Monadnock, which comes originally from the Abenaki Native American word for mountain that stands alone, is now a standard geological term for any singular mountain that rises above the surrounding plain. The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (Forest Society) is the majority landowner of Mount Monadnock, holding more than 3,500 acres in the public interest. Forest Society-owned lands on Mt. Monadnock are leased to New Hampshire State Parks and together the organizations manage the park for the thousands of outdoor enthusiasts that seek its year-round recreational opportunities. The mountain stands alone, but The Forest Society and State Parks stand together in maintaining the many trails of Monadnock.
To help keep Mt. Monadnock safe for hikers, the Forest Society and N.H. State Parks will be hosting the annual Monadnock Trails Week, July 30 to Aug. 3. Trail improvement projects are planned all over the mountain in this weeklong event. Fueled by morning coffee provided by Brewbaker’s Café in Keene, Forest Society and N.H. State Parks staff will guide volunteers in multiple projects throughout the course of the week. Projects this year will include working on the White Arrow Trail and Marlboro Trail, bog bridges on Gap Mountain, and more. After day one on the trails, July 30, a kickoff party will be held at Granite Roots Brewing (graniterootsbrewing.com) in Troy with a Monadnock Trails & Ales Trivia Night starting at 6:30 p.m. Compete with others by answering questions about Monadnock history, unique geology, and ways that visitors can Leave No Trace to win prizes from local shops and restaurants as well as bragging rights. No reservations needed for the kickoff party.
“We could not keep Mt. Monadnock safe for hikers without the volunteers that come out to help maintain the trails every year,” states Andy Crowley, stewardship projects manager for the Forest Society. “If you have not volunteered for trail maintenance yet, come out and give it a try. You will leave dirty, tired, satisfied, and with a new appreciation of every step you take on a trail. A lot of rock, sweat, and dirt goes into trail maintenance each year, but it’s worth the experience and the friendships gained.” “The state’s partnership with the Forest Society has been key to balancing the need for recreation and conservation of Mt. Monadnock,” states Brent Wucher, public information and marketing officer from New Hampshire State Parks. “The popularity of the mountain requires continued efforts to improve trail maintenance, manage the natural and cultural resources, and preserve the quality of the visitor’s experience. The Forest Society is a great partner in helping us do this.”
No trail work experience is necessary; conservation professionals will lead groups to complete different projects. Come ready to work and learn about tool use and best practices for trail building. Tools and safety gear provided. Children 13-15 welcome with an adult guardian/supervisor; 16-17-year-olds must get signed parental permission form/waiver. Days run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., depending on the project. To sign up, visit forestsociety.org/event/monadnock-trails-week-2021.
What to bring: A daypack, water, snack, lunch, gloves (if you have them), sunscreen, bug repellent, and gear for the weather (example: raincoat/hat). Wear closed-toe shoes or hiking boots, long pants, and sweat-wicking clothes that can get dirty. If you have questions, contact Andy Crowley at acrowley@forestsociety.org.