CANTERBURY HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Into the Shaker Woods: A Spring Trek to Canterbury’s Sugar Camp
A guided, four-mile round-trip spring hike with historian Mark Stevens from Canterbury Shaker Village to the Shaker sugar camp, limited to 14 guests.
Into the Shaker Woods: A Spring Trek to Canterbury’s Sugar Camp.
Join historian Mark Stevens on a challenging four-mile round-trip hike from Canterbury Shaker Village to a secluded Shaker sugar camp, where spring sap collection was—and still is—transformed into syrup and sugar candy. The guided outing combines backcountry walking, uphill stretches, and intimate interpretation of a living Shaker tradition.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
History on the Trail
Led by historian Mark Stevens, the tour pairs rigorous walking with first‑hand interpretation of Shaker life—what the sugar camp meant to the community and how sap became syrup and sugar candy.
A Strenuous Backcountry Hike
The outing is a strenuous four‑mile backcountry hike that includes uphill portions; sections of the trail may still be snow‑packed, icy, or muddy in spring, so expect variable footing.
Sugar Camp and Spring Sap
At the remote sugar camp you’ll see the place where, each spring, sap was collected and boiled down into syrup and sugar candy—an intimate look at a seasonal rural craft.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The tour unfolds as a purposeful walk into Shaker woodlands: an outward trail that climbs through variable backcountry conditions, arrival at the secluded sugar camp for stories and demonstration of sap processing, then the return along the same route. It’s a short distance by trail—four miles round trip—but one that demands steady pace and preparedness.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hike is right for—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Offered in spring (specific dates include March 18 and sessions in April), each tour runs in the afternoon; check operator scheduling before booking.
Tours depart from Canterbury Shaker Village at 288 Shaker Road, Canterbury, NH 03224; arrive in time to check in before the guided start.
Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear for a strenuous backcountry hike; expect snow, ice, and mud in sections—dress in layers and bring traction or trekking poles if you use them.
Each tour is limited to 14 guests; book in advance to secure a spot.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long and far is the hike?
The tour is a four‑mile round‑trip hike, typically lasting through the afternoon session.
When are the tours offered?
This event is offered on March 18 and in April with afternoon sessions (for example, 1–4 pm); check the operator for exact dates and times.
Where do we meet?
Meet at Canterbury Shaker Village, 288 Shaker Road, Canterbury, NH 03224.
How many people are on each tour?
Each tour is limited to 14 guests.
What are the trail conditions and physical demands?
The hike is strenuous with uphill portions; sections of the trail may be covered in snow, ice, and/or mud—wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Who leads the tour?
Historian Mark Stevens leads the guided hike and interpretation of the Shaker sugar camp traditions.