October 27, 2023 – Beaver Brook Falls – New Hampshire

Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Beaver Brook Falls in Colebrook, New Hampshire. Beaver Brook Falls is a 80-foot horsetail waterfall. It is located on a less then 8-acre property with short trails, and picnic benches. It sources the Beaver Brook River.

We had a roaring Adventure to the Beaver Brook Falls. I was very excited to check-out this Falls as it has been on my list for some time. We arrived to find one car leaving, and the area all to ourselves. We could see the waterfall from the parking lot, but of course headed closer to check out the views. Immediately through the picnic area there was a small scenic bridge that guided us toward the trails. We spent our time checking out all the trails we could find and getting as close possible. It was just gorgeous, the Falls singing. We probably lucked out with all the recent rain as I would guess on a “normal” Fall day it might not be quite as much water. So glad we could visit Beaver Brooks Falls, it definitely did not disappoint (Rating: 5).

October 27, 2023 – Kinsman Falls – New Hampshire

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Kinsman Falls in the Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire. Kinsman Falls is found about .5 miles onto the Basin-Cascades Trail. Kinsman Falls is a narrow Falls about 20 feet in height, which into a deep pool below.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Kinsman Falls. I thought I had blogged about it before but must have included it a larger category post so decided to blog about it individually today. Kinsman Falls is probably one of my favorite Falls, although small it’s unique and is in a gorgeous location. We walked through the muddy trails, exploring the rocky cascades and other waterfalls as we walked uphill on the trails to the Falls. Upon arrival it was a steep trail down, but we made it! It was actually harder to make our way closer to the waterfall as the rocks were a little hard to navigate, especially with two leashed dogs. However, we managed safely and enjoyed the closest view we could get. We did not stay too long as it was hard to find a comfortable spot for all of us to rest, however enjoyed the sounds of the crashing falls.

Heading back across the rocks Wilma got stuck on a rock, unsure of where to go. I continued to encourage her to the appropriate nearby rock and eventually with some treat encouragement she made it, and we did not have an overnight adventure to Kinsman Falls (haha). Below you will see just the area of the actual Falls, (not including the trail getting there). So glad Gus could visit Kinsman Falls and Wilma and I could return to this fabulous Falls (Rating: 4).

September 11, 2021 – Tannery Falls – Massachusetts

Yesterday Wilma, Gus and I Adventured to Tannery Falls in Savoy, Massachusetts. Tannery Falls is an approximate 80 foot waterfall consisting of various cascades. It is sourced from the Ross and Parker Brooks and is located in Savoy Mountain State Forest.

We had a water-rushing Adventure to Tannery Falls. I was excited to visit a waterfall today as we really have not been to many in recent months. I did a lot of research on this one ahead of time, and had no problem finding it. We found a small brown sign indicating Tannery Falls was down Tannery Falls Road as expected. There was a large parking lot, and a trail sign indicating it was .4 miles down the trail, so we again confirmed our location. We arrived at about 6:45 and although the darkness seemed to have passed once we entered the trail the darkness of the forest came upon us. We heard the peaceful sounds of rushing water the moment we started, such a rush when you are on a waterfall adventure. We followed the blue blaze trail entering and I think the entire way, although the trail was so easy to follow I stopped watching specifically for the blue. The trail followed the brook much of the route, and descended downwards. There were several small cascades along the trail. There were many steps, and although I would say the trail to the Falls easy, it was interesting descending these steps at times with two eager dogs barreling downward. However we enjoyed our walk and eagerly anticipated the Falls.

Upon arrival at Tannery Falls I was very impressed! It seems like I always have a picture in my head of the locations we plan and Tannery Falls did not disappoint. It was very tall, roaring, and just lovely. You could not get too close, but still it was just beautiful. We stood at the Falls as I took photographs. Gus loved finding every and all sticks and roots to chew on while Wilma enjoyed some rock hopping and exploring. The singing sounds of the Falls and Brook were just right. We enjoyed the serenity of this location until we were ready to head back. We did not see anyone else on our adventure, and were pleased to have Tannery Falls all to ourselves. So glad we were able to visit Tannery Falls (Rating: 4).

