tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-819246780601314802024-02-21T10:59:09.070-05:00New Hampshire...Love it or Leaf itFind great places to kayak, bike, snowshoe, and enjoy the outdoors.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-42526623797141383452015-08-08T20:27:00.001-04:002015-08-08T20:32:18.849-04:00McDaniels Marsh is a Quiet Treasure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTos5QsVi2Xf4pM4dI9RViQ4wjscRCsKQcSmpFpvjlKx3RyIK0IX-bYfst_E1kNc0Q3khkg7p0wJLHXgxpC_-da5yC7sWWZe5LRi_FJlSTTe97YJnUcL6npytZ9x50bUTEIl69_VB4XreS/s1600/Doug_August2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTos5QsVi2Xf4pM4dI9RViQ4wjscRCsKQcSmpFpvjlKx3RyIK0IX-bYfst_E1kNc0Q3khkg7p0wJLHXgxpC_-da5yC7sWWZe5LRi_FJlSTTe97YJnUcL6npytZ9x50bUTEIl69_VB4XreS/s640/Doug_August2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
We headed to McDaniels Marsh in Springfield, NH today, based on a personal recommendation from <a href="https://trailsnailmud.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">@VTPaddlePups</a> on twitter. This place is included in our kayaking bible (and possibly yours, too!):<i> AMC's Quiet Water New Hampshire and Vermont</i>. Not sure why we waited so long to check it out. It was definitely worth the 1.25 hour trip to the Sunapee region from Litchfield.<br />
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Many marshes get overgrown with vegetation by this time of year, making them difficult or impossible to paddle. That's not the case with McDaniels Marsh. It offers more than 500 acres of water, covering many miles. Sure, there are lots of lily pads, water lilies and other plants...but there's also plenty of open water.<br />
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As we started out, we floated along, pushed gently by a wonderful breeze. It seems we hardly had to work at all to cover any area. We <i>did</i> have to paddle a little more on our return trip, of course. Along the way, we spotted some geese, a heron and lots of little painted turtles. Did I mention the rolling green hills in the distance?<br />
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Best of all was the quiet. There were no motor boats and surprisingly, we only saw three other kayakers on this gorgeous summer day.<br />
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You can hear birds and the distant hum of small airplanes, but other than that -- not much else. McDaniels Marsh is so beautiful and peaceful...it will quickly "put your senses in order" and help to melt away the stresses of everyday life.<br />
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According to the AMC guide, the marsh is home to beavers, otter and moose -- though we didn't spot any today. We vowed to come back for a sunrise paddle before too long. If you love quiet spots as much as we do, put this one on your list. You won't be disappointed!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Getting There:</span></b> From I-89, take exit 13 to south on Rte. 10 for .7 miles. Then turn left on Rte. 114 for 4.8 miles. Turn left onto George Hill Road and look for the boat access on the right after about 2.2 miles. There is parking but no facilities here.The put-in isn't quite as gradual as some. In fact, I rolled into the water while trying to get out of my boat. Oops!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-12259529465923403692015-06-12T21:33:00.001-04:002015-06-17T18:24:13.141-04:00Paddle the Nashua River for a Wildlife Treat<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nashua River, accessed from near Stellos Stadium in Nashua</td></tr>
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Last Sunday we were a little short on time, but still wanted to get a nature fix. So we headed to the Nashua River, only about 5 or 6 miles from home. It's amazing how much wildlife can be seen here, so close to the center of town. When we arrived at the launch, it was a little disheartening to find some type of invasive plant species had taken over about 30 to 40 percent of the water. We had never seen it quite it like this before.<br />
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<span class="fullpost">I don't know if it was millfoil or water chestnuts or some other plant, but eventually we made our way to clear water and still enjoyed our time on this beautiful river. There was more boat traffic than we had seen in the past -- everything from canoes to kayaks to powerboats -- but for the most part, everyone was respectful of their fellow boaters. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"> <span style="color: #990000;"><b>Look Out for Snappers!</b></span></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">You can always count on seeing and hearing a lively bird population on the river. On this trip, we saw red-wing blackbirds, a great blue heron and many other smaller birds. On past excursions, we've seen owls, osprey, and swans, to name a few. Other than birds, the most common critter you will see on the river are turtles -- lots of turtles. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the countless smaller turtles.</td></tr>
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Most impressive of all on this trip were the snapping turtles. One of them was HUGE. It had a shell much larger than a dinner plate. I think I startled one of the snappers (and it spooked me) when I was in shallow water and probably paddled right over it. Woops!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Learn More or Paddle a Different Section of the River</b></span><br />
There always something new and interesting to discover on the Nashua. You can read about two mini-adventures we had during a trip here a few years back in this <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2009/06/paddling-adventures-on-nashua-river_07.html" target="_blank">earlier post.</a> There's also a chapter in <a href="http://tinyurl.com/o24dlc6" target="_blank">my book</a> about the amazing conservation history of this river. It's hard to believe when you are out on the water today that at one time the Nashua River was "biologically dead" and was named one of the top ten dirtiest rivers in the country. The clean-up of the river was largely the work of one determined woman named <a href="http://www.workof1000.com/about-the-program/about-marion" target="_blank">Marion Stoddart </a>-- whose work was so remarkable that she was honored by the United Nations.<br />
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If you're interested in exploring the Nashua River from a different angle, consider checking out <a href="http://www.nashobapaddler.com/index.html" target="_blank">Nashoba Paddlers</a> in West Groton, MA. They rent canoes, kayaks and SUPs and offer some great tours.<br />
