Throwback Adventure – Jordan Pond, Maine – August 2015

In remembering our Shadow I decided to re-post some of our favorite Adventures on our “Throwback Adventure” Thursdays. Shadow had amazing solo Adventures, Adventures with Buster, and Adventures with Wilma. He was one lucky boy! The post today was from a trip to Jordan Pond in Acadia Park that Shadow, Buster, and My Mom took back in August 2015. One of my favorite memories was the journey Shadow, Buster, and I took around the gorgeous Jordan Pond. There were boardwalks, rocks, bridges, and mountains, breathtaking beauty. Forever precious memories! Please see below for my original post including photographs and a video.

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing.

In August 2015 My Mom, Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park, Maine. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He had an amazing zest for life, led by his joyous howl, and happy tail. We made many memories on adventures, that we fondly treasure. He will always be missed!!

Jordan Pond was formed by the Wisconsin Ice Sheet during the last glacial period. It has mountains to the west and northeast. The loop trail around the pond is less than four miles long, and is mostly flat. On arrival I found the area to be quite touristy, but as we began to traverse the trail around the pond we were surrounded by nature, and stunning beauty. The perfect shaped rocks, gorgeous water, and the mountains, combined to provide a picturesque landscape. The day of this journey it was a bit foggy, which added a mystical feature to the photos. As per usual I took numerous photos of the boys on our adventure, and the stunning landscape. This was definitely a trip I will always treasure. It was one of the most gorgeous spots we have visited on our many years of adventures (Rating: 5)

271

238 135

171

October 13, 2018 -Erving State Forest – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Uncle, and I Adventured to Erving State Forest in Erving, Massachusetts. Erving State Forest is a Forest located along Laurel Lake, a 51 acre body of water. The Park is popular for swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping.

We had a lovely Fall Adventure to Erving State Forest. We were so happy that the rainy day had cleared so that we could meet my Uncle for a hike. We began our afternoon heading down to Laurel Lake to check out the scenery. There were still a couple sprinkles in the sky, but we did not let that stop us. The Lake had a beach area with a concession stand, and a modern boardwalk down to the shore. We explored the area noting the nice set-up for summer beach outing. Shadow enjoyed a roll in the sand, while Wilma had fun with some chaotic digging. Some wonderful beach energy to start our afternoon.

From the beach we headed over to a bright colored bridge to view the Lake. The sun rays went in and out of the clouds shining down on a lovely Fall scene. From there we headed on our hike, up a slope, the road plastered with gorgeous colored leaves. We caught up with great conversation, stopping to check out different highlights along the path. It was a cool day yet our steady walk created the perfect temperature.

I find the best time for a hike is a beautiful New England October day! The smell of leaves, the spectacular colors, and a temperature are all just right! We had a lovely hike at Erving State Forest (Rating: 4, Company – Just perfect!)

Throwback Adventure – July 4, 2011 – Oscar Scherer State Park

I finally will be adding a “Florida” section to my blog. Posting these adventures is long overdue as I lived in Tampa, Florida for eleven years, before relocating back to my home state of Massachusetts. We had many wonderful adventures throughout the state of Florida, and I am elated to share these Throwback Adventures on my blog.

On July 4, 2011 Shadow, Buster, our friend Rhonda, and I journeyed to Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey, Florida. This Park is a Florida State Park, which opened to visitors back in 1873. It is popular for wildlife viewing, and recreational activities, including: hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, and fishing. It is located on the South Creek, along the Southwest Coast of Florida.

We decided to celebrate July 4th with an Adventure to a new local Park. We were so happy to have our dear friend Rhonda join us on this holiday adventure. It is rare to find such a kind, genuine, and dedicated friend, and we are lucky to find such a gem of a friend with Rhonda. We sauntered along the trails, enjoying the water views, and stopped to rest on benches along the way. As many of my posts and adventures have been in New England, you will notice the unique Florida landscape, highlighted with beautiful Palm Trees and Ferns. It was wonderful residing in Florida, with such varied landscape from the Northeast. Although my Throwback blog makes it hard for me to remember particular details, I remember enjoying our trip to this Park. We are looking forward to our friend Rhonda joining us for a future Adventure. We sure do miss her!

August 4, 2018 – New Hampshire – Thompson Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Thompson Falls in Pinkham’s Grant, New Hampshire. We have been on this trail before, but this was our first trip to the waterfall. Unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from the previous trip (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). Thompson Falls is a three level waterfall, totaling almost seventy feet in length. It is sourced from the Thompson Brook, which flows down Wildcat Mountain.

