Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Crotched Mountain Wildlife Management Area is located in south-central New Hampshire, spanning parts of Francestown and Greenfield in Hillsborough County. The area centers around Crotched Mountain, a distinctive granite peak reaching an elevation of 2,066 feet. The terrain includes mixed hardwood and conifer forests, open ledges, and wetlands, providing important habitat for deer, black bear, bobcat, and various songbirds. Recreationally, the area is well-known for its extensive trail system that caters to hikers, mountain bikers, and snowshoers. The mountain’s open ledges provide scenic vistas that stretch across southern New Hampshire and even as far as Massachusetts on clear days. Historically, the mountain was the site of a ski area that operated during the mid to late 20th century, but since its closure, the land was transitioned to a Wildlife Management Area under the oversight of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Visitors appreciate the mix of quiet forest paths and panoramic overlooks, while anglers fish in the interconnected ponds and streams within the property. The WMA supports hunting during regulated seasons, making it a destination year-round for outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to several small towns also makes it accessible for day trips, providing a natural retreat with diverse recreational opportunities.
