Horne Town Forest/Contoocook Overlook Trail

Contoocook Overlook Loop (yellow blazes):
This loop trail was added in the fall of 2016 to provide access to Horne Town Forest, a 14-acre parcel acquired in 2015. The new town forest is surrounded by Bohanan Farm at the confluence of the Blackwater and Contoocook Rivers. The trail to the overlook leaves the Blackwater River Loop at the half way point, adding ¾ of a mile to the Blackwater Loop (2.2 miles total with the overlook trail). The trail follows a bluff above the Blackwater River before turning toward the Contoocook River where an overlook provides beautiful views where the two rivers converge. The trail climbs a short hill to a bluff along the Contoocook River, follows through mature woodlands with views over Bohanan fields, and rejoins the Blackwater River Loop.

History

The 14-acre Horne Town Forest was acquired by the Town in 2015 through the efforts of the Conservation Commission. The property had been privately owned by multiple owners. Located in the middle of Bohanan Farm, the parcel had no road access but had valuable river frontage on both the Blackwater and Contoocook Rivers.

The Conservation Commission, working with town officials, was able to acquire the land through tax deeds as well as the generosity of one of the owners, Donelda Horne. In appreciation of her effort to sell this property for the enjoyment of town residents, the property was named Horne Town Forest.