Home
Trustees and Staff
History
Properties
Current Projects
Newsletter
Membership
Links Contact us at:
PO Box 10315
Bedford, NH 03110 Tel. 603-472-2216
bedfordlandtrust@hotmail.com
 Bridge over Riddle Brook |
The Van Loan Preserve is located between Wallace and North Amherst Roads. Parking is available at both the Benedictine Land on Wallace Rd. and Muller Park on North Amherst Rd.
More than one mile of trails leads the hiker back and forth through the 68 acres of field and forest between Muller Park and the Benedictine Land. A bridge crosses over Riddle Brook near a historic dam and beaver pond. The trails also lead to a wetland site, great for bird watching. |
Access to this pristine natural wildlife area was made possible by the generous donation of a conservation easement by the Van Loan family in December of 2000. Wally and Alison MacDermott also donated a key piece of land to the Land Trust, which provides the access from Wallace Rd. to the Van Loan Preserve. The Bedford Land Trust hired the Appalachian Mountain Club to construct trails on the property and to build a bridge over Riddle Brook. Two eagle scouts were also involved with trail construction, kiosk construction, trail blazing and signage.
The trails are cleared but not smooth. Wear proper footwear and as with any hiking in the woods take precautions. Uneven surfaces, poison ivy, insect bites, etc. are all very possible. Hike with someone else whenever possible.
Please keep in mind that this is private property on which the landowner has allowed public access for passive recreation only. Please take only photos; leave only footprints. Enjoy the trails!
On May 12, the Bedford Land Trust hosted an event to open the trails in the Van Loan Preserve and to acknowledge the contibutions made by many people to make access to this beautiful area possible. Below are some photos of the event.
