Five Hikes Challenge

The 2026 Five Hikes Challenge

Fuel Your Hike. Feed Your Spirit.

Choose five hikes, pack your favorite trail snacks, and hit the trail! Our annual 5 Hikes Challenge invites you to explore new places, reconnect with nature, and experience some of New Hampshire's most remarkable landscapes. Complete five hikes on our properties between August 15th & October 31st and earn special rewards while celebrating 125 years of conservation.

What's New for Our 125th Anniversary Year?

🎒 Anniversary Swag
Registered participants will receive a special 125th anniversary reusable snack bag—perfect for fueling your next adventure while reducing waste on the trail.

🪵 Tree Cookie Scavenger Hunt
We've hidden 25 wooden "tree cookies" on select Forest Society properties throughout the challenge. Find one, scan the QR code, and complete the online form to claim an additional prize designed to help fuel future hikes and adventures.

🥾 Guided Hike Opportunities
Want to complete the challenge with others? Join one of several staff-led hikes offered throughout the summer and fall. Whether you're new to hiking or simply enjoy exploring with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, these guided outings are a great way to participate. Space is limited, so register early:

  • Thursday September 3 - Bald Cap Peak Forest, Shelburne 
  • Friday September 18 - Creek Farm, Portsmouth 
  • Friday October 2 - Morse Preserve, Alton 
  • Friday October 16 – Merrimack Floodplain Forest, Concord 
  • Friday October 30 - Madame Sherri Forest, Chesterfield 

Ready to Get Started?

Register today, choose your five hikes, and join us in celebrating 125 years of conservation—one trail at a time.

Resources

Once registered, you'll receive:

  • Printed trail maps,directions, and trail guides for your selected hikes
  • Tips for hiking safely and responsibly
  • Interpretive info about the land
  • A limited-edition 2026 Forest Society 125th anniversary sticker and reusable snack bag
  • Details for a scavenger hunt that will include more prizes
  • Invitations to optional guided hikes (found separately on our calendar) led by Forest Society staff

Did you know?

The 5 Hikes Challenge is FREE for Forest Society members — and membership costs the same as registering for the challenge. Become a member now and get:

  • Free entry to the challenge
  • A full year of membership benefits, including our Forest Notes magazine and complimentary tickets to Lost River Gorge
  • The chance to protect the 200+ forests you love