July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Cathedral Ledge State Park

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I stopped at Cathedral Ledge State Park in Bartlett, New Hampshire, technically part of Echo Lake State Park. The Cathedral Lookout can be reached from a 1.7 mile hike, or a drive to the top of the mountain. Cathedral Ledge State Park is one of the most popular rock climbing locations in New Hampshire.

It is always brightens my day when I accidentally find a new adventure. Today was one of those days when I spotted the sign for Cathedral Ledge State Park and decided to check it out. Spoiled with the internet I did a quick review and off we went. I guess we cheated a bit on this adventure as I decided to drive to the Lookout. After a short drive to the top we then ventured to two separate viewing areas where we enjoyed sweeping views of North Conway and the surrounding mountains. We sat in the shade for a bit, and chatting with other visitors quite interested in Shadow and Wilma. I was lucky again to have some visitors volunteer to take a family photo. We enjoyed seeing the views, however this location was a little warm for the pups so we did not stay long at the Ledge (Rating: 3).

July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Diana’s Bath

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed to Diana’s Bath in Bartlett, New Hampshire. Diana’s Bath is a series of pools, cascades, and waterfalls along the Lucy Brook. The site was once the location of an old sawmill, abandoned by the Lucy family in the 1940’s, while later becoming a historic site. It is located in the White Mountain National Forest.

We were excited to adventure to Diana’s Bath today. We have visited this spot before, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from previous trips (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). Our adventure began bright and early, as this site is known for being a summer hot spot. Our journey began down the well groomed trail, benches adorning the sides. It was short, but lovely trail, which ended in a long wooden bridge.

Upon arrival, we decided to ascend to the top of the Falls, hoping to find the serenity of silence. We strolled up the hill, on a rooted path, taking some photographs along the way. Of course we stopped to provide Shadow some water time, in the clear, crisp water. Wilma herself was quite content on the rocks, watching the scenes unfold around her. At the top of the Falls the water became a brook, with increased small rocks, and decreased pools for dipping. We enjoyed a little beach area, before the crowds began pouring in.

After wandering around at the top of our Falls we then began our descent down. We first hopped across the Falls, looking forward to experiencing a different visual. Additionally, this helped to provide a somewhat less populated journey. We enjoyed walking through the water, photographing, and of course numerous belly rubs, and love for the dogs. I even took some time walking on the smooth rocks through the water, which was quite the sensory cool-down. It was fun to spend time hanging out on the large rocks, and viewing the little waterfalls throughout. I was pleased that someone offered to take a family photo, with one of the Falls. Besides being excessively populated, Diana’s Bath was a wonderful place to visit (Rating: 4).

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October 2016

July 27, 2018 – Campton/Beebe Falls – New Hamsphire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Campton Falls (also known as Beebe Falls) in Campton, New Hampshire. Campton Falls is a traditional waterfall, that is approximately fifteen feet in height. The Falls drops to a gorge, and rushes into the Beebe River below.

We were impressed with our adventure to Campton Falls today. Campton Falls is located on the side of the road, however, it took us some time to find a way to get down to the Falls for a more personal view. The trails were steep, rocky, and somewhat hazardous. I actually received some cuts and scratches with an unplanned skid down the rocks. Even Shadow and Wilma appeared hesitant at moments. However, slowly, and carefully we made it down to the base of at least the main falls. The waterfall, and rushing gorge were beyond brilliant, the music delightful. The rocks surrounding the area added a unique touch, gorgeous in color, and uneven in shape.

I was ecstatic that Shadow found a little pool, as the current was strong if you wandered too far. So although we made it, I was somewhat disappointed that there was not a great place for them to sit and relax, as we had to be extra cautious about our footing. Of course I was still very happy that we were able to visit this stunning location. Definitely a spectacular waterfall which I would recommend to others (Rating: 4)

July 27, 2018 – New Hampshire – Livermore Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma and I visited Livermore Falls in Campton, New Hampshire. Livermore Falls is a cascade falls that flows through a rocky gorge, with an approximate twenty five foot drop. The Livermore Falls is sourced from the Pemigewasset River and is known for it’s rushing, whitewater currents. There is a small beach area near the falls.

We enjoyed our adventure to the Falls. It was a short walk from the parking lot, which was located right on Route 3. Almost immediately the sound of rushing water could be heard. We crossed the railroad track, and followed the fence until we got to an area with a view. We could see of the Falls, and also peered far down the river, spotting a scenic metal bridge. Past the bridge there appeared to be a tiny beach area that was heavily populated. We then walked further, heading down a steep jaunt to reach the beach area. We waded in the water which was perfectly cold, for a warm summer day.

Shadow and Wilma enjoyed some time playing, and digging in the soft sand. It never fails that Shadow and Wilma become immediately thrilled when stepping on a beach, maybe inspired by sand to dig, or just enthusiastic fans of the beach life. It invariably brings a smile to my face, as their energy is heightened. We relaxed for some time on the beach. The sound of rushing water was just right, and helped to mask the industrial feel of this location. Unfortunately, I did see a lot of trash which slightly dampened my experience. However, nothing stops us from enjoying every moment of our adventures (Rating: 3)

July 27, 2018 – New Hampshire – Blair Bridge

Today Shadow, Wilma and I visited the Blair Bridge in Campton, New Hampshire. The Blair Bridge is a wooden bridge that crosses the Pemigewasset River. It was originally built in 1829, but was damaged from Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, and was closed until repairs were completed in 2015. The bridge allows for vehicle traffic, with one vehicle permitted to cross at a time.

