9ny1qH8K6TAPa0hY7LvpIuwma1I4PWN3vnlLW/s1024/IMG_6491.jpg" width="2048" alt="Historic rolling stock on parade at former Raymond Station." /><br>
<i>Historic rolling stock on parade at former Raymond Station.</i><br>
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Constructed by the Portsmouth and Concord Railroad company and serving the region's towns for over 130 years, the route is now known as a very popular rail trail called the Portsmouth Branch of the Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail. At 28 miles in length it also ranks as the second longest in the state after the Northern Rail Trail.<br>
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This predominantly smooth and level hardpack trail links downtown Manchester to the former railroad station of Rockingham, merely a couple of miles south of Newmarket. Originally, twelve passenger depots were originally situated on this line though only two remain today. You can see the locations of these former stations by turning on markers inside our map. The town of Raymond have not only refurbished their station and use it to house the Raymond Historical Society's collection, but also proudly showcases a refurbished steam locomotive and several historical rail cars adjacent to the rail trail.<br>
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<small>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s200/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIZcQCxBP-FD4dsNCTrmITREsMCpbi4gke_NLnUSJu2-RvVW21egAZAuycJ-MFQwfqWSbNLZu9twAb6GUEVCmaX0hksOUgM1J560mU8-uy1rG5gPwErSdHYtMDah6KSIguJdGwBkCgDbYpmnqaQ-dtUpb7dkzsqHl_aaAZ7taDGF3IYHKX1353i0V3A/s200/DGRAY.PNG" alt="dark gray icon" /> Live Rail, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s200/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1KDoUATqid-3DsFpWrh-1NwvdpoLP7lo&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="color coded rail trail route on a Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s200/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> <b>Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail 4★</b><br>
28.0 miles each way, Easy, Gain 580 ft (830 ft E-W)<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/nh-rockingham-rail-trail-f569c3d">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhrock.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1KDoUATqid-3DsFpWrh-1NwvdpoLP7lo&cid=mp&cv=KT_1kaXFdxk.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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Towards the eastern end of lies Rockingham Station, currently undergoing a gradual restoration owing to the efforts of the local landowner. Here the end of the trail meets up with live rail tracks. In addition to the presence of a north-south rail line, a section of the Portsmouth and Concord Railroad remains in service from this point, leading into Portsmouth and its nearby Naval Shipyards. Additionally branching off this railroad route some 8 miles eastward marks the start of the <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/08/nh-seacoast-greenway-rail-trail.html">Seacoast Greenway Rail Trail</a>.<br>
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Further features along the mostly wooded Rockingham Rail Trail Portsmouth Branch include wetlands and several lakes, including Manchester's popular Massabesic Lake that has a spacious parking area - a great starting point for a rail trail adventure. Near Raymond, the rail trail crosses Lamprey River twice over a couple of well-preserved steel girder bridges. Less scenic but also necessary are the two dark corrugated culvert-style underpasses that stretch under large highways and will likely require you to dismount due to low headroom.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLqpEZR6JsTfUouW1P_NfudqDmXqTFpH15FENwTxStNTYH3H6_RDLADsdMmJZE2hgHKSoQuhRIgQ9Bx1orwnNB3OGNujK7dLBkSh4-GwpGwMhodRz7wVlucWD-ub9dLbNnEGQ2abAMbQ9iVJJp4ATg83DOzEY0sKC8XkCSRzZj3qwOEm7Zx598pNmktsD/s1600/IMG_6457.jpg" width="2048" alt="Cyclist POV. Diagonally-cut end of the galvanized steel culvert. Timber boards under foot. Straight trail ahead leading into infinity, with trees either side. Some frost on the floor." /><br>
<i>Exiting one of the low-headroom culvert-style underpasses.</i><br>
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The 18 mile long <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/rock-free-eb06b9d?u=i">Fremont Branch rail trail</a> connects directly with this trail at Epping and runs southwest until it connects with several other trails at the Windham Station Junction, including direct connections to <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/05/derry-windham-rail-trails-nh.html">Derry</a> and <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/05/derry-windham-rail-trails-nh.html">Windham</a> rail trails, along with a short road connection to link to the <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/06/windham-greenway-rail-trail.html">Windham Greenway Rail Trail</a>.<br>
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Manchester serves as a hub for multiple additional rail trail connections, including the Piscataquog-Goffstown Rail Trails (leading to the New Boston Rail Trail) and the recently extended South Manchester Rail Trail (leading to the Londonderry Rail Trail). At the foot of this page there are links to reviews and maps for these rail trails, and there's always our map of New Hampshire rail trails if you're looking to visualize all the possible connections and bicycle touring options.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s200/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo" /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Hardpack trail throughout. Very occasional protruding stones. Mostly negligible gradient. East Candia has a modest 25ft/mi gradient for 5 miles sloping upward to the West. Flooding possible at Rockingham after heavy rains.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uV0z-cA2uoto_2WEhZa1AS9JPKyVRT9bZ6yot1THw8_J_lTvXOb50rmVVLt5r0Mn3ft9TjDcwAmvsByk-aDyHkqZ9-Kj-CV9BSZ-k6fHlF_D8pYZVRZrNZlI53H4CrvNphqQ3M1JFNfRDkKIsTpIpEHn1gr-Wu8_Q-6Ow3BB-yvgEG8pOWmXA-5SS84U/s1600/IMG_6632.jpg" width="2048" alt="Cyclist wearing an orange jacket on a dirt track, riding past an expanse of water to the right with reeds and trees." /><br>
<i>Riding past Wetlands near Rockingham.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGv2jNqIe4wUEykezLr0DSdBTUuU-_7TihdCZ3y7YIIY0whuCGR3JlVQ2979WHnq7ByMmWpDXUVQ4FwrsO7NXxG_2ueimNZYZLT9F2CsOiRotDuE9TSaueiX8dXogQpQYBSlowjUyjFnyPoi9raYdjoARNtMbezHlp3xMcW2FDfobmRDBz0ib-GHeiQvs8/s1600/IMG_6518.jpg" width="2048" alt="View of the bridge from above, looking straight down the trail. Some frost on the bridge deck. Graffiti on the steel girders." /><br>
<i>One of two steel girder bridges over the Lamprey River near Raymond.</i><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2edF0QcYGhukfCS-0aotXWum0xhgbyXNm3QHrl5u6RZyZ49oGpTF24JhVZfH32uzpzG7ZrE6S_PUDUA-PXcyt_K5Ar8E2bgR0_ClnkKcp7UO7PPHiaA4P13u5L-oD4KZ_79H65T5MgYL20-FVFPt35Oeldq3WkglGCWxjZw4FNHCJ69VDK8tE-tYLHiLD/s1600/IMG_6577.jpg" width="2048" alt="Tree in the foreground, with the massive lake behind." /><br>
<i>Manchester's Lake Massabesic.</i><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsM210c258e158pY1koGw9RxJVD7Mqj6u2AG3m5xNdL2yzhL9MgPEJxGDjJMy-HqLaekFPj8PFN9rU5Qd0CjFDr_P_aQ2SI-i6ylTm7b4F-ptE964SLEkFc3ZVNvwZLfCXdhdjxlBc_wRj49fgoqGPbiNK9I4NMjRhOMg2wueum_eBtJIGTOLHXmKCEwcV/s1600/IMG_6549.jpg" width="2048" alt="Two cyclists wearing brightly colored jackets riding away from the camera." /><br>
<i>Ardent rail trail cyclists Joe & Wally.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/recreational-rail-trails/rockingham-recreational-rail-trail,-portsmouth-bra">Official, </a><a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/rockingham-recreational-rail-trail-%28portsmouth-branch%29/">TrailLink,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/rockingham-recreational-rail-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: More photos & Comment on this article<br>
<br>
Nearby Trails:<br>
• 0 miles away: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-b73dfe2-183">Rockingham RT Fremont Branch</a><br>
• 2.5 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/05/south-manchester-rail-trail-nh.html">South Manchester RT</a><br>
• 2.5 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/10/goffstown-piscataquog-rail-trail.html">Piscataquog-Goffstown RTs</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href=" https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.031,-71.185&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-63525746495221350702023-12-07T12:00:00.008-05:002024-02-11T14:31:17.542-05:00Deer Mountain, Pittsburg NH<br>
• 3-star hike<br>
• 4.3 mile trail<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 1,010 feet<br>
• Pittsburg, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/greatnorthwoods">Great North Woods</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/45.19571,-71.20005">Trailhead</a><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlpuFEQo3XJk1Y6VWCqSNcYRzpMMTd8M_X_JbS9aa2Wc4oaRmx7o7_gK2xHLP63wF407iiTF9vvXdy-hikKEIBJ3R5yRASDVKp9_yzXQ6hY1E7UkyuQqpmFZCNIfDz1pJXYKIyi2eosOGcQaVM6omd2tDHwzH5hO4EILVmxCgw8SRBVK2ch3du8kr2QGa/s1024/IMG_4058.jpg" width="1024" alt="Short fire tower surrounded by trees. With another tree growing in the middle of the tower's frame." /><br>
<i>The forest slowly reclaiming the fire tower atop Deer Mountain.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href=" https://www.trailspotting.com/p/fire-towers-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkSHENIHeqqwMS4OsOdech7sdUf0i4eB8P_78a-xunVOYnJik_5Sb51NwIg7f9p27T8-lpOaORn4fGuXYL8fDkofzks0FREiapbnnlquVeMuz70KMO2lcAnrSkN2J79I3r_fK_JfjHf_4eGzPKjwCbUcSbXURqW9cNUtvvBK89SWXUy_g5PruiUbF0w/s200/tower.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Image of fire tower" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Fire Towers</b><span style="color:#000000"><br> Discover our map of NH fire towers and the trails on which to find them.</span></div></div></a>
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The two mile trail to New Hampshire's northernmost surviving fire tower leads through remote forest terrain. Fortunately the journey follows a well-established trail off Route 3, and is located merely a couple of miles from the Canadian border.<br>
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Up here, Route 3 is famously known as Moose Alley due to the high likelihood of spotting one of these immense solitary creatures. Though we didn't spot any during our trek into New Hampshire's Great North Woods, we did encounter signs of moss acticity on our trail - fresh hoof tracks and scat. At one point half way along the trail, we even heard a growl emanating from the woods, presumably from a moose. However, we didn't hang around to find out. Our confidence on these more remote hiking trails is bolstered by reading up on the low statistical likelihood of injury from a moose or black bear encounter.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Deer Mt & Fire Tower Trail</small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1VBfuNaedQJxpSfi0fsnXCyT8NNOKzCQ&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s200/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Deer Mt & Fire Tower Trail 3★</b><br>
4.3 mi, Out & Back, Medium, Gain 1,010 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-60b2149-5">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
<br>
The trail commences near a logging road with ample space to park a couple of vehicles. Tracing a path parallel to a creek, passing small waterfalls, it gradually ascends into the forest. The well-defined track is mostly soft underfoot, with few rocks and an occasional root to step over. It's also easy to follow, devoid of junctions or branches leading away from the trail, guiding hikers all the way to the abandoned fire tower, the ultimate destination of this hike. Approaching the wooded summit, we encountered a couple of clearings and navigated some patches of light mud. About a quarter of a mile from the top, we also spotted the metal remnants of what we assume to be an old hut.<br>
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The Deer Mountain Fire Tower was originally erected in 1911, and multiple iterations of the structure were built here. The last tower, a steel frame constructed in 1933, was closed in 1976, and the cabin was subsequently removed. However, the skeletal remains of the tower still stand today, with a tree growing through its middle. Scaling the tower is nearly impossible as the timber steps have deteriorated. Attempting to get a view above the tree line, we managed to climb the first flight but decided against proceeding further, even though the tower structure felt stable to us.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7RbzRasGTO5T6YJojGrRN7w3OQ4kKkIo_9kxYMYGL_n6hyphenhyphenyvUZOsi0I1hOSkkpdluLyXt9j8nxPnTI8Drns8yyL2FMEU5T55A6vUTha9fbia9n4TBH2pPz0H8jLoIOFy3IyrjRE_SdHc8ONu18a8XZ_xqSbwD0X_UeIdkZf5YzHRNxT7eq8ePLm_btPV/s1024/IMG_4054.jpg" width="1024" alt="Sitting on the first landing of the fire tower. Legs dangling. No risers remain on what was once the steps." /><br>
<i>It's not just the fire tower's cabin that is missing.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOKzMQu4R0WeWrtYO3wXsE3RA4jZwn_XUAi1P9PCaMXNWmv6zR9vsvWMDuV9geXkEIxBF6mxlFM2L7ypET8sEgwXyc_-w2DD-LUveudZ9gSKlAw1EoONgpgJnzBSLB4YMiIoWIs0en075FkvZza-wFCQmJ5cAkys-pJzZ-m5K5MWGJxPAv3M0-zJjCyVP/s1600/IMG_4108.jpg" width="1024" alt="Narrow trail cutting a small path through a mossy green forest." /><br>
<i>Deer Mountain Fire Tower Trail is a walk through woodland.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmlPQQ2DIqAZFTEA3NAyaO4GwEXKuIDX0Knq9EV_KUGvBn02B5OZRQov4a1bNNjLOS31HBOcVG4t0_mK73Gc9Q-k_KExZjg6mTmDGkVO2ieQSA-nij1lhyphenhyphenpe6_fzIoUzutYDEHxSVAsb-a9J4syiT41CzDesJZquUWhnvGPieUaM52ZTJIXpvhSV6MiiV/s1600/IMG_3993.jpg" width="2048" alt="A dilapidated timber framed house." /><br>
<i>A tumbledown nearby house. Not on the route of the trail.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/deer-mtn-fire-tower-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/823790682840432/">Comment on this article</a><br>
• Nearby trails: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=45.19571,-71.20005&z=12">Show on map</a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/summits+newhampshire"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgINGUB_h3mGH_D1vN1N9JHWYCeyiVWBrZpRYahxTPmcS0I4m3MGkT_s8JO9jE_JVwR6GK-S3VWft3U_VWiYUT4KeNPMmwefeHhSi9ce0RrjRDh0lHRvv0VNQgup7Cpa32APgtxxYWl1sXYxz4AddkFI43LdkqRfDIkEQwdeKDeL1UtXImkVMtu8pNQw/s200/summit.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting New Hampshire Summits Articles" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Summits</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Are you a peak bagger or looking for the best views? Trailspotting has a growing list of summit hikes.</span></div></div></a>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-78046448346681872552023-11-30T20:25:00.006-05:002024-03-07T14:48:33.417-05:00North Central Pathway Rail Trail, MA<br>
• 4-star trail<br>
• 9.5 miles each way<br>
• Easy difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Winchendon to Gardner, MA | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/central+massachusetts">Central Massachusetts</a><br>