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For now, I'll leave you to discover the rest of this "hidden" gem on your own. If you get out there, please write in and let us know what you found. Happy paddling!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15.3999996185303px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Directions:</b></span> From Riverside Drive in Nashua, take your first left and head toward Stellos Stadium. Bear left and then right to a dirt road near the Public Works Garage and the boat launch. </span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-90028519877217428272015-05-26T19:33:00.000-04:002015-05-27T09:32:01.609-04:00Come to Island Pond for Lively Birds, Turtles and Lush Green Hills <br />
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This was our second time kayaking Island Pond in Stoddard, out in the Monadnock Region and we were excited to see and hear our first loon of the season! <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2014/05/first-time-kayaking-island-pond.html" target="_blank">Our first trip here </a>(exactly one year ago) ended after about 20 minutes on the water because of stormy weather. This time around, we enjoyed a full two hours on the pond, reveling in the many beautiful shades of green and all the birds and turtles. If you haven't visited, you may want to add this place to your list.<br />
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What I loved best about Island Pond was the great variety of the waterscape and the wildlife. There were several islands, grassy marshes and small coves to explore, as well as some lush hills in the distance. First off, it's a very easy sandy put-in right off Route 123 north. That means you'll hear some road noise while you are out on the water, but it's really not a heavily travelled road and shouldn't impact your peaceful time on the water too much.<br />
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There's also more development on the pond than we usually like to see -- but again it wasn't anything that detracted from our enjoyment. In my view, there are more plusses than minuses here.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the many shades of green on Island Pond.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px; text-align: center;">Aside from being treated to the haunting call of the loons, we enjoyed many other smaller birds serenading us while we were on the water. Doug spotted a snapping turtle and we saw a few Eastern Painted turtles sunning themselves. At least, I think that was the species -- don't hold me to it!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tall marshy areas with channels are fun to explore</td></tr>
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Two small caveats: Island Pond is a rocky place, with some very shallow areas. So you need to be on the lookout when you are paddling here. Power boats are also allowed and there's a water-skiing channel. We were lucky that we only encountered one power boat that quickly cut it's engine. So that wasn't a factor, but it might be a different story on a busy summer weekend.<br />
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Overall, I loved our time here and think you will probably agree that Island Pond is a very serene spot to spend a few hours enjoying some of the best that southwest New Hampshire has to offer. Get out and enjoy and stop back in to let us know about your experience!<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Directions: </b></span>From Rte. 202 in Peterborough, take Rte. 123 North to Hancock. Look for the pond on your right shortly after the intersection of Rtes. 9 and 123. There's plenty of off-road parking and a porta-potty here.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-24048390688042655622014-09-05T16:10:00.003-04:002014-09-05T16:44:28.601-04:00Exploring "Great Bear Pond" (a.k.a. Lake Potanipo) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We kayaked Lake Potanipo in Brookline last Sunday and also took the suggestion of Andrea (a fellow kayaker and commenter here) to visit nearby <a href="http://andresinstitute.org/" target="_blank">Andres Institute of Art.</a> It was a very pleasant afternoon, thanks to some of the best summer weather we've had all season.<br />
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If I'm being honest (and you DO want me to be honest, right?), I would recommend both the lake and the Institute if you're in the area. I'm not sure I would drive a long distance to get here. I hope my reasons for saying that will become obvious as you read on.<br />
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First off, there's a chapter on Lake Potanipo in my book, <a href="http://tinyurl.com/o24dlc6" target="_blank">Exploring Southern New Hampshire. </a> Despite my best effort, I made some factual errors in the book about the lake and I'm hoping this blog post will help to set the record straight. The most important point is that there is an easy access boat launch open to the general public all season. My book says it's only open to town residents in season and out-of-towners during the off-season. Oops!</span><br />
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</span> <span class="fullpost">Secondly, we had kayaked this 136-acre lake about five years ago and I recalled one shore of the lake being crammed with summer homes. I didn't get the same crowded feel this time around, possibly because the trees have grown up and are shielding the view of the houses dotting the shore.</span><br />
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</span> <span class="fullpost">So what can you expect to find here? An easy-access lake, a Jewish kids' camp near the town beach and some power boats. There's no reason folks who own lakefront property should be prohibited from tubing and all those fun things...we just prefer not to deal with their sometimes erratic driving and the wake they create. In reality, there were only two boats out the day we were there, but on a small lake it makes a difference.</span><br />
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</span> <span class="fullpost">We had been told that Potanipo has a channel on the far shore, so we headed out to find it this time around, which we did, to the right as you're leaving the boat launch. Ah...peace and quiet! No power boats to dodge and there was an interesting glacial boulder, along with some folks quietly fishing. I loved all the reflections in the water. (The photos are a little grainy due to my water-logged camera.)</span><br />
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</span> <span class="fullpost">Before too long, the channel was blocked by downed trees (a beaver dam?) so we couldn't go too far. But we're told that some people carry their boats over the dams and keep on going, especially when the water is higher in spring. Something to think about if you are exploring here earlier in the season. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">In the end, we spent an enjoyable two hours on the water. And just for the record, the history about the lake included in the book <i>is </i>accurate. Potanipo was once the site of the "largest icehouse in the world." The Fresh Pond Ice Company came here from Somerville, Massachusetts in 1890, after their water source in Somerville became a town reservoir. </span><br />