August 11, 2021 – Royalston Falls – Massachusetts

Today Gus, myself, and a friend of ours Adventured to Royalston Falls in Royalston, Massachusetts. Royalston Falls is an approximate 50 foot waterfall that can be found on a 1.6 round trip trail. It is sourced from Falls Brook and is part of the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a mosquito-filled Adventure to Royalston Falls. I was excited to finally get to Royalston Falls, especially with great company! Wilma was enjoying her day at Grandma and Grandpa’s spa, which I am sure she especially appreciated on this warm and humid day. We arrived at the parking lot on route 32 finding the Trustees of Reservation sign marking the trailhead to the Falls. We began along the trail and quickly found we would be battling the mosquitos. The trails to the Falls was full of roots, rocks, and in some locations mud. We hustled along trying to avoid the inevitable bites. Heading to the waterfall much of the hike was downhill. As we got closer to the waterfall we crossed a little bridge, and the scenery became more scenic, finding small cascades, a lovely gorge, and the babbling brook.

I first realized we are at the Falls when spotting some fencing from afar. Royalston Falls was large and flowing rapidly. It was only viewable from afar, and was somewhat difficult to capture on camera. We took a variety of photographs before heading back on the trail. The trail back was much more challenging often heading uphill. Although the trail was not difficult it was far from a stroll, but definitely great exercise. Gus loved walking briskly, however definitely enjoyed checking out some smells, and finding sticks on the route. Glad to cross Royalston Falls off the list today (Rating: 3).

February 7, 2021 – Trapp Falls – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Trapp Falls in Willard Brook State Park, in Ashby, Massachusetts. Trapp Falls is a three tiered waterfall that plunges into a shallow pool filled with boulders. The waterfall is just over ten feet in height. The Falls are located in small section of the Park, and has picnic tables, a bridge crossing the brook, and bathrooms.

We had a magical Adventure to Trapp Falls as the snow storm was upon us. I have been to Trapp Falls numerous times with Shadow, Buster, but I believe this was Wilma’s first visit. Although I blogged about Willard Brook State Park once, I have never blogged specifically about Trapp Falls so today is the day.

I have always found the setting of Trapp Falls to be beautiful with a flowing babbling brook and a short, woodsy hike that leads to the Falls. Today was a winter wonderland adding splendor to the visit. We headed straight to the Falls, and I was surprised that we could get reasonably close. There was someone photographing the falls from underneath, so we would later return for our close-up views. I was shocked at how gorgeous the cascades were, as Trapp Falls is a waterfall I always found quite simple, maybe due to the endless waterfalls we have visited. However, I was pleased to be captivated today. Trapp Falls was iced over with just one side melting and water and icicles crashing through. It was just gorgeous, and even with the small amount of flow, was singing peacefully. We continually explored the area and returned to the Falls on and off. I could not get enough of this beautiful scene!

The Brook also added to the lovely winter scene. It had icicles, and although mostly covered with snow had oddly shaped holes with flowing water. As you may expect I loved the wooden bridge, which had several adorable tiny snowman on the edge. Although I pushed it a little with the weather (oops!) so glad we could visit Trapp Falls on our Adventure today. Below you will see a mix of some of our past visits and today’s snow covered Adventure (unfortunately some of the photographs are fuzzy – still working with wordpress to resolve the problem). A beautiful and serene location (Rating: 4).

Videos from today:

December 27, 2020 – Gunn Brook Falls – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Gunn Brook Falls in Sunderland, Massachusetts. Gunn Brook Falls is located in the UMass Mt. Toby Forest. It consists of an upper and lower Falls.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Gunn Brook Falls. We found Gunn Brook Falls on the side of the road, down a unnamed dirt road off of Falls Road. We parked and were quite pleased to have the location entirely to ourselves. I did not have high expectations but was thrilled to be mistaken. We began our trek at the top of the Falls and carefully made our way down the side. I was surprised that I managed to stay on my feet with all the leaves and the steep path, but I managed to stay upright. Wilma appeared quite eager to explore, and led the way enthusiastically.

