October 20, 2018 – Lincoln Woods – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Lincoln Woods a location in Lincoln, New Hampshire, along the Kancamangus Highway. We have been there before with Buster, and with My Mom. Lincoln Woods is a scenic area with many trails that enter the Pemigewasset Wilderness of the White Mountains. It is one of the first stops on the East side of the Kancamangus Highway.

Shadow, Wilma, and I had a refreshing Adventure to the Lincoln Woods trail. We have been there in just about every season, and it is one of the most extraordinary trails I have found, maybe even my favorite location for an Adventure. The area is absolutely gorgeous, beginning with a suspended bridge, to trails along the Pemigewasset River to streams along the way, to splendid mountain views, to scenic trails throughout. I would guess I have been there about five times and each time am awed by the beauty.

On today’s hike I was overjoyed to find another bridge across the River, as on our last visit Shadow almost did not make it across the suspended bridge. He appeared quite unstable with the swinging of the bridge and completely froze about halfway across. Therefore, I was extra pleased to find an alternate route. This alternate route also provided us a new and scenic angle of the River and suspended bridge. After crossing the bridge and enjoying the views we headed on our hike. Highlights of today’s Adventure included: time at the River’s edge, for some digging, and rock climbing, some sips from the streams along the way, colorful fall foliage, and and magnificent mountain views along the trail. It was a very cool day, but our hiking kept us warm and enthused. Although crowded this time of year the many trails helped mask the numerous number of tourists. One of those Adventures that I really cannot put into words, as you MUST Adventure this incredible location. As you might guess I would recommend a Fall visit in the colorful foliage of New England. I will include photographs from various trips we have taken and may add some on the future (Rating: 5).

Yesterday, October 20, 2018

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August 2018

March 2018

LW 2018 March

October 2017

October 2014

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October 20, 2018 -Rocky Gorge – New Hampshire

On October 20, 2018 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Rocky Gorge in Albany, New Hampshire on the Kancamangus Highway. We have been there on other visits including with Buster and My Mom. The Rocky Gorge is a Gorge along the Swift River with a ten foot drop. The area has a foot bridge across the River that leads to Falls Pond, which is surrounded by the White Mountains.

We had a splendid Adventure to the Rocky Gorge on the Kancamangus Highway. It was a beautiful,cool Fall day, and the Rocky Gorge was one of our three stops. The Rocky Gorge is a beautiful scenic area with rocks, mountain views, a gorge, a picturesque bridge, a pond, trails, and much more. We started off our visit with a stop along the rocks checking out the views, and the stunning Gorge. From the rocks we headed over to the bridge, and to the scenic small pond called Fall Pond. I was quite pleased to find the Lovequist Loop, a trail which traversed the outskirts of the pond. It was a simple trail, but yet such a pleasant day to be out for a stroll. The Gorge area was packed with tourists, but we only saw several hikers along this trail. We enjoyed this loop trail, and were pleased to find several little paths to the pond for some great views, and of course a swim for Shadow. After completing this loop we headed back to the Gorge for some more photographs, and exploring. Our last stop on a fun day of Adventures.

The Rocky Gorge will always hold a special place in my heart. This was the last stop on Buster’s last Fall trip, just two years ago. Little did we know he would leave us less then one week after our stop at the Gorge. We are lucky to have this special Adventure engraved in our hearts forever!

Overall I have found the Rocky Gorge to be an exceptionally beautiful location.
It was funny to see that we have only visited in the the month of October, but really nothing can compare to the New England Fall. I highly recommend you schedule a visit to the Rocky Gorge (Rating: 5).

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October 2017

October 2016

October 2014

Throwback Adventure – Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site – October 2015

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.

In October 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site in Cornish, New Hampshire. This Site 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 includes: nature trails, tours, summer concerts, and workshops.

We had a delightful Adventure to the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site on a gorgeous Fall day, three years ago. It was nice to arrive at a location with hardly another visitor in site. I recall being awed at the exquisite and stunning landscape, views, and brilliant colors of the Park. I did little research ahead of time, so we let our eyes and ears lead us on our evening Adventure. We began by traversing some trails into the woods, quickly finding a small, but roaring waterfall covered with Autumn leaves. We spent some time relaxing at the waterfall’s edge, as the boys drank from the brook. We then explored various trails throughout the woods before returning to the main Site.

