Townshend State Park (tel. 802/365-7500) and the Townshend State Forest are at the foot of Bald Mountain, 3 miles outside Townshend. The park is a solidly built campground constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. Park here to hike Bald Mountain, one of the better short hikes in the region; a 3-mile loop trail begins behind the ranger station, following a bridle path along a brook. The ascent soon gets steeper, and at about 1.7 miles, you arrive at the 1,680-foot summit, which is not bald at all -- open ledges offer views toward big Mount Monadnock to the east and Bromley and Stratton mountains to the west. The descent is a steeper 1.4-mile trail that ends behind the campground. Ask for trail maps at the park office. The park is open from May through Columbus Day and charges a $3-per-person entrance fee; the campsites cost $14 to $21 per site. To find the park, cross the Townshend Dam (off Rte. 30), then turn left and continue to the park sign.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
