February 7, 2021 – Farandnear – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, and I Adventured to the Farandnear Reservation in Shirley, Massachusetts. The Farandnear was the former estate of Arthur Banks who was a well known professor and political scientist. It includes 2.7 miles of trails, and an Arboretum. The Park is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Farandnear. I blogged about Farandear almost two years ago but since we have never been in the snow I figured it was a good opportunity to blog again. I was thrilled to arrive at Farandear to an empty parking lot. We headed off on to the trails. As many of my New England followers know we are heading into our next storm, so it was a dark morning for our Adventure. As typical of a Trustee’s property, the trails at Farandnear are well marked. In addition the snow was well groomed by previous visitors so we followed the paths easily. Wilma often seemed to be hearing something, maybe wildlife in the woods?? I often found her with her leg up in the air as she was thinking, smelling, or pondering whatever was in her mind. It almost gave me an eerie feeling….what was I missing? It was fun seeing the prints in the snow which Wilma followed closely, my hunting girl. We walked and walked, enjoying the exercise as we trudged through the snow and got a great workout as we went up and down the short hills. We trekked through the bogs and past the ravine, such a different terrain then our other visits. After our hike we wandered over to the Arboretum and checked out some of the trees adding color to the limited winter colors. It started snowing just as we were headed to the car…the perfect way to end our Adventure (Rating: 4).

Below you will see a collage of photos from today and two of our other visits, and two videos of the same area in different seasons (unfortunately some of the photographs are fuzzy – still working with wordpress to resolve the problem):

Paradise Ravine in Winter and Spring

Old Cranberry Bog/Old Reservoir (I believe I got the title correct, however I know it was the same spot in Winter and in Spring)

January 31, 2021 – Charlestown Harborwalk – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Charlestown Harborwalk in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Charlestown Harborwalk is part of a forty three mile park connecting the waterfront neighborhoods to Boston.

We had a fun Adventure to the Charlestown Harborwalk. I had noticed signs for the Charlestown Harborwalk on our last visit to the area and decided today was the day to come back and explore. I was able to find little information specific to the Charlestown Harborwalk, so thought we would start where I located the sign and hope to find a long and scenic walk. We began at the Constitution Marina and off we went. We first started at the loop finding a spectacular view of the USS constitution, an amazing navy boat floating by, and magnificent views of the Boston skyline. We then walked through the Charlestown Navy Yard and then headed to the remainder of the Charlestown Harborwalk. We followed along the water exploring the different Piers and boats, locating the Wind Sculpture Art Exhibit, passing luxury residences, and the world known Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. We walked and walked until we arrived at the Tobin Bridge. There I found a sign saying “0” miles indicating we had arrived at the official beginning of the walk, well the end for us (haha).

The Charlestown Harborwalk was not always clear, but as soon as I thought we had taken a wrong turn we saw another sign indicating we were right on track. Along the Harborwalk we did take one little detour as Pier 6 was closed for construction but were able to head over to the main road and loop around to continue on Harborwalk. My favorite parts of the walk were the beautiful views of the city, the gorgeous Tobin Bridge, and the boats throughout. Wilma loved exploring, walking and watching other dogs from afar. The Harborwalk was a lovely spot to explore, and I can just imagine it is quite full of fun during the warmer months. So glad we could explore Charlestown Harborwalk today (Rating: 3.5).

January 24, 2021 – The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to 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. It is part of the Emerald Necklace, a system of parks in Boston.

I first posted about the Arnold Arboretum over two years ago when Shadow, Wilma, and I first discovered it. Little did I know it would become one of my favorite local parks. Wilma and I generally visit weekly, and have experienced it in all seasons. Almost every single time we go I find something new. We recently experienced our first after snowstorm visit which was a spectacular winter wonderland. I love the Arboretum as it is full of culture, and diversity, individuals, and families, it really is an environment that fits all. The Arboretum has bridges, streams, ponds, hills, trails, and gardens. As you may expect Wilma absolutely loves chasing the squirrels and can often be found attempting to climb a tree. We even have seen a snapping turtle, although thankfully Wilma did not even notice. Since it had been years since I blogged about it, and I have snapped constant photographs I thought I would put together this collage of photographs. Such a special place, which has become our therapeutic oasis. The Arnold Arboretum is definitely a must in New England, and it is a given that we will be back (Rating: 4.5).

January 17, 2021 – Columbia Greenway Rail Trail and Westfield River Walk – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail and Westfield River Walk in Westfield, Massachusetts. The Columbia Greenway Rail Trail is a two plus mile paved path through the town of Westfield that traverses the Great River Bridge over the Little River. The Westfield River Walk is an almost two mile stone-dust path along the Little River which intersects with the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail.

