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Nature|Forests

New Hampshire’s Birch Ridge Community Forest Keeps Me Coming Back For More Exploration

Published May 2, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

In recent years, much of the land surrounding Merrymeeting Lake in New Durham has gone into protection through the fine work of the Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire (SELT). The largest property is Birch Ridge Community Forest, and it's one that keeps changing each time I visit. As it's such a large area, it's only natural that there's going to be a lot to keep up with! Here are some sights from my most recent visit.

Birch Ridge Community Forest in New Durham comprises more than 2,000 acres and is well-managed by Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

The most prominent summits within the forest are Mt. Eleanor and Rattlesnake Mountain, both of which were technically bushwhacks before the forest was acquired.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Now, there is an extensive trail system here. It had changed since my last visit and continues to grow as of this writing.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Before SELT acquired the property it was heavily logged, but nature is beginning to reclaim it and the woods are filling in nicely.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

One of my favorite vistas here is from this open clearing about 0.3 mi. from the trailhead at the top of Birch Hill Road. The view over Merrymeeting Lake is expansive.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Hikers are welcome at the cabin that sits in this clearing, which is used as a snowmobile warming hut in winter. Please be respectful of the property if you visit.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

With many miles of trails, it's a place I can get to for some easy woods walking or some more strenuous climbing.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

I'll be keeping a close eye on Birch Ridge Community Forest as the trail system continues to develop and will be including it in the upcoming 6th edition of the AMC Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide. For more information and to download a current trail map, visit Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire.

Since it's been such a warm winter here in New Hampshire, that means that the ticks are unfortunately already out. Make sure to stay protected from the little buggers while also exploring nearby Collins Family Forest, just across the lake from Birch Ridge Community Forest.

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Nature|Forests

I Wandered Off-The-Beaten-Path And Discovered This Lovely Forest Walk In New Hampshire

Published May 31, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

I'm blessed to live in an area where there are many hiking trails and walking paths to enjoy. I frequently take midday breaks to get out and enjoy these trails. The time spent on them may not be long but they provide a needed distraction from daily tasks that recharges me. One of these trails that I've recently discovered is the N'dakinna Trail in Loudon (roughly translated from the native Abenaki, N'dakinna means "Our Homeland."). It's only a mile long but is perfect for a getaway into nature when time is short.

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The trailhead and small parking area are tucked away off Route 129 in Loudon. This is far away from popular hiking spots and it's likely you'll encounter few or no other people.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

The Loudon Conservation Commission has done a beautiful job with this footbridge over a small brook, which serves as an inviting gateway into the property.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

As I entered the forest from the road, I immediately felt comforted and more relaxed as the natural environment surrounded me.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Near its start, the white-blazed loop trail, about a mile long, passes an attractive swamp. I didn't see any of the local residents on this day but could hear plenty of wood frogs.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

At the swamp is a bench inviting walkers to stop, rest, and take in the sights and sounds of the wetland.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

In addition to the main white-blazed trail, there's also a yellow-blazed path that can be used as a shortcut. Not too many ways to go wrong here, but trail maps posted at junctions provide reassurance that you're going the right way.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

On the morning I did this walk, the sun was not out and rain showers were on the way. This made the forest dark, giving it a moody and mysterious feeling.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

If you need to get out into the woods for a bit or need a quick recharge for the rest of the day, visit this New Hampshire nature walk to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. For more information on N'dakinna Trail and to download a trail map, visit the Loudon Conservation Commission.

Get those boots laced up for some more hiking now that the warm weather is here. Here are some kid-friendly treks that the whole family can do!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/kid-friendly-hikes-nh/

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Nature|Forests

I Hiked At New Hampshire’s Brand New Collins Family Forest

Published Mar 21, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

Not only do I enjoy seeking out new places to hike as a guidebook editor, but it's also something that I enjoy anyway! I have my favorite spots, but I'm always looking for new locations as exploring unseen locations is exciting. I've been keeping tabs on New Hampshire's Merrymeeting Lake region, as there has been a surge of land conservation happening here in recent years. Last fall, I took a tour of the new Collins Family Forest and can say without hesitation that it's a favorite and one of the best new hikes in New Durham.

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Collins Family Forest in New Durham is a newly conserved property of more than 500 acres overlooking Merrymeeting Lake. In October of 2023, I had a chance to check out the new trail system here as it was being finalized.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

The slopes and summit of Mt. Molly were originally owned by the Collins family, and we as hikers have them to thank for putting their land into permanent conservation forever.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

The centerpiece of the property is Mt. Molly. Scenic ledges just off its 1,249-foot summit provide panoramic views to the south over the lake.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire (SELT) has been leading the effort to conserve lands around Merrymeeting Lake to protect its pristine water quality.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

In addition to Collins Family Forest, SELT has been hard at work protecting other land around the lake, including Birch Ridge Community Forest, which can be seen rising above the lake opposite Mt. Molly.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

I was impressed at the variety of route options available here, from easy strolls to trails with steeper and rougher sections. This would be a great trek for new hikers or for kids.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

After visiting last fall, I am sure I will be back for repeated visits. Thanks to both the Collins family and SELT, the trip to the summit of Mt. Molly will surely become one of the best hikes in New Durham.

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To plan your visit to Collins Family Forest and to download a trail map, visit the Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire website and be sure to also follow Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire on Facebook for any updates and field trips.

It's not calendar spring yet in New Hampshire yet, but there are plenty of places to go where you will only need bare boots. You can leave the snowshoes and microspikes at home for a hike to this backcountry pond in Weare.

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