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 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).

Error

This video doesn’t exist

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 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)

June/July 2018:

June 2017:

Error

This video doesn’t exist

October 2016:

October 2014:

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).

Throwback Adventure – Bash Bish Falls – Massachusetts

In May 2017, Shadow, my Aunt, my Uncle, and I visited Bash Bish Falls in Mount Washington, Massachusetts. (Wilma had not yet joined our world). In my blog today I cannot help but note how fortuitous I am to have such a wonderful Aunt and Uncle. They are encouraging, kind, and giving, and always make me feel special and loved. It was fun to have their company, on this spectacular spring adventure.

Bash Bish Falls is located right on the border of Massachusetts, and New York, and is the highest waterfall in Massachusetts. The Falls include a series of cascades that are approximately 200 feet tall. The final cascade is 80 feet tall, split into two, by a large protruding boulder. Bash Bish Falls begins in a spring on Mount Washington, although is technically located on Bash Bish Mountain.

We started our journey to the Falls from the Massachusetts trail. The parking lot was difficult to find, but the trail was clear on arrival. The trail is approximately two miles in length. It sloped up slowly, running besides the beautiful, singing, babbling Bash Bish Brook. Shadow therefore was able to enjoy some sips and dips in the brook along our journey. On the opposite side of the brook we noted some cabins, which likely were part of the Bash Bish Falls State Park. I was amused by a sign along the way indicating the Massachusetts, New York border, and was quite diasppointed that I was not able to locate a photograph. However, it was a lovely trail, and quite the nice perk to fill the hike with great company, and conversation, catching up on all the moments of life.

Upon arrival at the Falls we witnessed a stunning, and dramatic view, the Falls roaring, and immense. As expected a crowded area, with ongoing snaps of photography. There were picnic tables, and of course areas along the rocks to sit an enjoy the site. A beautiful day enjoying nature’s magnificent beauty (Rating: 5)

May 5, 2018 – New Hampshire – Beede Falls and West Rattlesnake Mountain

Today we visited Beede Falls, located less than a mile on Sandwich Notch Road (on the Sandwich side) in Sandwich, NH. The Falls are about 37 feet tall and form into a beautiful sandy pool below. There is a small cave under it called “Cow Cave”. We were able to explore this little area, and see the Falls from the side. We wandered along the trails in the area, finding a charming bridge nearby. Shadow enjoyed wading in the water, while Wilma preferred chewing on some sticks. There were other dogs visiting, which is always a fun time. This was a lovely spot, and we were lucky to have a perfect spring day to explore. (Rating: 4)

After our visit to Beede Falls we journeyed to West Rattlesnake Mountain. The Trailhead began in Holderness, NH. This hike goes to the summit of West Rattlesnake Mountain. It is about 450 foot elevation gain, and I believe it is about a two mile hike. The trail was well maintained, and definitely good exercise. The summit revealed outstanding views of Squam Lake, and its many islands. There were large boulders, and plenty of places to sit and relax. The breeze was refreshing, creating a wonderful atmosphere to relax. We stayed up at the summit for some time, before heading back down the trail. I was definitely not disappointed with the summit views. (Rating: 4)

April 23, 2018 – Getaway to Connecticut – Day Two

We started a relaxing Day Two of our getaway in Connecticut waking up at a beautiful, dog-friendly accommodation called Green Acres Bed and Breakfast. Green Acres is an early eighteenth century farmhouse located in Simsbury, CT. I felt immediately at home upon arrival, being greeted by the innkeepers’ three rescue dogs. This property was beautifully landscaped with fountains, and a pool. We stayed longer than planned chatting with the owners, who were quite hospitable. Although it is easy to find a place that allows dogs, it is hard to find one that is truly dog friendly. This was a dream find for a crazy dog mama like myself. Before we departed I enjoyed an elegant breakfast, and left feeling like a queen. It is definitely a place we plan to stay at again. (Rated: 5)

Our first stop on Day Two was the Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury, CT. Stratton Brook State Park was Connecticut’s first state park to be completely wheelchair accessible, and is a designated “Trout Park”. This was a very simple park, but had some lovely trails through the woods, over a creek, and even several ponds, popular for fishing. Shadow enjoyed a swim in the creek, while me and Wilma watched from the little bridge above. We then discovered another adorable covered bridge, perfect in shape, and bright in color. I love scouting out covered bridges. They sometimes make me feel like a professional photographer, stunning in their own solidarity. (Rated: 3)

For our second stop we briefly visited Collinsville, CT. Collinsville is considered a small village in the town of Canton, CT. Collinsville was built around the Collins Company factory. These factory buildings were powered by the river, and have since been rented out to local businesses. We traversed the bridge over the Farmington River, taking photos along the way. Just a quick stop before we headed off to a more dog friendly area, a little too industrial for me. (Rating: 2)

