July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Cathedral Ledge State Park

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I stopped at Cathedral Ledge State Park in Bartlett, New Hampshire, technically part of Echo Lake State Park. The Cathedral Lookout can be reached from a 1.7 mile hike, or a drive to the top of the mountain. Cathedral Ledge State Park is one of the most popular rock climbing locations in New Hampshire.

It is always brightens my day when I accidentally find a new adventure. Today was one of those days when I spotted the sign for Cathedral Ledge State Park and decided to check it out. Spoiled with the internet I did a quick review and off we went. I guess we cheated a bit on this adventure as I decided to drive to the Lookout. After a short drive to the top we then ventured to two separate viewing areas where we enjoyed sweeping views of North Conway and the surrounding mountains. We sat in the shade for a bit, and chatting with other visitors quite interested in Shadow and Wilma. I was lucky again to have some visitors volunteer to take a family photo. We enjoyed seeing the views, however this location was a little warm for the pups so we did not stay long at the Ledge (Rating: 3).

July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Diana’s Bath

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed to Diana’s Bath in Bartlett, New Hampshire. Diana’s Bath is a series of pools, cascades, and waterfalls along the Lucy Brook. The site was once the location of an old sawmill, abandoned by the Lucy family in the 1940’s, while later becoming a historic site. It is located in the White Mountain National Forest.

We were excited to adventure to Diana’s Bath today. We have visited this spot before, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from previous trips (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). Our adventure began bright and early, as this site is known for being a summer hot spot. Our journey began down the well groomed trail, benches adorning the sides. It was short, but lovely trail, which ended in a long wooden bridge.

Upon arrival, we decided to ascend to the top of the Falls, hoping to find the serenity of silence. We strolled up the hill, on a rooted path, taking some photographs along the way. Of course we stopped to provide Shadow some water time, in the clear, crisp water. Wilma herself was quite content on the rocks, watching the scenes unfold around her. At the top of the Falls the water became a brook, with increased small rocks, and decreased pools for dipping. We enjoyed a little beach area, before the crowds began pouring in.

After wandering around at the top of our Falls we then began our descent down. We first hopped across the Falls, looking forward to experiencing a different visual. Additionally, this helped to provide a somewhat less populated journey. We enjoyed walking through the water, photographing, and of course numerous belly rubs, and love for the dogs. I even took some time walking on the smooth rocks through the water, which was quite the sensory cool-down. It was fun to spend time hanging out on the large rocks, and viewing the little waterfalls throughout. I was pleased that someone offered to take a family photo, with one of the Falls. Besides being excessively populated, Diana’s Bath was a wonderful place to visit (Rating: 4).

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October 2016

July 27, 2018 – Campton/Beebe Falls – New Hamsphire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Campton Falls (also known as Beebe Falls) in Campton, New Hampshire. Campton Falls is a traditional waterfall, that is approximately fifteen feet in height. The Falls drops to a gorge, and rushes into the Beebe River below.

We were impressed with our adventure to Campton Falls today. Campton Falls is located on the side of the road, however, it took us some time to find a way to get down to the Falls for a more personal view. The trails were steep, rocky, and somewhat hazardous. I actually received some cuts and scratches with an unplanned skid down the rocks. Even Shadow and Wilma appeared hesitant at moments. However, slowly, and carefully we made it down to the base of at least the main falls. The waterfall, and rushing gorge were beyond brilliant, the music delightful. The rocks surrounding the area added a unique touch, gorgeous in color, and uneven in shape.

I was ecstatic that Shadow found a little pool, as the current was strong if you wandered too far. So although we made it, I was somewhat disappointed that there was not a great place for them to sit and relax, as we had to be extra cautious about our footing. Of course I was still very happy that we were able to visit this stunning location. Definitely a spectacular waterfall which I would recommend to others (Rating: 4)

July 27, 2018 – New Hampshire – Livermore Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma and I visited Livermore Falls in Campton, New Hampshire. Livermore Falls is a cascade falls that flows through a rocky gorge, with an approximate twenty five foot drop. The Livermore Falls is sourced from the Pemigewasset River and is known for it’s rushing, whitewater currents. There is a small beach area near the falls.

We enjoyed our adventure to the Falls. It was a short walk from the parking lot, which was located right on Route 3. Almost immediately the sound of rushing water could be heard. We crossed the railroad track, and followed the fence until we got to an area with a view. We could see of the Falls, and also peered far down the river, spotting a scenic metal bridge. Past the bridge there appeared to be a tiny beach area that was heavily populated. We then walked further, heading down a steep jaunt to reach the beach area. We waded in the water which was perfectly cold, for a warm summer day.

