Throwback Adventure – Bash Bish Falls – Massachusetts

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 May 2017, Shadow, my Aunt, my Uncle, and I visited Bash Bish Falls in Mount Washington, Massachusetts. (Wilma had not yet joined our world). In my blog today I cannot help but note how fortuitous I am to have such a wonderful Aunt and Uncle. They are encouraging, kind, and giving, and always make me feel special and loved. It was fun to have their company, on this spectacular spring adventure.

Bash Bish Falls is located right on the border of Massachusetts, and New York, and is the highest waterfall in Massachusetts. The Falls include a series of cascades that are approximately 200 feet tall. The final cascade is 80 feet tall, split into two, by a large protruding boulder. Bash Bish Falls begins in a spring on Mount Washington, although is technically located on Bash Bish Mountain.

We started our journey to the Falls from the Massachusetts trail. The parking lot was difficult to find, but the trail was clear on arrival. The trail is approximately two miles in length. It sloped up slowly, running besides the beautiful, singing, babbling Bash Bish Brook. Shadow therefore was able to enjoy some sips and dips in the brook along our journey. On the opposite side of the brook we noted some cabins, which likely were part of the Bash Bish Falls State Park. I was amused by a sign along the way indicating the Massachusetts, New York border, and was quite diasppointed that I was not able to locate a photograph. However, it was a lovely trail, and quite the nice perk to fill the hike with great company, and conversation, catching up on all the moments of life.

Upon arrival at the Falls we witnessed a stunning, and dramatic view, the Falls roaring, and immense. As expected a crowded area, with ongoing snaps of photography. There were picnic tables, and of course areas along the rocks to sit an enjoy the site. A beautiful day enjoying nature’s magnificent beauty (Rating: 5)

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)

Throwback Adventure – Beavertail State Park (Includes the Beavertail Lighthouse) – August 2016

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Flashback 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 August 2016, Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to the Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, RI. As many of you know Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed.

Beavertail State Park is a Rhode Island State Park that encompasses 153 acres. It is located at the Southern end of Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, and is well known for its beautiful, scenic coastline. On the site you can view the Beavertail Lighthouse, a 64 foot lighthouse, built in 1856. There even is a museum and a gift shop at the site.

We visited Beavertail State Park on a warm summer day. Our time included: a hike along the coastline, wandering around the lighthouse, naps on the rocks, and dips in the ocean. We spent a large amount of time lounging along the shore, taking in the sounds of the crashing waves. In addition, we especially appreciated the uniquely structured lighthouse. Definitely a relaxing, coastal day in Jamestown. (Rating: 4).

June 5, 2018 – Massachusetts – Russell Mill Pond and Town Forest

Tonight we went for a local hike at the Russell Mill Pond and Town Forest in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. The Forest contains 132 acres of land, including land on the east side of Russell Mill Pond.

I often enjoy exploring local conservation land, and this trail was a great find. It was simple, yet beautiful. We mostly followed the trail along the Pond, but also veered toward some of the inner forest trails. There were a couple of simple bridges, a little bubbling stream, and a wealth of bright green ferns lining the trails. We did not see any other dog walkers, but the area was clearly popular with mountain bikers.

I highly encourage you to seek out conservation land in your area. Lovely trails and scenery, with no cost involved. You really cannot beat that. (Rating: 4)

Throwback Adventure – Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse, Maine – September 2013 and February 2018

In September 2013, Shadow, Buster, my Mom, and I visited Neddick Lighthouse, and in February 2018, Shadow, Wilma, my Mom, and I visited Neddick Lighthouse. As many of you know Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed!

Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).

We enjoyed our visits to this beautiful, scenic lighthouse. It is the perfect place to take photographs, sit on a bench and enjoy the breeze, lounge in the grass, or jump from rock to rock along the ocean shore. It really is a true New England landmark (Rating: 4).

September 2013

Neddick 4

February 2013

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)

May 26, 2018 – Massachusetts – Ashland State Park

Today we visited Ashland State Park, located in Ashland, Massachusetts. Ashland State Park is a 470 Acre Park with a 157 Acre Reservoir. The Park has a dam, a spillway, and several beaches for guests. The Park was initially created when the Reservoir was built in 1895. Ashland State Park has several fun facts, with a movie partly partially being filmed there in August 2014 (“Sea of Trees”), and even a helicopter crash in August 2016.

We spent almost four hours at this amazingly beautiful park, mostly traversing the trail around the Reservoir. We arrived bright and early, leading us to meet many, many other dog friends. I choose Ashland State Park today, as I knew it would be a hot day, and thought it was a perfect way for the dogs to cool down. Although Wilma is not a swimmer, she waded and sipped some water along the way. Shadow continually swam, and often enjoyed just sitting in the Reservoir. We enjoyed many stops for these water moments, and also spent some time at the dam, where Wilma even found a little turtle! We saw a beaver dam along the trail, crossed some unique bridges, found some good sticks for chewing, and some round rocks for climbing. This was really a great find, and as usual I took plenty of photographs along the way. Definitely a perfect location for a hot New England day (Rating: 5)

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.

