New educational panels, trailhead kiosk enhance experience on Lockes Hill Trails

GILFORD — Conservationists wrapped up a two-year effort to enhance the Lockes Hill trail system on Monday morning, unveiling a new interpretive kiosk at the base of the route. 

“A well-loved local hiking trail in Gilford has just become even better,” Sandra McGonagle of the Kimball Wildlife Committee wrote. “Thanks to the support of the town and the Kimball Wildlife Committee, hikers along Lockes Hill Trails can now enjoy a new trailhead kiosk, a series of interpretive panels along the trails, and two panoramic viewshed panels at the summit.”

Despite a torrential downpour, members of the Kimball Wildlife Committee gathered at the trailhead on Oct. 20, to commemorate the hard work which resulted in enhancements to the public resource on Lake Shore Road.

The interpretive panels, installed along the trails, provide information regarding the way animals interact with and interpret their environment. Viewers can learn about how various species experience and survive within the forest, from the ground through the canopy. They also seek to reinforce the importance of human engagement through observation and stewardship.

In 1981, the Town of Gilford was appointed trustee of the property. Since then, the Kimball Wildlife Committee has served as steward of that land. Local volunteers Dan Tinkham and Karl Gould of the Belknap Range Trail Tenders are committed to supporting ongoing maintenance of the trails. 

The project was initiated with the hiring of Town 4 Trail Services, who worked to re-route the Lakeview Trail. New educational features were installed to assist hikers and tourists in engaging meaningfully with the natural and cultural history of the area. It was Jennifer Woodward, a retired wildlife educator and amateur naturalist, and Yvonne Lauziere, of Kingswood Press & Design Studio, who worked to bring the panels to life.

Kingswood Press & Design Studio earned a MUSE design award for the panels erected there. 

“The goal was to enhance the trail experience — not just with information, but by telling the story of this land and why it matters,” Woodard wrote in a press release. “It’s been an honor to contribute to this project.”

McGonagle, chair of the Kimball Wildlife Committee, said the two-year endeavor was made possible by collective efforts of many, including an ongoing partnership between the town and Matt Tarr of the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, plus support from the town’s selectboard and Department of Public Works. A crafter named Bob MacPhee built the kiosk at the trailhead and the frames for the interpretive panels, and Ken Erickson assisted in installation.

“It was truly a team effort, and we are grateful to everyone who contributed,” McGonagle wrote. 

At the summit, visitors will encounter two panoramic panels which identify many of the natural features visible over the sweeping viewpoints. The updated trail offers new ways to explore the forest, both for seasoned hikers and families out for a leisurely stroll. 

“The town’s sponsorship, through the Kimball Wildlife Forest Committee, highlights its commitment to environmental education and fostering connections between the community and the Kimball Wildlife Forest,” McGonagle wrote in a release. 

Town Administrator Scott Dunn, who serves as an ad-hoc member of the committee, considers the improvements a “real gift to the community.” 

“We’re thankful for all those who helped bring this vision to life, and to the BRATTS for their ongoing dedication to maintaining the trails,” Dunn said. BRATTS refers to Belknap Range Trail Tenders.

Town staff invite residents and visitors to explore the trail and enjoy the new additions. For additional information or to inquire about funding for bus trips for school groups, contact McGonagle at 603-527-4752, or visit gilfordnh.gov.