Dog friendly hikes and exploring, mostly around New England. Our Adventures includes: waterfalls, the beach, conservation land, lighthouses, state parks, the woods, the mountains, statues, and castles.
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Durgin Covered Bridge in Sandwich, New Hampshire. The Durgin Covered Bridge traverses the Cold River. It was built in 1869 and is one of the few surviving 19th century covered bridges in New Hampshire.
We had a short Adventure to the Durgin Covered Bridge, on a day of numerous Adventures. Upon arrival to the Durgin Bridge we spotted a not so friendly dog down the street, and although on leash, the owner appeared to be struggling to maintain control. I therefore felt a bit uneasy about this location, and we did not stay as long as I would have otherwise.
My initial plan was to head to the River to see the Bridge from below. It was not incredibly easy to arrive at the water’s edge but we managed to stumble down an overgrown path to reach this goal. As per my usual, unusual (haha), I decided to wade through the water with the pups, a nice cool down on this warm day. The rocks were round and colorful, adding lovely shades to the clear flowing River. Shadow took a minute to lay down, while Wilma quickly found a rock to pose on. The Bridge was beautiful and scenic. It was challenging to get a full panoramic view, a little cloudy, and in addition to my worries of the unfriendly, furry neighbor my photos were far from representative of this lovely spot. However it really was a pretty Bridge. So glad we could Adventure to the Durgin Covered Bridge today (Rating: 4).
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Rowell Covered Bridge in Hopkington, New Hampshire. The Rowell Covered Bridge was built in 1953 and crosses the Contoocook River. It is a one-car traffic bridge.
We had a gorgeous Adventure to the Rowell Covered Bridge. After taking a long local walk I figured it was the perfect day to visit a new covered bridge. I had researched the bridge and noted it was listed at “1433 Maple Street”, however that was not the address that it was located. We drove past the address (coming from Route 89) for a minute or two and were glad to find the bridge on the right. There was steady traffic, cars zooming through the bridge, so we decided not to walk through the bridge, but instead take some time on each side to explore.
We began exploring the near side, noting a young boy and his father fishing on the opposite. It took some determination to find a path down to the River. The “path” was quite overgrown, however landed us in our desired destination. Shadow especially was thrilled to spot the River, and was immediately in the water. He was soon laying peaceful in the River, the water rippling around him. It a tranquil site, and besides for cars bumping along the bridge, incredibly serene. We attempted to stroll along the limited shore, but I soon decided to walk right into the River, much easier then the balance, and dodging of greenery. I sat on the shore for a bit while we relaxed. The water was quite picturesque, and felt just right. Wilma’s silly self enjoyed eating grass, posing on the rocks, chasing dragon flies, and she actually went in the water a bit to wade. Shadow mostly stayed in the water, relaxing peacefully. After spending awhile on this side of the River we decided to again drive through the bridge and check out the far side.
I was pleased to see the shoreline had become empty, so we therefore ventured down this much steeper slope. There was more of a sandy shore, lots of rocks to perch on, and an increased shoreline to appreciate. The view was similar, but the footing much more accommodating. My guess is that this bridge is more popular for locals, fishing, and not necessarily as known as others. The Rowell Covered Bridge was definitely one of my favorite covered bridges. If you are a Covered Bridge lover I would encourage you visit this lovely spot. A peaceful afternoon at the Rowell Covered Bridge (Rating: 4.5)
If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will display a video or photo, usually highlighting an Adventure, while I might also sneak in some that are humorous, adorable, or just other fun dog moments.
So if you have followed my blog from the beginning you will know that I adopted Shadow as a puppy, and about a year later adopted Buster as a puppy. We had many wonderful years together before experiencing the devastating loss of Buster at just seven. It took a long time for our hearts to heal, but almost a year later we welcomed little Wilma into our world.
Today’s feature is a video from a walk earlier this month at Mine Falls Park in Nashua, New Hampshire. This is a park we visit on occasion that I have blogged about before. It’s a lovely, city park through forests, and along the Nashua River and canal system. It really is a park I enjoy, quite unique and not a location you would expect to find in Nashua.
If you want to read more about Mine Falls Park please search for Mine Falls Park in the “search box” for more information on this Adventure. (On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog.)
So although my video taking skills are for from extra-ordinary, I thought this would give you a good feel from an Adventure of Mine Falls Park.
If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will display a video or photo, usually highlighting an Adventure, while I might also sneak in some that are humorous, adorable, or just other fun dog moments.
So if you have followed my blog from the beginning you will know that I adopted Shadow as a puppy, and about a year later adopted Buster as a puppy. We had many wonderful years together before experiencing the devastating loss of Buster at just seven. It took a long time for our hearts to heal, but almost a year later we welcomed little Wilma into our world.
