Join forester and nature enthusiast Swift Corwin for an upland exploration of the land surrounding MacDowell Lake in Peterborough. We’ll admire a mature pine forest and explore beech, maple, birch, red oak, and hemlock stands as we cross streams, lowland maple forest, and gravel pits that are managed for breeding turtles.

This moderately strenuous, 4.5-mile loop hike will include about three miles on trails, with the remainder off-trail, and an elevation gain of 200 feet. Please bring plenty of water, lunch, and some snacks, and come prepared for ticks.

Meet at 9 a.m. at the parking lot on the west side of MacDowell Dam, off Wilder Street in Peterborough. (Drive across the dam to park.) Back by 1 p.m. Space is limited, and registration is required.

For general information about Harris Center field trips, including questions about accessibility, see our Outings Information page. For more information on this particular outing, please contact Swift.