Throwback Adventure – April 2015 – Cliff Walk

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 April 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. Cliff walk is a 3.5 mile trail that borders the shoreline. It is a National Recreation Trail in a National Historic District. Cliff Walk runs behind some of the mansions in the area, and includes: tunnels, paved paths, rocky shoreline, and beach areas.

We decided to choose one of the first spring weather days to journey to Cliff Walk. It was still a “winter-dark” kind of day, yet spring was in the air. We enjoyed walking on this picturesque trail, on the paved trail, through the tunnels, and onto the shore. It was neat to see such unique structures, and architecture on our walk, combining with the gorgeous rocky shoreline. We even found a nice, quiet area to picnic on the rocks. I am sure the walk is even more beautiful when the green color, and flowers are out in the spring in summer. However, it was nice to avoid the tourists, crowds, and to relax enjoy this gorgeous location. I think I will plan a visit again in the future (Rating: 4).

photo contest Cliff Walk in Newport RI April 2015

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)

July 13, 2018 – New Hampshire – Rainbow Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I went to Rainbow Falls in Plymouth, New Hampshire. Rainbow Falls is located in the Walter-Newton Natural Area. It is a source of Glove Hollow Brook, and is 25 feet in height. There are benches at the base of the waterfall to sit, relax, and enjoy the view.

The parking lot for Rainbow Falls was not marked, however, our research did us well, being able to locate the parking lot, and the trail. The parking lot is a dirt lot located on Cummings Road. We walked up the road a bit to the trail on the left, where the kiosk was located. One aspect of this trail I appreciated was that there were maps available to take, as well as a trail map posted at the kiosk.

We began our hike to the Fall from the kiosk. The trail was well marked, but I found it somewhat dull, and a little buggier then our “normal” adventure locations. We did find several spots where the brook was flowing, but overall the water was pretty dried out. There were little bridges along the way, some of which appeared oddly placed. Upon arrival to the falls we were quite disappointed, as there was barely a drop flowing from above. I guess we missed the prime time for the Rainbow Falls. We wandered around for a bit, before heading back. A disappointing stop, but we still enjoyed a good walk, and some time exploring (Rating: 2).

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Throwback Adventure – Stanley Park – August 2016

In August 2016 Shadow, Buster, and I visited Stanley Park in Westfield, Massachusetts. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. Stanley Park is a non-profit, privately owned park, that is approximately 300 acres in size. It includes: gardens, trails, playing fields, and a duck pond. The park was established in 1945 by philanthropist Frank Stanley Beveridge.

We stopped at Stanley Park after a wonderful visit with family. The park was beautifully landscaped, and highlights of our visit, included: a variety of bridges, an old working mill, the duck-filled pond, an old rustic church, and even a live swan! We enjoyed walking along the trails, and photographing the gorgeous scenery. This was as stop that I planned, but did not do any detailed research, so we wandered around without a map. However, I do think we found some of the highlights of this magnificent park (Rating: 4).

July 7, 2018 – New Hampshire – Ripley Falls

Yesterday we visited Ripley Falls in the Crawford Notch State Park of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Ripley Falls is a 100-foot waterfall, which flows over a rock wall that is at an approximate 60-degree angle. It is one of the steepest angled slides waterfalls in New England, and is sourced from the Avalanche Brook. The trail is less then a mile in length, however ascends up to 500 feet in elevation.

There was a sign for the Ripley Falls directly on Route 302 so the parking lot cannot be missed. We were excited to start today’s adventure on a much cooler summer day. We started the trail full of anticipation of the end result – a beautiful waterfall. The trail was full of rocks, and roots, and slowly would slope up before flattening. The sound of the rushing flume waters was constant on our journey to the falls, singing the sounds of nature. Parts of the trail were steep on the side, but not to a level of danger. We saw very few people on our hike to the Falls, but wondered if they had chosen to venture to other trails along the route.

It is hard to know what to expect when visiting a waterfall, but I was highly impressed, and mesmerized by the beauty, and height of Ripley Falls. Upon arrival we spent some time relaxing, and enjoying, with the entire site to ourselves. I jumped from rock to rock trying to photograph this majestic site, but sadly did not feel too successful in capturing the gorgeous flow of water, streaming from above. Shadow appeared a little disappointed as he had some difficulty following me as a traversed the rocks, however he enjoyed cooling down in the water, and sitting on the beach. I do think Wilma was enthralled with all the rocks, although she also appeared concerned that Shadow was not hoping along with us. We spent a good amount of time at this peaceful location, until dozens of other hikers began streaming in. The hike back to the car was quite quick as it was predominately downhill. I definitely was awed, and impressed with the Ripley Falls, and would highly recommend it to those other waterfall seekers (Rating: 5)

July 6, 2018 – New Hampshire – Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest

Today we visited the Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest in Center Harbor, New Hampshire. Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest is a 157-acre forest with over four miles of hiking. The Forest includes a mile of waterfront views and beaches on gorgeous Squam Lake. The area even has camping sites, and docks for boat access. The Squam Lake Association manages the shorefront areas and trails within.

