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Tower Hill Pond Loop Winter Hike

All in all, it was a fantastic day on the trail with a great group of interesting guys. And the best part? Spring is just three weeks away.

Saturday, February 28, 2026
Auburn, NH
Easy
Hosted by Gandalf

The trip report

Written by Gandalf

What a gift of a day! The spring-like weather did not disappoint — blue skies at the start and mild temps hinted at what’s just around the corner. Twelve GOers came out, and as always, the company made the miles fly by. From the start, the conversation flowed easily and the camaraderie was strong.

We began the 3.8-mile loop counterclockwise around Tower Hill Pond. The pond was still frozen over, stretching wide and quiet beside us — it truly feels more like a lake than a pond. The trail itself is a wide snowmobile road, giving us plenty of room to spread out and hike at our own pace. We shared the route with a few snowmobilers, who were courteous and respectful. We simply stepped aside as they passed, and everyone coexisted smoothly.

The terrain was gentle and enjoyable, making it an ideal winter outing — relaxed, scenic, and social. When we reached the dam area, we lingered for a while, soaking up the scenery and good conversation before completing the loop.

After the hike, most of us continued the fellowship at Shorty’s Mexican Roadhouse for lunch — because no good hike is complete without good food and more laughs around a table.

All in all, it was a fantastic day on the trail with a great group of interesting guys. And the best part? Spring is just three weeks away.

Adventure. Community. Pride. Stewardship.

Event photos (31)

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About this event

Looking to get outside, move your body, and connect with other gay men in a safe, supportive social environment? Join us for a scenic, easy-paced hike around Tower Hill Pond—a peaceful 3.8-mile loop just outside Manchester that feels worlds away from the city.

This trail is rarely crowded, offering the quiet, beauty, and “middle-of-the-White-Mountains” vibe without the long drive. It’s a fun loop, not very technical, and perfect for anyone wanting a relaxing nature escape. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leash.

Who This Hike Is For

This hike is adaptable for all fitness levels—great for beginners, returning hikers, and seasoned outdoor lovers alike. If you're unsure what level you're ready for, this is an ideal supportive setting. You’re welcome to shorten your hike at any time.

What to Expect

  • Wide, well-marked trail with gentle elevation changes
  • Beautiful lake views, forest shade, and fresh air
  • Easy conversation and quiet moments of connection
  • A buddy system and low-pressure pace the whole way

What to Bring

Dress in layers—hats, gloves, and winter hiking boots are a must. Handwarmers for your gloves will keep your hands warm. Bring your pack to place your layers into as you peel them off, hold your water bottle, accessories, etc. If you have Microspikes in case we encounter any icy surfaces, it doesn’t hurt to bring them.

After the hike, if there’s interest, we’ll head to a nearby restaurant for a late lunch.

Let’s soak up the early-spring vibes and enjoy time together on this peaceful loop trail. Come meet new friends, reconnect with familiar faces, and start your season outdoors in a welcoming community space!

Who came along (13)

Gandalf SUSTAINING
Gandalf
Thornton, NH
TrailBlazer GUEST MEMBER
TrailBlazer
Thornton, NH
SEALI SUSTAINING
SEALI
Boston, MA
SEBill SUSTAINING
SEBill
Boston, MA
Canterbury69 GUEST MEMBER
Canterbury69
CANTERBURY, NH
LewLasher SUSTAINING
LewLasher
Cambridge, MA
pmgnoho GUEST MEMBER
pmgnoho
Boston, MA
KeithES SUSTAINING
KeithES
Jamaica Plain, MA
BILL0624 GUEST MEMBER
BILL0624
Derry, NH
HikerBiker SUSTAINING
HikerBiker
Manchester, NH
jcmulloy GUEST MEMBER
jcmulloy
Cambridge, MA
Rob Bonney SUSTAINING
Rob Bonney
Cambridge, MA
PaceAlong GUEST MEMBER
PaceAlong
Bristol & Isla Bastimentos, Bocas del Toro, Panamá, NH

Comments

KeithES · Feb 28, 2026
I am a bit lost. Not seeing a “second gate” and not sure where we’re meeting. Anyone with a clue please text me or call at +16179420314.
KeithES · Feb 28, 2026
I am a bit lost. Not seeing a “second gate” and not sure where we’re meeting. Anyone with a clue please text me or call at +16179420314.

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