Today’s feature is a photograph of Buster from Echo Lake in October 2016. Shadow, Buster, My Mom and I had an AMAZING Fall getaway in the White Mountains. Little did we know Buster would pass away less then a week later. Although he had been diagnosed with a terminal medical condition we had no idea that he would leave us so quickly. This long weekend of Adventures was PERFECT and he seemed to be healthy and enjoy EVERY moment. This special trip will always bring back precious memories. I love this photo of my Buster, looking regal as always. We sure do miss him! So glad he was able to experience many special trips in his seven years of life.
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the White Mountains in New Hampshire. The White Mountains cover one quarter of the state of New Hampshire, and actually run into a small part of Maine. The mountains are popular for hiking, skiing, and Fall foliage seekers.
So I usually do not post about locations I have blogged about previously, however I could not resist sharing today’s Adventure in the White Mountains, one of my absolute FAVORITE spots to explore. Today our Adventure involved locations we have ventured to before, including: The Basin, The Basin-Cascades Trail, the Pemi Trail, and Echo Lake. Although we have been to these spots previously they NEVER disappoint. From the fresh-clean-clear water, to the waterfalls, to the rushing Brook, to lakes surrounded by spectacular mountain views, it is a genuinely natural experience.
We began today’s Adventure noticing that one of the trails was closed, quite disappointing. We took the time to explore different paths, leading us in and out the gorgeous River and cascades. We walked around for awhile before finding a sandy spot to sit in the sun and relax. From there I figured I would try one more direction to locate the Basin-Cascade Trail, and I was thrilled to find a pathway to this Trail, one of my favorites. The Basin Cascades Trail, slowly ascends with lots of roots and mud along the path. Throughout this trail there are many spots to walk over to the Cascade Brook, whether it be an official waterfall, or just gorgeous water flowing with spectacular views. Many of the time you could choose to climb up the rocks along the water before veering back to the trail. We found a cave like area after walking through the water and hung out for awhile, just perfect.
There were lots of water features to explore along the way and we did our best to visit every one. My favorite one was Kinsman Falls, a taller falls then many of the others along this trail. We made a steep hike down to get a bit closer for of course some selfies, pictures, and rock climbing. Shadow seemed a bit disappointed that he could not climb up-high, but enjoyed some sips while I got a little closer with Wilma. Just a spectacular site. We cautiously climbed back up to the Trail above the falls before continuing along the trail. Much of our time today was spent on the Basin-Cascade Trail. So beautiful and peaceful.
After spending almost four hours at this first location we drove to Echo Lake to make sure Shadow could get in an official mountain-lake swim before heading back home.
Some of my most memorable moments of the day included: watching Shadow enjoy constant fresh water swims, hearing the sounds of rushing water, finding a little cave area to relax, walking through the rushing water to get to desired locations, and the visual beauty of these special locations. I continually am impressed at eleven-year-old Shadow’s endurance, and appreciated seeing my recent training work with two-year-old Wilma in action today. I cannot put into words what these two amazing pups mean to me! The best company I could ask for!
If you would like to read more about our past visits to Echo Lake (Fraconia Notch State Park) and The Basin please search for them in the “search box” for more information on this Adventure. (On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog.)
A beautiful Adventure today in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, not a doubt we will be back (Rating: 5).
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. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!
In October 2017 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fraconia Falls in the town of Lincoln, in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The Falls is a series of cascades that is sourced from Fraconia Brook. Fraconia Falls is a popular area for swimming and sliding down the Falls.
We had a wonderful Adventure to Fraconia Falls on a gorgeous Fall day. The hike to Fraconia Falls begins at Lincoln Woods, one of my favorite hikes of the White Mountains. We were excited to journey on an extra long hike, all the way to the Falls. The trail turned left when we arrived at a scenic wooden bridge, right about where we noticed the sign leading us to Fraconia Falls. We decided to first traverse this bridge and view the Brook before turning around and heading on the trail to the Falls. We then began hiking along the trail which paralleled the Brook. We soon located a scenic area to stop, relax, and have a snack, such a peaceful oasis along the shore. After a restful break we continued on to the Falls. The Falls was simple, and unique in its own way. We posed for some photographs, standing on the rocky platform, and viewing the area off to the right. I actually wondered if it was the true Falls as I was expecting a much larger, and more elaborate natural creation. I still sometimes ponder this question but we did follow the sign and arrived at this Falls, so how could we be mistaken??
The Falls was our last stop before turning around to return to our car. We had spent the day wandering the trails of Lincoln Woods and exploring various spots along the way. Another perfect day in the White Mountains (Rating: Lincoln Woods: 5, Fraconia Falls: 3).
Below please enjoy some pictures from the Falls, the trail from the bridge, and one from right before the Falls trail. If you would like to read more and see photos about Lincoln Woods search for Lincoln Woods in the “search box” for more information. (On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog.)
If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will display a video or photo, usually highlighting an Adventure, while I might also sneak in some that are humorous, adorable, or just other fun dog moments.