We were happy to start this adventure with the pouring rain beginning to dwindle. Our journey began at the Wildcat Mountain parking lot, before we soon located the Wildcat Nature Trail. We followed the Nature trail, and quickly found signs to the Thompson waterfall. The trail was clear and well marked. It was heavily packed with roots, gradually sloping upwards. The deluge of rain overnight led to a muddy trail, almost a mini waterfall of its own. We walked for a bit before arriving at a stream, tearing through the trail. I decided to take off my sneakers and cross this stream carefully. Miss Wilma had no interest in this unexpected detour, so somehow I able to pick her up and make it across, without tumbling into the water. We continued our journey to the Falls. A large amount of the trail ran parallel to the Thompson Brook, creating a beautiful song, and increased anticipation for the Falls.

On arrival to the Falls, it definitely did not disappoint. We were able to get in close proximity, the mist spraying on our face. The Waterfall was quite powerful, creating a thunderous sound. We stood for awhile taking photographs, and enjoying the magnificent view. Wilma appeared to pose on the rocks, while Shadow took a little dip in the Brook, before sitting calmly nearby. We took our time taking in the smells, sounds, and sights, cherishing yet another adventure.

The Thompson waterfall was gorgeous, and peaceful. I would definitely recommend to others (Rating: 4).

October 2016 – Vermont – Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

In October 2016 Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park in Woodstock, Vermont. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed! This National Park was named for George Perkins Marsh, and Frederick Billings. George Perkins Marsh was one of the nation’s first global thinkers, while Frederick Billings, was an early conservationist. The park includes: trails, horseback carriage rides, a victorian mansion, and a museum. It is also a popular location for cross-country skiing in the winter.

We choose a gorgeous, cool, fall day to visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. I did not conduct a lot of research before this adventure, so we decided to let our eyes (and snouts 🙂 ) guide us. We wandered around the trails, and enjoyed the beautiful architecture of the mansion, and the gorgeous gardens. There were luscious fields, landscaped gardens, and even some Robert Frost postings along the trails. We also spent some time relaxing in front of the Victorian mansion. It was a beautiful stop, and I do plan to visit Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park again in the future (Rating: 4).

July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Thorne Pond

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Thorne Pond in Bartlett, New Hampshire. Thorne Pond is a conservation trail, approximately one mile in the length. The trail circles the Pond, however, has side trails that lead to the Saco River.

We were excited to find Thorne Pond, as although I was not planning a visit on this particular day, we could not resist a new adventure. Thorne Pond is a simple trail, adorned with beautiful wild flowers, and mountain views. We began following the trail, locating paths down to the Pond along trail. I was ecstatic to find some hidden trails on the far side of the pond that led over to the Saco River. Although I guess not technically hidden, I did not realize that River views would also be included in this summer day adventure. We journeyed down the River edge for a bit before turning around and heading back to the Pond. We saw some other visitors, including some fishermen along the River’s edge, however did not find the location to be highly populated. We left feeling content, and relaxed from our time at Thorne Pond (Rating: 3).

July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Diana’s Bath

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed to Diana’s Bath in Bartlett, New Hampshire. Diana’s Bath is a series of pools, cascades, and waterfalls along the Lucy Brook. The site was once the location of an old sawmill, abandoned by the Lucy family in the 1940’s, while later becoming a historic site. It is located in the White Mountain National Forest.

We were excited to adventure to Diana’s Bath today. We have visited this spot before, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from previous trips (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). Our adventure began bright and early, as this site is known for being a summer hot spot. Our journey began down the well groomed trail, benches adorning the sides. It was short, but lovely trail, which ended in a long wooden bridge.

Upon arrival, we decided to ascend to the top of the Falls, hoping to find the serenity of silence. We strolled up the hill, on a rooted path, taking some photographs along the way. Of course we stopped to provide Shadow some water time, in the clear, crisp water. Wilma herself was quite content on the rocks, watching the scenes unfold around her. At the top of the Falls the water became a brook, with increased small rocks, and decreased pools for dipping. We enjoyed a little beach area, before the crowds began pouring in.

After wandering around at the top of our Falls we then began our descent down. We first hopped across the Falls, looking forward to experiencing a different visual. Additionally, this helped to provide a somewhat less populated journey. We enjoyed walking through the water, photographing, and of course numerous belly rubs, and love for the dogs. I even took some time walking on the smooth rocks through the water, which was quite the sensory cool-down. It was fun to spend time hanging out on the large rocks, and viewing the little waterfalls throughout. I was pleased that someone offered to take a family photo, with one of the Falls. Besides being excessively populated, Diana’s Bath was a wonderful place to visit (Rating: 4).

Error

This video doesn’t exist

Error

This video doesn’t exist

October 2016

July 20, 2018 – Ahern State Park – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Ahern State Park in Laconia, New Hampshire. Ahern State Park is a 128 acre park, which includes a shoreline on Lake Winnisquam. It is popular for beach goers, bikers, hikers, fishers, and boating (non-motorized).

