Andover Trail Improvements Outlined in Report

A new report suggested improvements that could be made to several of Andover's wilderness parks.

The report, funded by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, also highlights numerous improvements to the Merrimack River Trail, of which Andover possesses 5.5 miles.

The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission and the Essex National Heritage Commission announced the release of the planning report jointly.

The report was developed thanks to input from advocates throughout the Merrimack Valley. The plan includes improvements throughout the entire 50-mile trail.

Under the plan, five major areas in Andover would be affected.  Spalding Reservation, Deer Jump Reservation, The Merrimack River Reservation, The Bay Circuit Trail, and River Road trails would see improvements under the plan.

Among the new improvements highlighted in the plan are new boat launch sites on the Merrimack River. Also, permanent protection of the Deer Jump Trail will be pursued. New trails along River Road will be explored alongside the Merrimack River.

Andover’s Village Improvement Society (AVIS) and the Andover Trails Committee, the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Bay Circuit Alliance, and the Trustees of Reservations all planned and developed the suggestions in the report.

The report recommended that Andover should “focus on securing access rights as a means to expand and enhance the existing trail system.”

Please click here to view the report in its entirety.