Overview of Trails
There are many trails to explore, primarily within the Hammond Nature Preserve, the Knox & School Forests, Walker Forest and Nottingcook Forest. Bow Open Spaces holds conservation easements on additional properties that are permanently protected from development, but do not at this time have trail access.
Trail Maps
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“The Nottingcook” is the largest single easement held by Bow Open Spaces.
A series of trails crisscross this town forest, offering wonderful opportunities to explore nature and, perhaps, glimpse wildlife – including moose!
Access Nottingcook from trailheads on South Bow Road and at the end of the section of Woodhill Hooksett Road that is located off of Bow Bog Road. Crescent Drive trailhead is at the top of the cul-de-sac.
771 acres
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The Knox Town Forest, combined with the adjacent School Forest, includes some of the most popular trails in Bow. Hikers, nordic skiers, bicyclists and snowmobilers all utilize the area.
Access to the Knox Forest is available at parking lots on both Knox Road and Robinson Road. A trailhead into the School Forest is located on Bow Center Road, just south of Bow Middle School.
318 acres
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David Hammond had settled in Bow in 1791, having purchased the farm of Richard Dow.
The property was purchased in 2007 by the Town of Bow from the Hammond family heirs.
The Nature Preserve consists of 143.5 acres on Dunbarton Center Road in Bow.
144 acres
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Designated as a Town Forest; Walker has been entrusted to the careful stewardship of the Conservation Commission for many years. In 1998, the Town granted Bow Open Spaces a permanent conservation easement on Walker Forest. The easement deed encompassed not only Walker Forest but also the Old Johnson Road Forest and Knox Forest. Specifically, the conservation easement was established to protect crucial features, including watersheds, vernal pools, and wetlands within the forest.
Trail Tips
Leave no trace
Stay on trails
Pick up litter and fallen branches
Respect trail closures
Avoid muddy trails
Do not make new trails
Notify Bow Open Spaces about conditions
Dogs welcome; under control
Remove pet waste from trails
No ATVs or motorbikes on trails
Contact us to learn more about volunteering!
Protect our natural resources and preserve the wildlife habitat in your favorite patch of woods. Your stewardship of our land will ensure a healthy environment for all to enjoy for many years to come.
Here are some ways you can minimize your impact:
Stay on the trail
Keep dogs under your control at all times
Avoid disturbing wildlife, especially during spring nesting and hatching periods
Do not disturb vernal pools during breeding season, April – July
Avoid disturbing vegetation