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.
Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I visited Dimitri’s Pizza in Contoocook, New Hampshire. Dimitri’s is a family owned restaurant with a casual dining experience, and outdoor seating along the Contoocook River. They have a variety of menu items, including: pizza and home made ice cream.
We were not planning on ice cream today, but why not eat some ice cream at a beautiful riverfront location. We found Dimitri’s after our Adventure to the Contoocook Railroad Bridge, located directly next door to the Bridge. The place was bopping, with many pizza pick-ups coming and out. There was an outdoor window and quick service for ordering. I am always humored at how Shadow and Wilma anticipate the ice cream from the counter. I of course ordered them each a dog ice creams, and mint chocolate chip for myself. We then headed to the riverfront seating to enjoy our tasty ice cream. Other guests to Dimitri’s were quite entertained viewing Shadow and enjoy their ice cream, lick by lick. It the perfect opportunity to celebrate the end of our weekend of Adventures (Rating: 3, Dog Ice Cream: 4)
Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I visited the Contoocook Railroad Bridge in Contoocook, New Hampshire. The Contoocook Railroad Bridge was built in 1889 and is the oldest existing railroad bridge in the United States. It traverses the Contoocook River, and is open for foot traffic.
We were excited to find an Adventure to yet another New England Covered Bridge. Parking was available at the Bridge, allowing us to walk right over and through this marvelous structure. The Bridge was a stunning brown color, and although dull from the front and back, a surperb and majestic view from the sides. It was difficult to photograph the Bridge from the distance as it was immediately parallel to another. We did our best, and enjoyed looping around the other Bridge, adorned with beautiful flower boxes. After exploring all angles we did find a little trail down to the water’s edge. Although very muddy, and littered it allowed us to exhaust all attempts for a photograph.
It is a fun to find an Adventure that adds a piece of history to our journey. A one of a kind Bridge, only in our New England. We were pleased to explore the Contoocook Railroad Bridge (Rating: 4).
Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Littleton, New Hampshire. This was my third visit to Littleton, New Hampshire (having been there with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom, and also with Shadow, Wilma, and My Mom). Littleton is on the northern side of the White Mountains. It is well known for the shopping district, historic buildings, the art scene, and the Riverwalk, (which highlights the Riverwalk Covered Bridge). Littleton is a popular area for tourists, and has even been voted one of the best towns in the USA.
On our first two trips to Littleton we mostly spent our visit on the Riverwalk, and exploring the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. The first journey was quite a rainy day adding great stories to our Adventure. We found a little restaurant along the water providing us some cover from the rain, hot drinks, and of course the perfect scenery for some photography. Our second trip was a bit drier, yet cooler. On this journey we especially enjoyed some photography along the rocks. It was also a great location for our afternoon picnic. Both visits came with stunning Fall foliage!
On our most recent trip, just yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I attempted to explore various features of the town, including: the downtown shops, the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, and the Pollyana statue. Our first stop was the Pollyana statue of which I had read about and was therefore very excited to see this landmark. A fun statue, bringing smiles to the faces of visitors. We quickly noted the “Polyanna theme” was plastered around town with paintings on the crosswalk stating “stop look wave”, and banners throughout stating “The GLAD town”. This theme definitely provided an inviting and positive vibe for the community, and its’ visitors.
From there we strolled around the shopping areas. We were soon greeted by a store owner providing treats, and water, and letting us know the shop was “dog friendly”. There were numerous piano’s along the streets, again adding a theme of harmony and cheer. We also viewed numerous, beautiful flower arrangements along the shops, and roads adding a colorful touch to the area.
Our last official stop on this trip was a walk along the Ammonoosuc River, and the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. We savored a nice long walk through this gorgeous, and scenic Bridge. Although soon into the Bridge poor Shadow became nervous, but he made it through victoriously! Relieved to be on solid ground, he quickly forgot all his worries with a dip in the River. The dogs enjoyed exploring the rocks on the River, while I snapped numerous photos. After were finished at the River we decided to take a longer loop back. This provided a picturesque view of the Bridge, from afar. Definitely a beautiful Summer day to be out exploring the town of Littleton (Rating: 4, Bridge: 5).
