Celebrate Earth Day by Joining Chester's Lost Mine Trail Workday - Download Trail Map Here

Earth Day on Sunday April 22, 10-3, is the perfect time to join other volunteers at the Lost Mine Trail Workday, organized by the Chester Conservation Committee [CCC]. This popular trail through the southernmost section of Chester's 550-acre predominantly hardwood Town Forest is two miles long and features mossy streams, a steep ravine, pine and hemlock groves, forest management areas, a high ridgeline, and an historic mine.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE LOST MINE HIKING TRAIL MAP

The trail's spring cleanup will focus on removing brush and fallen trees along the entire loop, improving the tread, rerouting a steep short section, and flagging a spur trail to the reservoir. Many volunteers will help make these ambitious efforts possible.

While some trail tools will be provided by the Student Conservation Association [SCA], participants are encouraged to bring their own loppers, pruners, and bow saws and to dress appropriately for rough work with tough long pants, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, work shoes, hat, and work gloves. Ticks may be out, so additional precautions or a special spray are recommended. Bring water, snacks, and a snack lunch and come for as much time as possible.

The parking area and trailhead are easy to find. Follow Route 11 West out of Chester. Take an immediate right after the brick Army Reserve building onto Balch Road. Go .8 of a mile and turn right at the fork onto Water Farm Road. Proceed down the hill and park at the bottom of the reservoir dam. Walk up the road, past the reservoir on the left, to the clearly marked trailhead on the right. CCC members will be working along the trail and near the parking lot to help direct workers. Participants are welcome to come late or leave early, but all are encouraged to help for as much time as they can.

Maps of the Lost Mine Hiking Trail are available at Chester Hardware and the Chester Town Hall, or can be downloaded here. For further information, please contact Gary King at 802-875-5153.