Next we journeyed to Enders State Forest in Granby, CT. This was definitely my favorite location of our Connecticut getaway. The Enders State Forest incorporates nearly 2100 acres of wilderness, including the Salmon River, and approximately five waterfalls abutting the trails. The sounds of the babbling brooks, numerous hide-outs along the River, and steep, rocky views provide quite the sensory experience. Some good exercise along the trails, but yet a relaxing retreat. Definitely a true gem of a park. (Rating: 4)

Our next stop was one of those spontaneous pit stops, directly along the roadside. This location was the Barkhamsted Reservoir, Saville Dam. The Saville Dam is on the Farmington River, and forms the Barkhamsted Reservoir, the primary water source of Hartford, CT. We had driven by this area once before, but this was the first time we had some extra time to wander, and of course shoot some photos. The sun was beaming on the Reservoir, and the view amazingly picturesque. One of our humorous moment occurred at this site. As some of you may know Wilma just turned one, so has many unpredictable moments of joy, and really just utter chaos. On at least three occasions she began rolling on her back, and started flailing down the hill. I attempted taking a video, which I will post below. I am not sure if I captured the moment for my audience, but definitely did capture a memory. The Barkhamsted Reservoir and Saville Dam may be a place to explore more at a future time. (Rating: 4)

Our last stop of the day was at Soldier’s Monument in Winsted, CT. Although I am far from a history buff, I love the gorgeous landmarks that are created to memorize, and honor those who sacrifice their lives for others. The Soldiers’ Monument and Memorial Park is a Memorial for the American Civil War. It was initially dedicated on September 11, 1890, while renovations and additions have occurred since. It is a small area, but very picturesque with the main monument located at the top of a little hill. (Rating: 3)

So this brings me to the end to our Two Day Connecticut getaway. We had a wonderful time exploring, and look forward to our next new Adventure. Evidence of a successful vacation can be seen below, the best travel buddies I know!

April 22 and 23, 2018 – Getaway to Connecticut

My first blog starts as we journey into Connecticut for a two day getaway. On our drive to Connecticut we broke up the trip with a visit to the Westville Dam Recreation area in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. This Dam was designed and constructed by the US Army Corps of engineers, and was completed in 1962. We traversed around the Quinebaug Lake on the 1.8 trail loop. It was a beautiful morning the sun was streaming through the trees, the water sparkling, and the beginning of blooming buds in view. This trail varied from a feel of natural beauty, to a more commercial feel. This short trail was a favorable way to stretch our legs. (Rated: 2)

We then arrived at our first stop in Connecticut, the West Cornwall covered Bridge in West Cornwall, Connecticut, spanning the Housatonic River. Although this bridge was last modernized in 1973 it is estimated that it may have been in this location as early as 1762. Wilma’s agile frame jumped from rock to rock, while Shadow enjoyed wading in the cool River water. We stopped to take some photos, and enjoyed a stroll along the river. (Rated: 4)

Next we journeyed to the Kent Falls State Park in Kent, CT. Pulling into the parking lot my eyes were promptly drawn to Kent Falls, a massive waterfall, plunging 250 feet in less than a quarter of a mile. As we wandered toward the Falls we walked beneath the Kent Falls covered bridge, a lattice bridge, spanning just 37 feet across. We then followed the Housatonic River directly to the bottom of Kent Falls. The waterfall provided several opportunities to climb, with various cascades streaming down. Although a beautiful waterfall I found this site to be very touristy, which seemed to dampen my excitement in this brilliant site. There were several trails in this park, but I decided to keep moving, as we had many appealing sites planned. (Rating: 3)

Next we journeyed to Bull’s Bridge in Kent, CT, spanning the Housatonic River. The first instance of this bridge was in 1760, while the current bridge was built in 1842. This stop was a nice surprise as in my hasty research I located a bridge, neglecting to see all the other brilliant sites. Our hike in this area led us to rushing river rapids, a dam, and numerous trails with stunning views. This was one of those locations that we really could have explored for the day. (Rating: 3)

Our last stop of the day was at Macedonia Brook State Park in Kent CT. This park has trails that lead to the mountain peaks, offering views of the Catskills and Taconics. Our visit to Macedonia Brook Park was short, as dusk was upon us, and we did not traverse the mountain trails. We wandered briefly, and enjoyed the sounds of the babbling brooks, and an adorable “must-photograph” bridge. I think this photo of Shadow and Wilma became my favorite picture of the day. A peaceful and quiet place to wrap up Day One of our getaway. (Rating: 3)