• Driving Directions: Marked <span style="color:#0386d0; ">⬤</span> on map<br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfywtjsg4xaNRm4sz6ZpYcI9NRSo2PbL7tSw2ADQ1MS4D9FFMwHrynoUk-ZPlwcdmJXvpi2Wv-kR2p0Dwivoa4etMBF7_JVeBWGQJ-IcOXSyit9JgVr1M8k0D9qYrvrnMNNQYS74W9-HvWg4dsdyd2EO_jyzQbs6r_9Cyqlp5GyvMK4tQgy-2JFE0dIKFN/s1600/IMG_5685.jpg" width="2048" alt="Cyclist on the rail trail. Pond to the left. Direct morning sunlight coming from behind the trees, casting dark shadows on the ground." /><br>
<i>Riding out of Winchendon past Whitney Pond.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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Nestling up to the New Hampshire state border the small Central Massachusetts town of Winchendon was once a railroad hub with five distinct rail routes radiating from its center. Today there's no evidence of this downtown, but thankfully some of these routes live on as rail trails.<br>
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The mostly asphalt paved North Central Pathway Rail Trail wins our prize for sporting the most generic trail name that we've found to date. This trail treats users to a journey that passes large ponds, scenic wetlands and woodlands. Though most trail users seem to stick to just one, there are three distinct sections to this route and they can all be linked together to make a total length just short of ten miles. You can also continue even further, tracing the old lines through Gardner until they connect up with the live East-West rail lines south of the town.<br>
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<small><nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QYQtfIbgYs0z0_o6dRoOimF4-ZRZtyH8cXCZfMPruAgI4lF-xDVqTlf1nsxbz-tCy-DWEyuri_swzijNez0cwf7FFlP1WAhikpZSdmDxu0j7rZch9oABZSL6aCTb4mzWhsQmurIdp0_zAseuIbPgPNYDfazZOpdDIjoARXMrHyqHzP02JyEzjSPguQ/s1600/GRE.png" alt="green icon" /> Asphalt, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> Rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" alt="red icon"/> Road,</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" alt="blue icon" /> Access, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIZcQCxBP-FD4dsNCTrmITREsMCpbi4gke_NLnUSJu2-RvVW21egAZAuycJ-MFQwfqWSbNLZu9twAb6GUEVCmaX0hksOUgM1J560mU8-uy1rG5gPwErSdHYtMDah6KSIguJdGwBkCgDbYpmnqaQ-dtUpb7dkzsqHl_aaAZ7taDGF3IYHKX1353i0V3A/s1600/DGRAY.PNG" alt="dark gray icon" /> Live Rail, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s1600/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" alt="red icon"/> <b>North Central Pathway 4★</b><br>
9.5 miles each way, Easy, Gain 310ft (160ft S-N)<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-d7fd83e-9">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtmanorthcentral.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1lw0geB-p6eiScLjFWsVBRQDl5wWWUMc&cid=mp&cv=9wdm4qSVLFs.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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The northernmost 2.8 mile segment of trail heading south out of Winchendon is perhaps the most scenic and varied. Large dilapidated buildings on the banks of Tannery Pond stand as reminders of an industrial history. Heading southeast and close to the unfortunately rather busy Route 12 highway the views are great - first of Whitney Pond, and then of the meandering Miller River wetlands. The trail terminates unceremoniously at North Ashburnham Road as the old alignment continues onto private property, but a 0.8 mile segment of mostly quiet road biking can link you up to the next segment of North Central Parkway.<br>
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The middle segment heads due South for 3.3 miles and mostly passes through woodland, with a large clearing close to the mid-point. The asphalt trail makes for an easy journey, particularly for cylists, and terminates at the busy Route 140.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXbXY5Eme5iQqLxj5uxb58iCV-pyyillugX2Cf85gom2J9qk36ePUuaIo4nTtJKOESqzd213wlsnoQVgaFoNUt7HSKhLy5AyouMTRQAha9XlMPWFfHhX5YnldxcmjI6kx0705Fm7SMARG1xsUEvqdss05GJT60VikMsCC_Jq1SInaoRB7fRE0IGGneO-Y/s1600/IMG_5679.jpg" width="2048" alt="Wide panorama of blue Whitney Lake with fall colors on trees on the far shore, reflected in the water." /><br>
<i>Fall colors on Whitney Pond near Winchendon.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTe4NXrgzeQ6bxY7yPhE_l2CT_0gnQfSevmI9qyuW0pp4crACgq59nYvA02kJJogophefKQqYUmA-vQSRZxQ5Va4J7bCMlJuoif4U3gfnK9iz8EmShalvfNGi3wC9Z4J3rZAUPqLAatP_K4fs0xZ8MlCMSjHQYYTzaQHVflFQuHsYdPOqlRKfg7Y3jRUR/s1600/IMG_5789.jpg" width="2048" alt="Leaf covered dirt road, surrounded by colorful trees on both sides." /><br>
<i>Woodland section, heading for the town of Gardner.</i><br>
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<i>Giant bike by Glenallen Street, with our bike for scale.</i><br><br>
The southern segment of the North Central Pathway is a gated service road that is partly hardpacked ground, but with sections of loose large aggregate gravel that leads us to categorize the trail condition as rough. This section continues through woodland and heading for the town of Gardner. After reaching a second electricity substation the old rail route becomes impassible, but you we recommend continuing on via the roads of the neighboring cemetary to reach the shores of Crystal Lake. Here it seems the dead have the best views in town.<br>
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The south end of the trail comes to a halt at Park Street by a large parking and picnic area. Out of curiosity we traced the continuing route of the rail alignment all the way down to where it connects with live railroad lines. On the way we found occasional track and signage in town, followed by complete and inaccessible track that weaves though an industrial area.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s1600/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo" /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Includes 6.1 miles of asphalt and 2.1 miles of mostly hardpack ground with some loose gravel sections. Section closest to Winchendon is flat. Middle section has mild gradients, most noticeably heading south. Section closest to Gardner has light gradients.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1A7pXX5OXoc3OrCSEZ71tgKqLufAs8g1bpBkXBTgsgqsS7TAL0kPHUfENozzBw9Y0dism2PSsgi8k7K-dulJkzoci9G5BuXlKtXA4likCKHSDuk27-arqar_TUTsi3fiClAgYVEVfHRfFgFzQeMgnYqnpLOaKdANoAt0DBUmi7u5_yINl_EFZB5KNcIT/s1600/IMG_5715.jpg" width="2048" alt="Massive 20ft? tall bicycle sculpture made from steel bar and rod. I could fit my bike directly underneath without touching the structure at all." /><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2n_FnlhEmyxGTzhUELUkvSG0g10n_jxA9JSrTYC0FLwMc3Vr-6mSt3lYP62YV44gV7oig2e8LghyphenhyphenFoNNeld-fT4wzDbzU9uoDzFoXkSGePz_mRO9E2LkBXM37xKWbaXI5-sSuWojzdPBynN8DwoHdvpFGFlFtYZP_wqW4OPjZTcrBgRSpyiDz5Nt_27MX/s1600/d1.jpg" width="2048" alt="Left: Cyclist POV with mowed green grass under my wheels. Rails and railroad ties visible. Right: old railroad sign crossing." /><br>
<i>Signs of railroad remain in downtown Gardner.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI28St5KAm24CRPLjUkiPgvEbiQpqOVbvIJ1EGxEcWAb6qdzD5kA8UMEKszfQn-L85LxX0Bk2m9ZZBV4IOIz6_mRp7Z7HMYEw8zs0QebHpEyuO8Dc9j6FYN5rAKJT1EZsEYIu4_fSq9nhfTZvMXXUOy-LBOqyuSJ4ggqo9tHddNitktLErNaDio0faJ6xS/s1600/IMG_5875.jpg" width="2048" alt="Hiker standing on the banks of a reservoir, with a border of trees in full fall color." /><br>
<i>Hiking the nearby Perley Brook Reservoir.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/north-central-pathway/">TrailLink</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/820330503186450/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• 0.5 miles away: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-f37c463?u=i">Ware River Rail Trail</a><br>
• 1 mile away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/09/monadnock-recreational-rail-trail-nh.html">Monadnock Rail Trail</a><br>
• 4 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/09/cheshire-rail-trail-south-nh.html">Cheshire Rail Trail South</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href=" https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=42.63,-72&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-63768234215104858522023-11-16T10:12:00.011-05:002024-03-07T14:47:36.963-05:00Mt Moosilauke, White Mountains NH<br>
• 5-star hike<br>
• 7.4 to 7.9 mile options<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 2,470 to 2,570 feet<br>
• Benton, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/whitemountains">White Mountains</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.99094,-71.81764">Trailhead</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTmz9wlfnyG9tyll-KtrLLrvx1R3CQNmSLR2NKHIw1_Wzti9u6ew4qAa-VBS8LyUdlt_65drMqfHATp6TyIyZZR_SAis28F3Dojrx0O6uddWX84z5p2R7qk0BiOFQlZwQOQXXC8V6sPGs3px33Jp4SczWmt9dIqw8cDKMqmzHZZzywzuduNAcuS5RgXVj/s1600/IMG_5389.jpg" width="2048" alt="Mountain ridgeline carpeted with green trees. Moosilauke summit visible, and with bare orange grass close to the summit." /><br>
<i>Moosilauke summit barely peeking through the clouds.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/summits+newhampshire"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgINGUB_h3mGH_D1vN1N9JHWYCeyiVWBrZpRYahxTPmcS0I4m3MGkT_s8JO9jE_JVwR6GK-S3VWft3U_VWiYUT4KeNPMmwefeHhSi9ce0RrjRDh0lHRvv0VNQgup7Cpa32APgtxxYWl1sXYxz4AddkFI43LdkqRfDIkEQwdeKDeL1UtXImkVMtu8pNQw/s200/summit.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting New Hampshire Summits Articles" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Summits</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Are you a peak bagger or looking for the best views? Trailspotting has a growing list of summit hikes.</span></div></div></a>
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At 4,802 feet Mount Moosilauke is the eleventh highest mountain in New England, and its prominence of 3,000 feet dominates the southwestern White Mountain landscape with its three summits. Two of the three peaks are included on formal trail routes, but the third can also be reached with a short informal detour if you're looking to bag them all. Moosilauke is also regarded as one of the easiest 4,000 footers to hike in the White Mountains.<br>
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Of all the routes up the mountain, the trails from Ravine Road are the shortest and easiest. Though they will be challenging to many and do include several rocky sections, both the Gorge Brook Trail and Carriage Road Trail offer forgiving moderate gradients and moments of flat easy-going trails. Expect trail bridges at all significant creek crossings, and well-signposted junctions.<br>
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Expect these trails to be popular and well used. Gorge Brook appears to be the most frequented trail, though we'd recommend the loop that adds only an extra half-mile and includes a summit of South Peak which offers excellent views of Moosilauke's main peak. We think a counter-clockwise route is best since it provides a scenic approach up Mount Moosilauke's ridgeline, but as both trails have similar gradients and feature occasional scenic views it doesn't really matter which way around you go.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Carriage-Gorge,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 alt="blue icon" /> Gorge O&B </nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1MCuRKkRkn5O08Ljxkj6c181jw9xAXIQ&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Carriage Rd & Gorge Brook Loop 5★</b><br>
7.9 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 2,570 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-mt-moosilauke-carriage-gorge-loop-a6ea847">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 alt="blue icon" /> <b>Gorge Brook Out & Back 5★</b><br>
7.4 mi, Out & Back, Medium, Gain 2,470 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-941c377-3">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Parking has been stepped back from the original trailhead due to the trail's popularity and inevitable traffic congestion, so on our map we've marked the trailhead as the point from which no parking becomes permissible. Roadside parking is available south of this position along one side of Ravine Road, and the earlier you arrive the closer to the trailhead you can park. Note that there is a vehicle turnaround at our marked trailhead location, so if you're arriving later in the day you can drive all the way to this point, then turn the vehicle around and take the first available parking spot.<br>
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We are yet to chart other routes to the summit, but list them here for consideration until we can provide our reviews. From the West, <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-moosilauke-via-glencliff-trail-and-appalachian-trail">Glencliff Trail</a> follows part of the Appalachian Trail and at 7.6 miles and 3,330 ft gain requires similar mileage but more elevation gain than the reviewed Gorge Brook or Carriage Road trails. From the North, <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/appalachian-trail-beaver-brook-to-south-peak">Beaver Book Trail</a> is 8.6 miles & 3,536 ft gain if you include South Peak and it's considered a challenging and steep route. <br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEO-jja5BGrZfh-CLZN-UiyAI22HST-KxvGq7LwfwFzcwrLWQErNxJdPsvunksuK8kAWnH-V2uZCUh4OScbxseNTO9ZeAlamNAzM-S1c6WWW3_IaybtNPe0hxIKdGbSymXnfon4ZskFS5km08Ry_7kDYmeLAnfqEfS0_p6elSZrbRPJcaiqpC0wDOwomCB/s1600/IMG_5421.jpg" width="2048" alt="Orange grass on both sides of the trail, with sturdy rock cairns marking the route." /><br>
<i>Alpine meadow approaching Moosilauke's tallest peak.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYvUUh44YPxd9YJNqIZsg4ufq_at3I4KOldtLtmPgmTJy0zb_0vg51iVK04rBoLsvYO48IX3q8PS5VCaySqcrvD-Ysz_DFuHtRah_tjNHeCFp30FGva9GKfUUSWI1L3LvjleLr7UQlW5bTuqocdDDqgEsP8buVeM8LeGCZAuC_VLgkX8Ios8dqgg1h7L5/s1600/IMG_5457.jpg" width="2048" alt="Hiker crossing a 20 to 30 foot bridge made out of three tree trunks and a handrail on one side. Stream flowing below." /><br>
<i>Trail bridges at all creek crossings.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYuXmij1YaM0ONcGKc6E3bFDBRgbPd6OH_BK0g0hT43pl-tcKnkDsTt0AJ8fDTT0rvw2LXXzAV8BURJYDwHm6ojSpEBpuR8g9ToU6MeSfEtp0a7TFHe_GlOlE2WGCb7IM4O8zeUSJWfA_PxyItvdusP3FkdbBtvwF7vcVITBINvMwiN47onjnu4yEyaU6/s1600/d1.jpg" width="2048" alt="Two images. The first is a bright orange sign reading ' south peak 0.15 mi' and a trail heads into a weathered evergreen forest with a mossy floor. The second has three hikers eating snacks while looking at a mountain range in the distance." /><br>
<i>South Peak has great Moosilauke views. </i> | <i>Taking a break on Gorge Brook Trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCx7oYpx9v1ZfwfCzC__BlUetHUv-UkZ5BviqH4av2hbKsI22u5lQaNMocdgY0Ii1ZldA26Oiumf9RK3nFcw4uxU-hitbLLO7148Eot5wweLH8dcED6p4U0Oie_EznmTi0al7FLotzo6LAyBLBxwigrYao-A7qqIgROJMbpyNhh4oxbPyOA9gRW7ZcvNM/s1600/IMG_5407.jpg" width="2048" alt="Two hikers wearing brightly colored jackets and backpacks hiking down a rocky trail. Evergreen bushes all around. Two mountain peaks in the middle distance. Horizon mostly obscured by fog and clouds." /><br>
