Dog friendly hikes and exploring, mostly around New England. Our Adventures includes: waterfalls, the beach, conservation land, lighthouses, state parks, the woods, the mountains, statues, and castles.
Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Vermont for the Day. Our destinations included some of our favorite places like Marsh-Billings Rockefeller National Historic Park, and scenic views in Plymouth. The other areas we explored included: Florence, Pittsford, Quechee and various other stops along the way. Wilma and Gus loved rolling in the grass, eating some tasty ice cream, and a day out of exploring. I was happy to have a cooler day, and loved Marsh-Billings as always, some tasty maple ice cream, and endless flowers. It was a simple day, but yet just what we needed. So glad to enjoy a day trip today with my furry best buds! (This blog will not be rated)
Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Depot Covered Bridge in Pittsford, Vermont. The bridge is a lattice bridge which was built in 1840 and later went renovations. It traverses the Otter Creek.
We had a simple Adventure to the Depot Covered Bridge. I was pleased to find a bridge away from homes, and in a quieter location, however the traffic that came through did drive at a high speed. The bridge was a bit dull and had limited views of the Creek from the road. I loved finding wildflowers around the bridge, and of course Wilma and Gus enjoyed a bit of exploring the small area before a quick couple of poses. So glad to cross off yet another covered bridge form our list (Rating: 2.5).
Today Gus and I Adventured to Hopkington State Park for our first kayak ride of the summer. Hopkington State Park is located on the Hopkington Reservoir, no longer a water source. The Park encompasses 1500 acres of forest and is a popular area for boating, swimming, and hiking. There is a fee to enter the Park in-season but Massachusetts State Park passes are also accepted. Additionally, you can find a free boat launch just past the park entrance.
We had a peaceful adventure of kayaking today, long overdue. I had this great plan to get up for a sunrise kayak, but somehow the weather changed from my last check, and it was a cloud filled sky. However, on a good note it was far from hot, which of course made for a pleasant cruise along the Reservoir. We launched from the “canoe” access just past the park, finding just one other guest on the water. Gus hopped right on the kayak, and off we went. I decided to explore one of the islands, which although was small, was still fun. Gus loved checking out the island in his adorable lifebelt. After some time on the cute little island, we continued paddling through the reservoir. I was confused at one point I noticed things floating (appearing white and fluffy) under the water and had checked the water quality report, which indicated no concerns. Due to this observation, we did not go on a long excursion. I was quite frustrated to find out later, when entering the main park that the beach was closed, I am sure due to water quality. I will have to call them later to see why it was listed as clear online. However, Gus is not a swimmer, and although I did plan to swim, I changed my mind as it was cooler out then a “normal” swimming day. Still not a settling thought on our first kayak ride of the season.
After our kayak we took a walk at the main park before heading home. I will just blog about our kayak ride today, however, decided to link my last blog of Hopkington Park below. On this previous blog I did two days and a row at Hopkington State Park – one of kayaking with Gus, and then back for a hike with both Wilma and Gus. Hopkington State Park is one of my favorite places to kayak, just have to watch the water quality, as with all lakes in New England. Still glad to be out on a long overdue kayak ride (This blog will not be rated).
Happy 4th of July to our friends, family and followers! We were lucky to have a gorgeous summer day in Massachusetts! We spent the majority of the time outside, and I was able to get a lot of projects and outdoor gardening and yard work completed . Wilma and Gus loved playing ball, eating sticks, and sunning and napping throughout the day! I took some photos as usual but Gus had no interest in the hats so I focused more on capturing them in their adorable bandanas. We really couldn’t have asked for better weather! Hope everyone had a fun, relaxing and/or productive day with whatever you did on this 4th. Happy 4th to all!
This week, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The White Mountains are a mountain range that cover a large part of New Hampshire, and also a portion of western Maine. The White Mountains include 48 peaks at over 4,000 feet. The White Mountains are popular for skiing, hiking, and ATVing.
We had a gorgeous Adventure to the White Mountains. Due to Wilma’s knee, I planned simple, scenic stops, and we did not hike, but instead strolled through gorgeous scenery. Our favorites of the day included: Bretton Woods, and Hart’s Location. I could not believe the spectacular lupines and wildflower fields. I was beyond thrilled as I thought the season for lupines was over but was thankful, I was wrong. Some of these locations we frequent when in the area, but I have never seen such a lupine field! Wilma and Gus enjoyed strolling, posing, and even waded in the water, which for them is not a common site. On a different note, I think this was the first time I have found biting bugs in this area, I am guessing black flies but there also appeared to be biting gnats – yuck! I read later that this is a spring thing, so might have to avoid this time of year in the future. However, although sadly the pups had bites, I never saw them itch them or even seem bothered, so I was quite grateful for that. On a crazy note, I am still recovering! But back to the beauty you cannot compare to the White Mountains! So glad we could find a Wilma friendly day! (Rating: 5 if you do not include the biting bugs!)
