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.
This month Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Hartley Mason Reserve/Park in York, Maine. The Hartley Mason Reserve/Park is a four-acre seaside Park set above York Harbor and the York Harbor Beach. The land was donated by Hartley Mason in 1993 and now provides a scenic location for visitors.
We had a simple Adventure to the Hartley Mason Reserve/Park. I debated blogging about it as it was a dark day, and small park, but decided to still share. Although I had read about this Park I found it accidentally on the way to a planned location. We stopped and walked through the park enjoying the views of the ocean, and crashing sounds of the waves. Some of my favorite parts of this park were bright yellow fallen leaves, little statues, and the singing of the ocean. As indicated it was a tiny park, so there was not much to explore, however I would guess it has beautiful gardens during the summer. Wilma however made sure to appreciate some rolls down the hill, which Gus joined in on (haha). I sadly could not get a photo or video in time, but Ipromise it was some good entertainment. Glad we could Adventure to the Hartley Mason Reserve/Park (Rating: 3),
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 Edwards Harborside in York, Maine. In researching Edwards Harborside to create this blog I learned that it is a marina with several beach areas. However I was unclear on the exact title of the beach which was in front of the Edwards Harborside Inn, therefore not officially the Edwards Harborside Beach as I expected. Even without this official title I still decided to blog about this location, possibly a less known area for travelers.
We had a beach-filled Adventure to Edwards Harborside, one of our many stops that day. It was a sunny spring April day. I believe we found this location accidentally, parking after finding a sign for “Edwards Harborside”. The beach we found nearby was small and quiet. Shadow and Buster were energized by the beach, digging, wrestling, and romping! They always made me smile on our beach trips, as on on this Adventure to Edwards Harborside. We explored the entire beach, walking in the water, and checking out the rocky areas. Definitely a fun day of memories at Edward Harborside (Throwback blogs will not always be rated).
Yesterday Shadow and I took an Adventure to Long Sand Beach in York, Maine. Long Sand Beach is a less then two mile sandy shoreline that includes some rocky areas and tidal pools. The beach is located along Route 1A. It is a popular tourist spot in the summer months.
We had a refreshing Adventure to Long Sand Beach in York, Maine. I decided to take a solo Adventure with Shadow. Wilma sometime struggles with off-leash locations as she does not appreciate being charged by off-leash dogs, while on leash. I often am disappointed to find that the majority of the off-leash dogs we encounter are not under voice control, and as you might guess this can be unpredictable. And although I might be an overprotective dog Mom, I do not feel Wilma is quite ready to be off-leash, still young and quite driven by her adorable hound nose. So…having some extra days off I felt this would be a good opportunity to take Shadow on a journey of his own, my beach-loving, extra-well behaved boy. Although feeling a bit guilty I decided to head off to Long Sand Beach with Shadow.
We arrived at Long Sand Beach finding it just below the main road. There were other visitors scattered throughout the beach, many dogs in tow. Shadow was absolutely thrilled to be at the beach. We headed straight to the water and began walking along the shore, appreciating the sun, and the sounds of the surf. I spotted Nubble Lighthouse off in the distance, although a bit too far off to photograph with my cell phone. Shadow was excited to meet all dogs in sight, quickly making best buds with an adorable Vizsla. I often heard comments about how “big” Shadow was but fellow walkers quickly noted his calm and friendly demeanor. It was so fun to see him in this environment as we have not recently encountered new friends. Shadow enjoyed smelling, finding some lobster traps, shells, and numerous smells unknown to my eyes. Shadow loved wading in the water often trotting enthusiastically. It was clear that the tide was going out the beach growing quickly as we strolled along. It was a gorgeous afternoon filled with many smiles. And although the beach was simple, and somewhat unappealing the memories and moments were absolutely perfect. So glad we could enjoy a relaxing beach Adventure today (Rating: Beach: 3, Adventure: Priceless)
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cape Neddick “Nubble”. Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).
We had a perfect Adventure to the Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse. We have been to the Nubble Lighthouse many times previously, but it really is quite spectacular, so I decided to blog about it again. We arrived to find huge gust of winds, an incoming tide, and an abundance of crashing waves, a gorgeous scene. Upon wandering around, we soon found some scuba divers performing a practice exercise. Wilma was quite intrigued by the divers, unsure of the scene. We observed for a bit before moving on, climbing on the rocks, and loving every moment. There were flowers between the rocks, and in the grass, bright yellows, pinks, and whites, just lovely. We explored, and explored, cherishing the full coastal experience. Shadow especially loved his rolls, and often searched for a tidal pool, hoping for a sip and dip. Wilma was quite wild at this location, energized by the rocks, and guest attention. Thankfully I manged to stay on my feet in Wilma’s exuberance. After wandering around for awhile we sat in the grass to relax and savor our wonderful afternoon.
