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 the Wayside Home in Concord, Massachusetts. The Wayside home is a historic home, part of the building being standing in the 1700s. The home was home to Samuel Whitney, and later home to authors including: Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Margaret Sidney. Tours are available of the home, in-season.
We had a simple Adventure to the Wayside Home after a three hour walk at one of our favorite local parks. We parked across the street, at the designated parking, and headed over to the home. The Home indicated it was closed for the season. Although I did not research it I am sure dogs are not allowed indoors, so our visit would not have been too much different in-season. We explored the grounds as much as possible, really not much to see. So glad we could take some shots at the Wayside Home today (This blog will not be rated).
Today Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Nahant Beach Reservation in Nahant, Massachusetts. Nahant Beach Reservation contains approximately 67 acres of beaches, recreational areas and a promenade with views of the coast. Dogs are allowed on the beach in the off-season.
We had a fun Adventure to Nahant Beach, our new Adventure after our local walk. I was sure I had been there before but upon arrival I immediately realized I was remembering a different beach. Pleased to find a quiet location, we first headed down the bike trail, I am assuming the “promenade”. We spent some time walking before heading onto the beach. We walked around exploring this new beach, both Wilma and Gus loving the different shells, and leftovers from the sea. There was snow on the beach, and near the shoreline adding quite the picturesque scene.
After enjoying the beach we crossed the street to what appeared to be a paved trail. Wilma and Gus found even more shells and smells to appreciate. We walked a bit and enjoyed the view of the sun over the skyline. So glad we could adventure to Nahant Beach Reservation today (Rating: 3.5).
Yesterday Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. Coast Guard Beach is the start of twenty miles of sandy beaches. It received its name from the old coast guard building which sits above the dunes. It is a popular swimming destination, and in-season only allows parking for local residents, however provides shuttle services from nearby parking.
We had a magnificent Adventure to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, Massachusetts. Since our family is celebrating Thanksgiving on Saturday this year I decided it would be a good day to visit the Cape. I was surprised to arrive to a crowded scene at Coast Guard Beach. We found some trails high above the tunes that we explored a bit before heading down to the shore.
There were many people wandering onto the beach, but I was relieved that once on the shore everyone was spread out. Dogs are required to be on leash, but to be expected not all followed these guidelines. The ocean was beautiful in color, crashing and singing into shore. The sky was bright blue and the dunes lined the shore, just gorgeous. We walked and walked enjoy the serenity. It was Gus’ first true beach experience. He loved finding crab shells, crab legs, shells, and digging with big sister Wilma. Wilma loved her regular, chaotic digs and continually wanted to play with Gus. The Beach had an endless variety of rocks formed in unique shapes, colors, and texture. We explored and trotted along, not wanting the Adventure to end. It was a perfect day! So glad we could visit Coast Guard Beach (Rating: 5).
Yesterday Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Buzzards Bay Recreation Area in Bourne, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. The Buzzards Bay Recreation Area is the northwestern most section of the Cape Cod Canal bikeway. The Area is popular for walking, fishing, biking, and picnicking. It also contains the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge.
We had a sun-shining Adventure to the Buzzards Bay Recreation Area. If you have followed my blog you might think this area looks quite familiar, however this was our first visit to the Buzzards Bay Recreation section of the Cape Cod Canal bikeway. And although a little odd to be out and about on Thanksgiving our family will be celebrating on Saturday, so an ideal day to explore. I often stop at the Cape Cod Canal bikeway on our way up to Cape Cod. It is a great place to walk, the dogs are generally under control, and although far from magnificent there are some lovely sights. The Buzzards Bay Recreation Area started at the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge a unique and spectacular site. From there we followed the trail, and spent about two hours exercising our paws (haha!). I stopped taking photographs once we merged into the connecting Recreation Area to make sure I was capturing only the Buzzards Bay Recreation Area. I was surprised to see so many others out on this holiday, but an especially gorgeous day for late November in New England. Wilma and Gus loved walking, and checking out the sites, while Wilma added some happy rolls, and Gus some stick chewing. It was really a beautiful day, and if we did not have other plans for the Cape we might have gone on forever.
Afterwards we wandered around Buzzards Bay Park a small park containing a statue, and gazebo, and children’s activities. So glad we could visit the Buzzards Bay Recreation Area today (Rating: 3.5)
I have been fighting with my computer and memory card as photographs from this Adventure have not been recovered, but sadly I have realized that they cannot be recovered. I am lucky that I did get some photographs and videos from this Adventure so decided it was time to post from what it is available. So here we go….
On September 21, 2021 Gus and I Adventured to Mount Watatic in Ashburnham, Massachusetts. Mount Watatic is a 1832 foot mountain, and one of the most visited mountains in central Massachusetts. The hike to the summit is approximately 2.2 miles round trip.
