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).

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).

June 2018:

October 2017:

June 24, 2018 – Massachusetts – Moore State Park

Today we visited Moore State Park in Paxton, Massachusetts. Moore State Park is approximately 400 acres, and was a former home to grist and saw mills. Portions of the park are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has a pond, trails, and various “Mill Village Features” on the grounds.

This is actually the second time that we have been to Moore State Park, the first time was with Shadow and Buster in July 2013, and the second trip today, with Shadow and Wilma. My GPS was not too cooperative today, but we were able to locate the Park after an unplanned detour. We started our journey down a paved road, with beautiful, natural landscape adorning the sides. We soon arrived at the pond where there were several rustic wooden rocking chairs, picnic tables, and a gazebo-like structure to sit and enjoy the view. The more we walked I began to have some flashback memories of our initial journey, remembering that we had been caught in a downpour, before relaxing for a bit in the gazebo-like structure. I believe that visit was a shorter stop, while today we spent about two hours exploring.

I decided to start on some trails, before coming back through the viewing area. The trails were not well marked, but I was quite glad I had printed a trail map, which helped me navigate the forest, and not worry about getting lost. We started on Judy’s Secret Garden Loop Trail, and then connected to the Stairway Loop Trail. The trails were kind of blah, but we enjoyed walking along the pond, and finding some cute rock benches along the way. The trails were very peaceful, with the sounds of birds singing. Shadow enjoyed some swims, while Wilma jumped onto all large rocks in her path. The trails were very quiet, and we only saw one couple walking their dog. It is always nice to find a tranquil nature trail, away from the bustle of society.

After our walks on the trails we headed to various areas of the park to find some of the “Mill Village Features”, and take some photographs. These included: the Old Sawmill, the Bat House, the Chalet Foundation, the Enchanted Bridge, and the Artist Overlook. I took photographs of four of these “Features” which you can view below. This was one fun component of the Park. Definitely a unique Park to explore (Rating: 3)

July 2013:

Throwback Adventure – Echo Lake (Fraconia Notch State Park)

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.

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)

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)

Throwback Adventure – Quechee Gorge , Vermont – October 2016

Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to the Quechee Gorge in October 2016. We have been there other times, but this trip we thoroughly explored the Park. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed!

The Quechee Gorge is located in the Quechee State Park in Quechee, Vermont. It is the deepest gorge in Vermont, plunging 165 feet. The Ottauquechee River flows through the bottom of the Gorge. The Gorge can be viewed from the bridge above, located directly on Route 4. This scenic view really cannot be missed as it is plastered with tourists peering over the bridge for a view, and snapping photographs. There are also trails along the Gorge, which allow for varied views of the River, and Gorge.

We choose a beautiful Fall day for this visit to the Gorge. We climbed to the bottom trail to view the Gorge, which revealed the bridge from afar. From there we hiked the opposite direction finding more trails, and even a little area for the dogs to swim. It was nice to get good some good exercise, and enjoy the colorful Fall foliage. The most beautiful spot really was the view of the Gorge directly off the bridge. The pictures I took really could not capture the beauty of this location. (Rating: 4)

Also, while in the area we stopped at the Quechee Covered Bridge, which spans the Ottauquechee River. The bridge was rebuilt after being severely damaged by flooding caused by Hurricane Irene in 2011. (Rating: 3)

The many adventures we had in October 2016 are especially precious in my heart as it was the last month of adventures we would have before losing Buster. We are so grateful that he was able to live life to the fullest.