<i>Hiking down Moosilauke in the direction of South Peak.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Public Map at AllTrails: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-moosilauke-and-south-peak-loop">Carriage/Gorge Loop,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-moosilauke-via-gorge-brook-trail">Gorge O&B</a> <br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/813197197233114">Comment on this article</a><br>
• Nearby trails: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.99094,-71.81764&z=12">Show on a map</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-78294858274190004812023-11-10T08:30:00.038-05:002024-03-07T14:48:33.417-05:00Mount Wachusett, Princeton MA<br>
• 4-star hikes<br>
• 1.3 to 3.9 mile options<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 600 to 1080 feet<br>
• Princeton MA | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/central+massachusetts">Central Massachusetts</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <i>See trail reviews below.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvH7_lYUzMEh0CSBMBe1Hxe8V9zYeZEsriV3IH1ZgcpvnW-JQSI6VYzW-81wrCbwg_0N60Jij-xVxB9KgyxBHEzszOlLZh0Hx-OyfuDZlPPKNsn2bM2LlMD4-oBQMo-jvMHzB9ZDz8Y1sQ1egRypa3jE1zGHTZ1quDQM4vjcsyqOSzwuEc4IKr4b9m5X6/s1600/IMG_3949.jpg" width="2048" alt="Robust fire tower atop Mount Wachusett" /><br>
<i>The robust fire tower atop Mount Wachusett.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/summits+newengland"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgINGUB_h3mGH_D1vN1N9JHWYCeyiVWBrZpRYahxTPmcS0I4m3MGkT_s8JO9jE_JVwR6GK-S3VWft3U_VWiYUT4KeNPMmwefeHhSi9ce0RrjRDh0lHRvv0VNQgup7Cpa32APgtxxYWl1sXYxz4AddkFI43LdkqRfDIkEQwdeKDeL1UtXImkVMtu8pNQw/s1600/summit.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting New England Summits Articles" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's New England Summits</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Are you a peak bagger or looking for the best views? Trailspotting has a growing list of summit hikes.</span></div></div></a>
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Popular throughout the year, Mount Wachusett is one of the commonwealth's most visited natural attractions, and at just over two thousand feet in elevation it is also the state's highest peak east of the Connecticut River. The ski slopes on the mountain's northern flanks are busy in winter months, while the rest of the year people are attracted to the Wachusett Mountain State Reservation for hiking and bird-watching.<br>
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We have explored most of the ways to hike to the summit of Mount Wachusett and present them here for your choosing. By far the busiest trail is Pine Hill, which begins at the busy visitor center and takes you up its stone steps to the summit in just 0.6 miles. The visitor center is also the only paid parking lot on the mountain whereas all other trailheads are free. Note that the MA government is charging vehicles with out-of-state licence plates a quadruple parking fee - shame on them.<br>
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The visitor center is also the start of the mountain road to the summit, which is topped with a parking lot as well as a large fire tower. It's good to see mountain summits that are accessible to all, but if you're looking to hike a mountain that leads you to a more pristine and tranquil summit then you may prefer to check out <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/10/mount-watatic-nutting-hill-ma.html">Mount Watatic</a> instead.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Pine O&B,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s1600/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> Pine Loop, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Mountain House, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QYQtfIbgYs0z0_o6dRoOimF4-ZRZtyH8cXCZfMPruAgI4lF-xDVqTlf1nsxbz-tCy-DWEyuri_swzijNez0cwf7FFlP1WAhikpZSdmDxu0j7rZch9oABZSL6aCTb4mzWhsQmurIdp0_zAseuIbPgPNYDfazZOpdDIjoARXMrHyqHzP02JyEzjSPguQ/s1600/GRE.png" width=12 alt="green icon" /> Harrington, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 alt="blue icon" /> Old Indian</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
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The trails we list in this review are all rated 4-stars and will provide you with a great Mount Wachusett experience. Before we get into more detailed descriptions of each of the trails, here's a comparison to help you determine what works best for you. <br>
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<small><table border="1" class="t1">
<tbody><tr><td>Trail</td><td>Length</td><td>Gain</td><td>Description</td></tr>
<tr><td><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Pine Hill Out <br>& Back</td><td>1.3<br />miles</td><td>600<br />feet</td><td>Shortest & busiest.<br>Paid parking.</td></tr>
<tr><td><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s1600/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> Pine Hill Loop <br>Trail</td><td>1.7<br />miles</td><td>600<br />feet</td><td>Variety over O&B route.<br>Paid parking.</td></tr>
<tr><td><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Mountain House<br>Loop Trail</td><td>2.0<br />miles</td><td>780<br />feet</td><td>Quieter than Pine.<br>More natural trail.</td></tr>
<tr><td><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QYQtfIbgYs0z0_o6dRoOimF4-ZRZtyH8cXCZfMPruAgI4lF-xDVqTlf1nsxbz-tCy-DWEyuri_swzijNez0cwf7FFlP1WAhikpZSdmDxu0j7rZch9oABZSL6aCTb4mzWhsQmurIdp0_zAseuIbPgPNYDfazZOpdDIjoARXMrHyqHzP02JyEzjSPguQ/s1600/GRE.png" width=12 alt="green icon" /> Harrington Trail<br></td><td>2.9<br />miles</td><td>810<br />feet</td><td>Less popular<br>wooded route.</td></tr>
<tr><td><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 alt="blue icon" /> Old Indian & <br> Semhuhenna Trail</td><td>3.9<br />miles</td><td>1080<br />feet</td><td>Longer route. Views<br>from ski slopes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table></small>
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All trails we've charted on this mountain are classified as of moderate difficulty, mainly due to the partly rocky terrain and elevation gain. Pine Hill is the easiest of the trails, having being built out as a series of rocky steps for most of the route. We saw many children enjoying this route, though some of the steps are a little on the larger side.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjvWuHEXl0xq5627yMnJBe8lXNnEP6lBp3_ZDdn0kRk3BpnGtoLwVyzeazsf9TZkrNIDxhNlwLX7M7zovXHgrj1mFAVmR433MMU_ZMbmDCgsSc9gSvui8GcrcD0Zi18O9QwDT0NWUJOvRXMryXcrx_z9F4TIFenmozJcu0vAf3dD6XmnN6bkD-XpBPUf9/s1600/IMG_3939.jpg" width="2048" alt="Hiker climbing up the wide, stepped trail; surrounded by trees." /><br>
<i>Hiking the steps on the well-built Pine Hill trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Pine Hill Out & Back 4★</b><br>
1.3 mi, Out & Back, Medium, Gain 600 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/visitor-center-trailhead-a378383">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.49151,-71.87997"> | Driving Directions</a><br>
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The default trail for many who want to hike to the summit of Mount Wachusett is also the shortest at 0.6 miles. Beginning at the visitor center by the only paid trailhead parking on the mountain, the rock-paved steps up the wooded eastern flanks make things even easier. Returning the same way is the popular option, though you may also want to consider a descent of the Loop Trail instead. <br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s1600/ORA.png" width=12 alt="yellow icon" /> <b>Pine Hill Loop Trail 4★</b><br>
1.7 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 600 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/visitor-center-trailhead-752356c">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.49151,-71.87997"> | Driving Directions</a><br>
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The Pine Hill Loop offers a shallower gradient, a variety of terrain and even a viewpoint on your way back down. From the summit parking lot pick up the Mountain House Trail heading south and take left turns at the next three trail junctions before reaching the Loop Trail. Tackling is looping route in a counter-clockwise direction is the easiest on your knees.<br>
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For those wanting to hike the Pine Hill loop but balk at the parking fees - particularly the punitive charges for out-of-state vehicles - we've identified a link from the Mountain House trailhead. Roadside parking is free here, and you can link to the Pine Hill Loop via the 0.5 mile Bicentennial Link. Note that though there's no elevation gain on Bicentennial there is a talus field of boulders to cross that makes the hiking a little more technical (or fun!).<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfvvuzaAa4wRbXjAwSoj8fVPS156wfJ2LxmmhOnwtjV_V_YmREhCy1La10VWFD2mRzAVd_K_v2iqdfPpGq87LTERy5jNMtFQyh8kg0i1JHhVfOd-9OUDOzUgFdp1cttPH-XynTz6fG3eo8JoX4-i7SSQRTFn46we2lw4tJhXV1vfb0ZEP_QJyFJUkPEfR/s1600/IMG_3908.jpg" width="2048" alt="Hiker trekking on a woodland trail surrounded by green trees and ground cover." /><br>
<i>Hiking Jack Frost Trail on the Mountain House Loop.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> <b>Mountain House Loop Trail 4★</b><br>
2.0 mi, Part-Loop, Medium, Gain 780 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mountain-house-trailhead-7993e11">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.48001,-71.88146"> | Driving Directions</a><br>
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Mountain House Loop is our favorite short way up the mountain. We recommend a counter-clockwise approach that tackles the rockier Mountain House Trail first, then returns on the more meandering Jack Frost Trail with its lush ground cover and wildflowers. There's even a distant viewpoint at the junction of High Meadow Trail and Bicentennial Trail, and a bench from which to appreciate the view even more.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QYQtfIbgYs0z0_o6dRoOimF4-ZRZtyH8cXCZfMPruAgI4lF-xDVqTlf1nsxbz-tCy-DWEyuri_swzijNez0cwf7FFlP1WAhikpZSdmDxu0j7rZch9oABZSL6aCTb4mzWhsQmurIdp0_zAseuIbPgPNYDfazZOpdDIjoARXMrHyqHzP02JyEzjSPguQ/s1600/GRE.png" width=12 alt="green icon" /> <b>Harrington Trail 4★</b><br>
2.9 mi, Out & Back, Gain 810 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/harrington-trailhead-e137482">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.47589,-71.90299"> | Driving Directions</a><br>
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Hiking the Harrington Trail from Westminster Road is mostly a wooded affair. The sounds of the nearby wind turbine near the trailhead gradually fade away as you make your way along the mostly gradient-free first mile. As is common for many New England mountains, the southern slope of Mount Wachusett is populated heavily with pine trees, making for a green experience all year round. The final hike to the summit up the last rocky section of the Harrington Trail will bring you directly to the fire tower.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLoAUbTwVarB-8a3KMKBUmbV0zWcQGdY23Qbkxwo5zky23AfDwcHHZAvGzziVtUsF_mwxpUdal-wVYsAgY1G9uoPpQYKqdYF42dbWTfFE_XRaOlreSf8Z-lgz8sXtgV7vyfuW6d2Sfp0e403YZuMzZq8j_iAfFknZMv4mAWNEX584fFpSu40IELPyDmnD/s1600/IMG_7731.jpg" width="2048" alt="Hikers passing large boulders stacked on each other. Spring season with bare trees and dead orange leaves on the ground" /><br>
<i>Hikers hang a right at Balance Rock heading for Old Indian Trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 alt="blue icon" /> <b>Old Indian & Semhuhenna Trails 4★</b><br>
3.9 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 1080 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/bolton-pond-trailhead-25ddc0f">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.50786,-71.89229"> | Driving Directions</a><br>
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This route is a great option for those looking to stretch their legs for longer. Though still a popular route up the mountain, you're likely to have sections of trail mostly to yourself. Features along the way include the picturesque Bolton Pond, a pair of erratic boulders known as Balance Rock, and some distant New England scenic views as you traverse three different ski slopes along the Old Indian Trail.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6pcSqw7vAJGmDcvBEE14JZS5SddZd8ddEtmc6VGSPjCGXqz-phDA8RdoqJDRl4w1MoG-4WBHXLwsok-8RKlfG6vyKFVeOpo_hd1S8saTl5muJP9OdujNloMZub5v-pXJUyjU-GRNphICLZrAsi8zkkzTHAudHS4zVHDHrgBfqiljVSxD3gzzt1cHTJbC/s1600/IMG_3967.jpg" width="2048" alt="Crowd of people at the fire tower with binoculars, looking for hawks." /><br>
<i>Wachusett's fire tower is a great vantage point for the fall hawk count.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVl0ci4MPBJw4vm9yrD3bOJeFC2l2Og2U4wjcG2Cn97pGnFyzpXQ3eyR_DXCL-25sNukDzNI2r1ONeoAzqn6bpiRDOI0LdNtJCefaeq76HSykvG-55XhF6NKLUjyMB6mTJdZBsr0vcKQW56DAwGKn-9k2jwOTyH1Q_CotT_ZRL78dbzvHoed4Pr73U7jCZ/s1600/IMG_3962.jpg" width="2048" alt="Silhouettes of mountain peaks on the horizon, with a red and white striped antenna in the foreground." /><br>
<i>Impressive distant mountain views deep into New Hampshire.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.mass.gov/locations/wachusett-mountain-state-reservation">MA State Parks, </a><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/parks/us/massachusetts/wachusett-mountain-state-reservation?b_tl_lat=42.5151564&b_tl_lng=-71.9169375&b_br_lat=42.4670536&b_br_lng=-71.8705925&ar[]=10111069">Public Maps at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/810237437529090">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=42.48001,-71.88146&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkSHENIHeqqwMS4OsOdech7sdUf0i4eB8P_78a-xunVOYnJik_5Sb51NwIg7f9p27T8-lpOaORn4fGuXYL8fDkofzks0FREiapbnnlquVeMuz70KMO2lcAnrSkN2J79I3r_fK_JfjHf_4eGzPKjwCbUcSbXURqW9cNUtvvBK89SWXUy_g5PruiUbF0w/s1600/tower.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting's New Hampshire Fire Tower Map and List" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Fire Towers</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Discover our map of New Hampshire fire towers and the trails on which to find them.</span></div></div></a>Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-11408894864418136212023-11-02T19:36:00.006-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.400-05:00Sandwich Mt & Jennings Peak, NH<br>
• 4-star hike<br>
• 6.1 to 8.0 mile options<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 2,080 to 2,740 feet<br>
• Waterville Valley, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/whitemountains">White Mountains</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.93824,-71.51102">Trailhead</a><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrhbaqJlN8U6OVX86sVVyuWzVngHNOO46HpIXPjzuip6OAvvOI-7vLk9jx-XQsIqeIxaWjFIpT4mH-Yg99EYvT5KUzzbwmuM029bWYh46lB-p4GVn3hAKo0zOfAT7HPGgNY-PHh5F_0j-C-QudLXSgI_q-Rk-pSS2vYbBVLL-dSHIh9ogEsTQdsUfwfju/s1600/IMG_5240.jpg" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>Waterville Valley views heading up Sandwich Mt Trail.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/summits+newhampshire"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgINGUB_h3mGH_D1vN1N9JHWYCeyiVWBrZpRYahxTPmcS0I4m3MGkT_s8JO9jE_JVwR6GK-S3VWft3U_VWiYUT4KeNPMmwefeHhSi9ce0RrjRDh0lHRvv0VNQgup7Cpa32APgtxxYWl1sXYxz4AddkFI43LdkqRfDIkEQwdeKDeL1UtXImkVMtu8pNQw/s1600/summit.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding: 0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting New Hampshire Summits Articles" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Summits</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Are you a peak bagger or looking for the best views? Trailspotting has a growing list of summit hikes.</span></div></div></a>
