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White Mountain National Forest Partner Complex: ‘200 Years of Community Trail Stewardship’

Image of a scenic view of a lake and mountains.

 

Trail Miles
1,692

Forests Involved

Trails on the White Mountain National Forest are supported by a community of trail stewards whose efforts predate the establishment of the Forest by nearly one hundred years. As the forest approaches its hundredth birthday in 2018, these historic trail partnerships remain strong, though the vitality and viability of the 1,692 mile trail system is fraying. The forest and partner trail community continue to steward the oldest recreation trail system in the country, the highest use in the forest service region, and the challenge of legacy trail alignments.

On a forest within a day's drive of more than 70 million people, and visitor and usage numbers on the rise, dedicated partners face a daunting task in crafting a more sustainable future for White Mountain National Forest trails. With the priority area focus, the forest and trail community are emphasizing holistic, partner-driven efforts to enhancing trail maintenance.

Trail Maintenance Priority Area map (PDF - 1.5MB)

 

Examples of Trail Maintenance Needs:

  • Remove hazard trees and logs over the trail
  • Remove overgrown brush
  • Complete trail reconstruction and reroutes
  • Conduct trail tread stabilization
  • Repair and replace drainage structures
  • Restore and replace trail signs and reassurance markers

Image of a log ladder on a trail.

 
Image of trail workers moving a rock. Image of trail workers moving a piece of metal into place while building a bridge. Image of trail workers installing a piece of equipment.

 

Our Partners:

  
  • Appalachian Mountain Club
  • Appalachian Trail Conservancy
  • Chatham Trails Association
  • Chocorua Mountain Club
  • Dartmouth Outing Club
  • National Forest Foundation
  • New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA)
  • New Hampshire State Parks
  • Randolph Mountain Club
  • Squam Lakes Association
  • Waterville Valley Athletic Improvement Association
  • Wonalancet Outdoor Club

 

Image of a scenic vista.

Learn More & Get Involved!

To know more about trail maintenance efforts in this priority area, contact:

Stanley Carte, Asst. Rec & Wilderness Program Leader