Why Not A Different Route Through Whitaker?

Design Alternatives

The goal is to research and determine an alternative for a rec path to span the distance between the end of the existing phase 1 at Cranmore to the scenic vista.  Without understanding the funding requirements of the newly developed plan to extend the path north, the alternative described will offer another solution to create a multi-use pathway without the impacts to Whitaker Woods outlined in the current plan.

Background

The trails that currently exist in WW are well-established and have been used by skiers, runners, walkers, snowshoers, and bikers for many years in their current state.  The trails are managed by the Conway Conservation Commission with a stated goal of maintaining existing trails in a manner that is consistent with both the deed restrictions and generally accepted forestry practices in Whitaker Woods.  The Conservation Commission has stated publicly that there shall be no additional trails cut through WW; rather, any new trails that are created be done while older trails are closed. 

Over the years there have been timber operations performed in Whitaker that have been done to harvest mature pine logs.  More recently, Whitaker has been deemed by the CCC as more as a park than a forest, in part because of the intensity of public use, and also due to the observations of the town forester that WW no longer has the quantity of harvestable timber, mostly in white pine.  

Several years ago, one member of the CCC made some trail improvements with an eye towards future rec path expansion through Whitaker.  The two trail modifications that were done by volunteer efforts focused on how to improve access on both ends of Whitaker’s southern (Kearsarge Road) and northern (RR ROW) entry points.  Grades in these two locations were steep and the trail work focused on creating ADA qualified access.  Finished grade materials were sand and gravel, and the improvements were considered a success.