The Monadnock Region is host to an array of hiking trails. In the winter many of these trails become perfect snowshoeing trails. Below are five of my favorite trails to snowshoe in the Monadnock Region.
Cranberry Meadow Pond Trail: Located on Old Street Road in Peterborough is a popular year round trail, but my favorite time to explore this trail is by snowshoe in the winter. The trail is fairly flat, except for one hill. It crosses a boardwalk, follows a beautiful stream and ends at a scenic pond. The trail is well marked and only a mile to the pond. It is perfect for those new and old to snowshoeing.
Crotched Mountain Trails: Located on Crotched Mountain Road in Greenfield is a variety of trails depending on how hard of a snowshoe you want. You can go part way up the trail to a lookout area of Mt. Monadnock. If you are looking for more of a challenge you can snowshoe all the way to the top of Crotched Mountain where there are sweeping views of the Monadnock Region. The mileage of this trail varies depending on how far you go.
Harris Center Trails: Located on Kings Highway in Hancock is The Harris Center which offers an array of trails. For snowshoeing I really enjoy the Channing Trail which is a 3.5 mile fairly flat loop through boulder fields and relaxing forests.
Loverens Mills Trail: Located off Route 9 in Antrim is a beautiful winter trail. This trail has some up and downs, meanders through the woods and follows a river. Being over a 3 mile loop this is a great trail to get a good workout while enjoying the peacefulness of the woods.
Wales Preserve: Located on Spring Hill Road in Sharon is a beautiful trail in all seasons, but it is best in the winter months. Following the Gridley River and looping into the woods this trail provides some beautiful winter scenery especially after a new snow fall. This trail is about a two mile easy loop making it a great easy snowshoeing outing.
Living in the Monadnock Region I feel fortunate to have access to so many great trails. in the winter many of these trails become magical after a new snow fall. It was hard to pick my top favorites. I hope you are able to find some of your favorite snowshoeing spots in the Monadnock Region. If you need help picking out snowshoes check out my blog post, Why a Good Pair of Snowshoes is Important.
