Shapleigh
The Marjorie Dunnells Chadbourne Preserve protects 100 acres of forest, wetlands, and streams flowing into Square Pond. The preserve safeguards water quality, protects wildlife habitat, and provides access to nature for future generations. The property features native forests, brook trout streams, and habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including hawks, foxes, deer, and songbirds.
The small pond and wetlands along the south edge of the property are ecologically important as an amphibian breeding and bird nesting/feeding location.
Pump Box Brook is known to contain wild brook trout, its wetlands provide nesting areas for herons and other migratory birds, and vernal pools in the wetland complex support frog and salamander populations.
This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.
Due to storm damage and downed trees, the Goose Pond Overlook trail is closed until further notice.
It is designated as a place of statewide ecological significance because of its Blanding’s turtle habitat in the wetlands and the black racer snake on the uplands.