Throwback Adventure – Jamaica State Park – Vermont

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 September of 2015 Shadow, Buster, My Aunt, My Uncle, and I Adventured to Jamaica State Park in Jamaica, Vermont. Jamaica State Park is an almost 800 acre state park, that encompasses the West River. Jamaica State Park is popular for fishing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and winter sports. It also includes Hamilton Falls which is approximately 125 feet tall and sourced from the Cobb River.

We had a wonderful Adventure to Jamaica State Park. We were so excited to meet my Aunt and Uncle for this day of hiking, and exploring. Upon arrival we found the Park to be packed full of visitors, soon to realize that there was an official white water event. Apparently several times a year the dam is opened for this popular event. This added some excitement to our day with this bonus attraction.

We began our hike on the trail looking down on the West River. We were able to see the kayakers from high above, on quite the rapid filled river. It was really a fun scene we were able to take-in while catching up and enjoying this mid-September day. Every so often we had to move off the trail to allow for the eager truck full of boaters heading out to the beginning of the dam. Quite a special environment of which we thoroughly enjoyed.

We were on the trail along the River for a bit before veering off on a slope to our right. This was a tiring trail, mostly uphill so we took or time traversing this mountain-like path. I am trying to pull-out my long term memory and believe I knew there was a waterfall and was hopeful, and driven by the desire to locate this natural feature. I was quite pleased to finally spot the Hamilton Falls and we traversed down another trail to get to the Falls edge. I found the Hamilton Falls somewhat humorous as there was little water-flow, although I guess September is really not the ideal time for waterfalls. However the Falls was quite unique, gorge-like with two separate spouts. We took some photographs before continuing up the trail. We arrived at the top of the Falls, finding a large pool. We actually spotted a latter entering the pool, apparently needed for those who might fall in to this pothole feature. Nearby we found a perfect area for a picnic, relaxing from a strenuous hike. Jamaica State Park is definitely a unique location. We were so glad to enjoy his special Adventure with wonderful company (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 29, 2019 – Kingsbury Covered Bridge/Hyde Covered Bridge – Vermont

I am a little behind on my blog from our daytrip to Vermont this past Monday. However, I still wanted to share, so here is another one of our Adventures.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Kingsbury Covered Bridge in Randolph, Vermont, also referred to is the Hyde Covered Bridge. The Bridge was built in 1904. It is a wooden bridge that traverses the White River.

We had a pungent Adventure to the Kingsbury/Hyde Covered Bridge. Immediately upon arrival we noted a horrid stench, fecal matter scattered throughout the bridge and immediately proceeding it. We therefore did not venture too close, or across, as we prefer on our “normal” covered bridge Adventures. We viewed the River from the side, noting it was almost completely dry. There were pretty wildflowers throughout, as well as a tree framing the front. The sky was dramatic, changing rapidly during our visit. To the right side there was a farm, with lovely pink flowers adding to the picturesque scene. When avoiding looking down, and breathing, it was quite a lovely scene (haha). Even through it all I could not be happier in visiting yet another historic covered Bridge, it will always be a memorable one, that is for sure (Rating: 3).

July 29, 2019 – Brookfield Floating Bridge – Vermont

I am a little behind on my blog from our daytrip to Vermont this past Monday. However, I still wanted to share, so here is another one of our Adventures.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Brookfield Floating Bridge in Brookfield, Vermont. The Brookfield Floating Bridge was originally built in 1820, but later was closed in 2008 and rebuilt in 2015. The Bridge is over the Sunset Lake. It is the only floating bridge east of the Mississippi.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Brookfield Floating Bridge. Upon arrival we found some visitors, but yet not an overly crowded location. We drove across the bridge before turning around and find a parking spot near a little park. The colors were vibrant, dark green grass, and bright blue water, the scenic mountains the backdrop to the Lake. There was a humorous hippo statue in the park, along with benches to sit and relax. We quickly found a spot along the shore where Shadow could swim, and Wilma wade. I had planned ahead bringing Shadow’s longer leash just in case he wanted to venture far. I also was pleased to have brought my water shoes allowing me to walk in a bit and cool down. We chatted for a bit with other visitors, and watched the cheerful scene. Wilma was fascinated by the swimming children, and almost appeared distressed when a little girl was swimming under water. I guess some new experiences for our growing puppy, learning new lessons every day.

