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This website presents a science-based case for protecting Mount Kearsarge by explaining why its Tier 1 habitat makes it unsuitable for high-speed, downhill mountain biking. It also highlights how conservation and recreation can coexist by pointing to alternative locations that offer similar riding experiences without compromising this ecologically fragile landmark.
Purpose
Purpose
This website is a resource for citizens, conservationists, and recreationists who seek to protect the ecological integrity and semi-wilderness character of Mount Kearsarge. Our mission is to provide the public with a comprehensive, science-based case for why this iconic "gateway sentinel" is an unsuitable location for a high-vertical, high-speed downhill mountain biking trail.
Here, you will find detailed explanations of why Mount Kearsarge is one of the most ecologically sensitive landmarks in New Hampshire, holding a Tier 1 habitat ranking—the highest possible designation for biological diversity in the state. We document the specific risks that a 1,300-foot vertical downhill corridor poses to a wide range of species of greatest conservation need, such as the American marten.
This site clarifies the unique ethological and physical impacts of high-speed mechanized sport that distinguish it from traditional hiking. We reference research on the "surprise factor," which triggers high-energy flight responses in moose and bears, and examine how trail networks act as "arteries of disturbance," leading to internal habitat fragmentation and a measurable reduction in the breeding success of nesting birds.
Finally, we believe that outdoor recreation and conservation can coexist through strategic planning. This website provides a guide to established alternatives across New England—including lift-serviced bike parks at ski areas and existing multi-use networks in state parks—that provide the "enduro-style" experiences riders seek without compromising the "ecological island" that defines Mount Kearsarge.
Join us in ensuring that Mount Kearsarge remains a resilient sanctuary for New Hampshire’s most vulnerable wildlife and a quiet destination for future generations.
Concord Monitor Letter: Dan Williams
February 17, 2026
Needs over wants
The proposed mountain bike trail on Mt. Kearsarge is a cause of concern because it’s an example of a disturbing post-COVID trend: we are loving our wilderness to death. There was a huge increase in all sorts of outdoor activities during COVID and the fallout from that has had a negative impact on wildlife and wildlife habitat across the country.
In many areas, entire herds of some species have been pushed off their former range by increased trail traffic in wilderness areas. Here in New England, organizations have instituted seasonal trail closures to avoid negative impacts around vulnerable breeding/wintering habitat for certain species of wildlife.
This comes down to a question of wants versus needs. All outdoor recreational activities that humans engage in, yes even our favorite, most loved ones, are wants. Having suitable habitat to breed, raise young, escape predators, find food and survive harsh winters are NEEDS. Our wildlife simply cannot survive without suitable habitat.
That is why we have to strike a balance between public access to open land for recreation (a concept I agree with and partake of a great deal) and preserving and protecting a diversity of wildlife habitat in order to sustain the variety of wildlife species that call New Hampshire home.
It is frustrating that, as so many of us have lost all connection to the natural world, we always seem to rule in favor of human wants over environmental needs. We do this at our own peril.
Dan Williams, Concord
Learn how the proposed high-speed mountain bike trail threatens Mount Kearsarge's **Tier 1 habitat** primarily through the **"surprise factor,"** where fast-startling wildlife triggers high-energy flight.
Learn how the proposed high-speed mountain bike trail threatens Mount Kearsarge's **Tier 1 habitat** primarily through the **"surprise factor,"** where fast-startling wildlife triggers high-energy flight.
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