Forest Society Blog - News & Features

With foliage at its peak, it’s the perfect time to explore Forest Society trails through the annual 5 Hikes Challenge. Recent guided hikes brought visitors to the historic Monson Center in Milford and Hollis — once one of New Hampshire’s earliest inland settlements. There’s still time to complete your own five hikes or join upcoming staff-led outings at Mount Major and the new Dottie Bean Forest.

The Forest Society is improving accessibility at the Merrimack River floodplain in Concord! A section of the Les Clark Nature Trail will be upgraded this fall to better accommodate visitors using wheelchairs, strollers, and other mobility devices. The trail will be closed beginning October 15 for construction. Read the full FAQ for details on the project and what to expect.

David Roby of Lyme was honored for his decades of work protecting forests, wildlife habitat, and open space in New Hampshire and beyond. As a founder of Lyme Timber Company and Bear Hill Conservancy Trust, he has helped conserve hundreds of thousands of acres and inspired others in land stewardship.

George Beaton of Bradford received the Forest Society’s Trish Churchill Volunteer of the Year Award for his 11 years of dedicated service. From trail work and mentoring teens to sign-making and woodworking projects, George consistently goes above and beyond to support the Forest Society’s mission.

New Hampshire has launched a new “Wildly Responsible” campaign to help outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the state’s natural spaces safely and respectfully. The Forest Society is joining the effort by weaving these guidelines into its sixth annual 5 Hikes Challenge, running through October. This year’s “Hike with Heart” theme encourages participants to discover five new trails while caring for others, protecting the land, and deepening their connection to New Hampshire’s forests.

Join our Five Hikes Challenge, running from August 30 through October 31. Choose five hikes from more than 30 of our conserved forests across New Hampshire and discover new trails, quiet woodlands, and breathtaking views along the way. This year’s theme, “Hike with Heart,” is about connecting deeply with the land, caring for the places that sustain us, and sharing those experiences with others.