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</span> <span class="fullpost">There were only about 540 residents in Brookline at the time. The Company not only brought 300 jobs, but also brought the railroad to this sleepy little corner of New Hampshire. There's more to the story...but I'd love you to get your hands on the book to read about it. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost" style="color: #660000;">Sculpture Park atop Big Bear Mountain</span></h3>
Next, we headed to the Andres Institute of Art, an outdoor sculpture park with walking/mountain biking trails, located off Route 13 in Brookline. After two hours of kayaking we didn't spend a lot of time here, but we did walk about one mile of trails. I had been forewarned that we should expect a bit of an uphill hike to see the sculptures -- thanks, Andrea...you were right! Let me also add that the trail maps and signs are quite confusing. Neither one of us could really make much sense of them.<br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span><span class="fullpost">Anyway, each year the Andres Institute invites sculptors from around the world to create permanent installations on the 140-acre site. This year's symposium (coming soon) will bring artists from Bangladesh, Germany, Zimbabwe and Texas. I'm not an art critic and certainly didn't love everything we saw in the park, but I do appreciate the mix of art and nature. I also appreciate that the artists are working with some difficult materials (huge stones in some cases) or found objects, in other cases.</span><br />
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</span> <span class="fullpost">My husband Doug enjoyed the walk and said he'd like to come back another day...so that's an endorsement from someone who's usually tough to impress. For now, I'll leave you with a couple photos of the sculptures we saw.</span><span 11="" 15="" about="" according="" and="" feet="" is="" largest="" nbsp="" phoenix="" sculpture="" span="" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" tall="" the="" to="" tons.="" website=""><br />
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<span 11="" 15="" about="" according="" and="" feet="" is="" largest="" nbsp="" phoenix="" sculpture="" span="" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" tall="" the="" to="" tons.="" website=""><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqy7IavefyNe7kNR8HPgAWcSWLnX1GA4Z1HrikHiuHnZcooNw5wkq5IS5j7iuDTBSaBP5XCVvZEjbi9IagOY03INGiS1RoAw5zF98BVCEFkhoOd6wRH8GKl4CsuLt3mjE99zg1y_DSdqn/s1600/Sculptures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqy7IavefyNe7kNR8HPgAWcSWLnX1GA4Z1HrikHiuHnZcooNw5wkq5IS5j7iuDTBSaBP5XCVvZEjbi9IagOY03INGiS1RoAw5zF98BVCEFkhoOd6wRH8GKl4CsuLt3mjE99zg1y_DSdqn/s1600/Sculptures.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Footnote on the Lake:</b></span> I just read there's a channel to the far left side of the boat launch. We headed right. Are there two channels? If you're familiar with Potanipo, please write in and set me straight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #660000; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><b>Directions to Lake Potanipo: </b></span><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Take Route 101W (toward Keene/Peterborough) to Rte. 13 south toward Brookline. After several miles, turn right at the blinking light onto Mason Road. The put-in is almost immediately on your right and is well-marked.</span></span></div>
<span 11="" 15="" about="" according="" and="" feet="" is="" largest="" nbsp="" phoenix="" sculpture="" span="" style="clear: right; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" tall="" the="" to="" tons.="" website=""><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: start;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Alternate Directions</b>:</span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; text-align: start;"> From Everett Turnpike in Nashua, take exit 6 to Rte. 130 west until you come to Brookline Center (maybe 8-10 miles?). In front of Daniels Academy in Brookline Center, stay straight on Meetinghouse Hill Road. At red blinking light, continue straight across Route 13 to Mason Road. Boat launch for Lake Potanipo is the second right, just before going over the bridge.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Directions to Andres Institute:</b></span> It's best if you GPS the address - 98 NH 13, Brookline NH. We had a little trouble finding it, but it's on the west side of Route 13. Look for a "low to the ground" stone sign. Drive in a couple hundred feet to the parking area. There is no admission fee.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span 11="" 15="" about="" according="" and="" feet="" is="" largest="" nbsp="" phoenix="" sculpture="" span="" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" tall="" the="" to="" tons.="" website="">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span 11="" 15="" about="" according="" and="" feet="" is="" largest="" nbsp="" phoenix="" sculpture="" span="" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" tall="" the="" to="" tons.="" website="">
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<span 11="" 15="" about="" according="" and="" feet="" is="" largest="" nbsp="" phoenix="" sculpture="" span="" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;" tall="" the="" to="" tons.="" website=""><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-60673998806410247792014-08-16T12:11:00.000-04:002014-08-16T12:11:04.357-04:00Green Eggs and Sand on Great Bay<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht-1eyKOWxzjyEnxVzXSoZnnU0Epf8MgICeq_YPs5xXj8pR4NfJQJeN-qvWjZ-I7CuOezXNkv5t_RkS4wiGGaAHi2ZTd7B_sTxJ1_j8rMZ4QUNsqj9t1beVMyouDbr2T4oIhu41W0N8nyn/s1600/american+horseshoe+crab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht-1eyKOWxzjyEnxVzXSoZnnU0Epf8MgICeq_YPs5xXj8pR4NfJQJeN-qvWjZ-I7CuOezXNkv5t_RkS4wiGGaAHi2ZTd7B_sTxJ1_j8rMZ4QUNsqj9t1beVMyouDbr2T4oIhu41W0N8nyn/s1600/american+horseshoe+crab.jpg" height="203" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">UNH scientists are studying the American horseshoe crab in Great Bay.</td></tr>
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I was fortunate to have a private tour of the University of New Hampshire's Jackson Estuarine Lab (JEL) at Adams Point in Durham today, thanks to Helen Cheng, a young scientist studying American horseshoe crabs here. I connected with Helen while researching my book and found her enthusiasm for her work so contagious that I included a short segment in the book about the fascinating research going on at JEL.<br />
