Walker Forest
Between 1930 and 1973, the Town of Bow made strategic acquisitions along Branch Londonderry Turnpike, securing a total of 5 lots encompassing approximately 187 acres. Designated as a Town Forest; Walker has been entrusted to the careful stewardship of the Conservation Commission for many years. Similar to Knox Forest and Old Johnson Road, this property has not only served as a natural sanctuary but has also contributed significant revenue to the Conservation Commission through responsible forestry activities. These funds, in turn, have played a pivotal role in facilitating the Town’s acquisition of additional conservation lands, including Nottingcook Forest and Hammond Preserve. We extend our gratitude to the foresighted members of the Selectboard and Conservation Commission who were instrumental in advocating for the acquisition and preservation of precious forests like Walker. 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. Notably, this marked a significant milestone as it was the inaugural conservation easement deed received by Bow Open Spaces. Around 2012, Bow Open Spaces members, Hilary and Jeff Warner and Jim Jensen, took the initiative to construct trails catering to hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. Over the subsequent years, the Warners and Jensen worked with numerous volunteers (including Scott Oosterveen, Andy Richardson, Scouts, and others) to develop a trail system that seamlessly connects to the Hammond Preserve. Presently, Walker Forest boasts a network of about 5 miles of marked trails. The forest also accommodates a snowmobile trail, maintained each year by the Bow Pioneers Snowmobile Club. Walker Forest offers a superb outdoor experience, welcoming activities such as hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The forest features some challenging variable terrain, providing diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. Access to the trails can be gained from Hampshire Hills Drive, Van Ger Drive, and Branch Londonderry Turnpike.
