Eagle Scout Restores Trail In Epsom Town Forest
When asked what Eagle Scout, David Marston would want to share
about his Eagle Scout Project he said he hopes people go to
explore the trail he restored. He calls it a hidden gem and hope
people are “inspired” to explore the Trails and the Epsom Town
Forest. “I remember the first time I took a 9 year old on this
remote trail through the Epsom Town Forest and,” he said, “it
was ‘Magical’”. And David Marston would agree. This hiking trail
is designed for foot travel only. It winds deep into the 473
acre Town Forest and takes you to the Epsom Summit of Nottingham
Mountain which is called Neville Peak.
The name Neville Peak honors Joe Neville, who was a dedicated
Scout Master who donated a hundred acre parcel to add to the
Town of Epsom Forest. His land includes this summit with views
to the Northwest including Franconia Notch, The Belknaps and
Mount Washington. Joe Neville introduced many young scouts to
the property and how appropriate for David Marston to chose this
as his Eagle Scout Project. “I still meet many hikers who are
bringing their children to these woods after being introduced to
it through scouting over 30-40 years ago.”
David Marston will forever have a connection to this
conservation land. Many hours and volunteers assisted him in
restoring the trail. Removing deadfall, and what he called
‘widow makers’ and brushing out the trail and creating red
diamond blazes that can be followed to the summit where the
blueberry ledges and view await you.
David coordinated scouts, his family and other volunteers to
assist in the work. They pre-fabricated a bridge and transported
and erected it over a wet section of the trail. The lumber and
bridge design were donated by the Fort Mountain Trailwinders.
The trail would be a great challenge for a trail runner as it
begins at a gentle slope and becomes increasingly steep as you
approach the ridge. The pine forest gives way to hardwoods and
then rocky moss and lichen covered ledges that lead to the rocky
summit.
On Sunday, August 16th there will be a guided hike to the
summit. We will meet at the Town Forest Parking lot on Tarleton
Road at 10am. Wear hiking attire, bring water and snacks for a
picnic on the summit. It will take 3+ hours to do the Scout
trail to the summit and come back down on the Tarleton Trail to
the Mill Pond and then take the Mill Sluice Trail back to the
parking area. A round trip of around 5 miles.
The Epsom Conservation Commission and the town is so
appreciative to David and all the volunteers who helped restore
this trail and the organizations who donated materials.
David does hope you come and explore the hiking
opportunities that are right here in Epsom. For more information
e-mail
[email protected]
