Do you think you know every nook and cranny of the KSC campus? You can only answer yes if you are aware of the College's 70 acres of wild and beautiful natural landscape that is within a stone's throw (walking distance) of the main campus.

To be transported into such a tranquil setting, head south from the Pondside Apartments and proceed through the tunnel that will lead you safely under Rt. 101. Turn right and walk down the road and over the footbridge to the Owls Athletic Complex. Walk beyond the Complex and soon you will be enraptured into a fantasy landscape that includes everything from native wetland grasses, quiet woodland areas, fields, and artistic plantings.

This serene acreage which includes trails for cross-country running and skiing was originally part of a farm owned by the Cohen family, and was acquired by the College in the early 1980s. Keene State College enforces strict conservation practices such as delayed mowing and erosion control in order to encourage wildlife. A plethora of wildlife co-exists on this landscape and includes everything from snowy owls and egrets, to red-winged blackbirds and rabbits.

For the truly adventuresome the College also owns 400 acres on Lake Nubanusit in Nelson and Hancock which is a quick 20 minute car ride from campus. This property which sits on a peninsula is called the Louis Cabot Preserve and was acquired by the College in the early 1960s from the Nature Conservancy of N.H.

This acreage is held in conservation and is kept in its natural state. No camping is allowed and although there are no hiking trails, it is open for public use. The best access is by boat, and if you are lucky you might be able to spot the lake's resident bald eagles who have a nesting site near the preserve. In the future this land hopefully will become an outdoor learning laboratory for KSC classes. What a great get-away to enjoy a gorgeous N.H. summer day!