We were quite pleased to explore a new park on a “not-too-hot” summer kind of day. We drove down a long gravel road before arriving at the beach, and parking area. We started down the trail parallel to Lake Winnisquam. The trail was very quiet, with the distant sound of children swimming, and boaters enjoying their morning. We found several trails down to the shore, for some Shadow swims. As usual I wished I had brought my suit, but instead Wilma and I watched Shadow float around, cooling down and relaxing. The trails were a little unclear, so I avoided any complex loops. We found some fun rocks along the way, allowing us to view the lake from above. The trail had a little more mosquitoes then preferred, but we did our best to ignore them, and carried on our happy way. There really was not a lot to see at the park, but as per our usual adventure we reveled in the new smells, and overall experience (Rating: 3).

July 14, 2018 – New Hampshire – Beecher and Pearl Cascades

On Saturday we journeyed to the Beecher and Pearl Cascades in Carroll, New Hampshire. The Cascades are part of the Crawford Brook, on the Cascade Loop Trail of the White Mountains National Forest. The Beecher Cascade is a 35 foot plunge, while the Pearl Cascade is a 20 foot plunge. The trail begins behind the Crawford Depot which is an active station of a scenic railroad. Follow the “Avalon Trail” which will lead you to the Cascade Trail Loop.

We were elated to start our afternoon with a trip to the Beecher and Pearl Cascades. The trail was not clear, but again, the research let me know exactly where to locate to the trailhead. We started following the trail signs to the Avalon trail, before connecting to the Cascade Loop trail, and then to the first Cascade, the Beecher Cascade. The trail was quite uninspiring, but the anticipation, and nature, allowed us to relish every moment. We easily located the sign to the Beecher Cascade and followed to sign down to this Cascade. This Cascade was a beautiful gorge-like cascade, with a powerful stream flowing down the rocks. There was a little area to hang out in for Shadow to nap, while Wilma posed on some rocks. I am always delighted when I can get close to a Cascade, a true connection to nature.

The second Cascade on the trail was the Pearl Cascade. We actually missed this Cascade, and began hiking uphill for awhile, along the very rocky trail. We found a little area of the Brook where we were able to sit and relax a bit, and revel in the peace of nature. I eventually decided to ask a fellow hiker and he informed me that we were trekking up on the “A-Z” trail. We quickly turned back, and eventually made it to the Pearl Cascade. I am still unsure of how this miscue happened, but we definitely added a good work-out to our day.

The Pearl Cascade was difficult to see from the trail, so we climbed down to the Crawford Brook to check it out. Somewhat distant in site, the Cascade had minimal water streaming down the rocks. I was disappointed in this Cascade, but glad we were able to find it before departing. (Rating, Trail: 3, Beecher Cascade: 4, Pearl Cascade: 3)

Cascade Loop Trail

Beecher Cascade

Cascade Trail

July 14, 2018 – New Hampshire – Ammonoosuc Lake Trail and the Red Bench Trail

Yesterday we went for a hike on the Ammonoosuc Lake Trail (officially referred to as the Around-The-Lake Trail) and the Red Bench trail in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. These trails begin behind the AMC Highland Center on Route 302. The Ammonoosuc Lake trail is a less then two mile hike that goes around the Ammonoosuc Lake, and at mid-point you can choose to branch onto the Red Bench Trail. The Ammonoosuc Lake is small, approximately two acres in size, and has views of the mountains from the shore.

It was a little dreary, and cool on this summer day, but we were quite pleased to not get caught in a downpour. This is a trail I attempted to find before, but never was able to locate it. However, I decided to email the AMC Highland Center, who quickly responded, allowing me to easily locate the trail. I immediately fell in love with this gorgeous trail. Although close to society with an occasional sound of traffic, it really provided a remote feel. There were several areas where Shadow could swim, and we were able to view picturesque views of the mountains. The trail ran slightly above the Lake in most sections. It was maintained well, and perfectly gorgeous. We traversed the loop twice, and on the second round decided to check out the Red Bench trail. We followed this trail uphill for a bit, crossing the railroad tracks, before finding an actual Red Bench at the little overlook. I was disappointed not to see a view (likely from the lush summer landscape), however was quite pleased and surprised to find a real Red Bench. Quite an amusing and exclusive aspect to this trail.

I am guessing this is not a well known trail as our first loop we had the entire Lake to ourselves. On the second lap we saw a young family, and also what appeared to be an AMC guided tour for families and their pre-school children. Definitely a hike that is perfect for young children, and of course others who enjoy a charming, and scenic walk. I expect to be back at this trail again in the future. (Rating: 4)