We spent about two hours exploring the trails at Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest. I was impressed at how well marked the trails were, with printed maps posted throughout the Forest. The trails went from the forest, to waterfront, to even a “Swamp Walk” trail with a boardwalk surrounded by blueberries! Mid-hike I was awed to spot a gigantic hawk with a fish in his mouth, just feet above our head. Although I was not quick enough to take a photo, it was quite the spectacular moment.

If you are one of our followers you know that Shadow ran straight for the water upon site, while Wilma jumped onto the rocks along the trails. I was humored watching Wilma’s uneasiness with the small waves, but that of course did not stop Shadow from just sitting and enjoying a cool down in the Lake. These two are the perfect balance of calm and experienced, and wild and curious. We definitely had a pleasant visit to this lakeside forest (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure- Bridge of Flowers – July 2016

On July 22, 2016 my Mom, Buster, Shadow, and I visited the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. The Bridge of Flowers is a footbridge that connects the towns of Shelburne and Buckland. It once was a trolley bridge, and is now covered with flowers, literally a “bridge of flowers”. The Bridge of Flowers was created in 1929, and is now considered a nonprofit, maintained by gardeners and volunteers.

The Bridge of flowers is a stunningly beautiful, and rare find, being a complete bridge of colorful and aromatic flowers. The flowers are vibrant in color, fragrant and are flawlessly landscaped. Although the area is dog friendly, dogs were not allowed on the actual bridge. I was lucky to have my Mom with me who took care of Shadow and Buster while I did a quick stroll along the bridge. A unique and magnificent experience, definitely a must-see! (Rating: 5)

July 1, 2018 – New Hampshire – The Basin and the Basin-Cascades Trail

Today we visited the Basin, and traversed the Basin-Cascades Trail in the Fraconia Notch State Park. The Basin is situated along the Pemigewassett River. It is a curved waterfall which flows through carved rock, ending in a pool of water. The area has various water areas to explore. The Basin-Cascades Trail follows the Cascade Brook, and provides views of various waterfalls and cascades, including: Kinsman Falls, and Rocky Glen Falls.

We have been to the Basin, and the Basin-Cascades Trail numerous times, with my Mom, Shadow, Buster, and Wilma. Upon parking you immediately hear the sound of crashing water. It is absolutely beautiful spot, with bridges, beach-like areas, streams, cascades, lots of rocks and boulders, and waterfalls. As you embark on the trail it slopes up slowly, with beautiful cascades and waterfalls along the trail. There are many rocks to lounge, relax, and enjoy a snack. It is amazing as the more you walk the more exciting it becomes. The water in the summer is more flowing, while the Fall is especially beautiful with colorful foliage. I highly recommend a visit to this gorgeous stop in the Fraconia Notch State Park. I will include photographs from some of our visits (Rating: 5)

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June 30, 2018 – Lake Saco Trail – New Hampshire

Today one of our adventures was to the Lake Saco Trail in Carroll, New Hampshire. This was our second time visiting the Lake Saco Trail. The Lake Saco trail is a short trail, bordering Lake Saco, and is located in the White Mountain National Forest.

When we arrived at the Trail we found that flowing water had overtaken the beginning of the Trail, appearing like a shallow stream. Apparently I did not have my water proof hiking boots, but we sure did not let that stop us on our adventure. We continued on, and journeyed to the dry portion of the trail, which included large boulders, fun little bridges, and gorgeous mountain views. I observed the mountains reflecting onto the water, just so picturesque. One of the bridges we encountered had actually collapsed, but I humored myself in still trying to traverse it. After a little wobbling, and a lot of encouragement for Shadow, we made it across. The trail mostly followed the water’s edge before merging into the forest. Simple, short, yet just so beautiful. The only thing that I do not like about this trail is that is sits just off the road, so the sounds of the highway slightly dampen the true nature experience. I will include photos from both of our journey’s below (Rating: 4).

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