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Cardigan Mountain, at 3121 feet, is a safe and easy climb for both children and adults. it is well known for its breathtaking and panoramic views of several lakes, valleys and mountains in New Hampshire and nearby Vermont. The mountain, named for the Earl of Cardigan by New Hampshire's first Governor, John Wentworth, has been receiving visitors since the early 1800's and has been "treeless" since the devastating forest fire of 1885.
In 1867 the first carriage road was built up Mt. Cardigan at a cost of $200, and in 1904 the first lookout tower was constructed after teams of horses hauled the building materials up to the top. In 1918, 700 acres of Orange township was acquired by the state of New Hampshire to form the Mount Cardigan State Reservation. Today the park contains more than 5000 acres, and is in the towns of Orange and and Alexandria.
The biggest boost to--the park-came in 1933 when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built a new entrance road, fire control ponds, log bridges, laid out trails and put in a telephone line to the lookout cabin. We are the beneficiaries of this remarkable civilian effort. The trail crew of the Mount Cardigan Highlanders maintains the trails and trail signs. If you are interested in the activities of this group and would like more information please call (603) 632-5640.
In 1988 The Friends of Mount Cardigan State Park was chartered as a non-profit organization whose mission~is to promote and protect the park for the enjoyment of all. Seasonal and yearly projects are undertaken by the members of the group to keep the park clean, safe and attractive. Meetings are held mqnthly throughout the year, except in july and August. Money for our projects comes from private donations and State funding through the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation. For more information on current and future activities of the Friends group please call (603) 523-7760.
To make your time with us
more enjoyable, please remember:
THIS IS A CARRY-IN, CARRY-OUT PARK
DON'T LITTER OR DEFACE THE PROPERTY
BRING DRINKING WATER
DO NOT CAMP
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