PS – Don’t you worry we did find ourselves some afternoon ice cream!
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Weeks State Park in Lancaster, New Hampshire. Weeks State Park is a Historic Site located on Mt. Prospect. It was the estate of John Wingate Weeks who worked under Presidents Harding and Coolidge. He was a conservationist and a congressman. The property contains 446 acres and was given to the state of New Hampshire by his children in 1941. It includes a museum, stone fire tower,and trails throughout. The Park is known for spectacular views, including of the Presidential Mountain Range.
We were elated to find Weeks State Park online, leading us to great anticipation of a wonderful Adventure. Upon arrival we drove up to the top of Mt. Prospect on the narrow road. There were two spots with views that we stopped to photograph on the way. They were clearly labeled, allowing us to identify the various mountains and bodies of water. A nice feature to these planned look-out sites.
On arrival at the summit we had a nice view of the estate, several buildings, and the scenic tower. We began exploring on the nature trails. The trails were simple, and not well labeled, however they were surrounding the estate. We circled around until we reached the “North Overlook”, providing a raised view of the area. After checking out the “North Overlook” we returned to the estates snapping photographs of the buildings, towers, and landscape. I thought the tower climb might be too ambitious for Shadow so we skipped this aspect of the Park. However, we enjoyed chatting with some locals, exploring the main porch, and resting in the grass. Quite the unique architecture, almost like a European retreat. We definitely enjoyed our Adventure to the Weeks State Park (Rating 3).
Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Groveton Covered Bridge in Northumberland, New Hampshire. The Bridge was built in 1852 by Captain Charles Richardson and his son. It traverses the Upper Ammonoosuc River.
We were happy to start the first day of September with a journey to a new covered bridge. The day was a bit cloudy, and gratefully cooler then recent days. We found the Groveton Covered Bridge just off the main road, with parking nearby. The bridge was white in color. The paint was pealing off, revealing a run-down landmark. However we were to pleased to see it stable for foot traffic, and open for exploring. We took a walk down the sides of the rivers taking photographs, and then looped far around to get a distant view. There were many wild flowers in the area, adding some bright color. We studied the architecture as we strolled through the Bridge, careful not to be run down by the constant ATV activity. After we had an opportunity to capture all available angles we decided to sit and the grass to savor the experience. A fun start to our day of Adventures in New Hampshire (Rating: 3).
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Georgiana Falls in Lincoln, New Hampshire. Georgiana Falls consists of thirty feet of cascades. The Falls is sourced from the Harvard Brook.
We were excited to begin our Adventure to Georgiana Falls. The parking lot was at the end of Georgiana Falls Road. We began our hike to the Falls, locating a small sign confirming we were at the correct trailhead. The trail to the Falls ran under the highway on two separate occasions, creating a loud background sound of vehicles. The trail was quite uninviting, but improved when we arrived at the Brook, singing a musical song. We followed the Brook, and several times strolled over to the rocky, water’s edge. The Brook was boulder-filled, and shallow, allowing minimal opportunities for a swim. However, Shadow did make his way in on at least one occasion. Even when the footing is challenging,Shadow never misses a good opportunity for a summer cool-down.
We continued to follow the trail until we arrived at the suspected Georgiana Falls. We were disappointed to not even see any waterfall. It appears that Georgiana must be a Falls that is best seen in spring, as I am 99% sure we had arrived at the correct location. From there my plan was to hike to Harvard Falls, a bit farther, and steeper climb. I soon realized that the literal hopping from rock to rock was too much for Shadow, so we decided to head back to the trail. Shadow was energized by this decision, as he seemed quite uneasy with the numerous large boulders.
We then trotted back on the trail again taking several side trails to the Brook. I searched for color in the dull landscape, and found a couple bright yellow mushrooms and wildflowers along the path. Overall an unappealing hike, however the bland scenery never dampens our time on an Adventure (Rating: 2).
Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I visited Moose State Park in Gorham, New Hampshire. Moose State Park is located in the White Mountains, occupying approximately 755 square acres of land. It houses the Peabody and Moose Rivers, which feed the warming pond, and swimming area in the Park. Moose State Park is a popular location for biking, camping, and fishing.