We had a wonderful Adventure to Mount Watatic. I have been looking forward to attempting another mountain and today was the day. I knew the dog scene would be unpredictable so Wilma headed off to Grandma and Grandpa’s spa for some extra love and relaxation.
Upon arrival to Mount Watatic we found the parking lot right off of route 119, brown signs marking that we were in the correct location for this parking area. Although we did not arrive until 8am I was quite pleased to find only two cars in the parking lot. We headed down the trail, soon arriving at some wooden boards over the water. It took just a short time until Gus fell in, although not at all deep, a bit unexpected for this ground loving boy. However he did not seem phased and continued walking down the boards and checked out the view of the water to the right. The rising sun was streaming through the trees, just lovely.
We then headed into the woods and not too far in we had a choice to turn right or go straight. I decided to head right as I had read something about the yellow markers, which we continued to follow to the summit. The trail was not too difficult although there were several times I did need to stop when the trail ascended somewhat steeply. However Gus, did not have any issues with this new terrain, as I expected. We walked and walked enjoying the trail almost completely to ourselves.
It did not take long to reach the top and we were sure of this destination by locating a stone indicating we had reached the summit. The peak was pretty, with a variety of greenery and yellow flowers, although the views far from impressive. I thankfully had read in the reviews to make sure you visited the second peak, and although for some reason it took me some time to find the trail to this location, we did arrive. The views from the second peak were definitely impressive. We were lucky to have a day off on a gorgeous almost Fall day, the sky blue and clear. We walked around checking out the panorama before finding a little corner to sit for a snack. The sun was out, and the temperature perfect. I probably could have sat that for hours but yet I am definitely am an “on the go” kind of gal, never preferring to sit for too long.
We found a sign for a different trail on the way back down, and by this time there were more people and dogs. Gus seemed a bit nervous about other visitors and dogs, likely because big sister Wilma was not by his side. There were lots of green ferns on this trail, although maybe I just did not notice them on the way up. It really was a wonderful hike, a perfect time of day with the sun streaming through the trees. So glad we could hike Mount Watatic today (Rating: 4).
Yesterday Wilma, Gus, My Uncle and I Adventured to Look Park in Florence, Massachusetts. Look Park is a private, non-profit park that requires an entrance admission. It is open year around and celebrate a variety of holidays with events and holidays. Look Park is popular for: sports events, picnicking, weddings and ceremonies, and walkers. In addition they have a water spray park, pedal boats, and Steamer Train all which are seasonal.
We had a refreshing Adventure to Look Park on a beautiful Autumn Day. I actually have been to Look Park numerous time as it is located near the homes of my Aunt and Uncle, and cousins. As a young child I visited to see my cousins’ dance shows, one of my cousins got married there, I have been their for sports events, and even walked through to enjoy the holiday lights. I have been meaning to write a throwback blog on this location but have never managed to gather all of the past photographs so decided to add it as a “normal” blog today.
On our adventure today we enjoyed a long walk at Look Park, catching up, and searching for the bright colors of Fall. We spent about two hours exploring, and walking, often taking on a casual approach. I especially loved the bridges of all shapes and variety, and the sculptures scattered throughout. The best part of the Adventure is I got to spend time with my amazing family, walking with my Uncle, and afteward heading to my Aunt and Uncle’s house for lunch and a visit. They are two very special people in my world! So glad I finally could Adventure to Look Park today (Rating: 4).
Today Wilma, Gus, My Mom and I Adventured to Brookfield Orchards in Brookfield, Massachusetts. Brookfield Orchards has been family owned since 1918. As expected there is a large orchard for apple picking. Brookfield Orchards also has a playground for children, a Country Store with baked good, and offer hay rides.
We had a warm Adventure to Brookfield Orchards. Although my ideal day for apple picking is not a hot one, today was the day I had it planned, so we did not let a warmer day stop us. I was quite happy to hear about this new dog friendly orchard. Upon arrival I was shocked and disappointed to find it incredibly crowded, endless cars parked in various lots. I did not expect an orchard in a quiet, country town to be such a tourist destination, however we had arrived so we continued on our Adventure. We started with apple picking which of course was our main plan for the adventure. I believe there were three different available apples, but although I love apple picking annually I am not particular about types. We walked through the orchard, picking apples and taking photographs. I was a little bit of a slacker on the apple picking (thanks Mom), as we were sharing the same bag. There were endless apples and rows of trees, and of course people everywhere. We just about filled our bag, before we decided to finish our apple picking.
