Of the many hidden treasures of the Chocorua Lake Basin, Heron Pond is one of the most magical.

Join Lynne Flaccus, naturalist and Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director, for a wander through the moderate trails on the CLC Scott Preserve and TNC Bolles Reserve following the eskers and rolling landscape through a mix of forest types. We’ll wander through fields, past Allen Brook that flows into the Chocorua River, up over eskers and down to the cool waters of the pond. 

Looping around the pond in the upland forest, we’ll pass through hemlock beech forests and under the canopy of mature pines and oaks. Spring wildflowers will have gone to seed, so we’ll look for signs of past blooms and explore what summer blooms there are, looking and listening for the wildlife that lives in the Heron Pond watershed, and seeing which of the many brightly colored mushrooms that inhabit the area have pushed their way up through the forest floor.

The moderate hike and exploration will cover roughly two miles. Wear comfortable walking shoes, be prepared for insects and pack water and a snack. All ages welcome! Meet at the Hammond Trail parking area at the end of Scott Road, and we’ll leave the lot at 9AM. Questions? Call Lynne at the office, 603-323-6252 or email lflaccus@chocorualakeconservancy.org.

Photo: Juno Lamb