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The trail up the northern flanks of Sandwich Mountain begins at Route 49 just around the corner from the Waterville Valley resort. Promising great unspoilt natural surroundings in the Sandwich Range Wilderness, the route to the summit takes in two other peaks and includes several great scenic viewpoints. A shorter hike concluding at Jennings Peak also provides much of the same experience, except without the last mile and the views from atop Sandwich Mountain.<br>
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There are two trails out of the trailhead that converge at a junction just below Jennings Peak. Sandwich Trail takes 2.4 miles and Drakes Brook Trail 3.1 miles to reach this point. We recommend setting out on a counter clockwise route up the steeper Sandwich Trail with its mountain vista lookouts and returning on the longer Drakes Brook Trail with no such viewpoints, but with a pleasant leafy stroll parallel to Drakes Brook.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Sandwich,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Jennings</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1V9mBEHvVqfOYqCQ1FubbGdtjjmEe3Vw&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> <b>Jennings Peak 4★</b><br>
6.1 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 2,080 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-d93591b-5">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Sandwich Mountain 4★</b><br>
8.0 mi, Part-Loop, Medium, Gain 2,740 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-317d17f-4">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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The spur trail from the junction to Jennings peak is the steepest part of these trails, but is also mercifully short. From this 3,406 foot summit Sandwich Mountain seems quite hike away but in fact it's less than a mile distant.<br>
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The final 0.9 mile hike to Sandwich Mountain offers no views until you reach the summit. At 3,983 feet in elevation it looks like folks have been trying to add more rocks to peak to make this a New Hampshire four thousand footer, but up here there's still plenty to see from this peak that overlooks Waterville Valley.<br>
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Conditions on these trails are moderate. At the outset of the hike expect a crossing of Drakes Brook requiring some careful rock to rock balancing. After this there's only a single small scramble on Sandwich Mountain Trail near Noon Peak, and some short wet sections where the brook interferes with Drakes Brook Trail on the return leg. Also note that Drakes Brook Trail sticks to the west side of the brook and does not cross the water until you're almost back at the trailhead.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicB-prTsbd2-Feml99HuKQ9IW6qylZzPyI3MAScu1EmsQ9vt5b7CkILE4SfidawbfqCZ4SQZWZ3RuJZm8hfEouhbZC7iOtFEiEwniXiEXSbuDzLqtr4uahdsriw4BRi0WibfnDEweDbU6hyphenhyphentoFSuvqqF5SCVd0RGpwX-z1hni9Ug4Rwi_GXRZcyYnnZsq/s1600/d1.JPG" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>River crossing in both directions.</i> | <i>Steep section to Jennings Peak</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_tc26BHyVw0quWjaigPf_chJ1wtIPsUr3xjE0nX0A9XzcN_90YHIltAX1qzvbCkJIa5P1Fsw6Qv4w5uw-4s9FlrLsACvnX4-DzSX5A_WCM83TTP8BRaSu_DCHJztOHBIe7RaZ6NJhP6Qt4e3mmhMFw9H-AHVdWFTieRI6cQkRTo6nMjSEQq4FRpmMsaH/s1600/IMG_5255.jpg" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>More Sandwich Mountain Trail views.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2J5Os6wtPTi5eVgx9rhay1ILuB56mLAunB1u-DMvBDVrhenf8n_pPVUq9Xm5ZdgBUwFNZvDfh1bq-wrPqvgtotQxPyaOdDghejcokW5mdHg0PKe09LFFqkr-U1FsCnHZkbAYBTXna3PMh2gpzf026t1nNhGXZmvu7B25ZmTYdOj4OFbEWpC119QAIjxc/s1600/IMG_5274.jpg" width="2048" alt="" /><br>
<i>Mount Sandwich summit, just shy of 4,000 feet elevation.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Public Map at AllTrails: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/sandwich-mountain-trail">Sandwich O&B,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/jennings-peak-and-sandwich-mountain-trail-loop">Sandwich Part-Loop,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/drakes-brook-trail-to-jennings-peak">Jennings Peak</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/806520081234159">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.93824,-71.51102&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-42656378178845644922023-10-26T10:14:00.018-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.409-05:00Falls In The River, Pittsburg NH<br>
• 4-star hike<br>
• 1.6 to 2.7 mile options<br>
• Easy difficulty | Gain 120 to 200 feet<br>
• Pittsburg, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/greatnorthwoods">Great North Woods</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/45.14174,-71.18196">Dam,</a> <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/45.1346,-71.21036">Route 3</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7it6K9wXY2QClM9e-ELCWWH6yyMubz4LAC2la6KABODr29U0I9akZdNu2OL1ckR7iAdcp0xPEo44YmUPD2fJ-W_K2jCRHr0ZYITxl4SMQfGhFTdJFeACDK4sNSFZxccA3ajn6V4i9bwk0t9NmeXXNGDXHA2EMus-VtYy7PLVmI3608wXyCrd7qBz8g95/s1600/IMG_4394.jpg" width="2048" alt="Waterfall on the Connecticut River. Raging yellow water. Rocky banks. Surrounded by green forest." /><br>
<i>The Falls on a raging Connecticut River.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/waterfalls+newengland"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyqynhVSEVqF4j-pTIbCRheE1mj3uqyGZQRf0OxNMF3CRD-9LPXhNHdYhhZkmzMSeg-VQTmC8Wg0IV5amXPVJjERn5Ni78CgnPFY7tr9dn-LNyuudQWLgOjobvxp9jGwgyUSuz1hkBH2Fpno2vte0V7J6wy77bedHyEi2ragDUYgsU1IgQNHWLFNxvwhG/s1600/wfall.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting's New England Waterfall Trails" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's Waterfall Trails</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Discover a New England waterfall on a hike through nature.</span></div></div></a>
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Thankfully a reference to the Connecticut River waterfall to which this trail can lead you, and not a foretelling of misfortune, we'd still recommend being careful around the rocks and viewpoint so as not to take <i>The Falls In the River Trail</i> literally.<br>
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This is a relatively easy hiking trail that traces a route through woodland alongside the white waters of the Connecticut River towards a moderate but still impressive section of cascades. The trail offers several viewpoints from which to admire the waterfall, though the best ones are slightly west of the main trail. Expect a few rocks and roots, but much of this trail is forgiving under foot. Possibly a little too forgiving in some wet and muddy areas, many of which are passable thanks to some simple boardwalks and others can be carefully sidestepped.<br>
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Most popular is the 2.7 mile out-and-back route that begins at the upstream trailhead by the dam, though there's a much shorter alternate 1.6 mile out-and-back trek from the Moose Alley trailhead on Route 3 to consider, that is also far quieter and has slightly more varied scenery.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Dam to Falls,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Route 3 to Falls</nobr>
</small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1umE7f05D1-8eSJxSOZ2JcUvISk7y7S8&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Dam Trailhead to Falls 4★</b><br>
2.7 mi, Out & Back, Easy, Gain 120 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-fb4c486-4">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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We've listed this route first mainly because it's the most popular route, though possibly because not many people know about the shorter Route 3 option. The trailhead at the dam site is the largest and most scenic point from which to start your hike, and offers great views towards the Second Connecticut Lake. Clearly naming geographical features isn't something that folk are too concerned with up here, since not only is the lake unimaginatively named, but as far as we can tell the waterfall destination for this hike doesn't even have a name!<br>
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The trail to the falls is entirely within woodland and was the location of some of the larger wet sections along the Falls In The River Trail. From around the half-way point the trail gets closer to the water and provides some picturesque views of the river, where you may find fly fishing folk seeking a nibble.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbVq1oxlkzO-yJ1DV4VyHmPdtdOVquqJaCiSK1Nf6vCO8obtUmIA6KNP9EEnveGYWW6f-oRhK6ihgaf8wcVDK4r5t_CvthmxkmiETR792reFO_q6zOPy9YRXd18vPcMmsxowC8DWOJyhYQ3Tllce-O2IB1lUy-25sm7PTWZnxYRxMUhP_ElJFrZTubTVF/s1600/IMG_4442.jpg" width="2048" alt="Shallow fast flowing river, with trees displaying fall colors on the far bank." /><br>
<i>Fall is beginning to show its colors on the upper section of trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> <b>Route 3 Trailhead to Falls 4★</b><br>
1.6 mi, Out & Back, Easy, Gain 200 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-5da713a-5">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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The Moose Alley Trail terminates at US Route 3 and is a great way to access the falls from the downstream side that is also the shortest. Follow the Yellow blazes of Moose Alley until you cross an exposed meadow and reach a junction which marks the south end of the Falls In The River Trail. Cross Big Brook via a new trail footbridge, then hike within woodland alongside the banks of the river to the falls. You'll need to hike up a short hill before reaching the falls themselves.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oe656KbvRdvG5iMerEHLJi7PyVBM0ddJgT6iKxqrk2SDz8CfHtZLR_BtP1JRk6zy_djIgAfR1r06qtWqpQ6JyK7OdvK0rMrc_5HYrXtNKqLRQp2bQMWe5AbiRSDXuKjFqxmiGsLbmRXbTwXklBRRrORFkLXXpThexT9BfMHs3g-jWDuzbbYvHvX9Bont/s1600/d1.jpg" width="2048" alt="Typical trail conditions. One with a trail sign, and the other with a hiker." /><br>
<i>Typical trail conditions.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIZcQCxBP-FD4dsNCTrmITREsMCpbi4gke_NLnUSJu2-RvVW21egAZAuycJ-MFQwfqWSbNLZu9twAb6GUEVCmaX0hksOUgM1J560mU8-uy1rG5gPwErSdHYtMDah6KSIguJdGwBkCgDbYpmnqaQ-dtUpb7dkzsqHl_aaAZ7taDGF3IYHKX1353i0V3A/s1600/DGRAY.PNG" alt="dark gray icon" /> <b>Route 3 Trailhead to Falls & Dam 4★</b><br>
2.1 mi, One Way Only, Easy, Gain 210ft (90ft W-E)<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-7d2a383-3">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Thanks to the <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/gear.html#2">folding bicycles</a> we keep in our trunk, we were able complete a hike of the full length of the trail in only one direction. We moored our bikes by the dam and parked our car at the Route 3 trailhead. After completing our hike along the river we cycled back along the relatively quiet highway in a mostly downhill direction.<br>
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For those looking for a longer hike, the journey along the river can be extended on Moose Alley Trail to Magalloway Road for a further 1.6 miles (110ft gain). Across the road the Bog Bridge Trail can take you even further, terminating at US Route 3 another for another 2 miles (340ft gain). Locals recommended these trails to us, though we didn't have the time to check them out for ourselves this time.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5KfANVKUf8NwcjF13WNegZhkF_QX795XSwVZcUQZzRxU2Ev9JWjHHR63u5E4W7E1YeBW0N1yI1PY03GA8-xp2RPHfs56dWq3FplrnpFUcH7M0rZv-dWlqOHqqaFyZZDhHd2QSyfKWtvC-vabWgMdXkW2MvchI1LLoPzr5YlcapPmp3syoP0nM_QchIMX/s1600/IMG_4128.jpg" width="2048" alt="Standing on the gantry of a dam. Placid lake water to the left with distant mountain views. Raging white water below to the right." /><br>
<i>The dam at the end of Second Connecticut Lake.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywK8oX4jjL-o0c1Q7XtanadnCJAbErn7py3JCIRPZVVB5N5mstxbS-3iM_dtVjwEMAPdiOR7-Fjg0toB0HFaBRFC-OQ8C6JMbxts3YhBvX99CZzceFUUJsmEW0P9EjtnnRjIULomQmXmTr1vDdGymAWH2FQTdbj1F_XN67ljmS8ofRtYHXdtEJJWgl-qg/s1600/IMG_4355.jpg" width="2048" alt="Shot from ground level. Red-purple maple leaves on the ground, with bright green leafy trees above." /><br>
<i>A crunchy carpet to cushion our feet.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/falls-in-the-river-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/802865751599592/?mibextid=oMANbw">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=45.14174,-71.18196&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTECJs1F0uY&list=PLr5xrINKGXLNA7G2IzxT1kabGYVXC5_J1&index=1"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-27750745156459275972023-10-20T13:30:00.004-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.405-05:00Harrisville & Hancock Rail Trails NH<br>
• 3 & 4 star trails<br>
• 0.5 to 2.8 miles each way<br>
• Medium difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Marlborough-Harrisville-Hancock, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/monadnock">Monadnock Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <i>See below</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1fsVhNgE1EIixEssQun7v-8s3Di8iLpgjwBa5m0wx9y4GutbVbTCBZd9f2gqwENbEXdnSTU1AmYeHgCRyWkDHX1LWEyM9IIOgfuM43osiqX6OdoeiTxAmqsEyLfu38AcKKzFGi0xvapmIjXe3MAMOimiZu7loJLu-W2WFRbMJZyMqcyY1Z_0l46_DPbgf/s1600/IMG_0429.jpg" width="2048" alt="Standing in the forest. Above is a railroad embankment with a steel truss bridge spanning a small but fast-flowing creek." /><br>
<i>A 100 year old steel truss bridge spanning Jaquith Brook since 2018.</i><br><a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/new-hampshire-rail-trail-map.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
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The hilly terrain east of Keene wasn't the most ideal geography for a large nineteeth century civil enginering project, but in 1878 the railroad optimistically known as the Manchester and Keen Railroad successfully connected Keene with Hancock and Bennington. It never made it as far as Manchester. Though the massive valley-spanning <a href="http://www.nashuacitystation.org/resource/9304024530/">trestle bridges</a> are no more, much of this abandoned industrial age infrastructure remains intact if you know where to look.<br>
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Efforts have been made to restore and recover sections of the old route for public access, including the recent success at spanning Jaquith Brook with a repurposed steel truss bridge and annual upkeep by both Harris Center and the local snowmobile clubs. Despite this, some sections of these accessible routes remain undiscovered to all except a handful of locals and gravel bicyclists.<br>