We first explored the upper Falls. There were icicles on the side as well as in various spots along the stream. It was so pretty, and mystical. The Falls were roaring peacefully. I made sure we explored all angles before heading farther down the stream. I did not actually realize at the time that there was a lower falls, smaller, but still beautiful! It took some time to figure out how to get down to this Falls but we eventually found a route to get up close. The lower area was framed with large boulders, covered with moss. It was so scenic, and serene! I absolutely loved Gunn Brook Falls. The combination of a spectacular falls, the location being away from the world, and the experience exceeding my expectations added additional joy to the Adventure! Wilma loved hopping on the rocks, and appeared to be always looking around, making we curious of what wildlife might be nearby. She was a little unsure of the strong rushing water of the waterfalls, but that did not slow her down in exploring. Such a beautiful way to start our day trip today (Rating: 4.5).

September 19, 2020 – Bash Bish Falls – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, I, and a friend of ours Adventured to Bash Bish Falls. 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 had a refreshing Adventure to Bash Bish Falls. I was excited to return to Bash Bish Falls and to show our friend this fabulous location. It was also Wilma’s first visit to this Falls. I have wonderful memories of my first visit with Shadow, and my Aunt and Uncle. I was quite pleased to begin this Adventure in the cool autumn air. We started up the short trail to the Falls. The trail was scattered with rocks and sloped up slowly. Even though it was far from challenging it provided a good heart pumping walk. The River parralleled the trail , and gradually became further away as we ascended to the Falls.

It did not take long for us to arrive at Bash Bish Falls. The Falls was tall, roaring and dramatically scenic. Although the water flow was less then our initial visit the massive size of Bash Bish still made the Falls spectacular. We checked out the Falls from the rails above before heading down closer, viewing the Falls from various angles. There were many visitors, creating numerous photobombs, however I did my best to capture this lovely natural Falls. We appreciated the scene for some time before heading back. So glad we could Adventure to Bash Bish Falls today (Rating: 4)

A selection of photographs from my first visit with Shadow, My Aunt and Uncle – May 2017

September 4, 2020 – The Waterfalls of Moultonborough- New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the seven waterfalls of Moultonborough, New Hampshire. We found them along the “Brook Walk” which starts to the right of the Cafe at Castle in the Clouds. In addition you can Park near the Fall of Song, when the access road is open. It was not open today so we actually walked all the way down it backwards before returning to Castle in the Clouds where we began on “Brook Way”. Not the “normal” way to do it but double the exercise. We visited Fall of Songs twice which is by far the best of the seven. These Falls are sourced from the Shannon Brook and range from 5-40 feet however the water was low due to recent drought like conditions.

“Brook Way” paralleled the brook so often you could hear the water singing. The trail was easy, and somewhat dull, however it was fun searching for the next falls, all labeled clearly. On the way back I was surprised to find the trail somewhat challenging, uphill with many rocks to climb. I am hoping this was because this was the last hike of our over four hours of hiking, versus that I am not the hiker I dreamed (haha!). Wilma loved hiking and waded in the water. As often is the case I found these falls were generally hard to photograph but I included a video or two of each. See these seven below, in no particular order.

Roaring Falls

Fall of Song

Bridle Veil Falls

Twin Falls

The Cascades

Whittier Falls

Emerald Pool Falls

Rating of the Waterfalls of Moultonborough – 3.5

Weekly Video/Photo

I have decided to return to the “normal” Weekly Video/Photo section of my blog.  As you likely know we lost Shadow about two months ago and I have been focusing this section on Shadow.  However, I have peace knowing I will continue to highlight favorite photographs including Shadow and Buster.  The plan will still be to still 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.

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.  We were recently devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020.  It is so painful to know Shadow and Buster are both gone, but they will be in our hearts forever!

My feature today is a scenic photograph of Shadow at Bash Bish Falls.  Although I have blogged about Bash Bish Falls in the Throwback section of my blog, this particular photograph somehow got lost in my archives.  I will be adding it to my original blog, but for those of you who have already read it, or not yet seen it, I wanted to share it today.  I absolutely love this photograph of my gentle giant, and have special memories of this Adventure to Bash Bish Falls.  I am so glad I was able to capture so many moments on Adventures with Shadow.  We miss him so much but it helps bring me peace knowing he had a long, and fun-filled life.  It is quite a long day trip, but I look forward to returning to Bash Bish Falls in the future.

