By Andrew Kniska, SCA Interpretive Ranger It is now October, and to get into the mood for spooky season, I would love to tell you about a mythical creature from a part of the state that has left an impression on me. Deep in Coös County, New Hampshire, there is said to be a creature […]
Author: Discover Power of Parks SCA Interpreters
Discover the Power of Parks is presented by New Hampshire State Parks in collaboration with the Student Conservation Association and AmeriCorps and made possible by generous financial support from Eversource. The program offers a look into the natural world through hands-on programming.
Interpretive programs focus on connecting participants with nature and building appreciation for New Hampshire's unmatched natural heritage. Programs include guided hikes, interpretive tours, and imaginative environmental workshops for children and families. Programs are offered free to guests with paid park admission fee. No pre-registration is required.
Exploring Indigenous Histories and Cultures at New Hampshire’s State Parks
By Mitchell Craig, SCA Interpretive Ranger Columbus Day, also known as Indigenous People’s Day, is observed across the country on the second Monday of October. It is an opportunity to reflect on the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native peoples. While New Hampshire currently observes Columbus Day as a state holiday, many individuals and organizations […]
Off the Beaten Path: Points of Interest on Mount Monadnock
By Kyle Durant, SCA Interpretive Ranger The White Dot and White Cross trails that leave Monadnock State Park Headquarters are classics, but there is so much history and nature to explore on Mount Monadnock off the beaten path. After a season of Interpretation at the park, I have compiled a list of sites to visit […]
Once Upon a Time at White Lake… A History of the Local Landscape
By Kendra Dean, SCA Interpretive Ranger White Lake State Park and the surrounding area has a surprisingly rich history of how the local landscape was formed. From glaciers that carved mountains and formed lakes and bogs, to forest fires that provided unique habitat for local wildlife, and even to volcanic activity- this land has been […]
Who Blazes our Trails?
A look into SCA New Hampshire Field Crew By Andrew Kniska, SCA Interpretive Ranger I was able to catch up with three members of the SCA New Hampshire Trail crew, Mel, Dante and Rachel. They taught me a lot about what they do as a trail crew member and why they do it. Firstly, trail […]
Fall Flowers
By Kendra Dean, SCA Interpretive Ranger It’s about that time of year- pumpkin patches, apple cider (donuts!), corn mazes- and of course, leaf peeping! Fall foliage is one of New England’s greatest claims to fame. While these canopies of color get all the glory, there is plenty of other beauty to be found during this […]
Black Squirrels: Acorny Bunch
By Kyle Durant, SCA Interpretive Ranger You have arrived at Monadnock State Park excited to hike. The sun is shining, the trees are swaying in a slight breeze and the White Dot Trail stretches into the forest, enticing you onwards. But just out of the corner of your eye you see it, something scuttling through […]
10 Hidden Gems in New Hampshire State Parks You Need to Explore This Fall
By Mitchell Craig, SCA Interpretive Ranger With the arrival of cooler temperatures and Fall colors, now is a great time to explore New Hampshire’s 93 sites within the State Park system. Don’t have time to visit them all? Worry not, we have come up with 10 ‘hidden gems’ that are sure to delight families, couples, […]
Ecotourism: Sustainable or Debatable?
By Elizabeth Hoffman, SCA Interpretive Ranger If you love the great outdoors, scenic views, and challenging hikes, odds are you’ve participated in ecotourism. And you’re not alone! Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors make their way to the New England for breathtaking views, especially during peak fall foliage. To better understand ecotourism, let’s dive […]
Chocorua: A Man, A Mountain – A Myth?
Kendra Dean, SCA Interpretive Ranger Mt. Chocorua is a gorgeous mountain in Albany, NH that has a rich and complicated history. It has inspired many types of people, from outdoor enthusiasts, to painters, to storytellers. This stunning summit can be reached from multiple trailheads, including the Piper Trail, which is a short drive from White […]