Two staffers from the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, a naturalist and an ecologist, will lead a group trek up Gap Mountain on Aug. 9.

Gap Mountain is one of those lovely little peaks surrounding Mount Monadnock. Like the bigger, better-known peak, it’s got clear views from the top, but it’s a much easier climb. It’s also got gobs of blueberries, if I remember rightly. In addition to making a nice day-hike destination, it’s also a bump on the route of the Monadnock Metacomet Trail.

Here’s the Forest Society press release: 

FOREST SOCIETY NATURALIST AND ECOLOGIST WILL LEAD A HIKE UP GAP MONADNOCK

SPONSOR:  Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests

WHAT:  The 1,100 acre Gap Mountain Forest Reservation is a classic hiking destination, particularly in mid-summer when sun-ripened blueberries and stunning views of Monadnock beckon. Join Forest Society naturalist Dave Anderson and staff ecologist Peter Ellis on a traverse of property to learn about the ecological reserve area, rare plants and recreation management. Recent trailhead parking lot improvements and kiosk maps have been re-installed. Lunch on the summit will include readings and discussions about the history of Monadnock and the local recreation experience. There is no fee and the hike is rated as strenuous.

WHEN:  Saturday, August 9, 2008, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 WHERE:  Meet at Gap Mountain trailhead.  Follow 124 West from Jaffrey and take a left on Bullard Road about 0.9 miles past the Monadnock half-way house trailhead. The Gap Mountain trailhead is about 0.6 miles down the road on the left. 

CONTACT:    Trish Churchill

                          Registrar/Volunteer Specialist

                          Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests

                          (603) 224-9945, Extension 311

REGISTER:    At signup@forestsociety.org or call (603) 224-9945, Ext. 311. Visit the Forest Society website at www.forestsociety.org