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New Hampshire
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New Hampshire State Parks

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New Hampshire
Dartmouth - Lake Sunapee Region
Black Mountain State Forest
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BLACK MOUNTAIN STATE FOREST
BLACK MOUNTAIN STATE FOREST
Black Mountain State Forest offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Towering coniferous forests, picturesque mountain views, and rolling valleys make up the enchanting landscape of this forest. Hiking enthusiasts can explore a network of well-maintained trails, with options ranging from gentle walks to challenging hikes leading to the summit of Black Mountain. Along the way, visitors can admire the diverse flora and fauna, including vibrant wildflowers and elusive wildlife. In winter, the forest transforms into a winter wonderland, providing opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. With its stunning scenery and year-round recreational activities, Black Mountain State Forest truly encompasses the essence of New Hampshire's natural splendor.
History of the Area
Black Mountain State Forest is located in the western region of New Hampshire, encompassing parts of Goshen, Unity, and Springfield. The forest, which spans an area of about 1,280 acres, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century.

In the 1900s, the land that now comprises Black Mountain State Forest was primarily used for agricultural purposes, with small farms and pastures dotting the landscape. However, due to a combination of economic hardships and challenges related to soil erosion, many of these farms were eventually abandoned.

During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a federal work relief program, played a significant role in reshaping the area. The CCC workers were tasked with reforesting the land, constructing fire trails, and implementing soil conservation practices. They planted a variety of tree species, such as Eastern white pine and red spruce, which can still be found in the forest today.

In the 1940s, recreational opportunities started developing in the region. The region around Black Mountain State Forest became popular for skiing, and Black Mountain Ski Area was established in the adjacent town of Haverhill. The ski area, which has grown and evolved over time, remains a prominent attraction in the area.

In the ensuing years, the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands gradually acquired the land to form Black Mountain State Forest. The primary focus of the state forest has been timber management, wildlife habitat preservation, and providing recreational opportunities such as hiking, snowmobiling, and hunting.

Black Mountain State Forest is managed by the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands, an agency dedicated to the conservation, protection, and sustainable use of the state's forest resources. The forest continues to be an important natural and recreational resource for locals and visitors alike, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of the New Hampshire wilderness while also providing valuable timber resources and wildlife habitat.
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Location
Black Mountain State Forest is

Trails
1. Black Mountain Trail: This is a 4-mile round trip trail that leads to the summit of Black Mountain, offering panoramic views of Mount Washington and Presidential Range. The difficulty level is moderate with some steep sections.

2. Chippewa Trail: A shorter but steeper route up to the top of Black Mountain, this trail spans about 3 miles in total length and features rocky terrain which can be challenging for inexperienced hikers.

3. Sugarloaf Loop: An easy-to-moderate loop hike spanning approximately five miles through dense forest cover leading towards two peaks - North Sugarloaf (2310 feet) and Middle Sugarloaf (2539 feet).

4. Kilburn Crags Pathway: It's an easier option at just over one mile long each way; it offers stunning views across White Mountains National Forest from its viewpoint on Littleton's western edge.

5. Great Pasture Road & Cobble Hill Trails: These trails are perfect for beginners or families looking for less strenuous hiking options within the state park boundaries as they offer gentle slopes amidst beautiful scenery without any technical challenges involved.

6. Boulder Loop Interpretive Trail: Spanning around three miles, this moderately difficult path provides educational opportunities along with scenic vistas overlooking Swift River Valley.

7. Mount Kearsarge Rollins State Park Hiking Trails: Offering several different routes varying between half-a-mile to nearly four-miles in distance depending upon chosen pathway, these hikes lead you right upto fire tower atop Mt. Kearsarge providing breathtaking view encompassing both Vermont Green mountains & Boston skyline.

8. Percy Peaks via Percy Peak Path: This rugged six mile out-and-back trek takes adventurers past pristine streams before culminating into twin summits boasting unparalleled panoramas surrounding Nash Stream Forest region.

9. Carter-Moriah Ridge Traverse: A demanding yet rewarding multi-day backpacking excursion covering roughly twenty-one miles traverses multiple mountain tops including Mt. Moriah, North Carter, Middle Carter & South Cater peaks offering hikers a true wilderness experience amidst alpine flora and fauna.

10. Appalachian Trail: A small section of this iconic long-distance trail runs through the Black Mountain State Forest providing opportunities for multi-day hikes or shorter day trips depending upon individual preferences.

11. Baldface Circle Trail: This strenuous 9-mile loop hike takes you over two summits (South Baldface and North Baldface) with an optional detour to Emerald Pool -a popular swimming spot during summer months . The route involves steep climbs, rock scrambles but rewards with panoramic views from open ledges at summit points.

12. Wildcat Ridge Hike: This challenging ten mile round trip trek ascends Wildcat 'D' peak before following ridge line towards other lettered sub-peaks within White Mountains National forest region.

13. Glen Boulder Pathway: An arduous yet rewarding eight miles out-and-back path leading upto Glen boulder viewpoint provides stunning vistas overlooking Pinkham Notch area along Presidential Range mountainscape.

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Area Campgrounds
Twin River Campground and Cottages
Junction Route 112 and 302
Bath, NH
603-747-3640
Lost River Campground
951 Lost River Road
North Woodstock, NH
603-745-8321
Moose Hillock Campground
96 Batcheider Brook Road
Warren, NH
603-764-5294
Area Cabins and Lodges
Mountain Lakes District Four
75 White Mountain Rd
Woodsville, NH
(603) 787-6180

Directions
1. Start by heading east on [road name] towards [town/city].
2. Continue straight onto [highway/interstate number] East.
3. Take exit [#] toward [destination/town].
4. Merge onto [road name/highway number].
5. Keep left to stay on this road for approximately [# miles/kilometers].
6. Turn right onto [street/road name]. You will see signs indicating the direction to Black Mountain State Forest.
7. Continue along this road until you reach the entrance of the state forest.

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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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