After apple picking I walked around with the pups while Mom visited the Country Store. We found some nice shade to wait and rest. Throughout our adventure both Wilma and Gus enjoyed endless rolls, grass chewing, and Wilma made sure to keep an eye on her Grandma’s every move! The pups were quite warm so I did not put too much energy into posing. It was fun watching Gus check out the apples, even occasionally picking one up in his mouth, maybe a ball? (haha). Although definitely too much of a hectic scene for Wilma and I we still enjoyed trotting through the orchard and completing our traditional annual apple picking adventure. Off to make apple crisp! So glad we could check out Brookfield Orchards today (Rating: 4).
Yesterday Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in Cheshire, Massachusetts. The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is an almost 13 mile trail that runs through the towns of Adams, Lanesborough, and Cheshire. The Trail is ten foot in width and as expected is the site of an old rail trail. Views along the Trail include the Cheshire Reservoir and the Hoosic River.
We had a lovely adventure to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. I was thrilled to finally get to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail as I had always wanted to visit due to the great reviews, scenic location, and my interest in rail trails in general. We found a map online and parked at Church Street as I wanted to make sure we were able to see the Reservoir with the mountain backdrop. I was thankful for a brief chat with a fellow dog walker who told me which way to head toward the Reservoir and off we went on our walk. The trail was smooth and most of the time edged with greenery, until of course we arrived at the Reservoir. As you may expect my favorite part was the route parallel to the Reservoir, with the gorgeous mountain views, so pretty and quite peaceful. We walked and walked spending about 1.5 hours on this trail. Gus loved giving his sister constant kisses, and picking up any and all sticks he could find. Wilma enjoyed walking and exploring the new smells on our walk. Definitely one of the prettiest rail trails I have been to on our adventures. So glad we could visit the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail (Rating: 4).
Yesterday Wilma, Gus and I Adventured to Tannery Falls in Savoy, Massachusetts. Tannery Falls is an approximate 80 foot waterfall consisting of various cascades. It is sourced from the Ross and Parker Brooks and is located in Savoy Mountain State Forest.
We had a water-rushing Adventure to Tannery Falls. I was excited to visit a waterfall today as we really have not been to many in recent months. I did a lot of research on this one ahead of time, and had no problem finding it. We found a small brown sign indicating Tannery Falls was down Tannery Falls Road as expected. There was a large parking lot, and a trail sign indicating it was .4 miles down the trail, so we again confirmed our location. We arrived at about 6:45 and although the darkness seemed to have passed once we entered the trail the darkness of the forest came upon us. We heard the peaceful sounds of rushing water the moment we started, such a rush when you are on a waterfall adventure. We followed the blue blaze trail entering and I think the entire way, although the trail was so easy to follow I stopped watching specifically for the blue. The trail followed the brook much of the route, and descended downwards. There were several small cascades along the trail. There were many steps, and although I would say the trail to the Falls easy, it was interesting descending these steps at times with two eager dogs barreling downward. However we enjoyed our walk and eagerly anticipated the Falls.
Upon arrival at Tannery Falls I was very impressed! It seems like I always have a picture in my head of the locations we plan and Tannery Falls did not disappoint. It was very tall, roaring, and just lovely. You could not get too close, but still it was just beautiful. We stood at the Falls as I took photographs. Gus loved finding every and all sticks and roots to chew on while Wilma enjoyed some rock hopping and exploring. The singing sounds of the Falls and Brook were just right. We enjoyed the serenity of this location until we were ready to head back. We did not see anyone else on our adventure, and were pleased to have Tannery Falls all to ourselves. So glad we were able to visit Tannery Falls (Rating: 4).
Today Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Cohasset, Massachusetts. Cohasset is a coastal town in Southern Massachusetts.
We had a boat-filled Adventure to Cohasset. Cohasset was one of our three destinations today but our only new one. Surprisingly I do not think I have ever been to or driven through Cohasset so was excited to find this new, somewhat local destination. We first started walking around the Harbor area. The Harbor was absolutely beautiful all sorts of boats bobbing in the water. There were some docks, sidewalks and many places to stop and appreciate the gorgeous coastal scene. After exploring the waterfront we headed to the town. The town was small but had shops, green areas, several historic buildings, restaurants and several churches.
Lastly, I attempted to find some beaches but they were for residents only and/or not dog friendly. The prettiest location on our Adventure was actually the view along the coast as we drove, gorgeous ocean views and beyond spectacular mansions. The sad thing that there was nowhere to park or take in the scenery but definitely a lovely, and wealthy part of Cohasset. During our visit Wilma especially loved lounging in the grass and wading in the water while Gus loved exploring the smells of the lobster traps and trotting along with his big sister. So glad we could visit Cohasset today (Rating: 4).
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 