Tag: dog friendly trail

August 25, 2019 -Bay Circuit Trail – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I took a walk on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Bay Circuit Trail is a recreation trail of over 200 miles, crossing 37 towns and linking many parks and landmarks. It is popular for activities including: biking, paddling, horseback riding, and running.

We had a simple Adventure on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Trail was a dirt path surrounded by greenery. There was no change in scenery, no color, and little variety, creating quite a monotonous and dull scene. The Trail often paralleled private homes, however remained quiet from voices, and activity. We saw several bikers throughout the afternoon. Shadow and Wilma appreciated the new smells along the way, always so eager to explore!

On the way back I decided to take a side trail that led us over to the Minuteman National Park. This path was extremely overgrown and often I was pushing plants and prickers aside leading the way for my best buds. It was great to see a bit of change in landscape with some logs on part of the path, an unusual metal structure on the side, and bright pink flowers from afar. However I was quite pleased when we arrived at the scenic Minuteman National Park, ending our journey on the Bay Circuit Trail. I was quite unimpressed with the Trail, yet wonder as a walker if I can really give this Trail justice, as we traversed far less then the 200 plus miles. The idea of biking to landmarks is quite extraordinarily but on foot one can only go so far. Therefore I will not rate this The Bay Circuit Trail as I was still grateful to find a new place for a walk. A beautiful day for an Adventure!

PS – If you would like to read more on my blog about Minuteman National Park you can search for this in the search box.

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)