Before we left Nubble Lighthouse I decided to check out the food at Fox’s Lobster House, located on the property. I was quite thankful to see an outdoor window. The menu appeared a bit pricey so a good excuse to order myself an ice cream, and a “puppy pop” for Shadow and Wilma. Although there was a seating area the location was very busy with guests so I felt it ideal to find a rock and a grassy spot to savor our treats. Our timing was not ideal as it began pouring! Shadow quickly began eating his “pop” while Wilma wanted nothing to do with the rain. So I attempted to eat my ice cream, and next thing I knew Shadow’s had vanished. I searched the crannies of the nearby rocks and was unable to locate the “pop”. Shadow decided to go for seconds, grabbing Wilma’s bowl. I somehow was able to rescue it for Wilma and we scurried back to the car. I felt badly I could not locate Shadow’s dish, and thought for a quick moment – did he eat that too?! Wilma was able to eat her “pop” in the car but seemed to have lost interest.
The Nubble Lighthouse is a special place. The only downfall is the large tourist draw, buses even arriving and dropping off guests. However, we had a magnificent visit to the Nubble Lighthouse, a quintessential New England landmark (Rating: 4.5)
Please see below for photos and videos from today’s visit, and at the bottom I included several from previous visits, including with our love Buster
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Ellis Park in York Beach, Maine. Ellis Park is adjacent to Short Sands Beach. It contains a basketball court, a playground, and is a popular location for summer concerts, and locals. The Park is owned by the Town of York and managed by the Trustees.
We had a short Adventure to the Ellis Shorts Sands’ Park on a dark and dreary day. I had noticed the Park in the past but do not believe we ever have explored it. There was a fee to park based on the expected time. The word “Park” did not seem to fit the location as it was really just a big square with a gazebo in the center, appearing more like a town common. However, we sauntered around the park as I worked hard to notice little details of appreciation. Shadow and Wilma relished their happy grass rolls, and as always were enthused to explore a new place, never a complaints from these amazing two! There were benches around the park, and flowers, many past season. My favorite part of the Ellis Short Sands Park was walking above the beach. The tide was in, and the waves a rough, a beautiful scene. I was disappointed that dogs were not allowed on the beach, but was pleased we could walk nearby. There were few people on the beach on this windy and drizzly day. Although I was quite unimpressed with this Park, the coastal border made it just right (Rating: 3).
Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Old York Museum Center and surrounding historical buildings in York, Maine. This early English settlement was one of the first colonies. The buildings are open to the public and include lovely architecture, artwork, and artifacts. There are tours, programs and events, and nine historic buildings to explore.
We had a simple Adventure to the Old York Historical Society Buildings on a dreary, dark day. I debated writing and posting this blog as dogs were not allowed inside the building, which only provided a limited visit. However, it a great historic location which others may not know about so here I go….
We began our Adventure at the Museum Center. From the door of the Center we began our journey hopping from building to building. The structures appeared historic, yet modern and unique. Without a map we walked from building to building attempting not to miss one. We also spotted a graveyard in the middle of our walk around the property. Our Adventure to the Old Historical Society Buildings was short as we could only walk around and near them, and besides the actual buildings there were very few outdoor artifacts. Still Glad we were able to explore this location, something many might not expect to find in coastal Maine (This location will not be rated as the site was not thoroughly explored).
I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 17, 2019 we Adventured to the Wiggly Bridge in York, Maine. The Wiggly Bridge is a suspended bridge, that as titled, wiggles” as you walk across. It was built in the 1930s and stretches over the tidal pool that flows from Barrell Mill Pond to the York River. It is known as the smallest suspension bridge in the world, just seventy five feet in length.
Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I had a fun Adventure to the Wiggly Bridge, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). This was at least the third time we have visited, although it was the first time for my Mom. Our stroll to the Bridge started on a short man-made causeway that leads you to this landmark. The sun was shining along the water, sparkling from the glare. The Bridge highlighted by green, adding the perfect feature to the coastal spot. We snapped some photographs, and played with the shadows below.
On this visit I decided not to venture across the Bridge with Shadow and Wilma as last time, we had a little problem. On that visit BOTH of them became very concerned about the “wiggles”, causing us to almost remain permanently on the other side of the Bridge. It is a humorous story that I have fond memories of, even though we caused quite a scene. The Wiggly Bridge is a wonderful landmark to visit, and although I initially found it by accident, I now know it is a famous Bridge, merely due to the small size. Definitely a great stop that we have enjoyed on several of our Adventures. I found a couple photos from our past trips which I have added to our collage below. I was disappointed not to have any photographs of Buster from our first visit, however treasure an Adventure where all three of my pups had an opportunity to visit (Rating: 4).
I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Flashback 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.
In September 2013, Shadow, Buster, my Mom, and I visited Neddick Lighthouse, and in February 2018, Shadow, Wilma, my Mom, and I visited Neddick Lighthouse. As many of you know Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed!
Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).
We enjoyed our visits to this beautiful, scenic lighthouse. It is the perfect place to take photographs, sit on a bench and enjoy the breeze, lounge in the grass, or jump from rock to rock along the ocean shore. It really is a true New England landmark (Rating: 4).
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 