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Helen and her colleagues actually dive the bay each summer looking for juvenile horseshoe crabs. With the strong current and amount of mud found here, she describes it as very disorienting and like "diving through chocolate milk." You can get some research updates and learn some <a href="http://www.micropopbio.org/hcheng/gbehscsurveys/" target="_blank">great facts about horseshoe crabs on Helen's blog</a> and a little further in this post, too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85viIqVjZ_B-Rc9V3TQfbe3fduVcZA3zS3CE5YLdLTY9oqEsLFhjFly_sDNnetIX4Dy7a8GLVMv0S7s_6GM0tiS97uvWPkdrTfGSY7weTx3ftor5i6Fe71EuW9WUtDqk1UZj9QCAaC1nu/s1600/Path+to+Shore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85viIqVjZ_B-Rc9V3TQfbe3fduVcZA3zS3CE5YLdLTY9oqEsLFhjFly_sDNnetIX4Dy7a8GLVMv0S7s_6GM0tiS97uvWPkdrTfGSY7weTx3ftor5i6Fe71EuW9WUtDqk1UZj9QCAaC1nu/s1600/Path+to+Shore.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queen Anne's Lace and blue flowers<br />
line the path to the shore. </td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost"></span><span class="fullpost">For now, I'd like to encourage you to visit Adams Point in Durham just for the unique beauty of this quiet spot on Great Bay. (There's also lots to do here, which I'll cover in a minute.) Adams Point is a peninsula between Little Bay and Great Bay. We snowshoed here along the shore last winter; today, I found a whole different landscape, as you might imagine. The path to the shore was lined with an explosion of Queen Anne's Lace. </span>(Unfortunately, these small photos were taken with an older low res phone, but I hope you get the general idea.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85viIqVjZ_B-Rc9V3TQfbe3fduVcZA3zS3CE5YLdLTY9oqEsLFhjFly_sDNnetIX4Dy7a8GLVMv0S7s_6GM0tiS97uvWPkdrTfGSY7weTx3ftor5i6Fe71EuW9WUtDqk1UZj9QCAaC1nu/s1600/Path+to+Shore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguh8ps6qneHWZe6jFDwMS9fiLRCUr4x0588UOGloKqYw8FNHl9F_WEzrSjbuAIzbBYn1UTxFLRS0kQcC21y9g7Z5gfYVfVp31hGy8_HPEEIwAYBSReTMNlWoy6UYivJw5HNsmoTL5ZmeMm/s1600/Rocky+shore.jpg" height="149" width="200" />.</a></div>
The shoreline on this part of Great Bay doesn't resemble a soft sand beach in any way, but it's a beautiful natural spot just the same. There are some very large rocks, even larger than what you see in this photo. Great Bay was formed by glaciers that came down from the Arctic, so I'm guessing the big boulders found here were pulled up from the bedrock by those giant ice sheets more than 10,000 years ago. Today the shore is filled with trees, rocks, grass, and seaweed, but is still quite walkable.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>A Short Primer on Horseshoe Crabs</b></span><br />
Before delving into the features around Adams Point, I want to share a little of what I learned about horseshoe crabs today. The first interesting fact is that while horseshoe crabs resemble crustaceans, they are not crustaceans at all. They belong to a phyllum that is more closely related to spiders. Also young horseshoe crabs molt, shedding their shells about every two weeks, to accommodate their growing bodies. Once they reach maturity (age 5 to 7), they no longer molt. This fact explains why you can find so many empty shells on the shore. And that spiky looking tail they have? It's not used for self-defense, but simply to flip themselves over. Who knew?<br />
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Each spring, the crabs make their way to shore to spawn. The females lay up to 4,000 olive green eggs in a sandy nest on the shore. (Hence the title of this post, which I borrowed from a Jackson Lab brochure.) This spring, the lab harvested some of those eggs and "hatched" them in the lab. I saw tiny, tiny crabs, no larger than a small seed.<br />
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Finally, UNH researchers here can use your help. If you see a horseshoe crab near Great Bay (especially if it has a tag on it), please take a moment to report the sighting at this <a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Q6K3VKZ" target="_blank">online survey.</a><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Things to Do At and Around Adams Point</b></span><br />
Why should you head out to Adams Point...if you can't get a tour of the lab? Well, the Adams Point Wildlife Management area offers a 1.5 mile trail with many water views. People come here to walk their dogs, take a nice gentle hike or to snowshoe in winter. You can learn more about the trail on <a href="http://www.hikenewengland.com/AdamsPointGen1.html" target="_blank">Hike New England. </a><br />
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There's a very active bird population as well. I saw a heron today, as well as many other birds. There are osprey in the spring and bald eagles in winter. If you're a birder, I'm sure you can identify many more than I can.<br />
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Adjacent to the Jackson Lab is a boat launch suitable for both trailered and car-top boats. A sign on-site says it's usable only three hours before and after high tide and there's a caution for shallow draft and larger boats. Just up the road from the Jackson Estuarine Lab is the Great Bay Office of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), which has a number of walking trails that provide access to some unique marsh, creek and forest habitat. The Cy and Bobbie Sweet Trail is fairly new and offers 4 miles of hiking. <a href="http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/newhampshire/placesweprotect/lubberland-creek-preserve.xml" target="_blank">You can learn more about TNC trails and property here. </a> (This one is still high on my "to do" list.)<br />
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Last but not least, I saw a sign on Bay Road for a Heron Sanctuary. I didn't want to venture down this wooded dirt road alone, but it's on my list for next time. So you can see, there's a lot to explore in this corner of Newmarket and Durham. If you have a chance to get out to this part of Great Bay, write in and let me know what you find!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Directions to Adams Point:</b></span> GPS 85 Adams Point Road, Durham NH OR from the south, take Rte. 101E to exit 10 towards Exeter. Turn left on Route 85. Stay straight on 85 for several miles until you reach Route 108 toward Newmarket. Turn left on 108 and follow it through town for another three miles or so to a right turn on Bay Road. Stay on windy and narrow Bay Road for about 4 miles to the sign for Jackson Estuarine Lab. There are a couple of parking lots here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM67OXL2B31OteasY_lDrxWAz-o29TYhuXztlG5XBmsHzBazM3699t0I4LcUfKx9rDbD1gHzcFB18R7HNlfjKzPl1I2Jrsl2XcOqMh13yuuokoOhk1wylRwKss5SNLwqTSjqvbROGpAsHG/s1600/sheldrick+forest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM67OXL2B31OteasY_lDrxWAz-o29TYhuXztlG5XBmsHzBazM3699t0I4LcUfKx9rDbD1gHzcFB18R7HNlfjKzPl1I2Jrsl2XcOqMh13yuuokoOhk1wylRwKss5SNLwqTSjqvbROGpAsHG/s1600/sheldrick+forest.jpg" height="203" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of The Nature Conservancy</td></tr>
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We visited Sheldrick Forest Preserve in Wilton recently -- a simple place of quiet beauty not far from busy Route 101. I love this type of place! No one has "packaged" it into an experience; No one is telling you where to look and what to see -- although I'm going to offer a few suggestions that I hope will enrich your visit and not intrude on it.<br />
