Spring Woods Walk: Thissell Smith Memorial Forest

Walk the Woods, See Exemplary Forestry in Action!

Join New England Forestry Foundation (NEFF) for a scenic and immersive woods walk through the recently harvested Thissell Smith Memorial Forest in Ossipee, New Hampshire, where you’ll witness sustainable forestry in action! This approximately two-hour guided hike will offer a first-hand look at Exemplary Forestry practices, from improving forest health to supporting local communities. Ask questions, explore the landscape, and discover how NEFF is shaping the future of New England’s forests. This event will take place rain or shine! 

What to Expect 

• Meet NEFF Executive Director Ryan Owens and hear his vision for NEFF’s future. 
• Moderate Hike: 1 to 1.5 miles through varying terrain, including well-worn trails, exposed roots, branches, rocks, and harvest debris 
• Sustained Grades: The hike will include prolonged inclines of up to 10% 
• Expert Guidance: A licensed forester will explain sustainable harvesting techniques and answer questions 

Who Should Participate? 

This moderate hike requires participants to be in good physical health and capable of: 

• Walking up to 1.5 miles over uneven terrain 
• Navigating rocks, roots, and other natural obstacles 
• Managing sustained inclines of up to 10% grade 

What to Bring 

• Long pants and appropriate clothing (hat, comfortable hiking boots or shoes) 
• Insect repellent (DEET or similar recommended for ticks and mosquitoes) 
• Water and snacks (if desired) 
• Medically necessary items (EpiPen, inhaler, etc.) 

Important Notes 

• Children of all ages are welcome but must be supervised due to the challenging terrain. 
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early at the designated parking lot. Property maps will be provided. 
• A basic first aid kit will be on hand. 

Learn More and Get Directions

To learn more about Thissell Smith Memorial Forest, visit our Forest Stories web page.

Attendees are asked to park at a public pulloff on the southbound side of Route 16, adjacent to Thissell Smith. Please note there are no signs marking the property, so we encourage you to use the following GPS coordinates for reference: 43°43’29.0″N 71°07’30.5″W. Please download GPS directions to the parking lot in advance, as cellular service may be limited in the area.

This pulloff is the closest and most convenient option, and it avoids the need to walk along the shoulder of Route 16.

Additional parking is available at the Window on the Ossipee Mountains viewpoint, which is also located on the southbound side of Route 16 and approximately 300 feet from the harvest site.

If you know others attending, we encourage carpooling to limit carbon emissions and the number of parking spaces used.

This is a unique opportunity to witness Exemplary Forestry firsthand, engage with NEFF leadership, and explore how forests can be managed for both ecological health and economic benefit. If you’re ready for an active and engaging walk in the woods, we hope to see you there!

Register