On May 13, we started an ambitious trail project that will greatly improve the sustainability of Mount Major's Main Trail, the most popular route up and down the mountain. The construction work wrapped up on Friday, August 26 but we're still fundraising as we close out the project!
Sustainable trail construction is not a small undertaking. This reconstruction of about 1/3 mile of trail is a major investment. To support the project, the Forest Society must raise more than $300,000.
Fortunately, we have been able to raise more than $275,000 to date thanks to a grant from the NH Recreation Trails Program and gifts and grants from private foundations and more than 100 individuals. Now, we have just $50,000 left to raise as we close out the project! Make a donation here.
Updates:
June 13 update: We're one month into construction and a lot of progress has been made by the trail builders. Jed Talbot, owner of OBP Trailworks, which is building the trail in partnership with Town4Trails, said the area has very large boulders and big stumps, although that was expected.
“It’s a slow process, excavating in terrain like this but I think the trail is turning out really, really well and I think it’s going to be absolutely beautiful,” he said last week.
Keep your fingers crossed for good weather and check our Instagram (@forestsociety) to see photos and video from the site.
August 1 update: We're still on track to have the new section of trail completed by the end of this month. Read a story here about how sustainable trails are built. We're also planning a ribbon cutting and guided hike to celebrate the sustainability upgrade so stay tuned!
August 26 update: The parking lot is OPEN and the new section of trail is ready for hikers!