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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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USA Parks
New Hampshire
Merrimack Valley Region
Ayers State Forest
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AYERS STATE FOREST
AYERS STATE FOREST
Ayers State Forest is a picturesque natural oasis that captivates visitors with its enchanting beauty. Stretching across acres of diverse terrain, this forest offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Towering trees provide a lush canopy while vibrant wildflowers add bursts of color throughout the landscape. Trails wind their way through the forest, leading explorers to hidden gems such as babbling brooks and peaceful ponds. The forest is home to a wide range of wildlife, from deer and foxes to owls and woodpeckers. With its calming ambiance and breathtaking scenery, Ayers State Forest is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, providing an escape from the bustle of everyday life.
History of the Area
Ayers State Forest, located in New Hampshire, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The forest is named after Hiram Ayers, a conservationist and forester who played a significant role in the management and preservation of New Hampshire's forests.

In the late 1800s, New Hampshire experienced a significant deforestation due to extensive logging. Concerned about the dwindling forest resources, Hiram Ayers began advocating for sustainable forest management practices and the establishment of state forests. His efforts led to the creation of the New Hampshire State Forestry Commission in 1911, which aimed to conserve and protect the state's natural resources.

Ayers State Forest was established in the early 1920s as part of Hiram Ayers' vision. The initial land acquisition for the forest consisted of over 2,000 acres. Over the years, additional parcels of land were added, and the forest expanded to its current size of approximately 4,000 acres.
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Trails
1. Ayers Pond Loop: This is a 3-mile moderate difficulty trail that circles around the scenic Ayers pond, offering hikers stunning views of the water and surrounding forest.

2. Bear Brook Trail: A challenging hike stretching over 4 miles through dense woods with several steep inclines and declines along its path.

3. Pine Grove Pathway: An easy to navigate, flat terrain pathway perfect for beginners or those seeking a leisurely walk amidst towering pine trees spread across about two miles in length.

4. Maple Ridge Run: Approximately five-miles long this moderately difficult trail takes you on an uphill journey showcasing beautiful maple forests especially during fall when leaves change color creating picturesque scenes all along your route.

5. Hemlock Hollow Track: This track stretches approximately three miles featuring hemlocks groves providing cool shade making it ideal for summer hikes; rated as medium-difficulty due to some uneven terrains encountered en-route.

6. Birchwood Way: As suggested by name, this one mile looped-trail winds through birch woodlands giving visitors close-up view of these unique tree species ; suitable even for novice hikers.

7. Fern Gully Route: It's roughly four-mile-long trek traversing lush fern-filled gullies presenting opportunities to spot various bird species inhabiting this area; considered slightly strenuous owing few rocky patches present throughout course.

8. Cedar Creek Crossing: Spanning just under two-and-a-half miles, this relatively easier hiking option crosses Cedar creek at multiple points allowing refreshing breaks near flowing waters while navigating mostly levelled ground covered predominantly by cedar vegetation.

9. Oak Knoll Climb: This demanding six-mile climb leads up Oak knoll rewarding climbers panoramic vistas from top overlooking entire state forest region below;a must-do adventure particularly recommended only seasoned trekkers given physically taxing nature involved reaching summit.

10. Wildflower Walkabout: A gentle stroll spanning less than a mile, this trail is best visited in spring when variety of wildflowers bloom along path making it visually delightful experience for nature lovers regardless their hiking proficiency level.

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Area Campgrounds
Silver Lake Park Campground
389 Jamestown Road
Belmont, NH
603-524-6289
Hillcrest Campground
78 Dover Road
Chichester, NH
603-798-5124
Sandy Beach RV Resort
677 Clement Hill Road
Contoocook, NH
603-746-3591
Thousand Acres Family Campground
Route 3 1079 South Main Street
Franklin, NH
603-934-4440
Hack-Ma-Tack Campground
713 Endroot Street North
Laconia, NH
603-366-5977
Sandy Beach Campground
677 Clement Hill Road
Hopkinton, NH
603-746-3591
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Sunset Mountain Fish & Game Club
117 West Rd
Canterbury, NH
(603) 783-0454

Directions
1. Start your journey from the city of Concord, which serves as a central point for many travelers.
2. From Concord, take I:93 North towards Plymouth.
3. Continue on I:93 N for approximately 20 miles until you reach Exit 23 toward NH Route 104/New Hampton/Bristol/Meredith.
4. Take this exit and merge onto NH:104 W/NH-132 S/US Route 3 Southbound (Daniel Webster Highway).
5. Stay on US Route 3 Southbound for about half a mile before turning right onto Ayers Island Road at the sign indicating "Ayers State Forest.".
6. Follow Ayers Island Road for around one mile until you arrive at the entrance to Ayers State Forest.

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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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