June 30, 2018 – New Hampshire – Lower Ammonoosuc Falls

Today, one of our adventures was to the Lower Ammonoosuc Falls in Carroll, New Hampshire. This Falls is part of the White Mountain National Forest. It is a Cascade Falls with a 15 Foot drop. It is surrounded by rocks, and is a fast, and strong flowing cascade. As you might suspect, it is part of the Ammonoosuc River.

I was glad to have done some research on the Falls as the parking lot was not clearly marked from the road. Once we drove all the way into the lot, it was clear we had arrived at the Lower Ammonoosuc Falls Trail. We started on the trail, which was flat, and not too unappealing. After observing more closely we began to see many colorful, fluttering butterflies, and wild flowers along the trail, added some intrigue, and of course chasing for Wilma. Additionally, it was pleasant to hear the natural sounds of the River as we traversed this simple trail.

On the way to the Falls, we found many little trails to sneak over to the River’s edge. These were fun little spots, that often had beach-like areas. Shadow was able to swim in the River, while Wilma waded. I even decided to wade myself, enjoying quite the cool down in the chilly River water. On and off throughout our walk we stopped at these areas to hang out for a bit and cool down. Sand for digging, rocks for climbing, and water for swimming, I think just the perfect dog day!

On arrival to the Falls we found a heavy cascade of water barreling down into a large pool. The Falls was surrounded by large rocks, that helped create the crashing sound of the water. We were able to climb the rocks along the side and enjoy the view. Between the bright sun, and the moving water it was hard to capture a great shot, but of course attempted some videos as well. We did not observe anyone swimming, but a hand-full of fishermen along the way. This was a great area to hang out on a hot summer day (Rating: 4).

May 27, 2017 – Connecticut – Campbell’s Falls

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.

On May 27, 2017 Shadow and I journeyed to Campbell’s Falls in Norfolk, Connecticut. (Wilma had not yet joined our world). Campbell’s Falls is located in the Campbell Falls State Park Reserve. It cascades nearly 100 feet, and is a part of the Whiting River. The Whiting River starts in Massachusetts, and the waterfall lands into Connecticut.

We visited the Campbell’s Falls at the end of a full day of adventures (hence the end of the video). We found a parking lot that led us to a short, but steep walk to the Falls. The Falls was absolutely breathtaking. The roar of the water, the mist of the Falls, and the singing of the flowing brook led to a true nature experience. We sat by the brook for a bit, and relaxed, taking in the sounds, smells, and sights. We then climbed halfway up the waterfall, taking some photos in the perfect little spot. I love finding landmarks of nature that provide the full sensory experience, and this definitely was one of those moments. The Campbell’s Falls was one of the most beautiful waterfalls I have seen, and I highly recommend a visit (Rating: 5).

June 23, 2018 – Greycourt State Park – Massachusetts

Today we visited Greycourt State Park in Methuen, Massachusetts. This Park is a recreation area that covers 24 acres atop the partially restored ruins of the Charles H. Tenney estate. Grey Court, which is also referred to as Tenney Castle, was built in 1893. It was the centerpiece of the Charles H. Tenney estate. The Tenney family were a successful business family, world known merchants in the business of hats. The Tenney Castle was later destroyed by fire in 1978.

This Park was not easy to find, but luckily I had done some research ahead of time, and knew exactly how to locate it. We parked at City Hall, and hiked from the Historical Society down the paved road to the park. It did not take long to locate castle ruins up on the hill. Many tall trees and green landscape surrounded this spectacular landmark. The paved trail took us up a small hill, and directly to the ruins. We strolled through the beautiful architecture, taking many photos. I was awed by this castle ruins, and enjoyed studying the many architectural features. There was an old water fountain, lots of holes to peer through and beautiful arches, and pillars. Standing in the ruins really made me feel like I was on an international journey, almost magical.

Once we had finished wandering the ruins we sauntered past and found some dirt paths. There were no markings, or directors, but we weaved in and out of the trails. I found them a bit humdrum, and was disappointed to hear clear sounds of cars and construction. However, we found some unique trees, and were able to get some always valued exercise.

After we finished at the trails we headed back to the castle ruins for one last visit. We sat for a bit next to the ruins, where Shadow and Wilma enjoyed their normal rolls, and some time playing together. We only saw a couple people on our visit, mostly locals walking through the area with their dogs. It was a fun little spot, and definitely a cool ruin to explore (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Echo Lake (Fraconia Notch State Park)

Echo Lake is a beautiful lake in Fraconia Notch State Park in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It is 38.2 acres and sits at 1,931 feet elevation. It is on the northern side of the Fraconia Notch and offers breathtaking views of the Lafayette and Cannon Mountains. The water of the lake flows toward the Connecticut River. There is a swimming beach, and a trail around the Lake.

We have frequented Echo Lake many times over the years. It is an absolutely gorgeous location, especially in Fall. Often we have stopped just to relax and take photos, while on one journey my Mom enjoyed some time painting, while Shadow, Wilma, and I traversed the Lake trail. We mostly have visited the Lake during Fall, but just this past Winter we traveled to view the scenery. A much duller scene in the Winter, but yet I was humored as the Lake appeared no where in site, covered in snow. It is quite magical to view the changes of season, unique to our beautiful New England. I would highly recommend exploring Echo Lake. I will include photos from three of our adventures below (Rating: 5).

