ATV enthusiasts who visited the park in summer were most amazed by its beauty and diversity. Here, I am sharing what I found, why I loved Pisgah State Park.

Pisgah State Park NH: Brief History and Overview

Pisgah State Park is the largest ATV park in New Hampshire, covering over 13,300 acres of land in Winchester, Chesterfield, and Hinsdale. The park was established in 1967 after the state acquired the land from several private owners. The park’s name comes from Mount Pisgah, the highest peak in the park at 1,381 feet.

This off-road park contains a complete watershed north of the Ashuelot River, which flows through the park’s southwestern corner. The NH off-road zone features seven ponds, four highland ridges, numerous wetlands, and a 20-acre parcel of old-growth forest. This off-road heaven is home to a variety of wildlife, such as deer, moose, bear, bobcat, coyote, fox, beaver, otter, mink, and many species of birds.

This NH OHV Park is open year-round for hiking, biking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, and, of course ATV riding. The six trailheads around its perimeter provide free access to the public. It has a visitor center, a campground, and several picnic areas.

Pisgah State Park ATV Trails and Terrains

This NH State Park offers over 55 miles of trails for ATV riding, ranging from easy to difficult. The Pisgah State Park trail map shows that the courses vary in terrain, from dirt roads and gravel paths to rocky hills and muddy swamps. The courses also offer scenic views of the forest, the ponds, the hills, and the river.

Some of the most popular trails for ATV riding are:

The Reservoir Trail: This is a 7.5-mile loop trail that circles the Pisgah Reservoir, also known as Round Pond. With small hills and bridges, the NH ATV trail is comparatively flat and smooth. It offers mind-blowing views of the water and the surrounding forest. The trail is rated as easy and is suitable for beginners and families.

The Kilburn Loop Trail: This is a 9-mile loop trail that passes by the Kilburn Pond, the second largest pond in the park. Mostly wooded, this is an off-road zone with fields and wetlands.

The park has moderate hills and curves and rocky and muddy sections. Kilburn loop trail offers a mix of challenge and scenery that makes it stand out. It has earned an average rating.

The Hubbard Hill Trail: This is a 4-mile out-and-back trail that climbs to the summit of Hubbard Hill, the highest point in the park. Steep and rocky, this trails features some switchbacks and ledges.

The trail requires skill and experience and is rated as difficult. Above all, Hubbard Hill Trail rewards the riders with panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area.

South Woods Trail: This is a moderate 4.5-mile loop trail that starts from the southern point of the park and heads north along Old Chesterfield Road, a historic road dating back to the 1700s.

The trail then turns east and climbs to Ladder Hill Ridge, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the park and the Connecticut River Valley. descends to the road, the trail returns to the starting point from here.

Baker Pond Trail: A difficult 7-mile loop trail starts from the Horseshoe Trailhead and heads west along Baker Pond Road. This gravel road leads to the Baker Pond, a secluded pond ideal for fishing and wildlife viewing.

The trail then turns north and ascends to Baker Mountain, the second-highest peak in the park. Here, you can see the fire tower and Mount Pisgah in the distance. Descending to the Fullam Pond, another scenic pond, this Pisgah ATV trail follows the Fullam Pond Trail back to the trailhead.

Special Events Held on the Pisgah State Park

Pisgah State Park hosts several special events throughout the year that are open to the public and cater to different interests and activities. Some of the events that are related to ATV riding are:

Pisgah ATV Club Annual Poker Run

This is a fundraising event held every June by the Pisgah ATV Club. In fact, this is a local organization that promotes and supports ATV riding in the park. The event involves a poker game along the trails, where the riders collect cards at different checkpoints and try to make the best hand.

The event includes a barbecue, a raffle, and a prize ceremony. The event is open to all ATV riders who register and pay a fee. Keep updated on Social page of the Club for timely and precise notifications.

Pisgah ATV Club Annual Trail Maintenance Day

The Pisgah ATV Club holds this volunteer event every October in collaboration with the park staff and the Bureau of Trails. The event involves a trail cleanup and improvement project, where the riders help clean, repair, and mark the trails, signs, gates, and bridges.

With a lunch, a meeting, and a ride, the event is open to all ATV riders who sign up and show up. The benefits, from this event, go to the park and the riders.

Pisgah Mountain Trail Races

These annual races take place in September, including a 50K ultra-marathon and a 23K trail run. The races start and finish at the Chesterfield Elementary School and follow a challenging course through the park’s trails and roads.