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There's a lot to enjoy along the route including several intact former stations, some massive earthworks including an embankment that has to be at least 100 foot in height, small settlements and mill towns, and many natural woodland sights. Expect rougher trails best suited for rugged hybrid bikes, gravel and mountain bikes. We've highlighted the smoother trails, but expect some brain rattlers on others.<br>
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<small>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s1600/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> Rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIZcQCxBP-FD4dsNCTrmITREsMCpbi4gke_NLnUSJu2-RvVW21egAZAuycJ-MFQwfqWSbNLZu9twAb6GUEVCmaX0hksOUgM1J560mU8-uy1rG5gPwErSdHYtMDah6KSIguJdGwBkCgDbYpmnqaQ-dtUpb7dkzsqHl_aaAZ7taDGF3IYHKX1353i0V3A/s1600/DGRAY.PNG" alt="dark gray icon" /> Live Rail, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s1600/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1MmQMm_SckfnXR88yzqowu60nxxV8YlM&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="color coded rail trail route on a Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s1600/DRG.png" alt="dark green icon" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> <b>All Harrisville & Hancock Rail Trails 3-4★</b><br>
11.4 miles each way, Medium, Gain 387 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-32bb90e-9">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhharrishancock.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1MmQMm_SckfnXR88yzqowu60nxxV8YlM&cid=mp&cv=NwfQt39Ru4s.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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We set out on a mission to live up to our name and conduct a little research - locating and mapping all the navigable routes along this old railroad route while respecting no trespassing signs where the alignment now runs through private property. We also note that much of this route is also described in the 2016 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0942147138/ref=nosim?tag=trspt-20">New Hampshire Rail Trails</a> book by Charles Martin, though we arrived at our maps and observations independently.<br>
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Below we offer summary descriptions of each section of rail trail to help you decide what to check out first. Where possible we've utilized existing known names for sections of rail trail for reasons of consistency.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nWuBlgmlmX2qwEqAH2de9my3mh6KHLJ3P5xwyTMLzx3MK0HzOhyphenhyphenHIrGM5gZizfzeBxXksMFe-UN_SCp3pkWSUt75fPMceFEH-VGFU7vsXApzIg-NV35EZKg0RDoXRrSHdpGsbH13SFoVIwxs3-Tw1cvLF4yZQpX5pWyuWHr2en0JQEaFh82Vss4mJC_V/s1600/IMG_5630.jpg" width="2048" alt="Man looking over the end of a bridge abutment into a valley filled with evergreen trees." /><br>
<i>Looking for what remains of the Canada Brook Trestle.</i><br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 1 </span> Buffler Memorial Rail Trail 3★</b><br>
<i>0.7 mi ea way, Rough trail, Gain 130ft (20ft E-W)</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-6cb5da3">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.91134,-72.20493"> | Driving directions</a><br>
Short wide trail through forest to the east abutment of the former Canada Brook trestle bridge. Marginally rough. Watch out for the left turning spur near the end of the trail which terminates at the stonework abutment. There is also a trail that continues to the north but we have no evidence that this was ever a rail alignment. Trailhead is on a road that may look like a private driveway, but that is not the case. Trailhead is signed and marked for public access.<br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 2 </span> Roxbury Rail Trail 4★</b><br>
<i>2.2 mi ea way, Rough trail, Gain 190ft (40ft E-W)</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-b661798?u=i&sh=psdbza">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.91781,-72.1875"> | Driving directions</a><br>
Picturesque brook side forest trail that includes vies of the Minnewawa Dam and reservoir. Please respect no trespassing signs. Marginally rough. Parking for only one vehicle is possible on the east side of Roxbury Road without blocking the gate. Wide service road leads from Roxbury Road towards the dam. After the dam the snowmobile club maintained trail continues on, almost all the way to the Chesham Rail Trail through a missing bridge prevents connection. A further short section of trail is west of Roxbury Road includes a massively tall valley-spanning embankment, but eventually strays from the railroad alignment and terminates at the edge of a field. Remnants of Glen Falls Trestle can also be seen on nearby Horse Hill Road.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsqD88OJaYwt0-hMf4_Ox2IXoDGf2XDKftw9KQF9PdzP4XhjV47J4rSbQjwIRytjJIDjWquXuhhlKL2MU8FWL7urkaxkTxUuR5j8beiCflO2XWBnTtBcyorZMy0xFGsqwha_Kx4MoS9o33R_3aZX3cYjGNAbH5-G5VZ-gTKtnvH2KyENqFROjnmr__1TN/s1600/IMG_5590.jpg" width="2048" alt="Top of a curved concrete dam with handrails. Reservoir behind the dam reflects the green trees that surround it." /><br>
<i>Minnewawa Dam and Trestle <small>(photo on private property with permission)</small></i><br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 3 </span> Chesham Rail Trail 3★</b><br>
<i>0.5 mi ea way, Rough trail, No gradient</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-1714726">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails | </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.93488,-72.14604">Driving directions</a><br>
Short trail that starts at the old Chesham railroad station and follows Minnewawa Brook for a short distance until a missing bridge ends your journey. Open views near Chesham leading into forest. Roots across this narrow trail make this harder going for bicyclists.<br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 4 </span> Harrisville Rail Trail 3★</b><br>
<i>1.9 mi ea way, Rough trail, Gain 90ft (50ft E-W)</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-a03fa30">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails | </a><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?q=42.93813,-72.09062">Driving directions</a><br>
Forest trail that begins by the former Harrisville railroad station now police station. This longer section passes alongside and between several ponds with pleasant views. Marginally rough trail with occasional spots of light mud. To the west the old alignment is now occupied by private houses between Chesham Road and Chesham Pond. To the east, the route of the rail trail can be followed for an additional mile along Skatutakee Lake Road but eventually terminates at private property before reaching the Eastview trailhead on Hancock Road.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_IOt299Avty3Dp5y_N-wTZCTfTxBvOvkXkuAOzNfbSxKwNHVKKSRzFuRnbwclhtzFvoN9yHHNf-7vJD8SvbAy1hhFiMOCPLEoawl2LbXvZfFagtTmUurly9ynHxG3tdV5yHnhtuFlwWt5pkCIM69OBK2Wg7wNfRB8nAiCFahOsoVvhWA79XGjXDkr2c4F/s1600/d1.jpg" width="2048" alt="Two images. Small station building surrounded by open grassland and an occasional tree, with an old railraod switch in front. Photo of a 'B&M Chesham Station Bulletin' chalkboard that is presently blank." /><br>
<i>Not many activities to report at the B&M Chesham Station.</i><br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 5 </span> Eastview-Jaquith Rail Trail 4★</b><br>
<i>2.8 mi ea way, Hardpack/Rough, Gain 90ft (240ft E-W)</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-4a71e49">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails | </a><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?q=42.93694,-72.06198">Driving directions</a><br>
Forest trail with a mostly hardpacked surface, and a 0.6 mile rough section at the east end with roots and old railroad ties. We recommend starting at the west end, so you can turn around if the route gets too rough. The trail includes a new 2018 bridge crossing - a repurposed and relocated century old steel truss bridge that now spans Jaquith Brook gully. An additional short ride up Hancock Road at the west end of the trail is also recommended to check out the PJ Memorial Dam and Lake Skatutakee. At the east end, continue to the SE corner of the Jaquith road bridge abutments and find an informal trail that connects you directly to the Old Dublin Road Rail Trail.<br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 6 </span> Old Dublin Road Rail Trail 2★</b><br>
<i>2.3 mi ea way, Rough, Gain 90ft (170ft E-W)</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-c23497b">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails | </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.9716,-72.00109">Driving directions</a><br>
Harris Center calls this section an easy 0.7 mile trek from Old Dublin Road to Eaton Road in Hancock, but when we rode the trail we were able to continue for a further 1.6 miles all the way to Jacquith Road and connect with the Eastview-Jacquith Rail Trail. One word of caution however, as this section includes some muddy parts, a few fallen trees and a 0.1 mile length that was substantially overgrown. It's so bad we felt compelled to show this area on our map. This is mostly a wide trail through woodland, with few distinguishing features. The easternmost trailhead is opposite 92 Old Dublin Road down a driveway with a small 'trail parking sign'.<br>
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<b><span style="background-color:#676767; color:#ffffff;"> 7 </span> Hancock Rail Trail 3★</b><br>
<i>1.0 mi ea way, Hardpack/Rough, Gain 50ft (90ft E-W)</i><br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/trailspotting-harrisville-hancock-rail-trails-08f90c1">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails | </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.9776,-71.98763">Driving directions</a><br>
Though short, this forested section close to Norway Pond in Hancock includes a preserved station building, ruins of the Moose Brook trestle bridge and a quarter mile of hardpack trail at the east end. Thanks to considerate residents for providing a trail connection between the two ends of the trestle bridge.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2LZUjD7u_hJHb8LZBwO7xCyfS59Yhxnuh5d-qyKOQztn8j9c9Fc7opxVh_4vZfGxaGpoF4IDKZWacUz1HgbQ3NowSzUadjPRlqDLlAn4Q5yqFraJv9wNu6-CaxgRBtx0Fvpf0i2Q0uQ-TVLUWrb54V1P5PXCWYhV7-YeFiNgwt9wgOqjNgxQY5vJuWm8x/s1600/IMG_5483.jpg" width="2048" alt="Pond reflecting fall colors on the Harrisville Rail Trail." /><br>
<i>Pond reflecting fall colors on the Harrisville Rail Trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRomwK36tJr-zsIDfQvNbWo9I8i0gnW-mZcacjIeEX47TsNvmICqaRfbLF6dypF41dUQ6ie-ScndZZpRKts-vb2Cyeii5gOwa8vGYhuxlXiI-jI49zebZALhok03Fr8jQYVrojIIM79Lk-HOARaCNgmPpBYNUko1IylWQCOLN_ptKIGKikjLzjE7xXdWb/s1600/d2.JPG" width="2048" alt="Left: a narrow boardwalk spanning a marshy section. Right: bicycle leaning against a trail bridge." /><br>
<i>More scenes from the short but picturesque Chesham Rail Trail.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/harrisville-rail-trail/">TrailLink (Eastview-Jaquith), </a><a href="https://harriscenter.org/trails-grounds-facilities/trails">Harris Center Trails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• 4 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2021/09/peterborough-rail-trail-nh.html">Peterborough Rail Trail</a><br>
• 5 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/09/cheshire-rail-trail-south-nh.html">Cheshire South Rail Trail</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href=" https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=42.94,-72.06&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
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<a href="https://nhrtc.org/"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMd3z6WcPwYNpxvWsjgDd0vlzchj1JfswzStezCd9fMp-P5s0QPgQZ0IoSn8D3vic0ZAq4_Ho-5_JNA8mjLwuLFNmhd6dq_0kUfElfcfnMyRTqpLYmdGyeuYB3BmEH1NIAlhKlt9GFxM1Mo5xKl_u7s4FDshrgpI9AUy3mJ0fCgDPTAszvTjs2vqqxPg/s1600/nhrtc.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="New Hampshire Rail Trail Coalition logo"/><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>NH Rail Trail Coalition</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Support the NHRTC and check out their Rail Trail Challenge.</span></div></div></a>
Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-24817654971052565772023-10-12T13:54:00.006-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.404-05:00Mount Watatic & Nutting Hill, MA<br>
• 4-star hike<br>
• 2.3 to 2.9 mile options<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 610 to 710 feet<br>
• Ashburnham & Ashby, MA | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/central+massachusetts">Central Massachusetts</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/42.69689,-71.90445">Trailhead</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIptT53MwAELfZ6YRsQC4qHESmEMdYfnTglmAFxGSw8TkV1ErGmOUQzDxbEpWyYehJAhcf5yxzNi7Ajg6aHvzLLXt6fHrMPu4vXxqu7Dph4eY6EcX2jwgAxUWfouTDZfw3pAPAdLqvLGVVd-0nUHYRzCnWeY4AsJxKOtXutxQQr4pY1OvU8hTY47aWY5Z/s1600/IMG_3644.jpg" width="2048" alt="Man sitting on a chair on top of Watatic Mountain looking through a pair of binoculars. There's a fake owl on a stick behind him" /><br>
<i>Undertaking a hawk migration count from Watatic's summit viewpoint.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/summits+newengland"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgINGUB_h3mGH_D1vN1N9JHWYCeyiVWBrZpRYahxTPmcS0I4m3MGkT_s8JO9jE_JVwR6GK-S3VWft3U_VWiYUT4KeNPMmwefeHhSi9ce0RrjRDh0lHRvv0VNQgup7Cpa32APgtxxYWl1sXYxz4AddkFI43LdkqRfDIkEQwdeKDeL1UtXImkVMtu8pNQw/s1600/summit.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="Trailspotting New England Summits Articles" /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's New England Summits</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Are you a peak bagger or looking for the best views? Trailspotting has a growing list of summit hikes.</span></div></div></a>
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Mount Watatic delivers excellent natural New England scenery for a short hike. Take one of two woodland trails that lead to the 1,832 foot summit, then continue on just a little further to a slightly lower viewing area that boasts wide panoramic views from <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/03/mount-monadnock-nh.html">Mount Monadnock</a> in the north to <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/11/mount-wachusett-princeton-ma.html">Mount Wachusett</a> and beyond to the south.<br>
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The trail begins at a large parking lot just off Route 119 and heads towards a marshy pond. Thankfully there's a boardwalk that will keep your feet dry. Take a right turn up Mid State Trail and you'll be on the shortest route to the summit. Mid State does have some moderate climbs, so if you prefer to take things easier there's also the State Line Trail that takes a shallower approach and also summits the smaller Nutting Hill. Our favorite way to complete this as a loop is to counter clockwise up Mid State then back down via Nutting Hill.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> Watatic & Nutting Hill,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> Watatic O&B, </nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1jnyLqb6FHsJdV-5bqxeuxQJcZxrxKCE&ehbc=808588" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="Trail route on topographic Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="red icon" /> <b>Watatic & Nutting Loop 4★</b><br>