Shadow and Wilma enjoyed some time playing, and digging in the soft sand. It never fails that Shadow and Wilma become immediately thrilled when stepping on a beach, maybe inspired by sand to dig, or just enthusiastic fans of the beach life. It invariably brings a smile to my face, as their energy is heightened. We relaxed for some time on the beach. The sound of rushing water was just right, and helped to mask the industrial feel of this location. Unfortunately, I did see a lot of trash which slightly dampened my experience. However, nothing stops us from enjoying every moment of our adventures (Rating: 3)

July 27, 2018 – New Hampshire – Blair Bridge

Today Shadow, Wilma and I visited the Blair Bridge in Campton, New Hampshire. The Blair Bridge is a wooden bridge that crosses the Pemigewasset River. It was originally built in 1829, but was damaged from Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, and was closed until repairs were completed in 2015. The bridge allows for vehicle traffic, with one vehicle permitted to cross at a time.

We had quite the picturesque visit to the Blair Bridge. I believe we have stopped their in the past, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from previous trips (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). The Blair Bridge is a long bridge, highlighted by rushing River water, and the gorgeous reflection below. We immediately found a path to the shore, allowing us to look up at in awe at this magnificent structure. The other side of a bridge has a restaurant, with available outdoor seating. We strolled in front of the restaurant to check out the other side of the bridge. It was a bit more difficult to go inside the bridge, due to traffic, however we were able to capture a couple shots. Definitely one of my favorite New England covered bridges (Rating: 5).

July 21, 2018 – New Hampshire – Upper Ammonoosuc Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I went to the Upper Ammonoosuc Falls in Coos County, New Hampshire. The Upper Falls is known more for the pools and gorges, then the actual Falls. It has plunges, and cascades with the highest water drop at a mere eight feet. It is also popular for cliff jumping, and unfortunately has been a known area where drownings have occurred.

We were pleased to be able to visit the Upper Ammonoosuc Falls. It was a warm day, and a bit sunny for photographs, but I always attempt to capture our adventures on film. The Falls was not too clear from the road, but luckily my research allowed us to locate it. We walked around, crossing a bridge, before hopping along on some rocks along the water. We observed some cliff jumpers, which was somewhat frightening, but I was told “I do it all the time, don’t worry”. Luckily it all worked well, and we watched a crowd of various ages jumping into the pool of water. My favorite thing about this Falls was the rounded, uncommon boulders that shaped the gorge, and the clear color of the water below. Overall the Falls was somewhat plain, but we still do cherish all of our adventures (Rating: 3)

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 – Smith Covered Bridge

Yesterday we visited the Smith Covered Bridge in Plymouth, New Hampshire. This is a bridge we have been to several times before. The Smith Bridge was built in 1850, but was destroyed by fire in 1993, and later rebuilt as a covered bridge. It is a long truss bridge with added arches, and crosses the Baker River.

We had a nice visit to the Smith Covered Bridge. The Bridge has a beach like area below, along the Baker River. This allowed for some Shadow swimming, which is always great on a warm summer day. Wilma mostly enjoyed chasing butterflies, which I find quite entertaining. The water was not rushing, but we did see people arriving with inner tubes, likely for some River fun. We walked around for a bit, and then sauntered across the bridge. The bridge has a hallway-like area on one side, allowing pedestrian crossing. I definitely appreciate this feature in a covered bridge, as I do not enjoy dodging cars. Not a lot of color, or any landscaped features, but I still relished taking some photographs before we headed off to our next destination (Rating: 3).

July 13, 2018

Winter 2018

July 13, 2018 – New Hampshire – Frosty Scoops

Yesterday we made a stop at Frosty Scoops in Plymouth, New Hampshire. Frosty Scoops is an adorable little ice cream stand on Main Street that sells homemade ice cream. They are connected to the Common Man Inn and Spa, a well known Inn, Spa and restaurant in the area.

We were very happy to find an ice cream shop with a window to get a treat to cool down on a nice warm day. I was pleased, and surprised to see the dog ice cream was free, and although just a tiny little scoop, Shadow and Wilma sure did not complain. I myself decided to order a frappe. We then found a nice corner, shaded area to sit, sip, and devour. The set-up for this outdoor area was perfect, with fun music blasting, a sandbox for the kids to play, picnic tables, outdoor games, and benches for guests. There was even a retro truck on display. Definitely a fun atmosphere to enjoy some ice cream on a summer day (Rating: 4, Dog Ice Cream: 3).