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There's an interesting conservation story about how Sheldrick Forest came to be protected. While researching my book on southern New Hampshire, I was lucky enough to connect with Swift Corwin, the private forester who started the "Save Sheldrick Forest" campaign in the late 1990s. You can read more about this grassroots effort on <a href="http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/newhampshire/placesweprotect/sheldrick-forest-preserve-wilton.xml" target="_blank">The Nature Conservancy's website</a> and in the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Southern-New-Hampshire-History/dp/1626194238/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405702516&sr=8-2&keywords=bryar" target="_blank">book</a>, of course.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b> Big Trees and Glacial Features</b></span><br />
For now, let's talk about what you might see here today. You'll start by parking your car in a field off Town Farm Road. The grass was almost knee-high when we visited a couple of weeks ago. If you take Helen's Path, after a short walk you'll come to a 5-acre stand of old-growth trees on your right. There are white pines, hemlocks and oaks as tall as 150-feet high and some as big as 30-inches around.<br />
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To a casual observer, they look like ordinary trees. But if you stop to think that most of our forests had been cleared by farmers in the mid-1800s, this five-acre parcel stands out. Some of the trees here are almost 200 years old! <br />
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It was this discovery that first led to the effort to save this 260-acre parcel from development. (Secretly I was proud that I could pick out these trees without any signage...only from knowing that they were there to begin with. You'll be able to recognize them, too.)<br />
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I learned from Swift (the forester) that Sheldrick Forest also has some geological features left by the glaciers, including kettle holes and an esker ridge. I had no idea what an esker ridge was...but I've since learned that it's a ridge carved by melting glacial streams.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illustration from the book courtesy of Nancy Murphy</td></tr>
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While we were there, we climbed to the top of the ridge, which overlooks Morgan Brook and gives you a nice glimpse into the beauty of the forest below. It's kind of neat to stand there and think about the glacial streams that carved it. We didn't see any wildlife while we were in the preserve, but we <i>did</i> hear the hammering sounds of a pileated woodpecker echoing loudly through the trees.<br />
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To be honest, I'm usually a little fearful about hiking this type of forest, since I always think about bears, bobcats and other wild animals that call this place home. What would I do if I came face to face with a bear? I don't know! But in the end, I'm glad we ventured here. Sheldrick Forest Preserve is calm, peaceful and beautiful in a very understated way. If you have a chance to visit, write in and tell me what you thought.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Things to Know Before You Go:</b></span> There are three miles of well-marked trails through the preserve; these trails connect with the Heald Tract which offers another 8 miles of trails. When you come here, definitely use insect repellent and dress in long pants and preferably long sleeves. The parking area looks like the perfect habitat for deer ticks. There's a small information kiosk with trail maps, I believe. It's probably best to download one before heading out, though.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Directions: </b></span>You can find those on <a href="http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/newhampshire/placesweprotect/sheldrick-forest-preserve-wilton.xml" target="_blank">The Nature Conservancy website</a>.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-31384414805680092492014-06-30T15:30:00.000-04:002014-06-30T15:30:08.954-04:00Beautiful Day in Pillsbury State Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCA1OGljBV2Z3T-6jtRr_5Q9h6Tpcb4PvnslLU0h1To1xwEwYdpXqGsOgL0OuuxDHgfanFCbMypNOl43uQofk-RLQkQ1eTKkahRZUNgB__WJogGlpB4_hKXDSTWMm3pqUntZ51IsTrBgw/s1600/Two+boats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCA1OGljBV2Z3T-6jtRr_5Q9h6Tpcb4PvnslLU0h1To1xwEwYdpXqGsOgL0OuuxDHgfanFCbMypNOl43uQofk-RLQkQ1eTKkahRZUNgB__WJogGlpB4_hKXDSTWMm3pqUntZ51IsTrBgw/s1600/Two+boats.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
This was our first time at Pillsbury State Park in Washington, located in the Monadnock Region -- it's definitely worth the trip! There are four connected ponds here, but we only explored two of them today: Butterfield and May Ponds. This place has been on my list ever since guest poster Matt Hoffman wrote about it in 2009. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=81924678060131480#editor/target=post;postID=3558461062615022585;onPublishedMenu=posts;onClosedMenu=posts;postNum=18;src=link" target="_blank">You can read his write-up and see some awesome pictures here.</a> Hard to believe it's taken us five years to get there!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nwZfmlLFCqEaxTcdDp6UIOK-fkjno2uvmP7ZJ2y8PHu-729OJQlQN3qaY8O4Rzg9HwGmJTxACc9Qd6keZci2HYlL-dDA7OPWLF8QAeTe71axa7FPNP4xHp_ICfTfg4b0jK_7c-JfaZ_A/s1600/May+Pond+Reflection.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nwZfmlLFCqEaxTcdDp6UIOK-fkjno2uvmP7ZJ2y8PHu-729OJQlQN3qaY8O4Rzg9HwGmJTxACc9Qd6keZci2HYlL-dDA7OPWLF8QAeTe71axa7FPNP4xHp_ICfTfg4b0jK_7c-JfaZ_A/s1600/May+Pond+Reflection.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful summer day. We want to return in the fall.</td></tr>
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Pillsbury State Park has a ranger's station right off Route 31. From there, it's an easy put-in to Butterfield Pond, which connects via a small channel to May Pond. There are a number of rolling hills/small mountains -- all of them at least 1900-feet tall. Don't you love the reflections in the water? We saw two loons here, but they kept their distance. It's that time of year when there may have been loon chicks around.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBYS8xRcB-bAVPv8VgpUjupLYujrOOPCagBsxzxs0xlnkgaBRopyUKxRe690OyK4YDo11Ub-QeC8xulT2EKKqPU0HagUKCsvE-jJJCGsoUQdXkYfdnNuoX30BFJssDw7ATCunxB98Nweq/s1600/IMG_3571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBYS8xRcB-bAVPv8VgpUjupLYujrOOPCagBsxzxs0xlnkgaBRopyUKxRe690OyK4YDo11Ub-QeC8xulT2EKKqPU0HagUKCsvE-jJJCGsoUQdXkYfdnNuoX30BFJssDw7ATCunxB98Nweq/s1600/IMG_3571.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just relax already! There's only one grassy area like this.</td></tr>
