August 2, 2025 – Kayaking at Ashland State Park

Today Gus and I went kayaking at Ashland State Park, located in Ashland, Massachusetts. Ashland State Park is a 470 Acre Park with a 157 Acre Reservoir. The Park has a dam, a spillway, and several beaches for guests. The Park was initially created when the Reservoir was built in 1895. Ashland State Park has several fun facts, with a movie partly partially being filmed there in August 2014 (“Sea of Trees”), and even a helicopter crash in August 2016. Besides the formal entrance (only open to cars during official hours), there is a boat launch on Spring Street which we utilized today.

We had a peaceful kayaking adventure to Ashland State Park. We arrived at 5:30 to observe the sunrise and avoid the crowds. Upon arrival we were thrilled to find just one car and no one in sight. The reservoir was still, sprinkled with morning fog, and the birds greeted us as we paddled. It was mystical and magical, although hard to capture on camera. We were able to watch the sunrise and enjoy the serenity of an early morning paddle. I paddled around the reservoir, slowly as always appreciating the peace and beauty of the day. Along the route we found endless birds, saw some fish, and eventually spotted people and dogs from afar. There were several very small areas of lilies, some rocks, the bridge near the dam, and at least one island. We saw no other boaters during our time on the water. Thankfully we missed the crowd, although they were rolling in as we departed, creating a challenging exit. So thankful for a Fall-like day and an early morning paddle today (This blog will not be rated).

PS – Unfortunately my new waterproof camera case was quite loud as I took videos so feel free to mute the below videos!

July 13, 2025 – First Kayak ride of the Summer

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).

June 11 & 12, 2022 – Hopkington State Park – Massachusetts

August 12, 2024 – Kayaking at Dunn State Park – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to Dunn State Park in Gardner, Massachusetts for some kayaking. Dunn State Park is a 132-acre park that surrounds a 20-acre pond. It is popular for swimming, hiking, fishing, and boating. There is a 1.3 loop trail around the pond, and other trails throughout.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Dunn State Park. I have never been kayaking at this park but often visited it with Shadow and Buster as we lived closer to the area years ago. It is a small but lovely park and we used to love taking several loops around the pond. This was Gus’ first Adventure to Dunn State Park and we decided to focus on kayaking today.

We arrived at about 8:30 am and the park was almost empty. We were able to drive down to the pond to launch, park, and then walk back to the kayak to start our Adventure. For some reason Gus appeared nervous upon arrival but soon after we began paddling, he became at ease. It was a beautiful day, probably only about 70 when we arrived. We went around the pond trying to find different colors and textures along the route. On this Adventure we found yellow and white lilies, endless lily pads, small purple flowers, and spotted a turtle from afar. It was just what we needed to start a gorgeous day. There was one little island, but no easy way to land the kayak so I decided to skip that idea and make it a day in the boat. Gus appeared to enjoy the smells and let out a couple big yawns – just adorable. It was one of those days the sun is just absolutely refreshing. We will have to be back for a walk around the pond next time (Rating: 4).

July 13, 2024 – Concord River (Bedford) – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to the Bedford section of the Concord River, while Wilma vacationed at the Grandma and Grandpa spa! The Concord River is an approximately 16 mile River, a branch of the Merrimack River. It played part in the American Revolution, being part of one of the battles. It also was included in the writings of well-known author Henry David Thoreau.

We had a sun filled Adventure to the Concord River. I was hoping to Adventure to Ashland State Park, however the bacteria level was high, so decided to head to the Concord River. We parked at the Boat Launch on Carlisle Road in Bedford. I was pleased to find endless parking, and a large area for launching. We quickly launched and headed off down the river, paddling with the current. It was very sunny, but there was a nice breeze, and I did not feel overly hot, nor did I notice Gus did. There was not too much to see, but here and there we saw some birds, lily pads, and lots of bright green vegetation along the river. Gus appeared to enjoy the scenery and was relaxed and calm.

