MEMBERS ONLY: Monson Center Historic Hike

ABOUT THE EVENT:
This adventure is for Golden Dog Club members and their family/friends only. Not yet a member? Learn about membership and join for discounts and savings on adventures, education, products, and services.

Step back in time as we explore one of the most significant archaeological sites in New England.

Hidden in the woods of Milford, Monson Center was an early colonial settlement established in 1737, long before New Hampshire’s borders were defined. Once spanning over 17,000 acres, this thriving inland community existed for just over 30 years before being mysteriously abandoned in 1770. Today, the land remains remarkably preserved, offering a rare glimpse into early colonial life.

As we walk the easy (141 ft elevation gain) 2.5 – 3 mile trail system, we’ll pass original stone foundations from homesteads like the Nevins, Bayley, and Brown families, along with old roads, stone walls, and open fields that have remained untouched for more than two centuries. Interpretive markers along the trail bring the stories of these early settlers to life, while the surrounding landscape—forests, rolling fields, and wetlands—creates a peaceful and immersive experience.

The trail system converges near a sprawling beaver wetland, home to a seasonal heron rookery and abundant wildlife. Benches along the water offer the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and take in both the natural beauty and historical significance of this special place.

Saved from development in 1998 through a grassroots conservation effort, Monson Center now stands as a protected recreational and archaeological treasure, stewarded for future generations.

Benefits of attendance include:

• A unique opportunity to explore one of New England’s most significant archaeological sites
• Low-impact movement on an easy, accessible 3-mile trail
• Mental enrichment for your dog through varied terrain, scents, and environments
• A deeper connection to place through history, storytelling, and shared experience
• Time to slow down, unplug, and immerse yourself in nature
• Meaningful connection with a like-minded community

IS THIS EVENT GOOD FOR REACTIVE DOGS?
Reactive Dog Level 1-2. See our Comfort Chart for explanation. This trail offers a quieter, more spacious environment, but dogs may still encounter other hikers, dogs, and wildlife. There is generally room to create distance, making it a manageable setting for many reactive dogs with preparation and awareness. If you have concerns or questions about if this event is right for your dog, please email woof@goldendognh.com for assistance.

TRAIL RATING:
This Trail is rated as Level 1-2 Stroll to Moderate. See an explanation of our Trail Rating System. The hike is 2.5 – 3 miles roundtrip on wide trails that were former roads through this village. There are several narrow trails off-shooting from the main trails, but each meets up with one of the main trails, and it’s easy to circle back to the center of Monson.

COST: Please register for this event below. You may also include family members or friends in your registration if they will be arriving in the same vehicle.

• Members – N/C
• Not-Yet Members – This adventure is for official Golden Dog Club members only. Not a member? Learn about membership and join for discounts and savings on adventures, education, products, and services.

Members, if you register and cannot attend, please cancel within 48 hours to avoid a cancellation fee of $25/person. This allows members on the waitlist to have a chance to go if you cannot. Thank you!

DIRECTIONS/PARKING:
This adventure is located at Federal Hill Rd. in Hollis, NH. Directions and logistics will be provided to registered guests 24 hours prior to the event.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE JOINING AN EVENT:
Please review our Club Guidelines, sign our Liability Waivers & Release Forms, and read our covid guidelines on our Events & Activities page.

CANCELLATIONS:
If weather or covid conditions make gathering and walking unsafe, the event will be cancelled and announced in the Event section of the Facebook Group and on this Calendar page. Guests will also be emailed an update.

QUESTIONS:
If you have questions, text/call (603) 815-2453 or email woof@goldendognh.com.