trails

Balch Hill Hawk Watch this Saturday 11am-1PM

October 4, 2021

See the hawks on their migration south and enjoy the views from the summit of Balch Hill. Families welcome. Bring your binoculars and hope for clear skies and cruising hawks! We’ll share the history of this special place, protected in 1970, and how the Natural Area is formed by lands owned by the Hanover Conservancy, Town of Hanover, and Dartmouth College.

When: Saturdays, Oct. 9th 11am-1PM

Meet at the summit of Balch Hill. Suitable for all ages.

Led by David Merker and Gail McPeek.

Help us know who’s coming: pre-register here!

Norman Overlook at Mink Brook

September 25, 2019

In 1999, Bob led the Council’s effort to protect the 112-acre Mink Brook Nature Preserve, then slated to become a 32-lot subdivision. In 2019, the 20th anniversary of that daunting and ultimately successful project, the Conservancy dedicated the Norman Overlook to Bob and his vision for our community.

Celebrating the Norman Overlook’s dedication

HC Board members finish final prep on the Overlook site

Native dogwoods, serviceberry and other shrubs were planted to restore the floodplain.

Hugh Mellert works to place the dedication plaque on a granite boulder

The final step was planting native shrubs and preparing the site for the dedication ceremony

Weekend hike inspiration

October 5, 2018

Looking for something to do on this beautiful long weekend? Check out one of our Hikes of the Month, which include detailed directions and history on each location.

When you’re out there, take a moment to appreciate the incredible array of natural resources in the Upper Valley! These pristine streams and rich soils were cared for by indigenous peoples, enabled farming and forestry to thrive, and now support recreation, tourism and much, much more.

Send us your foliage photos from around the UV and help inspire others to get outdoors & explore!

Tunis Brook Wildlife in Winter – Saturday Feb. 16

February 6, 2013

Come explore a far corner of Hanover as we go tracking wildlife with naturalist Alcott Smith. Going into the woods with Alcott is always high adventure! Saturday from 9am to noon. Snowshoes available. Please, no pets. DETAILS

Trails Softening ~ Bears Out Soon!

March 12, 2012

This week’s unusually warm temperatures mean muddy trails. It’s best to stay off the trails until they dry out and harden up. An exception is the Quinn Trail at Mink Brook Nature Preserve.

Time to bring in your bird feeders! State biologists expect the bears weren’t fooled by this mild winter any more than we were, and ask that you bring in your bird feeders now, and don’t wait until April 1.

Icy trail conditions

January 3, 2012

Rain in January is never a great thing for trails. Please watch your step and hope for some proper snow. We’ve provided shovels at our crossings at Mink Brook, but they can’t help with ice. Happy New Year to all.

Balch Hill Hawk Watch this Saturday 11am-1PM

Norman Overlook at Mink Brook

Weekend hike inspiration

Tunis Brook Wildlife in Winter – Saturday Feb. 16

Trails Softening ~ Bears Out Soon!

Icy trail conditions

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Explore Hanover