Great Marsh Preserve

Location: Old Chester Turnpike, Hooksett NH 03106
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Parking: Gravel parking areas are located at either end of the Old Chester Turnpike. The property can also be accessed via the Heads Pond Trail off Route 3.

Trails

The Great Marsh Rail Trail runs along the western property boundary of Great Marsh Preserve, connecting the Heads Pond Rail Trail to the Old Chester Turnpike.

The shortest route is via the Allenstown end of Old Chester Turnpike, but the road is often flooded and may be difficult to access. The road is typically totally inaccessible in spring.

The Heads Pond trail is the easiest approach, and allows views of Heads Pond from both sides. The Heads Pond Rail Trail is an ADA universally accessible trail according to the city of Hooksett. It should continue to be a level, even path for most of the way although it is not designated universally accessible.

Walking from the Hooksett Clay Pond Conservation Area side of Old Chester Turnpike is the longest approach. The trail stays dry throughout the year, but it may be difficult for those without good balance.

History

Great Marsh Preserve, like several other properties in the Bear Brook State Park / Clay Pond Conservation Area forest block, was previously owned by Manchester Sand & Gravel. The property and its neighboring parcel were under consideration for being turned into a large housing development, but the large expanse of wetland and the nearby gravel pit were natural resources considered too precious to be lost.
Bear-Paw worked with NH Fish & Game and the town of Hooksett, eventually coming to an agreement with Manchester Sand & Gravel that allowed the purchase of Great Marsh Preserve. 

A former gravel pit on Great Marsh Preserve now serves as a turtle nesting site.

Habitat & Wildlife

There are sensitive species that have been identified on this property. Please watch your step and don't touch anything you don't recognize.
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Hemlock-hardwood-pine forest is the predominant habitat type, followed by Appalachian oak-pine forest.  A series of small wetlands is scattered throughout the property, including shrubby wetlands, wet meadows, peatlands, temperate swamp, and small vernal and permanent pools.