We had quite the picturesque visit to the Blair Bridge. I believe we have stopped their in the past, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from previous trips (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). The Blair Bridge is a long bridge, highlighted by rushing River water, and the gorgeous reflection below. We immediately found a path to the shore, allowing us to look up at in awe at this magnificent structure. The other side of a bridge has a restaurant, with available outdoor seating. We strolled in front of the restaurant to check out the other side of the bridge. It was a bit more difficult to go inside the bridge, due to traffic, however we were able to capture a couple shots. Definitely one of my favorite New England covered bridges (Rating: 5).

April 7, 2018 – Massachusetts – Nantasket Beach

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.

On April 7, 2018 Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Nantasket Beach in Hull, Massachusetts. Nantasket Beach is part of the Nantasket Beach Reservation, and is a popular location for summer beach-goers.

I often plan my coastal beach adventures in the off-season, when many are dog friendly, and devoid from excessive visitors. This day of our adventure to Nantasket Beach was extra special, as Shadow had recently recovered from surgery. It was a gorgeous spring day, with a refreshing breeze. The Beach was beautiful, sand to perfection, while covered with perfectly rounded, and colorful rocks. We strolled around, while Shadow and Wilma stopped to smell, and inspect all objects in our path. They enjoyed some time playing together, which always melts my heart. My only disappointment in this beach was being located so close to the road, and parking lot. I guess that can be a common feature, but yet I prefer beaches that are completely away from the hustle of life. However, we had a wonderful time exploring Nantasket Beach (Rating: 4)

July 21, 2018 – New Hampshire – Upper Ammonoosuc Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I went to the Upper Ammonoosuc Falls in Coos County, New Hampshire. The Upper Falls is known more for the pools and gorges, then the actual Falls. It has plunges, and cascades with the highest water drop at a mere eight feet. It is also popular for cliff jumping, and unfortunately has been a known area where drownings have occurred.

We were pleased to be able to visit the Upper Ammonoosuc Falls. It was a warm day, and a bit sunny for photographs, but I always attempt to capture our adventures on film. The Falls was not too clear from the road, but luckily my research allowed us to locate it. We walked around, crossing a bridge, before hopping along on some rocks along the water. We observed some cliff jumpers, which was somewhat frightening, but I was told “I do it all the time, don’t worry”. Luckily it all worked well, and we watched a crowd of various ages jumping into the pool of water. My favorite thing about this Falls was the rounded, uncommon boulders that shaped the gorge, and the clear color of the water below. Overall the Falls was somewhat plain, but we still do cherish all of our adventures (Rating: 3)

July 20, 2018 – New Hampshire – Tannery Hill Covered Bridge

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited the Tannery Hill Covered Bridge in Gilford, New Hampshire. This bridge crosses the Gunstock Brook. It was constructed by Tim Andrews in 1995, is a lattice design, and spans approximately 42 feet in length. The bridge connects the town hall with the rest of the town center. The name comes from a tannery that once stood in the same area. The bridge accommodates foot traffic only.

I immediately fell in love with this quaint, little bridge. It was somewhat away from the busy sounds of traffic, and in a peaceful, shady location. On arrival to the bridge the music of the babbling brook below could be heard, singing the sounds of peace. There were some colorful flowers, nicely landscaped nearby. We sauntered back and forth through the bridge several times. Simple, charming and picturesque. I found a funky, fun, little tree nearby, which was great to photograph as well. We did not stay long as some fisherman soon joined us, but I definitely was quite fond of the Tannery Hill Covered Bridge (Rating: 5).

Throwback Adventure – April 2015 – Cliff Walk

In April 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. Cliff walk is a 3.5 mile trail that borders the shoreline. It is a National Recreation Trail in a National Historic District. Cliff Walk runs behind some of the mansions in the area, and includes: tunnels, paved paths, rocky shoreline, and beach areas.

We decided to choose one of the first spring weather days to journey to Cliff Walk. It was still a “winter-dark” kind of day, yet spring was in the air. We enjoyed walking on this picturesque trail, on the paved trail, through the tunnels, and onto the shore. It was neat to see such unique structures, and architecture on our walk, combining with the gorgeous rocky shoreline. We even found a nice, quiet area to picnic on the rocks. I am sure the walk is even more beautiful when the green color, and flowers are out in the spring in summer. However, it was nice to avoid the tourists, crowds, and to relax enjoy this gorgeous location. I think I will plan a visit again in the future (Rating: 4).

photo contest Cliff Walk in Newport RI April 2015

July 19, 2018 – Massachusetts – Sully’s Ice Cream Stand

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Sully’s Ice Cream Stand in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Sully’s Ice Cream Stand has been family owned since 1986, and is known as “home of the super scoopers”. Sully’s has over 100 flavors, even including several sugarless options.

We enjoyed our little outing to Sully’s Ice Cream stand. The stand was very quiet, and we were able to place our order at the window immediately. There were many flavor choices but I settled on coconut chip, while Shadow and Wilma’s ice cream came with a treat frozen into the ice cream. There was limited seating, and the stand was right on a busy road so I elected to take our ice cream home. As soon as we arrived home, we quickly gobbled up our ice cream, enjoying every bite! I expect we will venture to Sully’s Ice Cream Stand again (Rating: 4).