Fox Forest Perimeter

From the Gould Pond Road parking area, enter the Fox Forest trail system on the signed woods road and follow markers toward Ridge Trail to begin the perimeter route. After a short distance from the trailhead, stay on the main corridor as side paths branch toward interior cutoffs. At the first major junction, bear right to remain on the outer route as it trends gradually uphill through mixed hardwood and softwood forest managed for research and education. The walking is generally smooth, with gentle climbs over low ridges and short dips through wetter sections. Farther along, the route skirts boggy terrain near features such as Mud Pond and Black Gum Swamp, where seasonal mud and standing water are common. Boardwalks or hardened tread may appear intermittently, but expect wet footing during spring and after heavy rain. Continue following perimeter signage through additional junctions, ignoring interior connectors unless shortening the route. Ridge Trail sections can include minor blowdowns after storms, though navigation remains straightforward with trail markers. The route eventually curves back toward Gould Pond Road and returns to the parking area on the same access corridor, finishing with an easy walk out and a quiet forest experience typical of day hikes in southern New Hampshire.