Attracting hundreds of runners and spectators, the races add to the festive atmosphere. The gathering aims to raise funds for the Friends of Pisgah, a nonprofit organization that supports the park.

Pisgah ATV Club Rides

These monthly rides take place from May to October and are organized by the Pisgah ATV Club. It is a local club that promotes safe and responsible ATV riding in the park.

The rides start from different trailheads around the park and follow various routes and distances. Open to club members and guests, the rides offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy the park and meet other riders.

Pisgah Volunteer Work Days

These are occasional workdays throughout the year, coordinated by the park staff and the Friends of Pisgah.

The work days involve various tasks, such as trail maintenance, trash removal, sign installation, bridge construction, and invasive species control. Like the racing events, the work days are open to anyone who wants to volunteer and help the park.

Other Popular Off-roading Activities in Pisgah State Park, NH

Pisgah State Park is the largest natural area in New Hampshire and offers a variety of recreational activities, as mentioned earlier. Among them, hiking, mountain biking, and hunting are the most popular ones, next to ATV riding. Here you go with a brief overview of them.

Pisgah State Park Hiking

Hikers can enjoy the park’s scenic views and diverse wildlife on trails ranging from easy to moderate. Some of the popular hiking trails are Kilburn Pond, Hubbard Hill, and Beal’s Knob, which offer loops of different lengths and elevations.

You as hiker can also access the Pisgah Ridge Trail, which runs along the park’s spine and connects to other trails. The park is open year-round for hiking, but some trails may be closed during mud season or hunting season.

Pisgah State Park Mountain Biking

Mountain bikers can find challenging and fun trails in the park, with a mix of singletrack, double track, and old roads. Some of the best trails for mountain biking are Old Chesterfield, Nash, and Fulham Circle, which feature fast descents, technical sections, and rolling terrain.

Mountain bikers can also explore the Reservoir Road, which leads to the scenic Pisgah Reservoir and North Ponds. The off-road park is open year-round for mountain biking, but some trails may be closed during mud or hunting season, as with hunting there.

Pisgah State Park Hunting

Hunters can pursue a variety of game species in the park, such as deer, turkey, bear, and small game. The park has two wildlife management units with different seasons and regulations. Hunters must follow the state hunting laws and obtain the appropriate licenses and permits.

On it’s top, they must also respect the park’s rules and regulations, such as wearing blaze orange, using designated parking areas, and avoiding trails and locations other visitors use. The park is open for hunting from September to December, depending on the species and zone.

I know the questions lurking in your mind. What about Pisgah State Park camping? Contrary to Jericho mountain state park, camping is not allowed anywhere in Pisgah State park, and visitors must use nearby private campgrounds or state parks for overnight stays.

Some of the closest options are Otter River State Forest, Jamaica State Park, and Mt Pisgah State Park in Pennsylvania.

Camping Near Pisgah State Park NH

Pisgah State Park, nestled in southwestern New Hampshire, offers a serene camping experience amid its expansive 13,300 acres. Ideal for nature enthusiasts, the park features seven ponds, numerous streams, and lush forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The park’s well-maintained trails cater to hikers of all levels and also accommodate mountain biking and horseback riding.

Camping at Pisgah promises a tranquil retreat with basic amenities, ensuring an immersive nature experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Pisgah State Park’s breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity make it a perfect camping destination.

Tips and Experiences Required While Riding

Riding in Pisgah State Park is a fun and rewarding experience but requires some preparation and caution. Here are some of my tips and experiences for riding in the park:

Best time to visit the park: From late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the trails are dry and clear, you better visit this park.

Avoid visiting the park during mud season, when the trails are closed, or during hunting season, when you need to wear blaze orange for safety.

Equipment Requirement: Equipment preference depends on the length and difficulty of your ride. However, some essentials are a helmet, gloves, goggles, boots, water, snacks, a map, a compass, a first aid kit, a tool kit, a spare tire, and a tow strap.

You also need to have a valid NH OHRV sticker mandatory to surf the NH ATV trails or a temporary nonresident registration. You can obtain it online or at any authorized OHRV dealer.

Safety precautions: To remain safe, you need to follow the safety measures, which are more or less the same for any ATV park and trail. Here you go:

• Check the trail conditions and the weather forecast before you go;
• Ride within your skill level and your machine’s capability ;
• Stay on the designated trails and respect the signs and the boundaries;
• Ride with a buddy or let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return;
• Follow the rules of the trail and the road;
• Yield to other users and wildlife;
• And be courteous and responsible.