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August 7, 2020 – The White Mountains – New Hampshire

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to the White Mountains of New Hampshire.  The White Mountains are a mountain range that cover a large part of New Hampshire, and also a portion of western Maine. The White Mountains include 48 peaks at over 4,000 feet. The White Mountains are popular for skiing, hiking, and ATVing.

We had a spectacular Adventure to the White Mountains.  I set my alarm for 3am (yikes!) to get an early start on our day-trip.  We visited some of our favorite spots, and enjoyed every minute!  We did some hiking, waterfall chasing, and relaxed at some of our preferred scenic spots.  It was our first time in the Mountains since we lost Shadow which made me very sad.  So glad we had so many Adventures with both Buster and Shadow in the endless beauty of the White Mountains.  Furever precious memories! ❤️

Since we have Adventured to and blogged about all of these locations previously I decided to write my blog differently today.  Below you will see each location with photos and videos, and two or three sentences about each.  I have placed the waterfalls in their own category as many of my visitors are waterfall fanatics.  In addition I will add the link to my original post so you can click on that if you are interested in reading more.  Feel free to ask any questions about these Adventures through the contact form or in the comments.  The White Mountains are definitely one the most beautiful spots in New England!

The Basin/Pemi Trail
The Basin/Pemi Trail is a gorgeous location filled with cascades and waterfalls.  It can be crowded during the summer months as is a magnificent place to cool down and relax.  I discovered this location with Buster, Shadow, and My Mom and it quickly became one of my favorites.

Links from previous blogs on the Basin/Pemi Trail:
https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

 

Ammonoosuc Lake Trail
Ammonoosuc Lake Trail is one of my favorites, although short it is quiet, and gorgeous!  I first discovered this Trail when working weekends in the White Mountains with Shadow and Wilma.  Not easy to get a kayak there but that sure would be magical!

Link from previous blog On the Ammonoosuc Trail:  https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/987

 

The Basin-Cascades Trail
The Basin-Cascades Trail can be found at the Basin, and eventually connects to other trails including Lonesome Lake.  It is filled with waterfalls, and cascades, and has gorgeous mountain views.  I discovered the Trail with Shadow and just love it!


Links from Previous blogs on the Basin-Cascades Trail
https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

 

Kinsman Falls
Kinsman Falls is located on the Basin-Cascades Trail.  I especially love Kinsman Falls as it is unique, you can get close with a climb, and I discovered it by accident.  It is generally a quiet location, and is very peaceful.

Links from previous blogs:  (Kinsman Falls was not blogged about individually in these blogs but included in the location)

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

 

Baby Flume
Baby Flume is located in the Basin on the Pemi Trail.  The water flow is great although it is a short cascade.  Again, it is not one I would declare a waterfall, it is listed as so!

Links from previous blogs: (Baby Flume was not blogged about individually in these blogs but included in the location)

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

 

Boise Rock
Boise Rock is not overly appealing, but if you are into rocks and geology it definitely is your place.  I have special memories posing with Buster there, on a trip we had knowing he would not live long due to a terminal diagnosis.  The area around Boise Rock provides lovely views of the Mountains, especially in the fall.

Link from previous blog on Boise Rock:  https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/5042

 

Wiley Pond
I first discovered Wiley Pond with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom, and have one of my Mom’s brilliant photographs framed from this location.  It is scenic spot that has a short trail, and has other trail beginnings.  This especially is great for those who want to appreciate the gorgeous scenery and are not able to hike.

Link from previous blog on Wiley Pond:  https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/3920

 

Saco Lake Trail

This Trail is located right on the road across from AMC Lodge on Route 302.  It is very short, but provides some fun walkways above the Trail.  We love it as it is unique, and picturesque.

**I took a video but it did not seem to take – darn!

Link from previous blog on the Saco Lake Trail:  https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/734