October 2016:

I had to include this amazing photo that my Mother took of Shadow, Buster, and I. It is one I will treasure ALWAYS! Little did I know that less then a week later Buster would leave our word, at just seven years old. He was an amazing love in our life, and I miss him so much! A wonderful memory forever graved in our hearts!

Buster card 2

October 2017:

Echo Lake Oct 2017 4

March 2018:

June 16, 2018 – Connecticut – Mansfield Hollow State Park

Today we visited Mansfield Hollow State Park in Mansfield, Connecticut. The Mansfield Hollow State Park is a State Park in Connecticut, and is considered a “recreation area”. The Mansfield Hollow Lake is approximately 500 acres, and there are 251 acres of recreation area on the western edge of the Lake. Popular recreational opportunities include: hiking, dog walking, fishing, boating, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. There is no fee to enter the Park, quite the perk for a social work budget.

Immediately on arrival our eyes were drawn to the beautiful blue, sparkling water of the Mansfield Hollow Lake, as a refreshing cool breeze lightened the air. Gazing over the Lake we viewed many canoes, kayaks, and fisherman. We found a trail near the boat launch, and began wandering the trails, many parallel to the Lake. The scenery varied from beautiful lake views, raised trails, footpaths winding throughout the woods, to even fields with bright colored, tiny, wild flowers . There were many families enjoying an afternoon picnic, and dogs strolling down the trails. Throughout the day we stopped several times to sit in the shade and relax. Shadow and Wilma enjoyed rolls, and naps in the bright green grass. The Park appeared quite immense, providing many quiet, uninterrupted spots to lounge and enjoy.

We spent about three hours exploring the Mansfield Hollow State Park. The dog rules were not clear, nor stated, but we did our best to observe those around us. However, on our second stop at the park (which appeared to be the main parking lot), we noted a sign indicating dogs must be leashed. We then” leashed-up” and continued exploring (so we do apologize for this overlook.) It was a warm, yet relaxing day at Mansfield Hollow State Park (Rating: 4).

June 10, 2018 – Massachusetts – Ashuelot River Park, Walpole Creamery, and Beaver Brook Falls

Today we had three adventures in Keene, NH. It was a beautiful spring day, the perfect temperature for some shady hikes. Our first stop was at the Ashuelot River Park. The Ashuelot River Park is a 157 acre park, which includes the River, and adjoining wetlands. There are numerous trails throughout the park, many alongside the River. The trails are especially popular for bicyclists.

When we first arrived at the Park we found a well groomed open area, with beautiful flowers, and benches. We quickly arrived at the pedestrian bridge, and the Old Mill Dam. We spent a couple hours wandering the beautiful trails, mostly choosing the route neighboring the River. There were a couple spots along the trail that were near residential areas, but mostly we felt away from the world, and at peace with nature. The birds were chirping, and the scenery was peaceful. It was a great Park of which to enjoy the day (Rating: 4).

Our second stop today was the Walpole Creamery in downtown Keene. I always love finding an ice cream stop with an outdoor window, and dog ice cream available for the pups. We made our purchase and found a quiet grassy area to enjoy our ice cream, and to sit for a bit. It is good to note that there were some nicely shaded umbrella areas in front of the creamery, but I figured we would be more comfortable in the grassy shade. We each greatly enjoyed our refreshing ice cream. Shadow and Wilma then enjoyed some time playing, and rolling around in the grass. Definitely the perfect, and energizing break in between our stops (Rating: 4)

Our last stop of the day was at the Beaver Brook Waterfall. The trail was less then a mile long, slowly sloping upwards, on an old New Hampshire highway. The trail was not too picturesque, with wires above and the sounds of local traffic nearby. It was therefore especially pleasant to hear the babbling Beaver Brook, reminding us that we were truly on on adventure in nature. We walked along the top of the gorge, and could see the Brook far below. However, I was so disappointed to arrive at the Falls, as I found no viewing opportunities. We could hear the magical sound of the water, but yet it was so overgrown that there was not a glimpse in site. Possibly with some steep, risky climbs, but yet with two dogs in tow, really not an option. So although I feel like I must have missed something, we never did see the Beaver Brook Falls. I attempt to think like a dog in these times, and just enjoy the moment, and the experience. Luckily there were some moments to dip into the Brook, a rock to pose on, and I even saw a beaver like creature along the trail. Glad we attempted to see this waterfall, while in Keene (Rating: 2)

June 5, 2018 – Massachusetts – Russell Mill Pond and Town Forest

Tonight we went for a local hike at the Russell Mill Pond and Town Forest in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. The Forest contains 132 acres of land, including land on the east side of Russell Mill Pond.

I often enjoy exploring local conservation land, and this trail was a great find. It was simple, yet beautiful. We mostly followed the trail along the Pond, but also veered toward some of the inner forest trails. There were a couple of simple bridges, a little bubbling stream, and a wealth of bright green ferns lining the trails. We did not see any other dog walkers, but the area was clearly popular with mountain bikers.