Places to avoid: Avoid riding in closed or restricted areas for environmental or safety reasons. Such spots in Pisgah State Park are the wetlands, wildlife habitats, private lands, and active logging sites.

You will also avoid the trails that are too narrow, steep, rocky, or muddy for your machine. More in line are the areas that are crowded or noisy, such as the campgrounds, the picnic areas, and the residential neighborhoods.

Pisgah State ATV Park: An Off-roading Heaven beyond the Ride

By now, you have developed an impression about this off-road park that Pisgah State Park is more than just an ATV playground. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories.

Indeed, it is a paradise for ATV riders looking for a place to ride that offers a variety of trails and terrain, a beautiful and diverse nature, and a friendly and supportive community.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, a solo or a group rider, a casual or a serious rider, you’ll find something to suit your taste and your level in Pisgah State Park. Every ATV rider who has been to this particular NH ATV zone highly recommends visiting the park and seeing what it offers.

To your utter amazement, you can surf across this vast forest area at zero charge as nowhere you need to pay Pisgah State Park entrance fee.

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The park was established in 2005 and has since become a popular destination for trail riding, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and picnicking.

In this article, we will explore the park’s main attractions and activities and give you some tips and advice on planning and preparing for a trip to this NH ATV park.

Jericho Mountain State Park Trails

One of the main features of this park is the trail system, which is a must and special mention while talking of NH ATV trails. This off-road paradise provides opportunities for ATV, UTV, trail bike, and snowmobile enthusiasts. The park has the only central state-owned ATV riding area in New Hampshire and has over 80 miles of trails that vary in difficulty and terrain.

The trails connect to other trails in the region, such as the Ride the Wilds network, which spans over 1,000 miles across northern New Hampshire. You can enjoy scenic outlooks and landmarks along the trails, such as the Jericho Mountain Fire Tower, the Head Pond Dam, and the Berlin Fish Hatchery.

You can also spot wildlife like moose, deer, bears, and birds. The trails are open year-round, but some may be closed or restricted depending on the season and weather conditions. You can check the trail status and Jericho Mountain State Park map on the park’s website or at the visitor center.

The Jericho Lake: A Serene Oasis

Another key attraction of the park is the Jericho Lake, a 40-acre artificial lake that was created in the 1970s. Recreational facilities, include a beach, bathhouses, picnic sites, and a shelter surround the lake.

The lake is a great place to relax and have fun, as you can swim, fish, and canoe on or near the lake. The lake is stocked with trout, bass, and perch; you can fish from the shore or boat.

However, you need to have a valid fishing license and follow the rules and regulations for fishing. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats at the park or bring your own. A matching name dedicated for fishing and fun in water is St. Mary’s Shoals Park.

Another OHV park offering a plethora of fun activities is Revolution off-road.

Going back to Jericho, it is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and there is a small fee for using the beach and the boat launch.

Jericho Mountain State Park Camping

If you want to stay overnight at the park, you have several camping options to choose from. Like Croom ATV park in Florida, Jericho State OHV park has dedicated setting for camping – 20 primitive campsites, 18 RV campsites, and 5 cabins.

The primitive campsites are located along the trails and have fire pits, picnic tables, and outhouses. The RV campsites near the lake have water, electricity, fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms.

The cabins are located on the park’s east side and have beds, electricity, heat, fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms. The cabins can accommodate up to 6 people and have a minimum stay of 2 nights.

To make the most of your camping experience, bring your bedding, cooking equipment, food, water, and trash bags.

Events and Programs in Jericho Off-road Park

The stand-out features of NH ATV parks and trails are their love to festivals and events. Even the newest off-road zone like Mountain mud run has its highly favorite event like Blizzard Baja.

This off-road park also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, such as the Jericho ATV festival, the first-day hikes, and the nature programs.

Jericho ATV festival

The Jericho ATV festival is an annual event that celebrates the thrill and excitement of off-road riding. It takes place at Jericho Mountain State Park in Berlin, New Hampshire, which has over 80 miles of trails and connects to over 1,000 miles of other trails in the region. The festival features various activities and attractions, such as:

• Mud pit grudge runs, where riders compete to see who can get through the muddy obstacle course the fastest and the furthest.
• Manufacturer demo rides, where riders can test drive the latest models and brands of ATVs, UTVs, trail bikes, and snowmobiles.
• Helicopter rides, where riders can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the park and the surrounding area.
• JBR Best Whip is where professional riders perform spectacular stunts and tricks like backflips, whips, and jumps.
• Ronnie Mac is a mysterious and charismatic rider who always puts on a show with his reckless and raunchy riding style.
• Live music, vendors, food, kid’s zone, and more.