After paddling for a bit we then turned around and headed against the current. Although it was not difficult to paddle, I was reminded of one of the reasons I am more of a lake girl – I am a lazy paddler (haha). Any time I stopped paddling I would start going in slow circles. However, I guess it was good for me to not be so sloth-like and row steadily. I had a couple moments of worry when there were motorboats, and a jet ski, but thankfully the waves did not overtake us, just a bit of bobbing.

One of my favorite parts was the bridge, while I also enjoyed finding a fearless frog, and the wonderful company of sweet Gus! So glad we finally got out on the kayak again today, long overdue (Rating: this blog will not be rated).

May 25, 2024 – Kayaking – Long Lake, Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to Long Lake in Littleton, Massachusetts for our first kayak trip of the season. Long Lake is a 113 acre Great Pond with depths between 8-22 feet. There is a sandy beach, conservation trails around part of the lake, and homes on several sides of the lake. There is a boat launch next to the beach.

We had a refreshing adventure to Long Lake. Long Lake has a special place to me as we frequented often as children, and it is where I learned to swim. I also have enjoyed the trails, especially with Shadow as he loved the water. Upon arrival I was told the beach facilities were closing so I did not have to purchase a day pass – yay! As soon as I sat in the kayak Gus jumped into my lap and off, we went.

Our kayaking adventure was just right. The Lake is not too big so there was plenty of time to explore every part of the water. The farther we got from the beach the quieter it got, we heard birds, frogs, and the occasional voice from across the water. We saw one turtle, lots of yellow lilies, endless green foliage, and birds. It was so relaxing, and even Gus seemed quite at peace, he really loves being on the water. So glad we could head out on our first kayaking trip of the year today (Rating: 4).

August 22, 2023 – Kayaking – Baddacook Pond – Massachusetts

I am happy to say Wilma seemed very happy and pain free yesterday (the day of this adventure). We spent almost nine hours outside on quite a beautiful day, limiting time chasing squirrels (haha)! Although I am still worried about her leg, I am thankful that she was in good spirits and helping me feel hopeful that she may recover soon! I therefore felt comfortable heading out on an evening kayaking adventure.

Yesterday, Gus and I Adventured to Baddacook Pond in Groton, Massachusetts. Baddacook Pond is a 76-acre Great Pond. There are few homes on the Pond, and a public boat ramp. The Pond is well known for fishing.

We had a peaceful evening kayak trip to Baddacook Pond. I arrived realizing I had been there one time to kayak previously, but I do not believe Gus was with me on that evening. There were no other cars or boats in the boating access, although we soon met two young boys who had come to the location for some fishing. Gus actually waded into the water a bit, a quite surprising sight. However, he became spooked when the two boys zoomed down on their bikes, although I would guess he would not have gone in much farther.

After loading on the boat, we headed off, across the lake. The water was so still, and the reflection was just amazing. The sun was setting behind the trees, but as it began to set, it disappeared preventing our view of the entire sunset. I paddled around the Pond and Gus enjoyed the peace of the ride. I spotted a bright red and orange little tree but was disappointed to find my phone had died before capturing this brilliant tree. The Pond was very small, and I also did not want to get stuck in the dark, so not a long paddle tonight, but still just right. So glad we could enjoy an evening paddle at Baddacook Pond (this blog will not be rated).

August 14, 2023 – Kayaking – Whitehall Reservoir – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I adventured to the Whitehall Reservoir for some kayaking. Whitehall Reservoir is a 620 acre great pond located in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. It is the main feature of Whitehall State Park and is popular for boating and fishing. Swimming is not permitted in the Whitehall Reservoir.

We had a relaxing kayaking adventure to Whitehall Reservoir, a place I have wanted to kayak at for some time. We found a parking spot on Pond Street and launched from there. The Reservoir was large in size and very peaceful! We found many lily pads, islands, and one sunbathing turtle! We paddled and paddled, but due to the large size of the Reservoir we did not see every corner. I was pleased and surprised to see very few other visitors. Gus always seems to enjoy this pastime, sometimes even nodding off. He changed positions several times and thankfully has great balance! So glad we chose such a beautiful day for our kayak ride on Whitehall Reservoir (this blog will not be rated).