Throwback Adventure – Lonesome Lake – July 2017

In July 2017 me and Shadow journeyed to Lonesome Lake in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. (Wilma had not yet joined our world). Lonesome Lake had been on my “must explore” adventure list, and we found a perfect day to venture on this hike. Lonesome Lake is a body of water that is located in Franconia Notch in the White Mountains, just south of Cannon Mountain. You can only reach this Lake by a hike, which creates a magical journey. There was some reconstruction on the trail, so we were directed toward an alternative route. The trail was a tough trail for me, but it seemed to be quite effortless for Shadow. He was nine at the time (now ten) and did not miss a beat. Upon arrival we hiked around the Lake, and Shadow enjoyed cooling down with numerous dips in the Lake. It was very crowded at the Lake, but yet there was little traffic on the trail around the lake. There was an AMC hut located at the Lake which provided snacks, bathroom breaks, and even lodging. This hut was not dog friendly, but we were able to wander around and check out the area. Heading back from the Lake, was of course a breeze. My only disappointment in this hike was I imagined a more accessible beachfront where you could relax and enjoy sitting by the Lake. However, it was very crowded, no sandy shores, and hard to find little outlets to the Lake. Luckily this was not a barrier for Shadow who was able to sneak in many swims. I absolutely love a hike that leads to a landmark that cannot be reached otherwise. Definitely a memorable day of hiking, and adventures. (Rating: 5)

April 23, 2018 – Getaway to Connecticut – Day Two

We started a relaxing Day Two of our getaway in Connecticut waking up at a beautiful, dog-friendly accommodation called Green Acres Bed and Breakfast. Green Acres is an early eighteenth century farmhouse located in Simsbury, CT. I felt immediately at home upon arrival, being greeted by the innkeepers’ three rescue dogs. This property was beautifully landscaped with fountains, and a pool. We stayed longer than planned chatting with the owners, who were quite hospitable. Although it is easy to find a place that allows dogs, it is hard to find one that is truly dog friendly. This was a dream find for a crazy dog mama like myself. Before we departed I enjoyed an elegant breakfast, and left feeling like a queen. It is definitely a place we plan to stay at again. (Rated: 5)

Our first stop on Day Two was the Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury, CT. Stratton Brook State Park was Connecticut’s first state park to be completely wheelchair accessible, and is a designated “Trout Park”. This was a very simple park, but had some lovely trails through the woods, over a creek, and even several ponds, popular for fishing. Shadow enjoyed a swim in the creek, while me and Wilma watched from the little bridge above. We then discovered another adorable covered bridge, perfect in shape, and bright in color. I love scouting out covered bridges. They sometimes make me feel like a professional photographer, stunning in their own solidarity. (Rated: 3)

For our second stop we briefly visited Collinsville, CT. Collinsville is considered a small village in the town of Canton, CT. Collinsville was built around the Collins Company factory. These factory buildings were powered by the river, and have since been rented out to local businesses. We traversed the bridge over the Farmington River, taking photos along the way. Just a quick stop before we headed off to a more dog friendly area, a little too industrial for me. (Rating: 2)

Next we journeyed to Enders State Forest in Granby, CT. This was definitely my favorite location of our Connecticut getaway. The Enders State Forest incorporates nearly 2100 acres of wilderness, including the Salmon River, and approximately five waterfalls abutting the trails. The sounds of the babbling brooks, numerous hide-outs along the River, and steep, rocky views provide quite the sensory experience. Some good exercise along the trails, but yet a relaxing retreat. Definitely a true gem of a park. (Rating: 4)

Our next stop was one of those spontaneous pit stops, directly along the roadside. This location was the Barkhamsted Reservoir, Saville Dam. The Saville Dam is on the Farmington River, and forms the Barkhamsted Reservoir, the primary water source of Hartford, CT. We had driven by this area once before, but this was the first time we had some extra time to wander, and of course shoot some photos. The sun was beaming on the Reservoir, and the view amazingly picturesque. One of our humorous moment occurred at this site. As some of you may know Wilma just turned one, so has many unpredictable moments of joy, and really just utter chaos. On at least three occasions she began rolling on her back, and started flailing down the hill. I attempted taking a video, which I will post below. I am not sure if I captured the moment for my audience, but definitely did capture a memory. The Barkhamsted Reservoir and Saville Dam may be a place to explore more at a future time. (Rating: 4)

Our last stop of the day was at Soldier’s Monument in Winsted, CT. Although I am far from a history buff, I love the gorgeous landmarks that are created to memorize, and honor those who sacrifice their lives for others. The Soldiers’ Monument and Memorial Park is a Memorial for the American Civil War. It was initially dedicated on September 11, 1890, while renovations and additions have occurred since. It is a small area, but very picturesque with the main monument located at the top of a little hill. (Rating: 3)

So this brings me to the end to our Two Day Connecticut getaway. We had a wonderful time exploring, and look forward to our next new Adventure. Evidence of a successful vacation can be seen below, the best travel buddies I know!