Another picturesque part of the Site was, of course, the home of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, I believe titled “Aspet”. This massive and charming home was absolutely breathtaking with various architectural marks of charm. We walked around the home several times taking in this grand structure, as the sunset began to encompass the sky. Pure white in color the building almost transformed you into another place in time. Definitely a lovely building, helping to exude the photographer within.

One memory on this Adventure was my amusement with a small mirror I found on the grounds, assisting me in some humorous photo opportunities. Maybe I was too easily entertained, however have great memories of some giggles with yes, just a simple mirror.

Overall our Adventure to the Saint-Gaudens Historical Site was perfectly magnificent. Surprisingly it is one of the least visited in the country, but yet so spectacular. The landscape was stunning, from the official gardens, to the birch trees, to the mountain views, to the hidden Falls in the midst of a colorful Autumn Forest. I could not have been more impressed with the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site. Definitely a spot I would love to visit again (Rating: 5).

October 14, 2018 – Bradley Palmer State Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield, Massachusetts. This was Shadow, and my second visit to Bradley Palmer State Park as we had been to the Park with Buster in February of 2016. Bradley Palmer State Park is a 736 acre Park on the Ipswich River. It is a former estate of noted attorney Bradley Palmer. Bradley Palmer State Park is popular for hiking, horseback riding, bicycles, canoeing, skiing, and the Willowdale Estate.

We had a wonderful Fall hike at Bradley Palmer State Park on another gorgeous Fall day. I did not remember that we had been there before, but as soon as we drove into the Park, I immediately had memories of my visit with Shadow and Buster. We started our Adventure heading over to the former estate of Bradley Palmer, a pristine building often utilized for private events. I snapped some photographs and then headed over to the nearby boardwalk trail. The boardwalk was covered with colorful Fall leaves, surrounded by the River and varying display of Fall foliage. As you may have observed, boardwalks are one of the many features I find myself drawn to, and this was no exception. I even took a little video, which you can view below.

After leaving the boardwalk we headed over to the River to check out the water’s edge. The River was simple, but the reflection vivid. We spent some time near the water before heading back to the trail. These areas gave me flashbacks of my previous visit with Shadow and Buster, as we too spent some time at this area. Back on the trail we noted that it wove through the Forest, and along the River, however we chose a path off to the right and up to a sunny trail. Shadow and Wilma appeared enthused by the sun, both enjoying some rolls in the the field, before we turned around to head back to the trail. There were no labels on the trails so we did not venture far, but returned to the boardwalk to again delight in this picturesque spot.

Next we decided to try another location of trails. On the way to this trail we encountered some small, attractive horses getting prepped from their day out on the trail. I definitely would not describe myself as a “horse person”, but was quite drawn to their majestic frame and distinct colors. After stopping for a bit we continued to the trail. This particular trail was between two areas of shallow water, and appropriate for bicycles as well as hikers and other visitors. Another gorgeous Fall scene with leaves scattered along the path. There were ducks in the water, lily pads, and lovely Fall colors. We hiked for a bit before turning around. Although I had a complex map in hand, I did not see any labels on the trails. However, it did not bother us as we chose to visit different areas for shorter spells, versus a long official hike.

It warmed my heart that all three pups were able to visit this stop on our Adventures, even if it could not be commonly. A lovely Fall day at Bradley Palmer State Park (Rating: 4).

February 2016

Throwback Adventure – Fall of Song – New Hampshire

In August 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to the Fall of Song waterfall in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. The Fall of Song Waterfall is a forty foot waterfall, sourced by the Shannon Brook. It Falls at the end of a boardwalk trail.

We ventured on our hike to Fall of Song on a warm summer day. It appeared that we may have taken the long trail, however, what better way to find a gorgeous waterfall. The trail took us above a brook and up a slope for awhile before the trail evened out. The trail was not marked well, but we kept trekking, hoping to make it to the final destination.

