This summer we will again enjoy weekend hikes and weekday walks in Eastman. They will be listed in the community’s e-newsletter, Eastman Highlights, and on the Eastman calendar. We ask that participants call the leader listed in advance for the time and place to meet for each trip. We need more leaders. If you are interested, contact me at (603) 863-6456 or phope@oxfordnetworks.net.
When hiking on your own, prepare in advance and stay safe! Take adequate clothing and gear (including the 10 Essentials), water and food. Be sure to notify friends and family of your plans in detail. And enjoy the out of doors!
My picks:
Mill Road Trail, Lebanon, NH
Take I-89 north to Exit 17, US-4. Turn right, then almost at once left onto Riverside Drive. Very soon you will see two roads turning right; the second is Mill Road. Drive on this road to a parking area that will be on your left just before a gate. Follow an old road that runs parallel to the scenic Mascoma River. Grades are very gentle. In 1.5 miles, the Northern Rail Trail joins from your left after it crosses the river. Continue on this for a short distance to an informational kiosk. Take the path on your left heading toward the river. Explore the interesting old mill sites in this lovely wooded area along the river. Enjoy lunch or a snack before heading back to your car. This trail is good for biking as well as hiking.
Total distance 3-4 miles, with little elevation change. Easy.
Precipice Trail to South Peak, Woodstock, VT
Drive north on I-89 to Exit 1 in Vermont, then east on US 4 to Woodstock. Turn right on VT 12 to Billings Farm & Museum, and park there. Walk uphill on the paved path; cross VT 12 and follow the carriage drive uphill past the mansion, bearing right after a field, then left. Turn left again at a junction and climb a bit to the start of the Precipice and North Peak Trails. Take the trail on the left at 0.5 miles. This scenic trail hugs the hillside as it climbs, steeply in places, more gently in others, often with cliffs above and below. There are cables to hold on to where there is significant exposure. After 0.5 miles you will reach South Peak, where you will enjoy great views over Woodstock. This trail is for hiking only. Distance: 2 miles round trip, with ~600’ elevation gain. Moderate/ Strenuous.
Peter Hope
Editor’s Note: If you do not receive Eastman Highlights, email admin@eastmannh.org to subscribe.
Ten Essentials
- Map
- Compass (optionally with a GPS receiver)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Extra clothing
- Headlamp (or flashlight)
- First-aid supplies
- Matches
- Knife
- Water for hydration
- Food/snacks
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