- Tags:
- Mount Major,
- Recreation
Photo by Kate Wilcox
Mount Major is one of the most popular hiking destinations in New Hampshire, offering stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee and drawing year-round outdoor enthusiasts from across the region, country, and even the globe. As visitation continues to grow, the Forest Society is launching a new Visitor Use Management Study to better understand the experiences, needs, and preferences of those who love this iconic mountain.
“Mt. Major draws visitors from near and far,” states Jack Savage, president of the Forest Society. “The mountain is often many people’s first hike. We welcome dozens of schools and camps every year, and tens of thousands of individuals. Mt. Major is truly an economic driver for this region and at the same time needs to be sustainable for the community and for the protection of the natural environment. It is with these considerations in mind, that we would like to gather feedback from those that enjoy Mount Major, to improve the experience for everyone. We appreciate each visitor who can take the time to share about their experience.”
Starting in June 2025 and running through November, trained field researchers will periodically be on-site at the Mount Major trailhead conducting brief, voluntary surveys with hikers. The survey takes about 10 minutes and will help inform future decision-making around recreation, infrastructure and conservation efforts at Mount Major. Researchers will be clearly identified with uniforms and ID badges.
What’s the survey all about?
The study aims to:
- Gather data to improve the quality of visitor experiences
- Assess crowding and environmental pressures
- Guide communication, infrastructure, and investment priorities
- Examine visitor preferences toward future management actions
- Promote a more welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable recreation environment
Responses are confidential and anonymous, and participants will be entered into a raffle to win outdoor gear and other great prizes.
Whether you’re a local hiker or a first-time visitor, your input matters. This is a chance to shape the future of one of New Hampshire’s most treasured public landscapes. The Forest Society has made numerous significant upgrades to recreation infrastructure at Mount Major in the past decade, including year-round portable toilets, a shade pavilion and kiosk, trailhead outreach program, and a sustainable restoration of the lower sections of the Main Trail. Please help us continue to improve Mount Major.
For more information, contact:
Carrie Deegan
Vice President for Recreation Management and Public Engagement
cdeegan@forestsociety.org