We had a bridge-filled Adventure to the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail and the Westfield River Walk. Our main Adventure fell through today so we found ourselves exploring spontaneously. This Trail and Walk were not too clearly identified in-person, however upon arriving home I did some research in regards to our travels to discover that we had explored these two locations.

We enjoyed walking along the River, across the bridges, and down the paved path. The bridges were the pair of the Great River Bridges and the Westfield River Bridge, all of which had crossings available for pedestrians. There were lovely views down the River. Wilma enjoyed the walk over and under the bridge, and entertained me as she played in puddles of cracking ice. If I had realized that there were particular trails we may just have traversed these entire pathways, however glad to find portions of today’s trails for our Adventure (This blog will not be rated).

January 17, 2021 – Chicopee River Canal Rail Trail – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Chicopee River Canal Rail Trail in Chicopee, Massachusetts. The Chicopee River Canal Rail Trail is a less then .5 round trip pathway along the canal. It is lined with various trees, has benches, and displays informational kiosks.

We had a simple Adventure to the Chicopee River Canal Rail Trail. I had planned this Adventure as one of the mini stops after our main destination. It took at a minute for me to figure out where to park, but we located a retail mall and decided to walk to the Trail. Upon arrival we found several information kiosks and headed down the path. The Trail was quiet, a nice separation from the visual needs of the community. The canal flowed steadily, but did not add any song in the air. One side of the Trail was lined with a decorative cement barrier, while opposite the canal there were mill buildings, mostly appearing to be apartment living. We walked to the end and turned around, only seeing one other fellow walker. The Trail was someone unappealing, but yet Wilma absolutely loved the smells along the way. Definitely not a place we will return but always glad to explore a new place (Rating: 2).

January 9, 2020 – Scituate, Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Scituate, Massachusetts. Scituate is a coastal town in Southern Massachusetts. It is a small town known for the beaches, history, restaurants, shops, and the fishing community.

We had a walking-filled Adventure to Scituate on a beautiful winter day. Although we have been to many of the locations we visited today, I have only blogged about the Scituate Lighthouse, so decided to do a blog about the town. Today we explored: Scituate Harbor, the Harborwalk, the shopping district, Lawson Tower, Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, and the Scituate Lighthouse. We walked and walked, and enjoyed the spectacular sun on this winter day.

The most beautiful stop in Scituate today was definitely the Scituate Lighthouse. It is one of the most gorgeous Lighthouses in New England with several breakwaters, and rocky beaches surrounding. One of the special features about the Scituate Lighthouse is you can get up-close to view this spectacular structure. While at the Lighthouse Wilma especially loved exploring the beach, covered with rounded beautifully colored rocks, and hoping along the breakwater rocks. We have been to the Scituate Lighthouse numerous times, and it never disappoints.

We also stopped at Lawson Tower, which we had not been to before. This was a grandly tall structure, surrounded by gating, but yet a unique and unusual Tower. I initially was planning on just blogging about this Tower but decided to share the summary of our time in Scituate due to our numerous other stops, and time spent exploring.

Throughout the day Wilma enjoyed charming those around us, rolling in the grass, walking, and exploring the coastal smells. I was planning on a half day trip today but between Scituate and our previous stop we walked the day away! So glad we could visit Scituate today (Rating: 4)

Throwback Adventure – Chesterfield Gorge – Massachusetts

I have decided to return to posting new “Throwback Adventures” after taking time to re-post some of my favorites with Shadow. This has been a therapeutic process for me to share. We are devastated that both Shadow and Buster have both passed, but find peace knowing we can continue to remember them through our “Throwback Adventures”. They were amazing boys and are forever in our hearts.

In August 2016 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to the Chesterfield Gorge with my Aunt and Uncle. If you are a follower of my blog, or a fanatic of New England Gorge’s you may be aware that there are two Chesterfield Gorge’s in New England – one in New Hampshire, and one in Massachusetts. Today my blog will be about the Chesterfield Gorge in Chesterfield, Massachusetts. The Chesterfield Gorge in Massachusetts is located in a steep rock canyon along the Westfield River. The Gorge has trails and is a popular location for fishing. It is a park of the Trustees of Reservation.

We had a wonderful Adventure to the Chesterfield Gorge with perfect company. I remember appreciating views of the Gorge from high above before walking down a hill to get to the water’s edge. The boys enjoyed drinking from the clear River water, framed by beautiful evergreen trees. The River was filled with rocks adding a variety of color to the scene. We enjoyed wandering down the trail parallel to the water and fantastic company. I look forward to exploring the Chesterfield Gorge again in the future (Throwback blogs will not always be rated).

