Finding the Lost Shelter of Bear Brook

Discover Power of Parks SCA Interpreters Discover the Power of Parks, The NH State Park Experience

In the 1930’s the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed many buildings within Bear Brook including cabins, pavilions, and shelters.  One of these shelters remains a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those who are willing to venture off the beaten path.  I came across the Lost Shelter back in January and have struggled to find it again… until now.  After a few wrong turns, slopping through the mud, and some bushwhacking I finally found it and would love to share my directions with you.

Before You Go

A word of caution.  The Lost Shelter does not have a maintained trail running to it.  Be aware as you move into the woods and off the main road.  You will want pants and boots for this hike.  Take note of landmarks as you pass them, bring a map and compass, and enjoy the adventure!

How to Get There

Follow the photos and captions below to find the Lost Shelter.

Locate Podunk Rd across from Hall Mountain on your Bear Brook Map
Locate Podunk Rd across from Hall Mountain Marsh on your Bear Brook Map.  You can access this area from various points in the park.  Choose which works best for you.
Hike to the highlighted area on the map. Look for telephone pole number 36.
Hike to the highlighted area on the map and look for electrical pole number 36.

Pole number 36. Found southwest side of the trail.
Pole number 36. Found on the west side of the trail.
Find the faint trail located just southeast of pole 36. This is an old logging road.
Find the faint trail located just southeast of pole 36. This is an old logging road.
Follow the trail for about 5 minutes until you reach a large pond. You're getting close!
Follow the trail for about 5 minutes until you reach a large pond. You’re getting close!
This pond was created by Beavers! There is evidence everywhere.
This pond was created by Beavers! There is evidence everywhere.
I wonder when this one will come down?
A fresh one!  I wonder when it will be finished?
Can you spot the three beaver lodges?
Can you spot the three beaver lodges?
Walk either direction around the pond until you see one of the beaver dams. There are two main dams.
Walk either direction around the pond until you see one of the beaver dams. There are two main dams.
The other main dam. Look for a large boulder located between these two dams.
The other main dam. Look for a large boulder located between the two dams.
Boulder between two dams. The trail to the Lost Shelter is just to the right.
Boulder between the two dams. The trail to the Lost Shelter is just to the right.

 

The trail past the boulder is an old logging road. Follow this until the road starts to dwindle. Look for a trail on the left. Follow this trail into the more open forest.
The trail past the boulder is an old logging road. Follow this until the road starts to dwindle. Look for a trail on the left. Follow this trail into the more open forest.
Once the forest opens up you are very close. Walk a little further and keep your eyes open for shelter!
Once the forest opens up you are very close. Walk a little further and keep your eyes open for shelter!
The Lost Shelter
Congratulations!  You’ve found the Lost Shelter!
Take a moment to sign the log book found in the small wooden box hanging on the wall.
Take a moment to sign the log book found in the small wooden box hanging on the wall.
Head back the way you came to get one last look at the beaver lodges. Follow your path back around the pond and out to Podunk.
Head back the way you came to get one last look at the beaver lodges. Follow your path back around the pond and out to Podunk.  If you find yourself unsure of your location, head southwest and you will eventually run into Podunk.

Good luck on your search and have fun!

P.S. For those of you who would like to use a GPS, here are the coordinates to get you close to the boulder between the dams: 43.104817,-71.34911

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.

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