At PLC, we encourage getting out on our properties in the fall – the temperatures are comfortable, there’s a lot of wildlife activity, and the changes of the season mean plenty to observe in the natural world.
We’re starting to see those first flushes of color, so we put together a list of a few of our favorite spots to get some exercise, peep some leaves, and take in the beauty of the season.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do!
#1
Rose Mountain Preserve – Lyndeborough
Looking for a hike capped with the classic summit view of color-quilted, rolling valleys? PLC’s Rose Mountain Preserve delivers!
This 189-acre property offers a few trail options to reach the summit. Depending upon which path you choose, you can expect a moderate to strenuous level of difficulty. Be sure to wear proper footwear and stay hydrated!
This spot is a gem for those who enjoy smaller crowds on summits and views that stand up to more heavily trafficked mountains in our area.
#2
Hobart-Fessenden Woods – Brookline
The 439-acre Hobart-Fessenden Woods in Brookline, NH is perfect for a fall family day in the woods.
The well-maintained and clearly marked trails, picnic area, and plenty of parking make it one of our most-accessible properties for larger groups, hiking beginners, and children. The trails wind through forested areas and wetlands, providing opportunities to stop and see different habitats.
Don’t miss the heron rookery viewpoint off the Sargent Trail – Pout Pond is home to a well-established population of great blue herons, a huge beaver dam, and a shoreline edged with foliage season superstar: the sugar maple.
#3
Alan & Edgar Rice Nature Preserve – Lyndeborough
Are you a nature photographer or content creator?
PLC’s Alan & Edgar Rice Nature Preserve has a landscape rich in colors and textures that make for amazing photographs in any season. Cold Brook flows alongside the Northern part of the Two Brook Trail and includes the gorgeous Senter Falls. You’ll also find dramatic glacial eskers, ridges formed by rock and sediment deposited by water running through and under glaciers, on the steeper slopes.
Don’t forget to keep your eyes open for riparian species like wood frogs, migrating songbirds, and bright orange red efts (juvenile eastern newts).
Make sure your batteries are charged and your memory card is clear, because there is a lot to see and do on the .5-mile Two Brook Trail loop!
#4
Pulpit Rock Conservation Area – Bedford
The Pulpit Rock Conservation Area offers a lot of options for explorers. For the best seasonal views, head out to Martin Hayfield via the Martin Trail. The field is lined with sugar maples, and you will be sure to see plenty of color against the big sky and views of Uncanoonuc Mountain.
Recently featured in the book 50 Hikes with Kids New England by Wendy Gorton, Pulpit Rock is also a great family hike of moderate difficulty.
#5
Saunders Pasture Conservation Area – New Boston
The changes in our work and social world reminded us that opportunities to unplug are important.
The Saunders Pasture Conservation Area in New Boston may not be home to the longest hike or the most stunning summit view, but it is a place of peace, quiet, and natural beauty. You can let go of stress and worry as you walk down the sunlight spotted trails that open to Great Meadow – home to many species of mammals, birds, and insects.
Find your way to the viewpoint bench to sit, enjoy the scenery, and take a moment (or ten) just for you.
Don’t Forget:
- Wear blaze orange during hunting seasons
- Practice vigilance with tick protection and checks! Black-legged ticks are most active from early October through late November. Tick Free New Hampshire has resources on prevention and protection against ticks for you, your children, and your pets: https://tickfreenh.org/
- Practice social distancing and COVID-19 guidelines on trail
- Dogs should always be on leash on PLC properties
Caring for these lands is part of Piscataquog Land Conservancy’s mission.
Make a donation today to PLC’s Conservation Fund, and help us protect, steward and defend these lands forever.