Before we headed out we took a walk down the Floating Bridge, a unique structure. There were sidewalks along the road, many fisherman along the way, and people jumping from the bridge’s edge. I expected for the bridge to feel bouncy, but it appeared quite sturdy. The Bridge was long, and wooden in style. The only time I remember seeing a structure of its style.

This modest spot, appeared quite popular for locals, who were kind, and social. So glad we could visit this unusual landmark today. Next time I definitely will wear my swimsuit (Rating: 3.5)

July 29, 2019 – Rock of Ages Quarry – Vermont

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Rock of Ages Quarry in Graniteville, Vermont. Rock of Ages is the deepest Quarry in the world, and has been around since 1885. It is currently a working Quarry. Rock of Ages has a gift shop, and offers tours including a drive to the Quarry overlook and an information video. The cost of the official tour is $6 per person.

We had a unique Adventure to the Rock of Ages Quarry. I am always excited to find an Adventure that is one that you would not expect to be dog-friendly. I had contacted the Quarry before our visit to ensure dogs were on the guest list. Except for not permitting dogs in the official tour van, the site was incredibly dog-friendly. We began our Adventure purchasing tickets to the tour, immediately discovering the gift shop, warehouse, and all buildings were also welcoming of dogs. I was quite impressed with these details, adding an increased bounce to my step!

We decided to first explore the warehouse, walking down the hall and watching the hard-working employees actively designing granite materials. I did not expect Shadow or Wilma to be concerned with this experience, and was pleased that my expectations were accurate. We walked down the hall, both Shadow and Wilma appearing quite curious of their new environment. The warehouse was gigantic, and had little windows below where the pups could peer through to check-out the scene. It was an unusual, and fun experience being a witness to this eccentric work.

From there we headed on the Quarry tour. We followed the official van by car so Shadow and Wilma could join us. The drive was only about five minutes before we arrived at the Quarry look-out. There was a high-fence ensuring no accidental slips. The Quarry was absolutely gorgeous, misty green in some spots. Our tour-guide taught us about this special Quarry, showed samples, and answered visitors’ questions. Shadow was not thrilled at the warm afternoon so we soon found a shady spot to get some water, while continuing to listen to the presentation. It was amazing to see the granite Quarry from high above. I had high expectations from my research online, and the site definitely did not disappoint.

Our last stop was to explore the grounds, including: memorial stones, the granite bowling lane, and to search through granite samples to find the perfect souvenir. Wilma was especially excited to see large bowling balls being rolled down the lane, her sweet little tail wagging joyously . She enjoyed meeting all the other tourists, savoring all of the attention. We did not stay too long as Shadow appeared eager for the next swim. So glad we could explore the spectacular Rock of Ages Granite Quarry today (Rating: 4).

July 29, 2019 – Waits River Falls – Vermont

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Waits River Falls in Bradford, Vermont. Waits River Falls has an open and lower falls. and totals approximately forty five feet in length. It is sourced from the Waits River.

We had a misty Adventure to the Waits River Falls. We were quite pleased to find the Falls effortlessly, located directly on Route 5. There was a park located in front of the Falls, which notified us of our arrival. The park had benches, was scattered with wildflowers and provided a great view of the Falls. We got as near as we could, careful not to get too close to an immediate drop-off. Although the Falls was quite far from us,the scene was spectacular. It was fun to feel the mist, adding the perfect touch to the moment.

After enjoying the Falls, we followed a short trail up a hill to a shaded area. There was some rushing water, a bench to sit, and a rock-like wall. Shadow was quite thrilled to find some water, and soon was adorably lying down in the water. So cute, I really just could not get enough (see video below). Wilma preferred to pose on the rocks, often checking on My Mom, our protective girl. We enjoyed this cool oasis while until Shadow finished his cool-down in the water.

