Explore the Nelson Highlands Land Protection Project

Date:
Thursday, August 27, 2026
Time:
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location:
Harris Center for Conservation Education
83 Kings Highway
Hancock, NH 03449
Nelson Highlands Project
Come paddle or stomp with staff from the Forest Society and the Harris Center to learn about the extraordinary opportunity to permanently protect the 655-acre Nelson Highlands Forest, overlooking Lake Nubanusit. This privately owned upland forest forms the lake's northern viewshed and has remained intact and sustainably managed for more than 50 years. Without permanent conservation, its future remains uncertain.

Located at the heart of the SuperSanctuary, the property encompasses the highlands of Holt Hill and Rollstone Mountain and has long been a top conservation priority. The forest protects a significant portion of the Lake Nubanusit watershed, helping safeguard the lake's exceptional water quality. Come explore this remarkable landscape, learn about ongoing conservation efforts, and discover how you can help protect this special place.

The event begins at the Harris Center for Conservation Education for an introduction to the property, maps, and an overview of this conservation opportunity. 

Around 9:30, participants will depart for one of two field trip excursion options:

Excursion Option #1: Paddling on Lake Nubanusit
Bring your own canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, along with paddles and a PFD. This approximately three-hour flatwater paddle will explore the shoreline of Lake Nubanusit, with a possible side trip to the quiet shores of Spoonwood Pond if time permits.
Leaders: Susie Spikol, Laurel Swope-Brush

Excursion Option #2: Off-Trail Hiking Adventure
Explore a diverse landscape featuring Kings Highway, a dramatic boulder field and talus slope, a large rock outcrop, the summit of Rollstone Mountain with its red spruce forest, a large vernal pool, and mature oak forest with partial lake views on the return. This is a strenuous hike due to the steep and rocky ascent to the summit.
Leaders: Brian Hotz, Ben Aldrich, Eric Masterson