Easy walking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, hiking, wildlife, history, great for kids.
Mason, Greenville, NH
It seems all this time I have been going in the wrong entrance to the Potter property.
While clearing blowdowns in the snow my eyes were opened. No longer did the map not make sense. And, while there are some more trail changes to come. I am looking forward to sharing this area with fellow hikers and friends this year.
I had been starting at the Kiosk in Greenville. WRONG. If you are heading West on Greenville Rd, you will see, before you leave Mason, a sign.
There is also an old sign, only Bronson Potter knows what it means. Perhaps horses allowed? And, across the road a lovely old Sugaring barn. Said to be one of the oldest in Mason.
Previously this trail area was explored and blogged, before the extension. https://mikicc.org/2020/03/06/potter-trail/
and now, here again I find myself on the Potter land this time from the proper entrance with a proper guide. No shotgun shells, no shot up tree, no pink flamingos.
What an delightful experience.
By approaching from the PROPER entrance the maps make sense. Although the Kiosk map needs a bit of upgrading. There are usually maps available.
In the non snowy season, you an see the foundation of Bronson’s house, as well as the foundation of his airplane hanger. As the snow melts I will add photos. More on his flying history can be seen in my previous blog: https://mikicc.org/2020/03/06/potter-trail/
The following are pictures from last fall.
It is recommended that, unless you have tall mud boots, you hold off til we dry out a bit. Though the sound of babbling brooks is delightful. There are a few places where crossing is quite difficult.
Sadly, Beech bark disease is rampant. A few years ago a study was done in the area.
More information on Beech bark disease may be found here: https://www.unh.edu/unhtoday/2021/07/beechbarkdisease
Most of the trail is free from rocks and roots. Easy walking and great for horses. This is the only rock to navigate.
Look at this quartz. Wow.
There are signs of wildlife everywhere, and as the weather warms the area will come alive with amphibians of all sorts as well as other creatures who have left their calling card.
Lots of interesting trees.
We got misplaced as some of the trails are still a work in progress. We came across a camp area. Not sure if we were off trail or not.
and skirted along a beautiful stonewall, there are lots in this area, which bounded a wildlife protection zone, complete with a deer stand. Go figure.
The swamps and ponds are beautiful. I saw a Mallard drake, but he hid behind the downed tree before I could get a good shot of him.
There are many beautiful areas. The trails that are complete are wide and smooth. Care has been taken to highlight the many scenic areas.
We did get misplaced. The maps are sometimes hard to interpret. There are a couple of versions and I hope to add way points to my map to perhaps make it more interpretive. The first, needs a bit more resolution. I had to trace with a pen and it cuts off the Greenville section.
The second is the map on the trail. While it looks like a seahorse, at times it got us lost. Be sure and consult your compass for N. They are pretty though. If you come in at the Mason Kiosk, you will find the trails well marked and easy to follow. Coming in from the other Kiosk is quite confusing. I have learned my lesson as to where to tuck in.
And for your enjoyment, some pictures taken in March when we were clearing blowdowns.
My version will be updated as progress out there continues. We plan to frequent the Potter trails as they are close to home and fun to explore. This small group of Mason volunteers is doing a great job.
Highly recommend you explore this gem. For more info be sure and check out https://mikicc.org/2020/03/06/potter-trail/
Thankyou Masontrails.wordpress.com
Check back for updates. And please, be sure and like and share. See you in the woods.
Gina’s Misha and Gina herself loved this hike. It’s easy, serene and interesting.