Chester Conservation Committee Leads Lost Mine Trail Hike May 22

Hikers and walkers are invited to join the Chester Conservation Committee on Sunday, May 22nd at 9 am for a guided hike on the Green Mountain Nature Trail in Chester. The hike will be led by Ken Walker, Irwin and Melissa Post and Arne Joynas, longtime CCC members and part of the Lost Mine Trail development team.

The Lost Mine Trail is a 2.2 mile loop that traverses through a large section of Chester's 550-acre Town Forest near the town reservoir. The level of difficulty is strenuous and the trail is more challenging than the GM Nature Trail. Trail features include an historic mine, stone walls, rock ledges, pine and hemlock groves, a vernal pool and a great view of Mount Ascutney.

Hikers will also see remnants of the Gould Mine, part of the historic Carlton Mine, started in 1894 and operating through 1930.

Interested hikers should park at the Reservoir Dam and walk up the hill to meet at the trailhead on Water Farm Road. From the Chester town center, follow Rt. 11 West out of town. After passing Motel in the Meadow take your next right onto Balch Road. Go .8 of a mile and bear right at the fork onto Water Farm Road. Proceed past the reservoir on left and up the road to the clearly marked trailhead. Parking is limited to the shoulder. Please carpool if possible.

Please dress appropriately. Bring water and snacks.

This event is organized by the Chester Conservation Committee, fostering awareness, stewardship and enjoyment of Chester's natural resources since 2004.

For more information, please contact Gary King at 875-5153.