So if you have followed my blog from the beginning you will know that I adopted Shadow as a puppy, and about a year later adopted Buster as a puppy. We had many wonderful years together before experiencing the devastating loss of Buster at just seven. It took a long time for our hearts to heal, but almost a year later we welcomed little Wilma into our world.
Today’s feature is a video from a wonderful Adventure that Shadow, Wilma, and I took in Lincoln Woods in the White Mountain of New Hampshire. This is absolutely one of my favorite places to hike! It starts with an amazing bridge over the Pemigewasett River and follows the River for much of the hike, opening up at various spots for extra-ordinary views. The Fall, of course, is my favorite season to visit this spectacular location. Please search for Lincoln Woods in the “search box” for more information on our many visits to Lincoln Woods. (On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog.)
**Update** – I reviewed the Wilton, New Hampshire Parks and Recreation website and Garwin Falls is currently closed to the public – glad we could visit before this the closure – please check with them before visiting to make sure you have current updates/information
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Garwin Falls in Wilton, New Hampshire. Garwin Falls is approximately forty feet tall and is part of the Wilton Reservoir. There is a short walk to get to the Falls that passes some smaller cascades and a dam. The parking lot for the Falls only has several spots, and there is no cost to park. Garwin Falls is located on private property, however remains open to the public.
We had a jaw-dropping Adventure to Garwin Falls. Amazingly this Falls is only about forty five minutes from my house yet I only recently discovered it online. I was thrilled to find a local waterfall and could not have been more impressed at the beautiful site. We began our walk parking at a very small parking lot, luckily, not arriving at a busy time. We traversed the simple and wide trail for a short time before arriving at several cascades. The cascades were small but lovely. We walked along the brook and found some sandy areas. Shadow and Wilma enjoyed some drinks of fresh water, and of course Shadow made sure to take a quick dip in the stream! We took our time exploring this simple spot, walking until we could see the dam up ahead. We then returned to the main trail to continue on our journey.
We walked for another short walk before arriving at the massive Garwin Falls. I could not believe the size of the Falls as I was not expecting to be impressed. The Falls was thunderously singing a sweet song as we wandered over to the edge of the Falls. We were able to walk right up to the edge, and of course I took numerous photographs. I was absolutely stunned at this magnificent creation, wide in size, tall in height, and perfect in melody. We stared for some time, before talking along the edge of the brook. Agile Wilma jumping along, while Shadow a bit unsteady on the uneven surface. I attempted to balance across on a log, but was not able to get Shadow to follow so Wilma and I crossed to take a couple photographs before balancing back across. We took are time at this breathtaking location, pleased to only see several visitors who were all leaving when we had arrived.
On the way back to the car we wandered off the trail several times to explore the brook and upper cascades. We viewed the dam from below and atop, quite grotesquely plastered with graphity. Not what you expect to find in such a serene and natural environment, however we did not let this deter us from a fantastic visit to the Falls.
Garwin Falls was definitely one of the most picturesque waterfalls I have ever seen. We will be back again to visit this spectacular site (Rating: Waterfall: 5).
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. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!
In April 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to Rye, New Hampshire to explore a dog friendly Beach. Although I am not sure specifically which beach this is I know it was in Rye, New Hampshire, somewhere along 1A. (I do not believe it was labeled when we visited). Rye New Hampshire is a coastal town in southern New Hampshire. It is home to the largest coastline in New Hampshire.
We had a sunny Adventure to the Beach in Rye, back on April 12, 2015. The beach was very rocky, with tidal areas to explore. We were able to find some sand areas to sun-bathe and enjoy the day. It was our last stop on a busy day and we were happy to relax and enjoy the breeze. It was fun looking at photographs from this outing reminiscing about yet another Adventure we had with Buster. So glad he was able to have lots of travels! We will definitely have to visit Rye again in the future.
If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will display a video or photo, usually highlighting an Adventure, while I might also sneak in some that are humorous, adorable, or just other fun dog moments.
So if you have followed my blog from the beginning you will know that I adopted Shadow as a puppy, and about a year later adopted Buster as a puppy. We had many wonderful years together before experiencing the devastating loss of Buster at just seven. It took a long time for our hearts to heal, but almost a year later we welcomed little Wilma into our world.
So today’s feature is a scenic photograph from a summer weekend in the White Mountains. Shadow, Wilma, and I had the amazing opportunity to work at an Inn on weekends last summer. We explored, explored, explored! This photograph was taken in an area near the AMC Highland Center in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. The flowers were gorgeous and the background scenic. One of my favorite spots in New England is the White Mountains, and this photo captures one of our many special memories.
Other short hikes I have blogged about that started at the AMC Higland Center include: the Ammonoosuc Lake Trail and the Red Bench Trail, Beecher and Pearl Cascades, and the Lake Saco Trail. These are especially great hikes if you are new to hiking or hike alone. You can search for these blogs by typing the name in on my “search box”. On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog. You might see it in the midst of some outside advertisements. The AMC is a great resource and has NUMEROUS other hikes that you can explore.
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 