2.9 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 710 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/ma-watatic-mt-nutting-hill-881cb55">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 alt="purple icon" /> <b>Out & Back 4★</b><br>
2.3 mi, Out-and-Back, Medium, Gain 610 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/ma-watatic-eef6f44">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Views at the summit of the mountain are modest, so continue a little further east to the best views. It's here in the fall that you'll find birdwatchers conducting the annual hawk migration as birds of prey head off to South America for the winter. Apparently the owl-on-a-stick featured in the photograph at the top of the page is to entice curious hawks and give the ornithologists a closer look at the birds.<br>
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Mount Watatic also marks the southern terminus of the 21.4 mile Wapack Trail. Previously we've explored the north end of this trail at <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/05/pack-north-pack-monadnock-nh.html">North Pack Monadnock</a> and Miller State Park. Eventually we'll likely add an article for the trail's full length, so consider following Trailspotting to be notified.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0txUT0oP4qROJideA8Nb5XXLoIMO7W0gbZpW-RqSe6Gly8FlXpRXzxR4TUIK52TqeJsN7eBomBdGmtXrx4wugIFzjP32nwPYsW4vhN-Se2SF3YU8S77vwAuJjS4-Yhl5U80p9gI0CohzTOmpHMs1f2dIOLdjAm3gFAbG0AK13-nnOj7klb4RfUrGo87Xg/s1600/IMG_3611.jpg" width="2048" alt="Large erratic boulder split in two, with hiking trail going through it" /><br>
<i>Ancient erratic boulder giving way to hikers.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxG5XF6pN4LPJVL43e-2NaFaM1UWDx1r1bMzEU1EvRWqpxidxyEjDKUPrgFS7v07f5AMVP1ng9hrTed6boy0vcsO3dJ75ydjPHlpCT91AyyOjrFQYbalGznRwzJQS94CzaFJEC6o4seovrljKCqT7jGFH-OqV36TIOsm010d2OnGC4EM8pxkMJi42kCl3/s1600/IMG_3580.jpg" width="2048" alt="Blue pond reflecting the color of the sky. Trail of small wooden planks to one side." /><br>
<i>Marshland at trailhead easy to traverse, thanks to boardwalks.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJ6B4VkMNSSWIwq_BjoxG-Bw9tL4arH1pA2m0eCt9-mR8PXdSklAj_EvpzH1hmBIn8vYBpT4WCnow27QU9PCc8I0P8T5kKiK3_tLFtR7ci65z6ywNvbwhVhY9Z2QyCY7J_sISMCfrghTKkTd-ByM-bV35yWQ85AW2wQQ7eVEnnWJluFtYQ_iZMcZyu-7V/s1600/IMG_3571.jpg" width="2048" alt="Trail sign: Wapack Trail. Mt. Watatic Summit 2.0 miles. Northern Terminus 21.4 miles." /><br>
<i>Watatic Mtn marks the southern end of the Wapack Trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAkPyl9xXhquAjU_eDspTUec63wn2_dtz0Vi0eBZ0MSSDptY7ajw2PTngU-bmqZ_i8w3wXMwvtcKWx_jYp6HIy_LJ5HNMza2NpYaIdbWXMWHjz5FwrGjdnJmV0zvMkptnz7GqRI6IlUEw8QLfNqY6R8w2byJzqQSR4NhUUDkhXnsXBawQs8_cErFlX5kO/s1600/IMG_3626.jpg" width="2048" alt="Small headstone-looking granite with a cut face. Engraved with a poem that is illegible from this angle." /><br>
<i>Engraved stone below Watatic's Summit.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: Official, <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/massachusetts/mount-watatic-and-nutting-hill-via-wapack-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/795332099019624/?mibextid=oMANbw">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=42.69689,-71.90445&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-20752539006685800212023-10-05T19:02:00.006-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.403-05:00Upper Coos Rail Trail, NH<br>
• 4-star trail<br>
• 9.5 miles each way<br>
• Medium difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Colebrook NH - Beecher Falls VT | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/greatnorthwoods">Great North Woods</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/45.0008,-71.52918">Canaan,</a> <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/44.89543,-71.49716">Colebrook</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfvblQQMIwDyWHRkBlwDkG8OVkMg8AElEGFiAbHMFpJUaY6_BKb9928BwiBE1xF4aiSGgdoM0hTV_DYyWp-SI12ankfA8YYjmSx2CVRVoEtkfAgej_FDdA9bxHXXgKC6YkhxN6b0syI0CG4mWfP5FtJ5yrZQfIONIuRZsD_GddD0z646VSpYYZkqOwZ5c/s1600/IMG_4690.jpg" width="2048" alt="Man riding an ATV on Upper Coos Recreational Rail Trail." /><br>
<i>ATV riders are frequent trail users in the North of the state.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/new-hampshire-rail-trail-map.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
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New Hampshire's northernmost rail trail is a scenic delight, particularly as its location on the edge of the Connecticut River basin affords wide and spectacular river scenes with a distant mountain backdrop. Stretching from Colebrook in New Hampshire to Beecher Falls across the river in Vermont over nine-and-a-half miles, the Upper Coos Recreational Rail Trail ends just a thousand feet from the Canadian border.<br>
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The trail is maintained by the New Hampshire State Parks Bureau of Trail and groomed for ATV traffic rather than bicycles, so we'd advise not trying to tackle the trail with anything less rugged than a hybrid bike. We were able to avoid most of the potholes on our heavy e-bike though we did shake out a waterbottle or two along the way. Also an unfortunate side effect of all the potholes was that we probably spent more time looking at the trail surface than enjoying all the scenery.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> Rough,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s1600/LGRAY.png" alt="light gray icon" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1dXuPoDJCOyqhD3GoIUltrVxvpL4GtkM&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0" title="color coded rail trail route on a Google map" ></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" alt="purple icon" /> <b>Upper Coos Recreational Rail Trail 4★</b><br>
9.5 miles each way, Medium, Gain 140ft (230ft S-N)<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-1359aa9-7">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhuppercoos.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1dXuPoDJCOyqhD3GoIUltrVxvpL4GtkM&cid=mp&cv=OqEIsefFk5Q.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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Aside from the excellent visuals, features along the route include a variety of farm buildings, Canaan's hydropower dam and the nearby steel railroad bridge. The bridge not only crosses the Connecticut River but also the New Hampshire - Vermont state line and the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/45th_parallel_north">45th parallel</a>, although there are no signs to tell you any of this. The end of the line stops short of the Canadian border a few hundered feet from the US customs and border patrol station. Unless you've brought your passport with you we suggest turning around before getting too close to the border to avoid having to explain yourselves to officials.<br>
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The town of Colebrook has the best selection of restaurants, grocery stores and fast food near the trail. There is also the Spa Restaurant close to the north end of the trail in West Stewartston which is open during daytime hours.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s1600/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 alt="trail conditions logo" /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Hardpack trail but potholed by frequent ATV use. Best recommended for gravel bikes and mountain bikes, but also possible for rugged hybrids too.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifk0VUJqU3OwuMlqA-8P7Ihg2FxB5YtTuNYd4VgCdRlq3Urrr_r-MB1TDPtkej4J-cClcfmWyt1rHmD6ayqZBYf7DyVNAocZpLA2tLY2W0m8AKfXB15P69Kz0jAH5B7MXGs1poJGZET4GvzeOEYhptUAT-5172WIja5llf7aVOf-cwlv-M1aDtKO4DjT8/s1600/Upper%20Coos%20RT.jpg" width="2048" alt="Sun poking through the trees late in the day. Silhouette of a distant hill. Fall colors on trees. Marshland water reflecting blue skies." /><br>
<i>Wide and spectacular scenic views across the Connecticut River basin.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35RgzifUQaBkg_R51Ba56Drm3lAp5JSKf21YYjwFgAADgarHqwvduCse0uDy-DmApCFQk7QTynAuu8UChTHIZ-hy-wd-wkuTKAUD_HwbC_Pfq6r3FKwl0OIOSbiiY5o_0EYBwbb3kVIxwWRKjUl-6U417YZl9tpRHrY1Gr-8WPsmLMVW25iZ7CVqgmVDT/s1600/IMG_4701.jpg" width="2048" alt="Large two-span steel truss bridge across the Connecticut River. Exposed surface is a rusty red." /><br>
<i>Canaan Dam's Railroad Bridge crosses both stateline and 45th parallel.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz0330lPXWmtskw6wQxdOeaNYidWpRMAUkxyjtLkNuR_9zcXhnifEi4JAdPwLDm3sz-fPhYfe75gr3UmgMzVG20DCkX2Ufk-QarfsJk25-m8kO6iZoq4wqxRRz2ljSgUCT8zNwr9ZXu_O9wUzQKKJrjrSscbv4zaw-0rzwEjm0JO6LpFzTxI-tkNwaqpnT/s1600/IMG_4697.jpg" width="2048" alt="Fishing at Canaan Dam" /><br>
<i>Fishing at Canaan Dam.</i><br>
<br>
Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/recreational-rail-trails/upper-coos-recreational-rail-trail">NH State Parks,</a> <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/upper-coos-recreational-trail/">TrailLink,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/upper-coos-recreational-rail-trail">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/791625849390249/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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• 5-star hike<br>
• 1.7 to 5.1 mile options<br>
• Medium & Hard difficulty | Gain 960 to 1,860 feet<br>
• Dixville Township, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/greatnorthwoods">Great North Woods</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/44.85956,-71.28461">Loop, </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/44.86537,-71.31318"> Table,</a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/44.85653,-71.2862"> Brothers</a><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAP5O2Q1Yc5_8nZ2D2C7Y-nXXUp-shYmVCTevk7r5WE15Px0gf9q4ae4FV1Utm_Z_eG4C083MEq9rylfZu6zFlAlf9j3Pixhnix51YEBs8MdxwFjveripVALKBHc65aNXushp-WsWQBRpWMTK8Qm7IJpwtwVhVEbQBYa2j2mWWQejYRXDX4qkT1CSvaaC/s1600/IMG_4952.jpg" width="2048" alt="Looking over the end of table rock at Dixville Notch with a 700 foot drop to distant scenery." /><br>
<i>Vertigo view from the end of Table Rock and a 700 foot drop.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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Best known for being "First in the Nation" to declare the results of its presidential election voting, we declare that Dixville Notch should also be well known for having one of the best hiking trails in the state of New Hampshire.<br>
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Up in the Great North Woods of New Hampshire the scenery along State Route 26 is striking enough, particularly approaching the Dixville Notch mountain pass between Dixville Peak and Sanguinary Mountain. The picturesque setting of the Balsam hotel casting its reflection across Lake Gloriette is reason enough to compell motorists to pull off the road to admire the views. As good as the sights are from ground level, the vistas get even better if you're willing to strap on some boots and take a walk.<br>
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We've mapped out three routes for you to choose between and maps for you to follow on your smartphone. If you have the time and the energy, we recommend the full loop trail that captures a couple of great waterfalls in addition to all of the best viewpoints around the Notch. Others may prefer a shorter out-and-back route that leads to the prime platform from which to appreciate the views - Table Rock. This is a precarious rocky outcrop with a 700 foot sheer drop. Don't worry if you don't have a head for heights (like us) as there are plenty of great views at this location without having to venture out onto its tip.<br>
<br>
<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 alt="Red" /> Loop,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 alt="Blue" /> Table Rock, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s1600/ORA.png" width=12 alt="Orange" /> Brothers</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1o70Y1fekzslBqtpEHeYvCc_V9UESVYs&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="683" frameborder="0"></iframe><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 /> <b>Dixville Notch Loop 5★</b><br>
5.1 mi, Loop, Medium-Hard, Gain 1,860 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-bd9dc58-4">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Though you could begin the loop trail at any trailhead along the route, we recommend beginning at either the Cascade Brook Picnic Area or across the road at the Baby Flume waterfall. Driving directions to these trailheads are identified with 'Table' and 'Loop' links at the top of this article. Taking a clockwise path that begins with a walk up the flanks of Sanguinary Mountain gets you a good look at the Notch and a preview of the striking rocky spires of Middle Brother and Table Rock that you'll be standing atop later.<br>
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From the ridgeline of the mountain you're presented with superb views all around you before you descend into the notch, heading in the direction of the lake. In this review we reference a hard difficulty because of this section of the trail, though in reality for many people this won't be too much of a problem as long as they're hiking in good trail conditions. From time to time we experience a mild fear of heights and the initial steep rocky section heading down towards the lake certainly triggered us. Taking it slow and steady was the trick and in the end we found it to be an exhilarating experience that we'd do again in a heartbeat.<br>
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The next section requires walking along Route 26 on wide verges that keep a safe distance from the cars and trucks that barrel through the Notch from time to time. Though we'd usually be disappointed with a half-mile walk along the side of a road, in this case you have spectacular lake views to keep you company. From the Table Rock trailhead you'll be heading uphill again towards the celebrated viewpoint, which we describe in the next section.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaxrP0ZcZlFvZ1f_sLJT59CI-HqFhTiy4FzqGcCE7x_gSJ2QlCcRjBJNo_53w-PddnVesx__z8t9081d56R5dxKKJ9SLAaHm44AheBSYBF9cFjR9LbJVDwbdquIUWHoFbWzNYHWLFpiA2rYTRqiomkiOXZmXR0TyxHvIYhhMr02Chd5isAK81nqVH1H-t/s1600/IMG_4990_ST.jpg" width="2048" alt="Dixville Notch landscape photograph containing jagged rock cliffs, green trees and the beginning of fall colors. The Balsams Resort is visible behind Lake Gloriette." /><br>
<i>Middle Brother view of Table Rock and Lake Gloriette.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXqDYzKNU1GY5Km57sSZ072o5s9QERlYwbVp_Z5ESr3K9NyoqZABquuVocy1zTl5KeD76oeNQzXzqMWf4gsGY-C55hdD7QRqMhruVM2cqH_XC8D0pig9-nerLl3dPffYbSaQ4_wPS0bsSw9vc1JcayPzMEHGdN00-2oMcUlR1bIYJ2DgbVk-WxG-uYw/s1600/BLU.png" width=12 /> <b>Table Rock Trail 4★</b><br>
1.7 to 2.2 mi, Out-and-Back, Medium, Gain 960 to 1,000 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-e0688d1-6">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
<br>