July 21, 2023 – Kayaking – Lost Lake, Massachusetts

Today Gus and I went for a kayaking ride at Lost Lake in Groton, Massachusetts, sometimes also referred to as Knop’s Pond. Lost Lake was formed by three lakes, while overall shallow, the deepest depth is 30 feet. There is a public boat launch on Pine Trail Road, but the majority of properties that surround the lake, and small islands throughout are privately owned.

We had a peaceful adventure to Lost Lake, on a cloudy, yet cooler New England day. I had a flashback today, remembering that Gus had his first kayaking trip on Lost Lake approximately two years ago. I will of course share some photographs below as I did not do a formal blog on our first trip.

On our arrival to Lost Lake we found three or four vehicles in the parking lot, and one fishing boat unloading, leaving plenty available parking. Immediately upon launching we observed a very serene environment, we saw and heard few voices, or other boats, although heard some road traffic in the distance. I was immediately drawn to the water lilies which here in abundance and just gorgeous. We spotted ducks, geese, and swans, and found a variety of island throughout the Lake. The Lake was reasonably large, with lots of little areas to explore. Gus was quite relaxed and went from sitting, to standing, to laying, taking in every sight. It been a weird summer in New England, so it was especially nice to get out without worrying about a storm or the heat, even though not ideal for photographs. So glad we could kayak at Lost Lake today (this blog will not be rated).

Today’s Paddle:

Paddle from July 7, 2021:

Spectacle Pond – Kayaking

Today Gus and I adventured to Spectacle Pond in Ayer/Littleton, Massachusetts to enjoy some kayaking. Spectacle Pond is shaped like glasses, giving it the name Spectacle Pond. It is approximately 78 acres, with an average depth of 11 feet, and becoming as deep as 30 feet. Spectacle Pond is fed by Bennett’s Brook and feeds into Forge Pond via Gilson Brook.

Gus and I had a peaceful Adventure of kayaking on Spectacle Pond, while Wilma enjoyed some relaxing time with Grandma! We launched on 119, before Agway (heading from Littleton). Gus and I have been to this Pond before on a past kayaking adventure, but I did not blog about it so today was the day. I thought we might not pull off this Adventure as I could not get Gus into the boat. He did not like how it was tipping as he tried to come in. I was close to leaving, but we made it happen. Soon after he was in the boat Gus was relaxed, yawning, and peaceful. He seems to love riding on the water, we just have to work on a better entrance routine. Upon entering the Spectacle Pond we almost had to turn back again as there were sticks and items blocking the water, however, I spent some time, and found a little entrance to the side through the weeds and off we went – finally!

Spectacle Pond was not a large Pond. I paddled to the opposite side and explored some areas on the sides. There was one party boat, and one stand-up board, but no one else in sight. I am guessing many of the homes are summer homes, although maybe people were away for the weekend. My favorite part was the lovely yellow lilies, I wish easier to photograph, but I did not want to risk my camera coming out of the waterproof case, but I did my best. Glad we were able to get out on our first kayaking adventure this year (This blog will not be rated).

July 3, 2022 – Kayaking – Forge Pond, Massachusetts

Today Gus and I adventured to Forge Pond in Westford, Massachusetts. Although this was not out first Adventure to Forge Pond I have not blogged about it before…until today. Forge Pond is a 203 acre Pond located in Westford, and Littleton, also referred to as Lake Matawanakee. Forge Pond is reasonably developed with homes, has a private neighborhood beach, and a public beach. As expected it is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming.

We had a relaxing adventure to Forge Pond. We parked on the launch on Beaver Brook Road and off we went. My plan was to go through the tunnel and paddle along Beaver Brook. Gus was far from a fan of the tunnel but we made it through with few spider webs upon us (haha). I soon realized the paddling was not really an option due to the thick surface-seaweed so snapped a couple photos and headed back to the pond.

We then paddled out to the Pond. Gus was a little wiggly and antsy at first and it was quite windy so we decided to float and explore more then paddle. We saw lovely lilies, lots of adorable turtles and a heron, although difficult to capture on film. Even with several unexpected detours it really was a beautiful day. (This blog will not be rated).