August 25, 2018 – Moose State Park – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I visited Moose State Park in Gorham, New Hampshire. Moose State Park is located in the White Mountains, occupying approximately 755 square acres of land. It houses the Peabody and Moose Rivers, which feed the warming pond, and swimming area in the Park. Moose State Park is a popular location for biking, camping, and fishing.

We were excited to have my Mom join us as we embarked on our Adventure to Moose State Park. We began our visit on the Perkins Path trail. This loop circled through the forest, at times paralleling the Rivers. We savored the little details along the path. There was a cave-like formation atop a huge bolder, gigantic circular rocks, and colorful mushrooms along the way. Midway on the loop we located a wooden bridge crossing over the River. Definitely an ideal location for some photographs, and videos. After finishing at the bridge we continued on the trail taking in the moments,on this beautiful day.

Upon completing the loop we walked a little further finding the camping areas, some modern bridges, and the “warming pool”. Shadow enjoyed a swim in this “pool”, while Wilma rolled around in the grass. It was nice to see some additional features of this park.

The main highlight of our afternoon was finding some fun rocks along the River to rest on, dip our feet, and relax. The River was frigid, numbing our feet, yet adding the perfect therapy to our soles. We enjoyed each others company, while taking in the sounds of the River. Shadow took a dip in the River, while Wilma found some chewing sticks. Some attempted selfies, and laughs, as memories were formed. And although Moose State Park quite simple, we savored our time at Moose State Park. (Rating: 3, Company: Exemplary!)

Error

This video doesn’t exist

August 5, 2018 – Bump Bridge – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited the Bump Bridge in Campton, New Hampshire. The Bump Bridge was originally built in 1877, before being rebuilt in 1972. It crosses the Beebe River.

We had a short adventure to the Bump Bridge, after a busy weekend of adventures and fun. The Bridge provided one car traffic,and allowed minimal visibility to drivers. Therefore we took several jogs through the Bridge, but did not linger inside. We ambled down the road a bit, attempting to find a photograph from the River. Finally we were able to locate a trail to the River, which definitely was appreciated. Shadow sat in the water, while Wilma provided some good entertainment with a bark and growl at her adorable reflection. The Bridge was very simple, but yet we were excited to cross of yet another Bridge from our White Mountain adventures (Rating: 3).

August 4, 2018 – Honeymoon Bridge – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed to the Honeymoon Bridge in Jackson, New Hampshire. The Honeymoon Bridge is a wooden bridge that was built in 1876, (while the sidewalk was added at a later date). It spans the Ellis River. The Honeymoon Bridge obtained its’ name from the tradition of lovers kissing under the bridge, in hopes of bringing on good luck.

Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I had visited this Bridge previously, but unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from that trip (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.).

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I had a very soggy adventure to the Honeymoon Bridge. The rainy weather scared away most of the visitors which gave us the opportunity to explore without distractions. We parked at the nearby gift shop, and walked over to the bridge. Although I was glad to see the sidewalk on the Bridge, both Shadow and Wilma were a little thrown by the zooming of cars shaking the Bridge. However, with some encouraging we all made it through. After traversing the Bridge we posed on the opposite side, and attempted some additional photographs. Shadow enjoyed some rolling around in the grass, and a quick nap, which always brings a smile to my face. We enjoyed our visit to the Honeymoon Bridge, even on this dreary, rain filled day (Rating: 3).

August 4, 2018 – New Hampshire – Thompson Falls

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Thompson Falls in Pinkham’s Grant, New Hampshire. We have been on this trail before, but this was our first trip to the waterfall. Unfortunately I was not able to locate the photographs from the previous trip (if I find them at a later date I will edit my blog with those additional photographs.). Thompson Falls is a three level waterfall, totaling almost seventy feet in length. It is sourced from the Thompson Brook, which flows down Wildcat Mountain.