The shortest route to the celebrated Table Rock is possible on this trail. Starting out at a roadside trailhead that has ample parking for a dozen vehicles, this wide winding trail through mostly pine forest rises steadily to its destination. You'll find a small stream and occasional shafts of sunlight along this trail, but little else worthy of remark. The spur trail to Table Rock is very well signposted and easy to navigate as it descends out onto this rocky outcrop.<br>
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Not only is Table Rock a 700 foot drop to the notch below, but in places it's so narrow that it's barely wide enough for two people to pass. Decide for yourself how far to the edge you can safely manouver. People have died falling from here so please don't become one of them.<br>
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A round trip from trailhead to Table Rock is 1.7 miles but if you're prepared to journey a little further then you can get to Middle Brother and back for a further half-mile of mostly flat trail. This further view offers more great views, including dramatic views of the Table Rock upon which you were just standing. Also we were thankful that trees were growing all the way to the edge of this outcrop, so we could continue to the end always with something to hold on to. Ignore the '15 minutes to Middle Brother' sign by the way, it's at most a five minute walk.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9x9T2rUeu3IMfbgt-IJNBEgUt0xqaw9s0V1nKT40BkeLMnzciEfjGgNvGaQZsNujBjhIEJkFIgeYwHXsWCqeh-uhq3YTDJ5UL6G0Zuqa_5u0vr2SbzTrPFPF4HtSEytzygPAkTPdYYXvtmM5B5gs0XGqnUa2fBif1Uubk6q8BnXFMxELA2eznycEJJ6o4/s1600/IMG_5085.jpg" width="2048" alt="The Balsams Resort reflected off Lake Gloriette" /><br>
<i>The Balsams Resort reflected off Lake Gloriette.</i><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko5Y--h4X9X2xbZKC9uzYkl-D0VtLBdB8W1wIO3x1MXSud5AXqK2DaTtEGEsGME5xWL7XH4ENrEzqlxFLKmS5tBezCGcV0LqLDZ7boeEfXCAxwGmu2bHkYqynW35Q9E-GHZ3G1xAKsOkj870AaJMoVj10hiNtmAjkv0Sk5QyNLv9CSYa5clWJ6Ox4NQ/s1600/ORA.png" width=12 /> <b>Three Brothers Trail 5★</b><br>
3.3 mi, Out-and-Back, Medium, Gain 1,300 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-4175f2e-3">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
<br>
For us the longer Three Brothers Trail to the two Notch vantage points is a better choice of route than Table Rock trail, so long as you don't mind some additional mileage. The incline of the trail is gradual and includes a couple of great waterfall views of Huntington Falls and its large rocky gorge along the way. There are some marshy spots that you'll have to sidestep at around the half-way point but otherwise the going should be fairly easy. We also prefer this trail when there are still leaves on the trees, as the sun shining through the deciduous forest casts a green glow around you.<br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJr-j0CJuw67iFTXVk1do3y9zM2icjMIh-0zU1RVJ9UmrwslCkH6Aae4DwOlZAPkdKPy1P55fuVF8H2JiVVTgg7pCwQ1yccec_IafNEcRw7VZ7jsbddWCvPcE6WREHK5F5QbKBff1QcjbmEYDVD3S5fS45UdbSTrtZaxJlPg9AXWWUGC9Qtmh00LEYe7uS/s1600/d1.jpg" width="2048" alt="Left: Sangunary Ridge Trail sign in the woods. Right: Logging truck descending down a curving road at Dixville Notch"/><br>
<i>Great Notch viewpoints progressing up the Sanguinary Ridge Trail.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHk0L3s9lPLTIJ9XIgd9DpMIy3FjT7HYBGOK68zLdcY9IFi5Q9JUSTgDGek9q1AGz8YReKs-TH8279oVwikLhrQ1ZjNA5bezeHHa96OaUXLUvaYHW4YyLXMOx8OAoaDwDp3Gq9_gCuSNa4plfX45G8xEEOpQxdTK6JXO43wxvZQi3Dq-9nIx4pafSma9j/s1600/IMG_4912.jpg" width="2048" alt="Another angle of Table Rock and Middle Brother at Dixville Notch."/><br>
<i>Dixville Notch's large rocky spires from Sanguinary Ridge.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/dixville-notch-state-park">Official</a><br>
• Public Maps at AllTrails: <nobr><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/new-hampshire/dixville-notch-state-park">Table Rock Trail,</a></nobr> <nobr><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/three-brothers-trail">Three Brothers Trail,</a></nobr> <nobr><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/sanguinary-ledge-trail">Sanguinary Ledge Trail</a></nobr><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/788352616384239/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-71413098390541858502023-09-21T13:39:00.006-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.415-05:00Warren Recreational Rail Trail, NH<br>
• 4-star trail<br>
• 4 to 15.3 miles each way<br>
• Easy/med difficulty | Easy/med elevation <br>
• Warren, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/whitemountains">White Mountains</a><br>
• Driving Directions: Marked <span style="color:#0386d0; ">⬤</span> on map<br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7c_O4JLClUEu46HmShJb21b1ZdPtQrN21amMuq6icDrSCnEyjxrDlZAcntSUE_JJjir4SyGAJ1KI8T_utJfc27aAUfhfIGC5fNmeCGevZrbkCsDzDIAakczpWke7Ix4iCuNLyrhlzPjV4Q_484XYs9y4UfBir9STD7N83caE8_EPKdlxovPT2qeWzsh5/s1600/BMOH3252.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Redstone Rocket next to the Warren Rail Trail</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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With a 70 foot tall <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PGM-11_Redstone">redstone rocket</a> towering above, it's hard to miss the start of the formalized Warren Recreational Rail Trail. It has stood proud in the middle of this small New Hampshire town for over fifty years, for no reason other than it was saved from an Alabama scrapheap by a Warner native who thought it would be a nice inspiration to children and to encourage interest in the US space program.<br>
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The New Hampshire State Park manages a four mile trail heading North out of Warren on a wide wooded trail that was once part of the Concord to Woodsville railroad. Well compacted by heavy ATV use the route is an easy ride for cyclists and connects to further sections of former railbed that are kept clear by snowmobile clubs.<br>
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It's possible to continue North for over eleven miles, almost as far as the village of Pike, before the route becomes overgrown at Jeffers Hill Road. The Northernmost sections of trail have short washed out areas that you'll have to walk your bike over, and there's a half-mile section of road biking required which is thankfully built out with very wide verges making bike riding mostly safe here.<br>
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<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s1600/DRG.png" /> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" /> Rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png"/> Road,</nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s1600/LGRAY.png" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1PxrRLc6-U5MJxB34cIE6cWgfU9CGKUU&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0"></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s1600/DRG.png" /> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" /> <b>Warren Rail Trail 4★</b><br>
15.3 miles each way, Medium, Gain 480ft (640ft S-N) <br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-f50a6c0-5">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhwarren.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1PxrRLc6-U5MJxB34cIE6cWgfU9CGKUU&cid=mp&cv=qWsyO0QDPBw.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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South of Warren the rail trail continues as part of a large network of ATV trails, but bikes are still welcome on these routes. Though the northern half of the rail trail is mostly in woodland with occasional glances of Moosilaukee scenery, the southern half follows the course of Baker River and is afforded much more open terrain and some great Baker River Valley scenery, particularly closer to Warner.<br>
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We enjoyed following the trail all the way down to the vilage of Wentworth to visit their covered bridge. Though most of the trail is a straight shot on hardpack surfaces, there is a muddy diversionary ATV trail (0.7 miles long) required next to the aerodrome because the nearby lumber company has barricaded off part of the old route.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjY_GYG1DVZoimwLVlblIK47SSMqBJuWzW7il-WuUxk6TnoZwg6gesAPWOMTTPjp1FIsj0f2ydyZB2Gy86YRg0HA8VzAtoz59Ysd4ENdLqVP_Jk-WORkkNjBnXShr7UuchBRS_mjuuM4nUDOLcifKFm1e5z-4CN9RDH1qmnlaahNmnZA3Vq4QM_3vDhho/s1600/IMG_3674a.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Wentworth Village Common Covered Bridge.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mX4HaoyuZPWj7nsx9Dh6A6XHsdRBj_7upgvpI0yCqOVC0NG57n_lXwY7oA1iXisb8l7nufx7QYSAUOSGnqkDo0-7_HL5bqFFXhA4TVil2oweSM7m7OjKil5_syqNUPXCgoQ6xtQUnjcTyHavQ2pO2J7a6YJQcdtdVRKNBvcJjH1X68uax6quU99GcCJ-/s1600/d1.JPG" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Biking the rougher Northern section </i>|<i> More views South of Warren.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGYe09zRiwFSRhiVl55urAgsnTL-S4WEVd4uJscT3OjjICxM3Bm-7Sev2wcV2PGQcpO_Id6ERmxyhA_Jby2IX4wrOLwqlSbGojejjkoKhygSc8RUDlvJ6X7fAqSdIchANhH_WvvkCo1OVnHwVTrJixj-ZQXsUNChaetmCUGnUIo-msvfosH6ly-obmsu74/s1600/IMG_3846.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Steel truss bridge near East Haverhill.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5IVDmy5EYElC9NTNJfL53zqNVMW2mQK0ONvna_zafDuTU0yrk3fxV5E6kMDexzeVtKKBbZAo-wSh-4lFaf1j3U3QuXAVmBQQfpVCcQNi_VRcnn-ObFMtiO0nPpEwL9B-iLRKV6lY6ezAZV9S3-6-7Ce0mQjRzykVJQf3hWAENuLzKjB4ROB8j1MOaUqs/s1600/IMG_3668.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Relocated Wentworth Station, now the village's museum.</i><br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s1600/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Mostly compacted hardpack surface. Rougher North of Glencliff with occasional short washouts. Muddy ATV diversion near Wentworth.<br>
</div></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinN_opJrOCQjVorKNalBCZ33eUt-nUF5WLqEolS0wOI7wXz2bq4WnBKgq18N_peijsTcLccrqM5P_u8ggMwDRJC72t0ponaBdyHo-zAJ1wLiHsOZn6xaChKhbrYfZrQj-YmWxJOBcc4WN5_5Mgq5e3UBaWfHqavUKdveIgPEnq3ZpCE3uz_ZXps9cXNIko/s1600/rtnhelewarren.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinN_opJrOCQjVorKNalBCZ33eUt-nUF5WLqEolS0wOI7wXz2bq4WnBKgq18N_peijsTcLccrqM5P_u8ggMwDRJC72t0ponaBdyHo-zAJ1wLiHsOZn6xaChKhbrYfZrQj-YmWxJOBcc4WN5_5Mgq5e3UBaWfHqavUKdveIgPEnq3ZpCE3uz_ZXps9cXNIko/s1600/rtnhelewarren.jpg" width="2048" /></a><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/recreational-rail-trails/warren-recreational-rail-trail">Official,</a> <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/warren-to-east-haverhill-railroad-grade-trail/">TrailLink</a><br>
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article<br>
<br>
Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href=" https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.925,-71.891&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuJi2U00IA34gKOq2_qTRtyQ8aaNLGE83P-ShIOevNjWSfXrM_9fCypwB3bCjVvbEBkvNX-dtWQuM2uiL2UR3zbH3OIII7z54giT_bBJHvTOB4WDJSgFBr9qwDw5JuPkGDySPb64MWR_vqg9Lhd0Jh9JvcZQ6Yst6HMcZ3loLOM3IBOtD0eqZRQtQ7w/s1600/nhsp.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>New Hampshire State Parks</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Support your New Hampshire State Parks, a self-funded organization managing trails like these without NH tax dollars.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://nhrtc.org/"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMd3z6WcPwYNpxvWsjgDd0vlzchj1JfswzStezCd9fMp-P5s0QPgQZ0IoSn8D3vic0ZAq4_Ho-5_JNA8mjLwuLFNmhd6dq_0kUfElfcfnMyRTqpLYmdGyeuYB3BmEH1NIAlhKlt9GFxM1Mo5xKl_u7s4FDshrgpI9AUy3mJ0fCgDPTAszvTjs2vqqxPg/s1600/nhrtc.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="New Hampshire Rail Trail Coalition logo"/><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>NH Rail Trail Coalition</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Support the NHRTC and check out their Rail Trail Challenge.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn8OA9-TQOT2w7Axyk_dBFaBJ9yNG66CtuGIvvLnZ_Pr0qrHtcp-iOmjuyhU1kkrBz5nbksjs9DueXx2QvH8961thL4rah-JPVRZNQX-BvxuWGZPsvOA1ieRfEsK8-x_BFtHeC4GaxbahDHTDGQ4i_56CE91F3NgKwlRlI2wVGdkrYglkpxpg3G2x4A/s1600/covered.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Covered Bridges</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Maps, directions and links for all New Hampshire's covered bridges.</span></div></div></a>Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-24755739189439608552023-09-14T21:05:00.010-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.404-05:00Pawtuckaway South Mountain, NH<br>
• 4-star hikes<br>
• 1.7 to 6.0 mile options<br>
• Medium difficulty | Gain 440 to 940 feet<br>
• Nottingham, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/merrimack">Merrimack Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.10097,-71.1921">Loop, </a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.07856,-71.17225">Mtn Trail</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VqmDb7KCJmbxFslfWt8U_CvFqmEPUzFByMxKY0qwVykZZxMkXnkAihrG55xFmvX-sanueJmgPNMdFFQANH1Cj_pzm2nYuV5Ar6GWuX-2CCujZAwCUOPwyIqGvmPAaat3szOiYHvcMnNJFPD13Epc3MatZpyAMoO151BtOO2-GfL-tLVui0FFQR1H82Ld/s1600/IMG_3470.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>South Mountain Fire Tower</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/fire-towers-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYkSHENIHeqqwMS4OsOdech7sdUf0i4eB8P_78a-xunVOYnJik_5Sb51NwIg7f9p27T8-lpOaORn4fGuXYL8fDkofzks0FREiapbnnlquVeMuz70KMO2lcAnrSkN2J79I3r_fK_JfjHf_4eGzPKjwCbUcSbXURqW9cNUtvvBK89SWXUy_g5PruiUbF0w/s1600/tower.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Fire Towers</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Discover our map of NH fire towers and the trails on which to find them.</span></div></div></a>
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Though the curiously circular-shaped Pawtuckaway State Park looks an awful lot like a meteor crater, it is in fact a <i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qxrmbNqr_SkhrEJDMTDNtsZww1n0xRNXce-EsFUg7IbeWVwyldvrqCPU6-zbYXWMTqH5J0F-bF2RAiZ_LURIqrdZOTVbcqQ5Y1QczwLx-D7YzvXhxUOKATKoaFfKrrVcxg-tC9RYC0tEsfrQk6PshPFAh8H4dZVetcc3w0f6aChm41PEbF9fdO0X6yrJ/s1600/ringdike.JPG">ring dike</a></i>, the result of a column of hot magma rising from the Earth that has been eroded to reveal it's perimeter and structure over millions of years of erosion. This hike climbs up the southern perimeter of the dike to it's second highest peak where we get to admire the views from the fire tower anchored to the summit.<br>
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We've mapped out the two most popular ways to reach Pawtuckaway's South Mountain, the shortest of which will have you climbing the fire tower in under a mile,. The longer route along Mountain Trail follows a mostly flat 2 mile journey from the park's southern entrance and visitor center.<br>
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<small><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 /> Loop,
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 /> Mtn Trail & Loop, </nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1CcTrD7mquap1jf9ylTukYxNyyo4phc8&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0"></iframe><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPVtTbGRTxMRX1N2OjMLnAd8PK1peMJB8dKdCGN6YmUyY8_prHsZea200tv_-YaiuGRfO6BUFXOgUUvVqFpphb33Pg73nibrYQimuRG9unJefR8wwF05rCHUcMP_QJhgTzna-EJqGhTcYIYGPcw62yZjsLhtNfZyfDbSN5mCiqgw9aFQoXsfeuZfu6g/s1600/RED.png" width=12 /> <b>South Mountain Loop 4★</b><br>
