Walking Trail Feasibility Study 2015

During the spring and summer of 2015, the LRAC completed a feasibility study for establishing a footpath in the Wild and Scenic portion of the Lamprey River corridor. The funding for this study was provided by the National Parks Service under its 2015 Call to Action Program. The footpath would begin at Mary Blair Park in West Epping and continue over 23 miles through Epping, Lee, Durham, and Newmarket,  terminating at the Lubberland Creek Preserve on Great Bay. A major objective of the footpath would be to connect to the numerous existing trail systems in the four towns, thereby opening up a substantial local outdoor hiking experience for residents and visitors of the Seacoast New Hampshire area.  

As part of the project, ten maps were created that show where the path might go. The summary map shows the general trail and indicates the blocks for the other nine, detailed maps. Segment 1, Segment 2, Segment 3, Segment 4, Segment 5, Segment 6, Segment 7, Segment 8, Segment 9.

The final report details the history and process of the study. Overall, the concept appears to be quite possible. Of course, the study revealed some barriers that will take significant time and effort to overcome: large wetlands, high-traffic arterial highways, privately held lands, and areas of dense residential development. The study also revealed that some stretches could be constructed in short order. Strafford Regional Planning Commission was a partner in the the feasibility study. Click here for a poster that provides an overview.

The LRAC is seeking partners who are interested in continuing to develop this concept into a working trail. Interested persons or organizations can email info@lampreyriver.org.