Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Mascoma River Greenway is a roughly 12-mile protected corridor stretching along the Mascoma River from Lebanon to Enfield, New Hampshire. This linear greenway connects several communities and preserves the natural habitat along the riverbanks, providing essential wildlife corridors and enhancing public access to the river’s scenic beauty. The geography of the area includes gentle river slopes, mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and open meadows, which support diverse bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life. Historically, the river and its surroundings played a central role in early settlement and industry in the Connecticut River Valley region. The Greenway itself comprises a mix of paved, gravel, and natural surface trails and paths suitable for walking, running, mountain biking, and snowshoeing during winter months. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks of the river, peaceful wooded environments, and connections to local parks and community centers. Notable landmarks along the corridor include the Mascoma Lake outlet, covered bridges nearby, and river access points ideal for fishing and paddle sports. The Greenway serves as a vital recreational and environmental asset, promoting outdoor activity, conservation awareness, and community engagement in one of New Hampshire’s growing suburban-rural interface areas.