From there we then headed over to the bridge from above the River to take some more photographs before heading off to our next Adventure. So glad we could visit the Waits Falls River today (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Oakledge Park – Vermont

In October of 2015 Buster, Shadow, and I Adventured to Oakledge Park in Burlington, Vermont. Oakledge Park is located on Lake Champlain and it includes: a treehouse, bike path, walking trails, and a swimming beach. It is also home of the “Earth Clock” a modern compass, calendar, and clock.

We had a pleasant Adventure to Oakledge Park on a foggy Fall day. As it was long ago my memory has faded a bit. However I recall walking along Lake Champlain, checking out the “Earth Clock”, and wandering up to the treehouse. I remember especially appreciating a simple bridge, adorned with colorful fall leaves. We were glad we could visit Oakledge Park on a weekend filled with Adventures. (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Throwback Adventure – West Dummerston Covered Bridge – Vermont

In August 2017 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the West Dummerston Covered Bridge in Dummerston, Vermont. The West Dummerston Covered Bridge was built in 1872, later being restored in 1998. It spans the West River and is the longest covered bridge in Vermont.

We had a fantastic Adventure to the West Dummerston Covered Bridge. Wilma had joined our lives just a month previous to this trip, and it was her first day exploring Vermont. We enjoyed the beach area below his scenic bridge, resting, digging, posing, and relaxing. Apparently I was more interested in taking selfies versus photographs of scenery, but you still get a picture of the West Dummerston Covered Bridge. Pleased to enjoy this location to ourselves we took our time taking in a lovely New England Bridge.

Weekly Video/Photo

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 day-trip to Vermont with Shadow and Wilma, on which we stopped to explore the town of Wilmington, including a trail, and the Deerfield River. This video occurred IN the Deerfield River, and instantly brings a smile to my face every time I view it!! We were returning from our walk along the trail, and of course had to stop for a Shadow dip. After literally walking around the River Shadow decided to lay down, with no plans whatsoever to ever leave this cool oasis. Although he lives for getting into bodies of water I do not think I have ever seen him completely lay down in the water. I found the moment so humorous, and of course was quite pleased that he was cool and comfortable. Back at that time Wilma was almost scared of the water, although now she will take some steps in on occasion. She instead preferred to eat some grass as we waited for Shadow to finish his water therapy. I love that Shadow is a water boy, and that I captured this little moment FOREVER!

Please search for Wilmington 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.)

Enjoy!

Throwback Adventure – Brattleboro – Vermont

In the Summer of 2016 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to Brattleboro, Vermont. Brattleboro, Vermont is a small town in Southern Vermont known for its arts, culture and shops. It is bordered by the Connecticut River, West River and Mount Wantastiquet, making it popular for water activities. It is also home of the Creamery Covered Bridge.

We had a steamy Adventure to Brattleboro on a warm summer day. We walked around the town checking out the buildings, and enjoying the gorgeous flower boxes along the way. We strolled along the River and rested for a bit for a water break. We did not find too much entertainment, and found the town to be more of a place for indoor ventures.

In addition to our visit in the main town we of course stopped at some water areas, and the Creamery Covered Bridge. We were able to visit the bridge with Wilma at future visit, but since I blogged about that Adventure previously I did not include the photographs from that second visit. Glad we were able to visit the town of Brattleboro, Vermont.

October 5, 2018 – Burt Henry Covered Bridge – Vermont

Today we visited the Burt Henry Covered Bridge in Bennington, Vermont. The Burt Henry Covered Bridge was built in 1840, but later rebuilt in 1989. It crosses the Wallroomsac River, and is approximately 121 feet in length. It is one of three bridges that crosses the Wallroomsac River.

We had a fun time Adventuring to all three covered bridges in Bennington, Vermont. I debated blogging them all together, especially as they look so similar, however decided to blog them separately. The Burt Henry Covered Bridge was distinct as it had a park parallel to it, with some picnic benches for viewing. Yet another red bridge, on a busy road. It was great to have a park to provide some space to enjoy the site. We walked around and sat in the warm Fall sun. This rounded off our last Adventure to the Bridge in Bennington. (Rating: 3).