The festival is usually held in August, and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country. It is a fun and family-friendly event showcasing the best off-road culture and community. You can find more information about the festival on its official website or its Facebook page. You can also buy tickets online or at the gate.

First Day Hikes/Jericho Mountain State Park Hiking

The first-day hikes are guided hikes on January 1st every year. They offer a chance to start the new year with fresh air and exercise and enjoy the beauty and diversity of the park’s trails and scenery. The hikes are led by park staff and volunteers, who provide information and interpretation on the park’s wildlife, plants, history, and ecology.

They are suitable for all ages and abilities, ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty and length. The hikes are free, but registration is required. You can register online or by phone. You should dress appropriately for the weather, bring water and snacks, and wear sturdy shoes or boots.

You should also follow the park’s rules and regulations for hiking, such as staying on the trails, respecting the environment, and leaving no trace. The First day hikes are a fun and healthy way to kick off the new year and discover the wonders of Jericho Mountain State Park.

Nature Programs: Educational and Interactive Sessions

Nature programs teach visitors about the park’s wildlife, plants, history, and ecology. Like First Day Hikes, they are guided and led by park staff and volunteers with knowledge and experience in various natural and cultural topics. The programs are usually held on weekends and holidays and vary in theme and format. Some examples of nature programs are:

• Animal Tracks and Signs: Learn how to identify and interpret the tracks and signs left by different animals across this large off-road park, such as moose, deer, bears, and birds. You will also learn about the behavior and adaptations of these animals and how to respect and protect them.
• Wild Edibles: Discover the edible plants and mushrooms that grow in the park and how to harvest and prepare them safely and sustainably. You will also learn about these plants’ medicinal and nutritional benefits and how to avoid poisonous ones.
• History Hike: Explore the historical and cultural aspects of the park, such as the logging industry, the creation of the lake, and the development of the trails. You will also learn about the people and events that shaped the park’s past and present and how to preserve and appreciate its heritage.
• Nature Photography: Learn the basics and tips of nature photography, such as how to use your camera, how to compose and frame your shots, and how to capture the beauty and diversity of the park’s scenery and wildlife. You will also be able to practice and share your photos with others.

Thus, nature programs enhance the enjoyment and education of the visitors and are suitable for all ages and abilities. You can check the park’s website or social media for updates and announcements on these programs and register or buy tickets if required.

Plan Your Visit to Jericho ATV Park in New Hampshire

When planning your visit, consider the time of year that best suits your interests on top of guessing the Jericho mountain state park map. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer brings opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.

Winter transforms the park into a wonderland for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the season, and check the park’s website for weather updates and trail conditions.

Pre-book Your Jericho Mountain Park Cabins

You can make reservations for the campsites and cabins online or over phone, and you need to pay a fee depending on the type and duration of your stay. You can find more information about the cabins and the park on the official website.

Alternatively, you can look for other cabin rentals near the park, such as those listed on Rent By Owner or Vrbo. These websites offer a variety of cabins with different sizes, prices, and amenities. The cabins offer beds, electricity, heat, fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms.

You can filter your search by location, availability, and preferences. As an added opportunity, you can read reviews and ratings from previous guests and contact the owners directly. However, you should be aware of the terms and conditions, cancellation policies, and fees of each rental before booking.

Remember, you should also follow the park’s rules and regulations for camping, such as keeping your site clean, quiet, and safe.

Jericho Mountain State Park – Get Prepared

Whether you want to ride the trails, swim in the lake, camp in the woods, or learn about nature, you will find something to suit your taste and preference at the park.

However, you need to be aware of the potential challenges and drawbacks that you might face. Weather changes, trail closures, equipment failures, or wildlife encounters may come your way.

So, you should plan and prepare for your trip accordingly, such as checking the trail and lake status, making reservations, packing the essentials, and following the rules and regulations. Respect the park’s environment and resources, and leave no trace behind.

Doing so will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the park and create lasting memories with your friends and family. As the park’s motto says, “Come play in our backyard.”

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