June 20, 2020 – Brenton Point State Park – Rhode Island

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to Brenton Point State Park in Newport, Rhode Island. Brenton State Park can be found on Ocean Drive, the location of a former estate. Brenton State Park is popular for: walking, fishing, sitting and relaxing, and kite flying.

We had a coastal Adventure to Brenton Point State Park. We arrived to find quite the stench, but yet were also greeted by a cool summer breeze. We began exploring, walking above the rocky shore to see what we could find. There were spots along the way where we could walk down to the rocks. Wilma enjoyed wandering, digging in the small rocks, and even played a little bit in the water. She rolled in the seaweed, and several times began running around me in circles, seemingly celebrating her new environment. The rocks varied in color, and were unique in texture. There were flowers, including pink, white and yellow Rugosa, creating a beautiful scene. The water varied in shade, often highlighted by the underwater seaweed. These little details of color and textures were all quite spectacular.

Located in the Park we found the Portuguese Discovery Monument dedicated to the Portuguese maritime navigators. This Memorial was quite unique in style, and provided a special dedication to these navigators.

Besides appreciating the Memorial and wandering on the shore we were eager to explore the carriage trails which contained: The Bells, the remains of an egyptian manse, and a tower, providing views of the surrounding area. We had no specific map or idea where to find these sites of curiosity but it did not take long to locate them. We first found the Tower, with winding stairs to the top. I was quite eager to take Wilma on her first climbing Tower Adventure (haha). The first step was very high, but from there we had no trouble venturing to the top. We were able to see the ocean, and spot the ruins from high above the tree tops. From there we ventured to the ruins. The ruins were blocked off by a fence so there was limited viewing, but it was quite interesting to check-out the remains of this manse. Brenton State Park was simple, but yet had many unique aspects that we appreciated. It was especially pleasant to enjoy a coastal visit with a pleasant breeze on a very warm day (Rating: 4).

July 23, 2019 – Fort Adams and The Bay Walk – Rhode Island

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Adams State Park and The Bay Walk in Newport, Rhode Island. Fort Adams was an active Fort from 1841 into the 20th Century. It is currently open for private tours, and is the location for many events. Bay Walk is considered part of Fort Adams State Park, and is a 2.2 mile trail that loops around part of the Fort. It includes coastal views of the Narragansett Bay, and Newport Harbor.

We had a deja vous kind of Adventure as upon arrival everything looked quite familiar. Thrilled for no entrance, or parking fee, we began our visit viewing the front of the Fort soon becoming disappointed that we could not enter the interior. We therefore decided to ventured directly to The Bay Walk. The paved trail followed the perimeter of the Fort, along the Bay before heading inland, past the Eisenhower house, and then through the Harbor. There were many tents and distractions from the historical scenery however I tried to ignore that and concentrate on the main features. We saw fisherman along the way, lovely wildflowers, and gorgeous boats scattered throughout the Bay. There was one part where the trail became unclear, however, I knew where we were from our drive in, so continued on with no mis-direction.

My favorite part of this Adventure was what I believe was considered the “Harbor” packed fully with beautiful sailboats. It made me dream of a boat Adventure with the pups, sailing away from the hub-bib of life. The Bay Walk was nothing too intriguing but a unique way to experience a nice, long walk. Upon my return home I was able to track down photographs of a visit that Shadow, Buster, and I had on a chilly April day back in April 2015 – my deja vous solved!. I have included some of those photographs at the bottom of the photographs and videos from yesterday. Love that ALL of my pups experienced in a walk at Fort Adams State Park and The Bay Walk (Rating: 3).

April 2015 Adventure

July 23, 2019 – Castle Hill Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island. Castle Hill Lighthouse was built in 1898, and is made of granite. It is located in the Narragansett Bay and continues to be an active lighthouse.

We had a perfect Adventure to the Castle Hill Lighthouse. We were pleased that the rain subsided, cooling down the air, and providing us the perfect opportunity for a new Adventure. I had done some research online about the Castle Hill Lighthouse but contacted the Castle Hill Inn to ensure that we could park at the Inn and visit the “private property”. I was thrilled to have that information confirmed so we hit the road. Upon arrival the Valet at the Castle Hill Inn informed us that they were not busy so we were able to park in the main parking lot, immediately next to the trail. The Lighthouse trail was not labeled so I was pleased to get these directions.

We were immediately drawn to the gorgeous views of the Narragansett Bay. It was absolutely breathtaking! The shores were rocky and we were able to check out the scene from high above. We took in the scenery, Shadow celebrating our arrival with a joyful roll! After appreciating the sites we headed down the trail. The path was simple, but perfect. There were wildflowers, and it was closed in at points with gorgeous greenery, almost magical. It really was just lovely. I was excited, eagerly awaiting the view of the Bay, and the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It did not take long for us to arrive at the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It was absolutely spectacular, quite unique in style. Pleased to have the area to ourselves we walked down the steps to the bottom of the Lighthouse, before heading back up and viewing each and every angle. It was a gorgeous location. We spent some time at this spot, snapping many photographs.

After taking in the scene we headed back to the trail to wander farther. We met several visitors along the way, which delighted energetic Wilma, who took in every bit of love. We walked for a couple minutes, and soon found a bench leading to the spectacular rocky shore. The rocks were uniquely shaped, and almost silver in color. I have been to many rocky shore but have never seen such stunning rocks. I did my best to find a smooth walk for Shadow and I, while Wilma jumped athletically from rock to rock. We soon found a perfect spot to sit, and relax, watching the fisherman, and appreciating the coastal breeze. Shadow enjoyed some rain water left in the rocks, and took a seat next to me, while Wilma focused her attention on the birds. Everything about this Adventure was just perfect. We will definitely have to visit the Castle Hill Lighthouse again (Rating: 5)