dog friendly historic park – The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Battle Road Trail in Concord, Massachusetts. The Battle Road Trail is an almost ten mile round trip Trail, connecting historic sites from Concord to Lexington Massachusetts. The Trail focuses on the Battle of 1775 which began the American Revolution. It crosses wetlands, forests, and farmlands, and contains various landmarks and kiosks along the way. The Trail is part of the Minute Man National Historic Park.

We had a well-needed Adventure to the Battle Road Trail on a brisk November day. Having been sick, and with a family member in the hospital we have not been on any new Adventures in the last week or two. And although we have enjoyed many local walks, I was thrilled to head off on a new Adventure, even though I am far from feeling well.

We spent about two and a half hours traversing the Battle Road Trail, and nearby paths, exploring over half of the East Section of the Trail. Some of the landmarks we visited included: the Paul Revere Capture Site, the Hartwell Tavern, the Jacob Whittemore House, the Samuel Hartwell House Site, and the Captain William House. The Trail was simple, but varied terrain, the anticipation of the next landmark added some elation to the journey. We often walked at a quick pace, but of course took some time to sniff out the new landscape. Due to the chilly weather I was surprised to see many others walking the Trail, including: families, furry friends, bikers, and runners. Shadow and Wilma even got to say hello to a happy toddler who was very enthused about meeting the pups.

Throughout the day Shadow loved many rolls in the hay-like grass, while Wilma was quite obsessed by the sheep, who were loudly vocalizing their “baaa”. I think my favorite part, besides a long walk with my two best buds, was the historic homes along the Trail. I loved their unique architecture, and the often scenic placement amidst the fields. And although I have not stopped coughing since this Adventure, I could not be more happier that we had a long walk on the Battle Trail. We will definitely be visiting the other half of the Battle Trail in the near future. A unique way to combine exercise, the outdoors, and history (Rating: 4).

This past weekend we had a getaway to Vermont, which involved many Adventures, most of which I will blog about. We stayed in a cabin in the woods, and due to no wifi I am far behind on my blog, therefore posting much later then preferred. However, definitely some amazing locations that I am excited to share.

One of our Adventures on the way was the the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park in Cornish, New Hampshire. This is the second time we have been to this location as Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to this Park back in October of 2015. We were thrilled on our recent visit to have My Parents join us! The Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park is the former home, gardens, and studios of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Much of his artwork is displayed in the gallery and on the grounds. The Site also includes: nature trails, tours, various statues, and gardens. The Park also sponsors summer concerts, and workshops.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park. Although I had blogged about it in one of my Thursday throwback segments, I could not resist writing about it again. Shadow, Wilma, and I arrived about an hour previous to meeting My Parents so we could explore the trails, before returning to tour the main grounds. I was quite pleased to quickly locate the Ravine Trail, which contained a waterfall we had discovered on our past visit. The trail was packed with colorful leaves, and sloped quickly into the ravine before turning and following the brook, scattered with fall foliage. It was a crisp Fall day, but just perfect for an energetic hike. The trail was not too clear, but I followed it by memory, and also spotted several informational displays, and a bridge on the path. I was quite thrilled to find the waterfall again, simple, but lovely. We continued through the trail before hiking up the ravine, and ending in the field on the opposite side of the property.

After traversing the Ravine Trail we wandered around the property checking on the buildings, statues, gardens, and spectacular mountain views. I tried not to miss a detail snapping numerous photographs throughout. It was not long after then that My Parents arrived. Having been there previously, and in refreshing my memory of the site before their arrival, I was pleased to provide an informal tour. We wandered around viewing the various features throughout. Shadow engaged in continual enthusiastic rolls, causing me to ponder, did he know he was on vacation?! Wilma was a bit overzealous, but how could you blame her having her Grandparents in tow! We picnicked with a view, enjoyed the wonderful company, and created memories. I really do love the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park, and can just imagine the indoor exhibits are quite fantastic as well. So glad we were able to spend a family afternoon at this beautiful Park, definitely a special National Park in New England (Rating: 4.5).

Please see below for photographs from both of our Adventures. You can also read about our first Adventure by typing in “Saint-Gaudens” in the “search box” (to the right side of the page on a computer and on the bottom of the page on a phone)

October 2019