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Butterfield Pond is pretty shallow and rocky, but still navigable. Sometimes we get so enthralled with the scenery that we forget to watch for rocks right below the surface. Of the two ponds, May Pond has more water and more areas to explore. Doug caught two small pickerel; And a camper we talked to said he'd caught a five-pounder earlier in the day. If you want to continue beyond May Pond to Mill Pond, you'll need to portage your boat about 1/4 mile. We didn't explore that one today, but Matt wrote about in his earlier post.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8FTeVjlPiwJxH4mXzeTl0SuYlbfH_VIH6afGSNX6Zvk-yUUCkYVoONRPIKjUDJDU53N6Ed7Gx9U-HuprdiX-Dxos02CPp7SZ-nHPmpiOwqk8mB_ltUfrsWj2o0zWRnsapRKAos6ZGnB_/s1600/Wind+turbines.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8FTeVjlPiwJxH4mXzeTl0SuYlbfH_VIH6afGSNX6Zvk-yUUCkYVoONRPIKjUDJDU53N6Ed7Gx9U-HuprdiX-Dxos02CPp7SZ-nHPmpiOwqk8mB_ltUfrsWj2o0zWRnsapRKAos6ZGnB_/s1600/Wind+turbines.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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An interesting feature in the Park is the wind turbines (barely visible on the hill at right in photo left). They are part of the Lempster Wind Power Project. There are 12 turbines capable of powering up to 10,000 homes. Public Service Company of New Hampshire purchases and resells all the energy produced here. <br />
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I could write so much more about <a href="http://www.nhstateparks.org/explore/state-parks/pillsbury-state-park.aspx" target="_blank">Pillsbury State Park</a>, but I want you to get out there and explore it for yourself! Aside from four ponds, there are also walking/hiking trails, little bits of history and campsites (some only accessible by canoe). A section of the 43-mile long Monadnock Sunapee Greenway Trail also passes through the park.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Things to Know Before You Go:</b></span> The entrance fee to the park is $4 per adult and $2 for children ages 6-11. You can rent canoes/kayaks from the ranger's station here. Plan to bring your own food or stop at the Taste of Texas rib shack in Hillsborough; there's not much else in the area in terms of places to eat.<br />
<b><span style="color: #990000;">Nearby Historic Site: </span></b> The President Franklin Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough looks like a great historical stop. New Hampshire's only President lived here for the first 30 years of his life. We stopped in briefly to the gallery/barn/mini-museum and there was an art exhibit going on. Guides give 45-minute tours of the main house in season from Memorial Day through October. There's also a short self-guided walking tour of the Pierce neighborhood, including a family cemetery.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-63423291954196268352014-06-21T15:09:00.001-04:002014-06-21T15:09:27.590-04:00Biking the Derry Rail Trail<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beavers are responsible for most of the wetlands here.</td></tr>
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The first day of summer and the weather was gorgeous in New Hampshire -- the perfect day to explore the Derry Rail Trail which has been on my "wish list" for a while. (My apologies upfront if I don't have all my facts straight on this one; the <a href="http://www.derryrailtrail.org/old/" target="_blank">Derry Rail Trail Alliance website</a> seems a tad outdated, so I can only share the little bit I know.)<br />
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I definitely loved this trail! It has easy access, is completely paved and almost 100% flat. Now I know some bikers would say that all sounds pretty "boring." But I enjoyed the scenery, the coolness of the woodlands, and the bits of history along the way. Best of all, there's a new section of trail (opened in 2012) connecting it to the <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2009/08/biking-windham-rail-trail_04.html" target="_blank">Windham Rail Trail.</a> The Derry portion is just under three miles and the Windham Trail is about four miles, for a round-trip total of 14 miles. We probably biked about 8 miles of it today.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Along the Way</b></span><br />
The Derry Trail starts in downtown near Sabotino's Restaurant, which is located in an old rebuilt Depot Station. The trail follows an abandoned Boston & Maine railroad bed and has a few well-marked road crossings. During one stop, we saw a big snapping turtle's head moving in the water.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPLywvY-LDczzA7Hr-ScRCBI4jZ60bluEOeTqdVk0I8WiuVgDEWXvssiQxWxKvClvHbp-M5RlearvXmuYGMeRDE4p25MpiaB36YNi3UKXOS5h5iV9T1gUfZYQvtnXu7h_fxgm6yfCHucm/s1600/Along+the+trail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPLywvY-LDczzA7Hr-ScRCBI4jZ60bluEOeTqdVk0I8WiuVgDEWXvssiQxWxKvClvHbp-M5RlearvXmuYGMeRDE4p25MpiaB36YNi3UKXOS5h5iV9T1gUfZYQvtnXu7h_fxgm6yfCHucm/s1600/Along+the+trail.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
There was a great breeze as we biked through the trees and a few stone cut-throughs. On our right (headed to Windham), there was a miles-long stonewall in the woods. At one point, we even saw a stonewall that ended in a small wetland (below).<br />
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Now for some quick bits of history: There's a nicely restored train depot where the Derry and Windham trails connect, as well as a restored caboose at the end of the Derry Trail. None of these have indoor access, but at least they're neat to look at. There's also an old cellar hole (state archeological site) with an informative marker. I'll leave those details for you to discover on your own! If you venture here, be sure to write in and let us know your thoughts.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look closely and you'll see a stone wall in the water!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Things to Know Before You Go:</b></span> Parking is available in a municipal lot behind Sabotino's. From Broadway Street, take a right on Abbot Court. You can also park in Hood Park; Take a left onto Manning Street just after crossing the red crosswalk in front of Sabotino's. Follow Manning Street past the courthouse to where it ends at a stop sign. Hood Park is right in front of you.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Approved Uses: </b></span>Like most NH trails, this one is mixed use. It appears to be a great place for families. We saw bikers, runners, in-line skaters and a sign saying that snowmobiles are allowed. I believe ATV's are not allowed.