Land conservation in New Hampshire has been and continues to be an ongoing effort to protect the state's natural environments. Thanks to preservationists over the years we can now enjoy forests, lakes, and mountains that will be protected forever. One of these small land conservation efforts was the genesis of what is now the oldest state-run park in New Hampshire, Miller State Park in Peterborough and Temple.
Miller State Park in Peterborough and Temple was established in 1891. It was during that year when three acres of land atop Pack Monadnock were donated to the state.
The centerpiece of Miller State Park is Pack Monadnock, a name that takes its name from the Native American word meaning "little" and its location near Mt. Monadnock.
The long-distance Wapack Trail runs through the park on its 21-mile journey from Ashburnham, Massachusetts to the south.
The summit of Pack Monadnock is home to one of 15 currently active fire lookouts that are still used for fire detection.
The widest views can be had by climbing the fire tower steps to just below the cab. If a lookout is on duty, you might be invited into the cab.
The park is also home to a raptor observatory where visitor can learn about and watch these fascinating birds in their natural habitat.
Visitors to the park can either hike up or drive to the summit of Pack Monadnock via a seasonal auto road.
For more information on Miller State Park and to download a trail map, visit the New Hampshire State Parks website.
Explore more New Hampshire state parks by wandering through one of its largest, camp at one of its smallest, or check out some ponds at one of its most remote.
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