Conservation Commission celebrates grand opening of Page Pond accessible trail

MEREDITH — Meredith dignitaries joined with the Conservation Commission, the Rotary Club and the public at the Page Pond Town Forest to celebrate the grand opening of the new accessible trail and viewing platform at Quarry Pond. The upgraded 0.3 mile trail which is accessible by wheeled mobility devices as well as mobility-limited people leads to a beautiful accessible platform overlooking the peaceful Quarry Pond and the surrounding forest.

After brief comments at the Quarry Road Trailhead by Conservation Commissioner Mark Billings, the group traveled down the new trail to the viewing deck where Commissioner Paula Wanzer cut the celebratory ribbon of bittersweet vine to officially open the viewing platform.

Town Manager Troy Brown and Select Board member Lynn Leighton noted how the whole community came together to realize this valuable addition to the Meredith Community. They acknowledged the many organizations and individuals that volunteered their time and effort, including the Meredith Rotary Club, Moulton Farm, Ambrose Bros. and the Conservation Commission.

Conservation Commissioner Paula Wanzer was recognized by Commission Chair Scott Powell as having the vision and energy to realize what is now the second accessible trail in Meredith, adding to the Laverack Trail in Meredith Village.

“Paula studied multiple options to determine the best path for an accessible trail, and then she organized and led a coalition of volunteers to realize the project at no cost to the town. Her vision and energy is remarkable,” Powell said. After the short ceremony everyone enjoyed “Donuts on the Deck” and homemade macaroons, while taking in the view over the pond and all the natural beauty of the area.

The trail and viewing platform is now open to the public. To reach the Quarry Pond Trail at Page Pond Forest, follow Route 25 to Quarry Road (Moulton Farm) and continue to the end of the road. Ample parking is available at the site. While the upgraded trail can accommodate mobility scooters, strollers, wagons, and electric wheelchairs, not all grades are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, so manual wheelchair users may find it challenging.

For more information, visit meredithnh.org/conservation-commission.