I highly encourage you to seek out conservation land in your area. Lovely trails and scenery, with no cost involved. You really cannot beat that. (Rating: 4)

June 2, 2018 – Vermont – The town of Wilmington, Woodford State Park, and our second visit to the Creamery Covered Bridge

Today we visited many different places, while on our Adventure in Vermont. I will highlight our three main stops in my blog today.

The Town of Wilmington, Vermont

On our first stop we wandered around the charming downtown section of Wilmington, Vermont. Wilmington is located in the Deerfield Valley of the Green Mountains.

We enjoyed walking around the town, which appeared to have many unique shopping opportunities, and restaurants. In this area we found Reardon’s Crossing, a green pedestrian bridge, which crosses over the Deerfield River. We walked along the River, and wandered along some of the Hoot, Toot and Whistle trail, before turning back toward town. On our return route, Shadow was eager to find a path to the River to cool down. We finally found a little overgrown path down to the water. Shadow enjoyed walking around in the shallow river, sipping a drink, and even just lying in the water (adorable video below). Wilma enjoyed some digging, and really just seemed content taking in the moment. (Rating: 3)

After exploring the downtown area, local trails, and River, we drove to Harriman’s Reservoir to check out the view, and of course for another Shadow swim. This is a very picturesque Reservoir, which I believe is also referred to as Wilmington Lake. It was not easy to figure out how to access the Reservoir, but we were lucky to find this boat launch to snap a couple shots. (Rating: 3)

Woodford State Park

Our second stop was Woodford State Park in Woodford, Vermont. This park is a 398 acre park, located at 2400 feet elevation. It is on a mountain plateau surrounding the Adams Reservoir. The park has camping sites, cabins, and lean-tos. One of their cabins is even dog friendly, and while I definitely contemplated that option, but decided to just make it a day of adventures.

Initially my plan was to hike the loop trail around the Adams Reservoir, however, we arrived later than expected, and it was quite humid. In addition the trail was very overgrown at spots, and quite buggy, which likely swayed my decision to complete the full loop. Instead we walked part of the trail, taking a loop that headed closer to the Reservoir. The Reservoir was beautiful, and scenic, and the water quite inviting. As you might guess Shadow enjoyed swimming, and rolling in the grass. Wilma enjoyed scouting out the new trail, and greeting guests. After our little walk, we wandered around the “day use” area, enjoyed some more swimming, and sat for a bit near the Reservoir. There were several people fishing nearby, and many young families on the sandy beach. There seemed to be some biting flies, which shortened our stay, but yet really a truly beautiful Reservoir. (Rating: 3)

Creamery Covered Bridge – Brattleboro

Our last stop of the day was at the Creamery Covered Bridge in Brattleboro. This was the second time we visited this bridge, as Shadow, Buster, and I also visited this spot in July of 2016. It fills my heart remembering our adventures with Buster, and knowing that I can still include these memories in my blog.

The Creamery Covered Bridge was built in 1879 and is now closed to traffic. It is a lattice truss bridge, which is approximately 80 feet long. It crosses the Whetstone Brook, and is located right next to Route 9.

We parked near the bridge, and wandered over, sauntering back and forth through the beautiful lattice. Shadow and Wilma were quite tired, (being our last stop of a busy day), providing me a good opportunity to catch a side-by-side pose! Definitely not an easy task with an energetic puppy. It was fun finding a bridge with no cars rushing through, allowing us time to relax and enjoy (Rating: 3).

July 2016

Brattleboro covered bridge

Today

Throwback Adventure – Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse, Maine – September 2013 and February 2018

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Flashback 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 September 2013, Shadow, Buster, my Mom, and I visited Neddick Lighthouse, and in February 2018, Shadow, Wilma, my Mom, and I visited Neddick Lighthouse. As many of you know Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed!

Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).

We enjoyed our visits to this beautiful, scenic lighthouse. It is the perfect place to take photographs, sit on a bench and enjoy the breeze, lounge in the grass, or jump from rock to rock along the ocean shore. It really is a true New England landmark (Rating: 4).

September 2013

Neddick 4

February 2013

May 27, 2018 – Rhode Island – Blackstone River State Park

Today we visited the Blackstone River State Park in Lincoln, RI. The Blackstone River Park is a riverfront park with bicycle trails, walking paths, canoeing, and even a museum. It is also popular for fishing. The Blackstone Canal was built to improve transportation of goods, and was opened in 1828. The River flows nearly 48 miles throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

We visited this park on a dark, cool New England day, a far cry from yesterday’s 80 degree heat. Although many will complain about today’s weather, I love a 50 degree, sweatshirt-type of New England day.

On our visit we explored the trails along the canal, and through the woods. We located a dam from afar, and noticed various bridges winding through the park. We appreciated new trails for some exercise, taking in the nice cool breeze. Shadow seemed to love rolling in the Rhode Island grass, while of course Wilma found some tasty sticks to gnaw. We chatting with several other visitors, and made some dog friends. No matter how simple the park, we ALWAYS enjoy our adventures! (Rating: 2)