1.7 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 440 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-e0f48a1-3">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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Regardless of the direction you take to complete this short loop of South Mountain the gradient of the necessary moderate hill-climb is much the same. We do prefer a counter-clockwise route when beginning at Tower Road, taking the quickest route to the top via the wide viewpoint area before reaching the fire tower on the summit. Enjoy the views up there, because you'll be in the trees all the way back, though the journey is a pleasant downhill romp.<br>
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Parking at the Tower Road trailhead will fit only two vehicles but there should be more parking opportunities in either direction. Further north there's Tower Road lot, or the other way there's roadside parking along Reservation Road. Please obey posted signs of course, as parking rules may have changed.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" width=12 /> <b>Mountain Trail & South Mtn Loop 4★</b><br>
6.0 mi, Part-Loop, Medium, Gain 940 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-c2626d8-4">Trailspotting Map at AllTrails</a><br>
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The mostly flat route along Mountain Trail from the south end of Pawtuckaway State Park is fairly easy going, with one stream crossing and welcome rock and root free sections that are sometimes even soft and carpeted with pine needles. Lush green mosses and ferns color your route as you remain in woodland throughout. Watch for the massive glacial erratic boulders along your journey. There is no parking at the south end of Mountain Trail, so you'll need to leave your vehicles at the visitor center - a right-turn just before the ranger kiosk. Unfortunately you'll need to pound pavement to Mountain Trail, but at least it's only a third of a mile.<br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdovgblG6r_tvljECG_jfkc86CS8_DstdCmD-TIxCCmGh1ImNX2CXfAlc-nDvnd-iVTmOI9UIKViKh4ShzShLzU2zQ4klzGZvg70UWACZp2yex7FkndgIZ-QhsuJ85hmm7dcfS1ZFkfOdpQZh77HYAaCtjACc_oH20rpHlsVQy9WGTUb_m5PtPr_Jokrw2/s1600/IMG_3494.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Classic New Hampshire skyline as viewed from the fire tower.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOy3UMNMCrlewPZ3n-0mn8DFHKHebT2eqD8-HJVo3nkEcIie-0-cDZtGSj0__6HFPO1mj91gkChYFE9nNe9QUTYq2lstCCdR_HNURp76OYt53ow_KNbxkTbom6dfGa7ZpsW_-nZEGf1jAXia5S--5lSpuo5KRl_ptB3lM-k1xk0GcLltkxuKX8-yWw1TS/s1600/d1.JPG" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Typical conditions on the Loop Trail and Mountain Trails.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• Trail Links: <a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/pawtuckaway-state-park">Official,</a> <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/south-mountain-lookout-tower-trail--2">Public Map at AllTrails</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/780996900453144/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• Show on map: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.10097,-71.1921&z=12">All nearby trails</a><br>
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<a href="https://www.nhstateparks.org"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuJi2U00IA34gKOq2_qTRtyQ8aaNLGE83P-ShIOevNjWSfXrM_9fCypwB3bCjVvbEBkvNX-dtWQuM2uiL2UR3zbH3OIII7z54giT_bBJHvTOB4WDJSgFBr9qwDw5JuPkGDySPb64MWR_vqg9Lhd0Jh9JvcZQ6Yst6HMcZ3loLOM3IBOtD0eqZRQtQ7w/s1600/nhsp.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>New Hampshire State Parks</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Support your New Hampshire State Parks, a self-funded organization managing trails like these without NH tax dollars.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/summits+newhampshire"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgINGUB_h3mGH_D1vN1N9JHWYCeyiVWBrZpRYahxTPmcS0I4m3MGkT_s8JO9jE_JVwR6GK-S3VWft3U_VWiYUT4KeNPMmwefeHhSi9ce0RrjRDh0lHRvv0VNQgup7Cpa32APgtxxYWl1sXYxz4AddkFI43LdkqRfDIkEQwdeKDeL1UtXImkVMtu8pNQw/s1600/summit.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Summits</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Are you a peak bagger or looking for the best views? Trailspotting has a growing list of summit hikes.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2023/05/best-trails-merrimack-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNXHIY0fIFJ-7jiEoS4lyp56eCpbt_QljyNVWMaMN99AqSG4_LJZO2xHFFsLkUqpvZpb6KFDoGEygKtKUCcKMW3NSq0Sr4_3SnN-ozIS2NCSlGCxQjxnWdiX8fr-qYMZYpiNIlrBO-EfFgeJypISRNhyrMoqFjoMnbz4TJ-74asSpkVoETvVNYyO4FA/s1600/merrimack.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Best Trails of Merrimack Region</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>Check out the best hikes and rail trails around the region of Merrimack.</span></div></div></a>
Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1219343771514828239.post-35594132011364974132023-09-07T08:49:00.002-04:002024-03-07T14:48:33.408-05:00Village Spur Rail Trail, Belmont NH<br>
• 4-star trail<br>
• 2.1 miles each way<br>
• Easy difficulty | Easy elevation <br>
• Belmont, NH | <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/search/label/lakesregion">Lakes Region</a><br>
• Driving Directions: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/43.44383,-71.4829">Trailhead</a><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOzwvypuinROscbWDK3NGn3HwJysHBvTaEyNG6R9CuHJlfZfH0IO_nOvJitbxwxWvVmJuB4jMP74xfLPopJVBqyWkzHEYaNCp-7WwodY9bb7ETwMy1IwdXZThE6kITHrbagUtUBM1bBGUjbuFToioYQvjExwoRDxZiPvPT8lPvBnB6GL_bBgLdfFz7NiWy/s1600/IMG_3149.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Riding over the Rail Trail Covered Bridge.</i><br> <a name='more'></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/new-hampshire-rail-trail-map.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZK8aMLodFGyID0xnJ3Di1ZCZKk3UJY3RXiQrlcftTi4CK1_IG-Ovzx3qEue3NQ3MOjRC1eie_DaaPbl6fLue5Dgu5jvGT_tHBDvWlaod8WQok8LVIgMwnLjpzBcBJjB5BYoekJgiNSExJgE7TpuBbEJ3FXk-iq9ad_zWAPMZIr0c7-Vis6olv9-OvAw/s1600/RailTrailMap.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting Rail Trail Map</b><span style="color:#000000"><br>NH's first complete rail trail map. With links to our reviews, photos & detailed route maps.</span></div></div></a>
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The four mile long 1889 railroad branch line terminating in the small New Hampshire town of Belmont was constructed to serve the local textile mill. Though mill production continued until 1970, the railroad ceased to operate in 1929 and the tracks were torn up in 1934. Likely the result of the development of road vehicles but also because the tracks terminated on the wrong side of the Tioga River, requiring additional handling and a cart trip up the hill to the factory. Today the mill has been converted into a senior center, accessible by the Belmont Covered Bridge next to the trail's parking lot.<br>
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Belmont's Village Spur Rail Trail is an idyllic trip adjacent to the banks of the meandering Tioga River, surrounded by lush greenery. This is a wide grassy trail with a compacted surface, suitable for almost all bicycles. This varied scenic ride passes through open wetlands, pastures and short sections of woodland. An increasing number of gates are present towards the west end of the trail, erected to hold grazing cattle that weren't present when we visited. 'Kissing gates' are available to pass around the gates in which most bicycles should fit.<br>
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<small><nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s1600/DRG.png" /> Hardpack, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbiE-CvL6spj7A3VFeErFIqdExZp-tTgaNZuV_SEu6m1rPlLFmrU9536Vcp1JC7TG1yrExJkE1zkKNLwKI-UwW_jQamOiuQdfyCkbJn1OrKECMImyvBr94pizFn2eiW_BNgR84GfKOAvON2MthrRBcaqWSgI3LbyMgCoFie-7n6qKGidI2J1H9JjNQ/s1600/PUR.png" /> Rough, </nobr>
<nobr><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxhjEA2wA7JYGJ2YaVNJGDwS-NMfGFTdq5IohYCWfCOXosYbsmBBQ_XLa3-IuANfHXlliopOk6pv2-kkEWEEvsoiIi4iYH6hBAe2HzdAzrSl5HW4Wps8nG3cGYmOHYrkuFY5rXI5wkKMqh8iLeYYCbQjeyiD3xXhVSmf4gf9FyuX58LYIw84439nBZQ/s1600/LGRAY.png" /> Historic.</nobr></small>
<span style="float: right;"><small>Expand </small>↓<small> Map</small></span>
<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1QLvutV_fFZ7EY2sfWlkTa0sdy1sTb0o&ehbc=808588&noprof=1" width="1024" height="550" frameborder="0"></iframe><br>
<br>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLDMM1si49v8DXZtOjWDQ7cy7H5LHjxMdqHCU4g-SKL7HKh0ii4IA7pJ35S1TAZ4Qky03whdnH-TiVQJHveL0DkeSlfeWh1qllLlCh1X3i3PKdQxtcynRJ9XSU4ic6SO1ZRIN_a9D4L51cwQBkOtllEMXHqBAgX2z4YKIlKRhQdY9u9G_RvlJ9uBctg/s1600/DRG.png" /> <b>Belmont Village Spur Rail Trail 4★</b><br>
2.1 mi, Each way, Easy, Gain 70 ft<br>
<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-edea298-6">Trailspotting Map: AllTrails</a><br>
<a href="https://trailspotting.s3.amazonaws.com/trailgpx/rtnhbelmont.gpx">Trailspotting Map: GPX Download</a><br>
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/kml?hl=en&mid=1QLvutV_fFZ7EY2sfWlkTa0sdy1sTb0o&cid=mp&cv=kLMhTZisYJg.en.">Trailspotting Map: Google Earth KMZ</a><br>
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The Village Spur Rail Trail feature two long pedestrian covered bridges. At the Belmont end by the parking lot, the Belmont Covered bridge spans the Tioga River at Slippery Rock and leads up the hill to the former mill building. This bridge was previously known as the Cocheco Bridge in Dover, NH but bought by the town for a single dollar and moved to this site in 2015. The other bridge is the known as the Village Spur Rail Trail Covered bridge and was installed in 2018 as part of an expansion of the rail trail. <br>
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The final third of a mile of trail is less frequented, and the surface becomes increasingly grassy and bumpy, though we were still able to ride all the way to west end of the rail trail where a missing river bridge ends our journey. The town wants to extend the rail trail further west in the future, following the historic rail route at least as far as Route 140. Further plans are being considered to link this route up with another future connection between the Tilton and Laconia rail trails.<br>
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<div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.1em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWW7TdYRr5GxXyvKjaAJ0rw6kka5DOF1YsZD2zIrd1oTQ7uyW78Rq6rBqmZ6D_Yt71tGofoY6k4fes5IK-LPjjmFazVWh032vhnz9I8MZG87U3p_23j6LURd0Xwvvb6-9TTlIolKXpITUJECq0C6Dhg4PKBy9vfcHnqcjXPoh1lDINN6whWl7bFtM7w/s1600/Conditions.JPG" style="margin-right: 0.5em; float: left; padding:0.5em;" width=45 /><div style="padding-left: 65px; min-height: 60px;"><b>Trail Conditions:</b><br>
Hardpack compacted surface easy for most bicycles. The last third of a mile is increasingly rough and grassy.</div></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-llCaz9sWovjUhaQMn6K1ZkCijOIFGdThmc1ZO1dDZb85Xx4g58WrboY0BOQdczcTsX5L5SrC4rE_P847nfAIuJNI6ZLlNFtRIxWuockA--ZPXJ-4qmc4n2AbeaH1M60P7tCjlBlcfAsEJt6Z6EKryOpNGfyuXU-W0iPsDOfMQa4HVrKVi7AU3yoNFvB/s1600/IMG_3136.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Trailside pond.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZonumOHPhJh6-BnIqeTo4S-fY3V9mKuM-h0XTP6Pr55373HOPG137q8IA718ALjtcwRoLJ2JuDAsSDzFc_2cdR1581S6oH2NoQxGOYqfman7bYDvWGkCAZoQZykjNPuRejFuPQUWB54TIYAdM1DTa1HJb7FOsAGbRdlEE3OIV_B-1A2AGbmmWxD9ZzUK3/s1600/IMG_3208.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Another Rail Trail Covered Bridge view.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwzO9qFYnsyAFRV4ITvP67f51X5iLHQQes_THR6-5SdTwHAVwJ_T_P_RTT3otkJ-Zc_XqueIpMkCjZHwkcx8Tv8VjG1Dxg3p2PiNzavEzqGSLW6Dz31KJpab4-nIluAkvLEfGTGIRvRBbygF5UnEb1KFDWG5BsITlojQCV4WpOgTLuaVgjku_60zieq1f/s1600/IMG_3204.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Our map marks where the west end of the trail becomes rougher and grassy.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hN93gSl0YNefvOxNsRZfiwxc_2f7DUmmQpcONOapCjr7kmHGhW-RA4iBriBS8HpkqsNbGnxn_JRWxV5pL3agByVXYiza9kGclQVT2z_a658wgsKYNSlns0Te50zU5v4E_x_H6-FNUBoC2W2bDVw_6B2pEYmYdXQgc60jUtcWmqiWlDPoKmsAfxZhkqvt/s1600/d1.JPG" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Belmont Covered Bridge, relocated from Dover.</i><br>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNmNiVWZqqlffd_XFj1or8DJxeQyeXKgjUI2av3eilUP0Da4a37TG3Jr9H6P3t6B8VF2ckkZRLsUJNCsRaijLFNgEjggy2qyswbivC74x5ZT3rjkV5LPmG8BvAlWXj3YPJZmRPo-6i-N5vDUP11jZBRrWbhnXkiLIgzInzMiOLFl6MIV1GXZA4ZGcF-Lm/s1600/IMG_3186.jpg" width="2048" /><br>
<i>Pollinators at work along the trail.</i><br>
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Tangents:<br>
• External Links: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/the-village-spur-rail-trail-belmont-nh-96bf57c">Public Map at AllTrails,</a> <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/village-spur-rail-trail/">TrailLink</a><br>
• Facebook Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailspotting/permalink/777205427498958/">Comment on this article</a><br>
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Nearby Trails:<br>
• 3 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/winnipesaukee-river-rail-trail-nh.html">Winnipesaukee River RT</a><br>
• 6 miles away: <a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/2022/04/lake-winnisquam-wow-rail-trails.html">Lake Winnisquam & WOW RTs</a><br>
• Show on map: <a href=" https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1L4kNAqKPMMMnWGojwZuJsXYBHMuK2Fbi&ll=43.44383,-71.4829&z=12"> All nearby rail trails</a><br>
<br>
<a href="https://nhrtc.org/"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#eeeeee; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMd3z6WcPwYNpxvWsjgDd0vlzchj1JfswzStezCd9fMp-P5s0QPgQZ0IoSn8D3vic0ZAq4_Ho-5_JNA8mjLwuLFNmhd6dq_0kUfElfcfnMyRTqpLYmdGyeuYB3BmEH1NIAlhKlt9GFxM1Mo5xKl_u7s4FDshrgpI9AUy3mJ0fCgDPTAszvTjs2vqqxPg/s1600/nhrtc.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 alt="New Hampshire Rail Trail Coalition logo"/><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>NH Rail Trail Coalition</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Support the NHRTC and check out their Rail Trail Challenge.</span></div></div></a>
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<a href="https://www.trailspotting.com/p/covered-bridges-of-new-hampshire.html"><div style="border:0px; border-style:solid; background-color:#daefe0; padding: 0.2em;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn8OA9-TQOT2w7Axyk_dBFaBJ9yNG66CtuGIvvLnZ_Pr0qrHtcp-iOmjuyhU1kkrBz5nbksjs9DueXx2QvH8961thL4rah-JPVRZNQX-BvxuWGZPsvOA1ieRfEsK8-x_BFtHeC4GaxbahDHTDGQ4i_56CE91F3NgKwlRlI2wVGdkrYglkpxpg3G2x4A/s1600/covered.jpg" style="margin-right: 0.2em; float: left; padding:0.2em;" width=75 /><div style="padding-left: 90px; min-height:80px; color:#38bf48"><b>Trailspotting's NH Covered Bridges</b><br><span style="color:#000000">Maps, directions and links for all New Hampshire's covered bridges.</span></div></div></a>
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Stuart Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07246779649234394540noreply@blogger.com