We caught site of the waterfall long before arriving on foot, a picturesque site. We crossed a little bridge, and spent some time at the brook, giving other visitors time to pass along. Once we arrived to the edge of the waterfall we were happy to find the place to ourselves. We took our time viewing the spectacular Falls. It was grand in height, and peaceful in song. We relaxed on the boardwalk, the boys napping, as we treasured the sound of the flowing Falls. I took numerous photographs, and even attempted some videos. As you will see if you view my blog to the very end, I have still not gained any video skills since this time. However, I still decided to share this video memory, providing a clear sensory experience.

We spent a good amount of time at the Falls before heading back. We had a terrifying journey back coming face to face with a bear on the side of the trail. Shockingly the boys did not see him and a quickly turned around hustling back to the waterfall. A little panicked I found an alternate trail back to the car, realizing that there was an alternate auto road to the Falls. The gate was closed at the end, but somehow I managed to get all three of us to the other side. Definitely some good stories to add to this memorable Adventure (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Sabbaday Falls – October 2014 and July 2017

In October 2014 Shadow, Buster, my Mom and I Adventured to Sabbaday Falls, while in July 2017 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Sabbaday Falls. Sabbaday Falls is a popular waterfall located in Waterfall Valley, along the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. There is a short, handicapped accessible travel trail to Sabbaday Falls. Sabbaday Falls is an approximate thirty five to forty five foot drop, ending in a Gorge-like area. The waterfall is made up of a series of cascades.

We had a lovely Adventure to Sabbaday Falls on both of our trips. Our first trip it was quite the chilly fall day, while the second trip was a warm summer afternoon. Sabbaday Falls is highly scenic with rustic railings, bridges, and steps along the falls. There are benches and picnic tables in the area, allowing time to relax and cherish the views. We even enjoyed a picnic on our first journey, while Buster and Shadow played-away. Although Sabbaday Falls can be touristy at some times of years, it is well worth the visit to this spectacular waterfall. As with many of our Adventures it was hard to capture the beauty of the Falls in photographs. Definitely a stop we plan to visit again in the future (Rating: 5).

July 2017

October 2014

Throwback Adventure – LaChute River Walk (Includes the Kissing Bridge) – October 2015

So I decided to add a New York section to our Adventure Blog!!!! We have not been to New York often, but we definitely have had some wonderful Adventures that we long to share! In addition, we do hope to Adventure to New York again in the future.

In October 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to LaChute River Walk in Ticonderoga, New York. LaChute River Walk is a three mile trail which includes: the Falls of Carillon, the Kissing Bridge, and the Ticonderoga Heritage Museum and Visitor Center. The Park encompasses the LaChute River which connects Lake George to Lake Champlain.

We had a lovely Adventure to the LaChute River Walk in Ticonderoga, New York. We were thrilled to visit the “Walk” on a quiet day. We strolled along the trails, spending time along the LaChute River’s edge. There were trails throughout the park, and benches along the way. We enjoyed some posing around the Kissing Bridge, and the Falls of Carillon. A waterfall, covered bridge, and river, all in one park, added quite the distinct feature to this one trail. The perfect combination, adding wonderful memories to this journey. A peaceful, Fall Adventure to the LaChute River Walk (Rating: Throwback Adventures may not always be rated ).

Throwback Adventure – Fort Williams Park – July 2017

In July 2017 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams Park is a 90 acres Park located in the Casco Bay. It includes: the Portland Head Lighthouse and museum, beautiful coastal views, and historic ruins. It was formerly a United States Army Fort, but in 1979 became designated as Fort Williams State Park.

We had a short, yet wonderful visit to Fort Williams State Park. It was especially exciting as it was Wilma’s first trip to Maine! We started our journey with the Portland Head Lighthouse, a beautiful lighthouse, providing a close-up, and personal view. We spent some time near the lighthouse, taking in the moments, and the gorgeous scenery. We then were elated to see a sign for Gelatos, but yet soon disappointed that it was closed. Oh well, we were on to the magnificent coastal views, so no complaining here! There were splendid wild flowers and benches along the trails, a peaceful oasis. Definitely not lacking stunning scenery for some photographs.