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-91190685999525152822014-06-06T08:43:00.001-04:002014-06-06T08:43:29.373-04:00 Best Time to Kayak Hoit Road Marsh is Now<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Reflections and lots of birds<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">We headed to Hoit Road Marsh in Concord last Sunday for some quiet and relaxing time on the water. Why do I say, "head here NOW" (<b>as in the next seven to ten days</b>)? Because in just a few weeks time, the vegetation will choke out some of the open water and you won't be able to paddle very far. We first paddled <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2008/05/kayaking-hoit-road-marsh.html" target="_blank">Hoit Road Marsh in 2008</a>, when we spent time watching a great blue heron. It's hard to believe that six years have elapsed since our last visit here -- this place is pretty awesome!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />The 101-acre marsh is managed by NH Fish and Game, which has placed quite a few wood duck boxes in the water and along the shore. This seems to encourage a lively bird population. Each one of the boxes was occupied, though we're still trying to figure out the bird species. They were very small with a swallow-like body. The tops of their heads were a shiny green/blue. Could they be tree swallows? I'm not sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Doug took out his fishing rod and caught a 12-inch pickerel and we sat for a while and watched a graceful osprey soaring overhead. This is the type of place that invites you to just sit back and relax. It's shallow and marshy in a lot of places so you won't be doing too much strenuous paddling. But if you are content to meditate on all the shades of green and bright yellow water lilies...all while watching the birds...then this is your spot! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-weight: bold;">Things to Know Before You Go: </span>Hoit Road Marsh is easy to get to and offers an easy put-in. If you're traveling from the south, take I-93 North to exit 17 in Concord. Head east (left) off the exit onto Hoit Road. Travel about 2.5 miles to the marsh on your left. There are no facilities here, but there's a small parking lot across the street and what looks like some trails through the woods. We may be back to explore those another day. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDQ2jWmPK3kCcUx7Us2_o0Zas7f5jBLd2slUwCEw0KMGn6ZJiYKWE6jQDJN1BdUzgfD7GfmTpe9dCvquF8a4JroLFidaC-xeK2Z5GRtlsHZvaH4vw1R0Zd7B_hh8LYQFJmdIH-eOolXu5/s1600/IMG_3312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDQ2jWmPK3kCcUx7Us2_o0Zas7f5jBLd2slUwCEw0KMGn6ZJiYKWE6jQDJN1BdUzgfD7GfmTpe9dCvquF8a4JroLFidaC-xeK2Z5GRtlsHZvaH4vw1R0Zd7B_hh8LYQFJmdIH-eOolXu5/s1600/IMG_3312.JPG" height="300" title="Hoit Road Marsh water lilies" width="400" /></a></div>
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</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-58349270762760875602014-05-26T20:39:00.000-04:002014-05-26T20:39:03.918-04:00First Time Kayaking Island Pond<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-UF48TKeE2QGKfybse_53gE4O9ZWiTwzcj8cIfBoWdKSH_dZhKbrGBl3p9GlZ-VeXotnlaCu8PAVi136PZP99veDZgFL5t_LFbrjjtZMqGeuLfw14i63Zp_Bzj-ic-6bTMEMrUW4HB4_/s1600/Island+Pond+I.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-UF48TKeE2QGKfybse_53gE4O9ZWiTwzcj8cIfBoWdKSH_dZhKbrGBl3p9GlZ-VeXotnlaCu8PAVi136PZP99veDZgFL5t_LFbrjjtZMqGeuLfw14i63Zp_Bzj-ic-6bTMEMrUW4HB4_/s1600/Island+Pond+I.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are some rolling hills in the distance.</td></tr>
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Today was our first time kayaking Island Pond in Stoddard, but it probably won't be our last. This place was actually "Plan B" for today. We headed first to Nubanusit Lake in Hancock on the recommendation of a friend. But when we arrived at Nubanusit, the waters were too choppy for our comfort level and there were quite a few power boats --so off we went to explore Island Pond, not too far down the road.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved the easy put-in!</td></tr>
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Island Pond has an easy sandy put-in and a parking area for about a dozen cars right off Route 123. You'll hear some road noise when you first start out, but before too long you'll leave the noise behind. The pond has over 200 acres of water and about 20 summer cottages dotting its shores; we saw two smaller power boats and a number of other kayakers on this holiday weekend. So it's not as secluded as some of our favorite spots, but there's still plenty of room to spread out here.</div>
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The pond has a number of small islands and small channels, all set against a backdrop of picturesque green hills in the distance. Unfortunately, shortly after we got out on the water, the wind started gusting pretty strongly so we headed to a small protected cove to wait it out. After a long winter indoors, it was great just to be back out on the water, even if the weather conditions weren't ideal. We sat and watched a pair of geese and five tiny goslings for a bit, before heading back out to open water.</div>
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We paddled for maybe another 20 minutes before the strong wind gusts started up again and then it started to rain lightly. With threatening skies, we decided to paddle back to shore -- fighting a head wind that was pretty challenging at times. So Mother Nature didn't exactly cooperate for our first time out this season, but Island Pond looked like a great spot to spend a couple of hours. We'll be back! </div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Directions:</b></span> From Rte. 202 in Peterborough, take Rte. 123 North to Hancock. Look for the pond on your right shortly after the intersection of Rte. 9 and Rte. 123. There is a porta-potty here.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-54672316770532096472014-04-29T16:52:00.000-04:002014-04-29T16:52:41.972-04:00More kayaking, hiking, biking to come!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1z61EZHHSM7Rm1zRPYNddHSiKky7cglSC9k930tJdb2DsC1-wE2o2ECRWSHvRIewtmdAgK_ksWzgl7omTYE2NEe06Uz-n3c7e8zmgcJXMitpbeMjTSX0SwhbsiqK7fpScCkyLuIdQ8YH-/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1z61EZHHSM7Rm1zRPYNddHSiKky7cglSC9k930tJdb2DsC1-wE2o2ECRWSHvRIewtmdAgK_ksWzgl7omTYE2NEe06Uz-n3c7e8zmgcJXMitpbeMjTSX0SwhbsiqK7fpScCkyLuIdQ8YH-/s400/021.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Monson Center is in Milford, but you can only get there by way of Hollis. </td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost"><br />
Welcome back or thanks for stopping by if this is your first visit. I've been away from the blog for nearly four years, but have never stopped exploring New Hampshire. Paddling quiet waters, walking through pine-scented forests, snowshoeing, biking, and so much more. (There are lots of reasons for my absence here, but let's just sum it up in a word...life...sometimes it gets in the way of what we really want to do!) <br />
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Are you ready to get outdoors and share your adventures,your encounters with wildlife, your pics and pans? I know I am. My goal is to keep <i>nhloveitorleafit</i> true to its roots but expand its scope a little. Most notable will be more local history. Not to worry if you are not into history. You'll still be able to find what you want by selecting a category on the right.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #783f04;">A Little About Old Monson Center</span></b><br />
