Chester Conservation Committee Leads Hikes on Two Chester Trails

Have you heard about the Green Mountain Nature Trail and Lost Mine Hiking Trail in Chester? Would you like to hike and explore these trails with someone who built them and knows about them? Join the Chester Conservation Committee (CCC) in May for two guided hikes.

Green Mountain Nature Trail Hike - Saturday, May 14th at 9 am

The Green Mountain Nature Trail is a 1.8 mile loop trail that traverses through the 160 acre forest adjacent to the Green Mountain Union HS. This trail offers a moderate hike that winds and climbs through beautiful evergreen and hardwood forests. The trail also features a large glacial boulder, stone walls, a wooden footbridge, rock culverts and views of the South Branch Williams River.

Interested hikers should meet in the parking lot behind Green Mountain Union HS (near the soccer field and running track) between 8:45 and 9:00am.

Lost Mine Trail Hike - Sunday, May 22nd at 9 am

The Lost Mine Trail is a 2.2 mile loop that traverses through a large section of Chester's 550-acre Town Forest near the town reservoir. While the level of difficulty is moderate, it is more challenging than the GM Nature Trail. Trail features include an historic mine, stone walls, rock ledges, pine and hemlock groves, a vernal pool and a great view of Mount Ascutney. Hikers will also see remnants of the Gould Mine, part of the historic Carlton Mine, started in 1894 and operating through 1930.

Interested hikers should meet at the trailhead on Water Farm Road. From the Chester town center, follow Rt. 11 West out of town. After passing Motel in the Meadow take your next right onto Balch Road. Go 0.8 of a mile and bear right at the fork onto Water Farm Road. Proceed past the reservoir on left and up the road to the clearly marked trailhead. Parking is limited to the shoulder. Please carpool if possible.

Please dress appropriately. Bring water and snacks.

This event is organized by the Chester Conservation Committee, fostering awareness, stewardship and enjoyment of Chester's natural resources since 2004.

For more information, please contact Gary King at 875-5153.