From there we headed to the ruins. I do not believe I captured all the areas in photographs, but snapped some quick one of Goddard Mansion, on the hill above. It was beginning to get dark, but I did my best to capture this incredible mansion ruins. A new Adventure for Shadow, and the beginning of Wilma’s many adventures to come (Rating: 4).

Summer 2018 – Bethlehem, New Hampshire

This Summer Shadow, Wilma, and I had the pleasure of spending weekends living, and working in Bethlehem, New Hampshire. This gave us plenty of time to explore the town of Bethlehem, and the surrounding areas. I felt it therefore a MUST to blog separately about the charming little town of Bethlehem.

Bethlehem is a hillside location in the White Mountains, often referred to as the “Star of the White Mountains”. It is a small village complete with unique architecture and mountain views. Bethlehem is well-known for its golf courses, antique shops, art culture, and a variety of outdoor activities.

We had a wonderful time this summer exploring the town of Bethlehem. We often spent Sunday mornings strolling along the main street, which was complete with antique shops, local Inns, dining opportunities, and even a brewery. There were venues including the well known Colonial Theater, bringing in acclaimed shows and performers. I often would stop in at the Cold Mountain Cafe for a fresh, home-made donut and coffee, while enjoyed delicious dinners at the Wayside Inn.

Not far from the center of town were prestine golf courses, parks, and the scenic Ammonoosuc River. Although we spent much of our time exploring the surrounding areas I did my best to capture this lovely town in the summer photographs below. We will always treasure this spectacular Adventure and hope to be back again (Rating: 4).

September 1, 2018 – Littleton (Includes the Riverwalk Covered Bridge) – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Littleton, New Hampshire. This was my third visit to Littleton, New Hampshire (having been there with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom, and also with Shadow, Wilma, and My Mom). Littleton is on the northern side of the White Mountains. It is well known for the shopping district, historic buildings, the art scene, and the Riverwalk, (which highlights the Riverwalk Covered Bridge). Littleton is a popular area for tourists, and has even been voted one of the best towns in the USA.

On our first two trips to Littleton we mostly spent our visit on the Riverwalk, and exploring the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. The first journey was quite a rainy day adding great stories to our Adventure. We found a little restaurant along the water providing us some cover from the rain, hot drinks, and of course the perfect scenery for some photography. Our second trip was a bit drier, yet cooler. On this journey we especially enjoyed some photography along the rocks. It was also a great location for our afternoon picnic. Both visits came with stunning Fall foliage!

On our most recent trip, just yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I attempted to explore various features of the town, including: the downtown shops, the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, and the Pollyana statue. Our first stop was the Pollyana statue of which I had read about and was therefore very excited to see this landmark. A fun statue, bringing smiles to the faces of visitors. We quickly noted the “Polyanna theme” was plastered around town with paintings on the crosswalk stating “stop look wave”, and banners throughout stating “The GLAD town”. This theme definitely provided an inviting and positive vibe for the community, and its’ visitors.

From there we strolled around the shopping areas. We were soon greeted by a store owner providing treats, and water, and letting us know the shop was “dog friendly”. There were numerous piano’s along the streets, again adding a theme of harmony and cheer. We also viewed numerous, beautiful flower arrangements along the shops, and roads adding a colorful touch to the area.

Our last official stop on this trip was a walk along the Ammonoosuc River, and the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. We savored a nice long walk through this gorgeous, and scenic Bridge. Although soon into the Bridge poor Shadow became nervous, but he made it through victoriously! Relieved to be on solid ground, he quickly forgot all his worries with a dip in the River. The dogs enjoyed exploring the rocks on the River, while I snapped numerous photos. After were finished at the River we decided to take a longer loop back. This provided a picturesque view of the Bridge, from afar. Definitely a beautiful Summer day to be out exploring the town of Littleton (Rating: 4, Bridge: 5).

PS – Don’t you worry we did find ourselves some afternoon ice cream!

September 1, 2018