January 2, 2020 – Franklin Park (Including Schoolmaster Hill Ruins)

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Franklin Park in Boston, Massachusetts. Franklin Park is the largest park in the Emerald Necklace at approximately 527 acres. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1890s. Franklin Park includes: trails, history, a public golf course, Schoolmaster Hill and the ruins, Scarboro Pond, and the Franklin Park Zoo.

We had an unexpected Adventure to Franklin Park. My initial plan was to visit the ruins at Schoolmaster Hill and then likely head to the Arnold Arboretum nearby. However, not knowing exactly where it was located we parked and began walking. I soon realized we were in Franklin Park, and decided to just explore, and hopefully locate the Schoolmaster Hill in the process. We immediately stumbled on Scarboro Pond, and decided to walk on the loop around this Pond. The Pond was simple, but lovely, filled with ducks and framed by two two bridges on the near and far ends. The people we passed were friendly, which is not something I would have expected in the city. Along this tiny loop we found a map to help us navigate our route.

After Scarboro Pond we headed on the main loop around the Park. The Park was centered by the golf course, and the clouds and sun were just right. We passed various things including a playground and cafe before arriving at the Schoolmaster Hill. I was so excited to head up the Hill to check out the ruins. We arrived at the ruins after a short walk up the Hill, trotting through the ruins several times, appreciating each moment of the experience. Wilma appeared extra curious, jumping up, putting her front paws up to look through, and peaking into each corner. I absolutely loved the ruins, they were beautiful. Definitely exceeded my expectations! (Please see below for a video as well as numerous photographs).

After spending time at Schoolmaster Hill we continued to explore the Park, including: The 99 Steps/Ellicott Arch, and Scarboro Hill with the “vista” lookout. We spent about two and a half hours walking on the paved trails, and trying to see what we could find. I absolutely loved watching the sun setting the clouds were framed by all colors, and sunlight creating a spectacular scene. I wish this beauty was easier to capture on camera. As you may expect the sunset and ruins were my favorite parts of today’s Adventure, while Wilma loved walking along the stone fences, jumping on the rocks, and the expected walking and sniffing. Although I had heard of Franklin Park I never thought of exploring it until our accidental find. So glad we could Adventure to Franklin Park today (Rating: 3.5)

December 30, 2020 – White Crest Beach – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to White Crest Beach in Wellfleet, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. White Crest Beach is known for the large sand dunes, and rough waters making it a popular beach for surfers. The beach is long and wide and is reportedly less crowded then other locations in Cape Cod. The beach is not handicap accessible.

We had a sun-rising Adventure to White Crest Beach. We arrived at about 7am to find only one other car in the parking lot and not a sole in sight. The beach was instantly gorgeous, the sun-rising, and the views spectacular. We began our trek down the gigantic sand dune to the beach below, quite a fantastic entrance. We headed straight to the water and checked on the views down the beach. The sand dunes framed the beach adding quite the grandeur. We began our walk along the water and at various times also headed toward the dune to check out the sight (and smells – haha). The waves were crashing, it was so serene, a peaceful oasis. We spent about two hours walking and exploring. We found a couple of tidal pools, and lots of perfectly rounded rocks. Wilma enjoyed walking, some frantic digging, and literally ran circle around me! She was a little uneasy with the loud crashing sound of the waves but was curious to explore the tidal pools. The sky was spectacular and everything about the beach was beyond perfect. White Crest Beach might now be my favorite Massachusetts Beach…so far. We look forward to returning in the future (Rating: 5).

December 27, 2020 – Gill-Montague Bridge/Turners Falls-Gill Bridge – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Gill-Montague Bridge, also referred to as the Turners Falls-Gill Bridge. This bridge is a steel truss bridge that crosses the Connecticut River. The Bridge was built in 1938 and later remodeled in 2013.

We had a soaring Adventure to the Gill-Montague Bridge. We have driven across, and walked under this Bridge before, but decided to take the pedestrian bridge across and check out the intricate details. I was originally drawn to this idea as I had seen some shooting water from afar and was eager to locate the site of origination. So after enjoying a long walk on the Canalside Rail Trail we decided to take the journey up and over. (See this link for our original blog from the Canalside Rail Trail.) We walked across the Bridge until we located the water from what appeared to be a damn or power plant. I guess I should know exactly what it was caused by, and although I do not I do know it was spectacular, churning high in the air, which created gorgeous and unusual textures. We stopped numerous times to check out the views, and then walked to the end before returning. Unfortunately one of the most beautiful parts of the bridge is the side view, however I found it difficult to photograph due to the fencing, or other barriers. However, hopefully this overall gives readers a feel for this special bridge. So glad to share this unusual Adventures to those who love the water, bridges, and bringing their favorite furry pals on their Adventures (this blog will not be rated).