Event Report: Stonehouse Mountain Snowshoe

Hikers Treated to “Paradise” Perfect Conditions

photo credits: Chris Gothberg

Who needs the Olympics? A spectacular snowshoe at the Stonehouse Mountain Conservation Area in Orford, NH, got the gold for 25 lucky hikers, who scored plentiful, lightly-packed powder and magnificent views framed by indigo skies.

The February 22 hike was co-sponsored by the Orford Conservation Commission and hosted by landowners Christie and Bob Hedges. Their generous 270-acre conservation easement donation lies within two distinct watersheds and has earned the state’s highest ranking for wildlife habitat.

Christie, a UVLT trustee, and Bob, a member of the Orford Conservation Commission, hiked along and shared personal anecdotes, pointing out favorite family hiking and look-out spots. Both were delighted by the turnout.

“So many are here to enjoy,” said Christie. “When the winter sun comes down through the trees and the birches have all the snow on them – it’s a winter wonderland, it’s paradise! And it’s even better when you can share it with people. That is truly what makes it more special.”

Stewardship Programs Coordinator Cassie Bernyk, Communications Director Peter Miller, and Land Steward Alexander van Engelen spread out among the group, allowing hikers to go at their own comfortable paces.

“As we climbed up getting closer to the summit, the forest shifted into a beautiful spruce-red pine community that looked nothing less than magical with fresh snow coating all the branches,” said Cassie. “Hikers were constantly amazed by the beauty surrounding them.”

Paul Gagnon’s many hours of volunteer trail maintenance were evident, and he was among those sharing expert commentary regarding the site’s natural features. The trail offers exceptional views down the Connecticut River Valley to Mount Ascutney and Killington.

Snowshoers also included Ken MacGray, co-editor of the AMC White Mountain Guide. “This trail is a definite addition to the 32^nd edition that’ll come out in 2027,” he said. “People should definitely take the newer part of the trail, which visits the viewpoints that we went to and then just walk along that ridge like we did because it’s absolutely gorgeous, not only now but in the summer.”

The mountain’s summertime beauty features lush moss promoted by warming mists.

“This will be UVLT’s second trail in the Guide,” notes Vice President of Stewardship Jason Berard. “Lone Oak Trail in Bath, NH, has a commanding view looking south down the Connecticut River Valley and sits just north of the confluences of the Wells and Ammonoosuc rivers as they each join the Connecticut.”