This week Wilma, Gus, and I spent an evening in a lovely, country tiny house in Canaan, New Hampshire. This special, dog-friendly location was nestled on acres of land with a pond just down the hill. It had a loft for sleeping, and a downstairs living and kitchen area. We headed to the Tiny House after a day of exploring in the White Mountains. Upon entrance to the driveway, we found beautiful roses and later found wildflowers throughout. Our visit was highlighted by relaxing and enjoying the peaceful tranquility of the property. Both Wilma and Gus enjoyed naps, eating the grass (haha), and exploring the area surrounding the pond. Wilma especially enjoyed lounging in the grass, rolling down the hill, and wading in the pond, while Gus loved chasing frogs, finding sticks, and stealing the ball from big sister. The house was extra dog friendly, but did not have any dog specific items. However, I brought our small dog bed for some extra napping. I am often humored by this bed as I bought it when Gus was a puppy but they both still enjoy it whether they are nestled in it, or hanging out! I am thankful that my pups love visiting new places and adjust well to any home we visit on our adventures. Such a fun and relaxing little vacation at the Tiny House (Rating: 5).
Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Ice Cream Fore-U in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Ice Cream Fore-U is an ice cream shop that services hard and soft serve, in addition to flurry’s, shakes, banana boats and other ice cream products. Down the path at a nearby location they also have mini golf, batting cages, and a driving range.
We had a tasty Adventure to Ice Cream Fore-U. We arrived to find a quiet location, right before the rush came in. There was seating, a playground, and a little garden. The stand was simple, but we came for the ice cream!! I ordered an orange sherbert drink (blaze?) and of course two dog ice cream specials (haha!) We then drove to a nearby location for the pups to have a little space to devour their treats. Poor Gus got into one of his nervous modes shaking and distracted by the environment, but thankfully once back in the car he was thrilled to lick up his ice cream. My orange drink was refreshing and tasty, just what I was looking for! So glad we could visit Ice Cream Fore-U! (Rating: Dog Ice cream: 5, The rest: 3.5).
Today Gus and I Adventured to the Rhododendron Path at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, in the area of Boston, Massachusetts. The Arnold Arboretum was established in 1872, and encompasses 281 acres of land. The Arboretum maintains a record system of which all plants on the ground are tracked, while research is ongoing. The Arboretum is free and open to the public, offering outreach enrichment to people of all ages.
We had a colorful Adventure to the Rhododendron Path. Due to Wilma’s knee, we have not been walking often but I try to take one extra-long walk each week. Thankfully we spend endless time in our fenced yard, Gus enjoys two days at daycare, and I am always trying to think of fun ideas for home. So, although my guilty conscious kicks in a bit, Gus and I still had a lovely walk at the Rhododendron Path. I actually took photo over about a month’s time, as I wanted to make sure I captured the “Path” in full bloom, which going by weekends I would say it peaked last weekend. Although this was just part of our walk at the Arboretum, it is a specifically labeled section of the Arboretum, gorgeous, and unique, so a good excuse for a long overdue blog.
I have always loved this little area of the Arboretum drawn by the bubbly brook, and scenic wooden bridge. However, when in bloom it’s beyond magnificent with every color of Rhododendron you could imagine, many towering high into the sky. On our walks Gus loved following the trail and checking out what other furry friends had been exploring. He is always alert of those around us so was not as inspired to pose, but I did not spend too much effort on this task. He definitely prefers big sister Wilma by his side but has become much more comfortable, yet always vigilant. The “Path” is a small area, but we spent a good amount of time wandering back and forth through the little trails appreciating the beauty, serenity, and vibrant floral colors. Gus surprisingly enjoyed some sips from the brook and of course some jumps on some rocks. Such a lovely spot to explore! If you are looking for this “Path” at the Arboretum I would highly recommend it (Rating: 5 when in full bloom!)
Wilma, Gus, and I would love to wish all of our friends, followers, and family a Happy Easter! We celebrated with Easter cookies, some attempts at ear photos, outside time, and a wonderful family visit with my parents. I did not spend as much time on Easter photos on some years, and Gus had no interest in bunny ears (haha)! So far from a fancy year of photographs but still wanted to send out a Happy Easter message. Hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing day with family, friends, and your furry best buds!
Wilma, Gus, My Mom, and I spent two days and a night in Cape Cod this weekend. Cape Cod is a peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean off the southeastern corner of Massachusetts. It is a popular summer destination known for the laid-back lifestyle. Cape Cod draws tourists for its beaches, lighthouses, ponds, villages, and the seafood shacks and restaurants.
If you follow my blog you know Wilma will be having knee surgery, so we had some simple and short stops but mostly relaxed at our amazing Airbnb. Our Airbnb was dog friendly (of course) with a fenced in yard, dog toy box, water bowls and lots of little aspects that appreciated our favorite furry friends! Besides that, it was absolutely gorgeous and even had a hot tub. We definitely plan on returning to this special spot!
On our journey our little stops in the Cape, included: Ned’s Point Lighthouse, beaches, Scargo Tower, the Baxter Grist Mill, and Salty the Seahorse. Throughout the weekend, Wilma and Gus especially appreciated comfy naps, and digging in the sand. Wilma enjoyed her rolls and requested regular belly rubs (haha!), while Gus continually sought out cuddles. We have not been out too much due to Wilma’s arthritis, and knee injury, so it was nice to find a simple and refreshing getaway that was just right for ALL. Here is a collage from our weekend:
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 