We were happy to start this adventure with the pouring rain beginning to dwindle. Our journey began at the Wildcat Mountain parking lot, before we soon located the Wildcat Nature Trail. We followed the Nature trail, and quickly found signs to the Thompson waterfall. The trail was clear and well marked. It was heavily packed with roots, gradually sloping upwards. The deluge of rain overnight led to a muddy trail, almost a mini waterfall of its own. We walked for a bit before arriving at a stream, tearing through the trail. I decided to take off my sneakers and cross this stream carefully. Miss Wilma had no interest in this unexpected detour, so somehow I able to pick her up and make it across, without tumbling into the water. We continued our journey to the Falls. A large amount of the trail ran parallel to the Thompson Brook, creating a beautiful song, and increased anticipation for the Falls.

On arrival to the Falls, it definitely did not disappoint. We were able to get in close proximity, the mist spraying on our face. The Waterfall was quite powerful, creating a thunderous sound. We stood for awhile taking photographs, and enjoying the magnificent view. Wilma appeared to pose on the rocks, while Shadow took a little dip in the Brook, before sitting calmly nearby. We took our time taking in the smells, sounds, and sights, cherishing yet another adventure.

The Thompson waterfall was gorgeous, and peaceful. I would definitely recommend to others (Rating: 4).

August 3, 2018 – New Hampshire – Squam Bridge

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I visited the Squam Bridge in Ashland, New Hampshire. The Squam Bridge was built in 1990, funded mostly by individuals, companies, and benefit events, while just partly funded by the town of Ashland. The Bridge spans the Squam River as it flows from the Little Squam Lake.

We enjoyed our trip to the Squam Bridge on this hot and humid day. This was my second time visiting the bridge as Shadow, Buster, my Mom, and I had visited one time previously. The Bridge was located on a quiet road, allowing minimal traffic. Upon arrival we parked in the adjacent parking lot, and sauntered over to, and across the Bridge. We walked through the sidewalk on the side of the Bridge, always a picturesque feature. After crossing the bridge we found a boat launch, perfect for a dog friendly swim, and some unique side-angle photography. We spent some time relaxing in the area before heading back through the Bridge. After finishing at the Bridge we wandered around the area, including checking out a nearby marina. It was definitely a warm day, so we kept our visit short, before heading off to our next adventure (Rating: 3).

August 3, 2018

October 2016

July 28, 2018 – New Hampshire – Thorne Pond

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Thorne Pond in Bartlett, New Hampshire. Thorne Pond is a conservation trail, approximately one mile in the length. The trail circles the Pond, however, has side trails that lead to the Saco River.

We were excited to find Thorne Pond, as although I was not planning a visit on this particular day, we could not resist a new adventure. Thorne Pond is a simple trail, adorned with beautiful wild flowers, and mountain views. We began following the trail, locating paths down to the Pond along trail. I was ecstatic to find some hidden trails on the far side of the pond that led over to the Saco River. Although I guess not technically hidden, I did not realize that River views would also be included in this summer day adventure. We journeyed down the River edge for a bit before turning around and heading back to the Pond. We saw some other visitors, including some fishermen along the River’s edge, however did not find the location to be highly populated. We left feeling content, and relaxed from our time at Thorne Pond (Rating: 3).

July 28, 2018 – Bartlett Covered Bridge – New Hampshire

Yesterday we visited the Bartlett Covered Bridge in Bartlett, New Hampshire. The Bridge was built in 1790, and spans the Saco River. The Bartlett Covered Bridge is now part of the Covered Bridge Inn, and has been converted into a gift shop.

We had a pleasant visit to the Bartlett Covered Bridge. Upon arrival we wandered onto the bridge, which was covered with gift shop materials. We turned around when coming to the official gift shop door. It was difficult to get a photograph of the bridge, however we were lucky to find a gift shop employee who gave us permission to go down to the shoreline to snap some photographs. The footing was difficult, but I was able to capture the adventure on film, while still remaining on my feet. Shadow enjoyed a quick dip in the River, while Wilma found a tasty root to chew on. The Bridge is very touristy, therefore seeming to loose some genuine characteristics, however the view from the shore was absolutely beautiful. The Bridge was bright red in color, with the voice of the singing River below. It was quite charming and picturesque. Glad we were able to see this angle of the bridge, providing a whole other experience (Rating: Side view: 4).

July 2018

88EC3B92-7C27-40A5-96E6-1F0AF232EA35

October 2016

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).

Error

This video doesn’t exist

Error

This video doesn’t exist

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)