Recreation

The Forest Society's mission includes conserving lands that provide recreational opportunities--and economic benefits through tourism--for New Hampshire residents and visitors. Visit this page to explore stories related to recreation on conserved lands.

A black-legged tick on a green leaf.

Forest Journal: N.H. Tick Data Informs Local Risk

Carrie Deegan
April 27, 2020

Since mid-March, my family and I have been doing a lot of walking in the woods. Daily hikes on quiet, local trails have become our sanity in this constricted and complicated reality that we are living in.

Recreation
Wildlife
Education
A collage of book covers and movies recommended by the Forest Society.

May We Recommend... Watch, Read & Listen with the Forest Society

Anna Berry
April 24, 2020

Here are a few recommendations from the Forest Society’s staff for you to watch, read, and listen to now that we're all staying closer to home.

 

Recreation
Education
Part of Lake Massabesic in the woods, covered with snow.

Hike Local: Getting Outside Near Nashua

mfinnegan
April 14, 2020

When a road trip north isn’t an option, Maria Finnegan relies on Nashua’s network of rail trails or takes a walk in a local park. Unfortunately, the Coronoavirus has made getting some fresh air a bit more complicated.

Recreation
A bald eagle looks into the dark waters of the Merrimack River from the shore.

Bald Eagle on Merrimack River in Concord

Dave Anderson, Ellen Kenny
April 13, 2020

The golden eagle atop the NH State House dome in Concord isn't alone in the skies over the State Capitol. Photographer and naturalist Ellen Kenny recently captured images of a mature Bald Eagle catching a fish from the banks of the Merrimack River.

Wildlife
Recreation

Find a Local Hike!

You can recreate responsibly by using the links below to help find places near you to hike and recreate safely. Try both statewide agencies and land trusts as well as regional land trusts, and don't forget your own town. Most municipalities have some open lands or a town forest with hiking trails... check with your town's conservation commission or recreation department. 

Be Safe. Be Well. Be Local.

April 9, 2020

Nature is our ally during this difficult time. It has the power to soothe, uplift and restore. We are pleased to see people across the Granite State experiencing the restorative powers of a simple walk in the woods, and are equally pleased that most are heeding the message to enjoy those benefits locally and only when a place is not crowded.

Recreation
Land Conservation

Take Healthy Steps Toward Forest Recreation

acrowley
May 29, 2020

We encourage you to #hikelocal, #walklocal and stay safe and healthy in the outdoors. Here are a few guidelines to share.

Recreation
Land Conservation

Something Wild: Finding Peace in Nature

Dave Anderson
March 27, 2020

Something Wild is joint production of NH Audubon, The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests & NHPR.

We recommend listening to it in it's original format but a transcript of the show is also below.

Wildlife
Recreation

Forest Journal: In search of calming feelings

Anna Berry
March 29, 2020

Luckily, whether you’re self-isolating inside, keeping to your neighborhood or you have easy access to forests and fields, it’s easier than ever to grow your connections to the natural world.

Recreation
Education