We were excited to have my Mom join us as we embarked on our Adventure to Moose State Park. We began our visit on the Perkins Path trail. This loop circled through the forest, at times paralleling the Rivers. We savored the little details along the path. There was a cave-like formation atop a huge bolder, gigantic circular rocks, and colorful mushrooms along the way. Midway on the loop we located a wooden bridge crossing over the River. Definitely an ideal location for some photographs, and videos. After finishing at the bridge we continued on the trail taking in the moments,on this beautiful day.
Upon completing the loop we walked a little further finding the camping areas, some modern bridges, and the “warming pool”. Shadow enjoyed a swim in this “pool”, while Wilma rolled around in the grass. It was nice to see some additional features of this park.
The main highlight of our afternoon was finding some fun rocks along the River to rest on, dip our feet, and relax. The River was frigid, numbing our feet, yet adding the perfect therapy to our soles. We enjoyed each others company, while taking in the sounds of the River. Shadow took a dip in the River, while Wilma found some chewing sticks. Some attempted selfies, and laughs, as memories were formed. And although Moose State Park quite simple, we savored our time at Moose State Park. (Rating: 3, Company: Exemplary!)
Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited the Sulphite Bridge in Franklin, New Hampshire. The Sulphite Bridge is also referred to by locals as the “Upside-Down” Covered Bridge. It is a railroad bridge that was built back in 1896. The railroad line carried sulfur for the mills, giving it the name of “Sulphite”. The Bridge survived a fire in 1980, and is no long a working Bridge.
Upon our arrival to this Bridge I realized that Buster, Shadow, and I had stopped at this location in the past. (If I do find these photographs I will add it to my blog). I was disappointed to discover this, especially recalling that it was far from scenic, nor picturesque. However, we were happy to stretch our feet, and take in the sounds and sites. The Winnipesaukee River Trail appeared to begin right at the base Bridge, providing us a great excuse for a walk. There were lots of small wildflowers along the paved trail, and the sound of the Winnipesaukee River could be heard singing below.
Overall we found it was difficult to get great photographs of the Bridge, however we did our best. Before leaving we climbed a short hill to take some photographs from atop the Bridge. This provided us the true visual of the “Upside-Down” as the railroad tracks were on the very top. A good view to end our Adventure at the Sulphite Bridge (Rating: 2, Company – Perfection!)
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited the Bump Bridge in Campton, New Hampshire. The Bump Bridge was originally built in 1877, before being rebuilt in 1972. It crosses the Beebe River.
We had a short adventure to the Bump Bridge, after a busy weekend of adventures and fun. The Bridge provided one car traffic,and allowed minimal visibility to drivers. Therefore we took several jogs through the Bridge, but did not linger inside. We ambled down the road a bit, attempting to find a photograph from the River. Finally we were able to locate a trail to the River, which definitely was appreciated. Shadow sat in the water, while Wilma provided some good entertainment with a bark and growl at her adorable reflection. The Bridge was very simple, but yet we were excited to cross of yet another Bridge from our White Mountain adventures (Rating: 3).
Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed to the Honeymoon Bridge in Jackson, New Hampshire. The Honeymoon Bridge is a wooden bridge that was built in 1876, (while the sidewalk was added at a later date). It spans the Ellis River. The Honeymoon Bridge obtained its’ name from the tradition of lovers kissing under the bridge, in hopes of bringing on good luck.
Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I had visited this Bridge previously, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from that trip (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.).
Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I had a very soggy adventure to the Honeymoon Bridge. The rainy weather scared away most of the visitors which gave us the opportunity to explore without distractions. We parked at the nearby gift shop, and walked over to the bridge. Although I was glad to see the sidewalk on the Bridge, both Shadow and Wilma were a little thrown by the zooming of cars shaking the Bridge. However, with some encouraging we all made it through. After traversing the Bridge we posed on the opposite side, and attempted some additional photographs. Shadow enjoyed some rolling around in the grass, and a quick nap, which always brings a smile to my face. We enjoyed our visit to the Honeymoon Bridge, even on this dreary, rain filled day (Rating: 3).
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 