The photo above was taken at Old Monson Center in Milford. Have you been? This site features colonial history that has not been packaged into a commercial experience. Let's call it history and nature "unplugged." Briefly, Monson was the site of an early settlement dating to the 1700s, at that time part of Massachusetts. <br />
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In 1770, the settlers abandoned Old Monson. No one knows why they left for sure. Some say it was because the townspeople couldn't agree on where to build a meetinghouse. Others say it was due to tensions with Native Americans and still others say the weather was simply too harsh and the ground was too rocky for farming. <br />
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If you visit today, you'll find some old cellar holes, stone walls, a small pond and a tiny museum that flies a British flag. Old Monson Center is quiet, peaceful, and some say, spirit-filled. It's a great place to walk your dog, snowshoe in winter or just take in the springtime smells of freshly-cut grass. I'll share more about this place and others in upcoming posts. For now, I want to say thanks for reading and let's get outdoors and play!<br />
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</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-56392434227364505212010-07-30T16:06:00.011-04:002010-07-30T17:18:11.098-04:00Getting to Know the Merrimack<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsA8VL7w0uTgmosC4Wm9PGtL9Gapv21zvnJOq82qEHnHMqp4IU1pQO1ykkpF5A9J5eXSxDXTCOIpOT33NpNVzNYRDNicgCQyW-nk02c_tOWlTF9N4EXwP0ua9atQMd142zkIrvuv5v00EC/s1600/Merrimack+River+II.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499811107616467474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsA8VL7w0uTgmosC4Wm9PGtL9Gapv21zvnJOq82qEHnHMqp4IU1pQO1ykkpF5A9J5eXSxDXTCOIpOT33NpNVzNYRDNicgCQyW-nk02c_tOWlTF9N4EXwP0ua9atQMd142zkIrvuv5v00EC/s400/Merrimack+River+II.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>Today's guest post is by Patrice, a faithful contributor and enthusiastic fellow kayaker. You can follow her adventures on <a href="http://wanderinglavignes.blogspot.com/">Life Less Ordinary</a>.</em></span><br /><br /><div><div><span style="color:#000000;">The Merrimack River flows 60-plus miles through New Hampshire, offering everything from flatwater to Class III rapids. The Merrimack has a little bit of a bad rep because of years of pollution, but it's improved a lot during the past 30 years. Justin and I explored about 15 miles from Franklin to Penacook in two different trips this month. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">The first trip was from Boscawen to Penacook, offered as a guided trip by the</span> <a href="http://www.merrimack.org/">Merrimack River Watershed Council</a> <span style="color:#000000;">(MRWC). Have you heard of them? If not, and you like kayaking or canoeing, you need to go check them out now. The Concord Monitor recently did a <a href="http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/paddling-by-history">story </a>on them, so I think they are getting more exposure. </span></span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The organization offers free guided trips on many rivers and other waterways around the state from April through October. You don't have to be a member to join the trips, but of course, they would welcome your membership. This year, they are sponsoring 36 trips!</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>Paddling from Boscowen to Penacook</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Our first trip with MRWC on the Merrimack was supposed to be an overnighter. However, it turned out to be the one weekend all summer that we got much-needed rain in the form of scattered thunderstorms. Since we live close by, Justin and I opted to make it a day trip. The trip leader, Nancy Gero, camped on a beach where a local farmer allows camping. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Despite the rain, the paddle was close to perfect. Quiet. Scenic. There are a few sandy beaches along the way (including the one where many people camp). We only saw two houses and the rest of the scenery was mostly untouched forest and farmland. We even saw some beavers, herons, and cranes, which is always a nice treat!</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The next MRWC-sponsored trip for this section of the Merrimack River is September 27th, led again by Nancy Gero. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Things to Know Before You Go:</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">The put-in for this section is the public boat launch in Boscawen. Heading north on Route 3, the launch is just past the county jail. The take-out is in the Rivco Boat Ramp in Penacook at the corner of Merrimack and Penacook Streets. No restrooms at either site, but ample parking. </span></span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>Paddling From Franklin to Boscawen</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The next weekend, Justin and I kayaked a six-plus mile section of the river from Franklin to Boscawen. I think the MRWC offers a guided trip, but we decided to tackle it on our own, following Nancy's advice about what to expect. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">This section is completely different in that it offers a little more Class I-III excitement. There were at least five sections where we had to navigate rocks and fast-moving water. The first 3.5 miles is really quick-moving and shallow. In fact, in two spots we had to get out of our boats and carry them a little bit because the water was too low. (I'm sure that would change with some RAIN!) </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The last three miles was deeper and slower-moving. While the shoreline on this section was scenic with few houses and more herons, cranes and beavers, we could hear road noise for most of the trip, making it less desirable for us. I think we passed one or two sandy beaches where you could stop for a picnic lunch. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Things to Know Before You Go:</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">The put-in for this section is the public boat launch in Franklin, off Route 3 behind the high school. The take-out is the public boat launch in Boscawen (the same one we used for the put-in for the first trip). Again, there are no restrooms, but there's ample parking. </span></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-21928170002081951142010-06-19T19:35:00.005-04:002010-06-19T20:04:19.538-04:00Sportsmans Pond is a Hidden Gem<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nyR98msZHnTqGa_s0IRAukQVAU18APrgESMDX91MVv5H-jhAl32jhpPMWqpq8WFjoI7icwIzn7-QiEKkgdqpLWGKyepRzi46L4ya-nXOqUiHHUZXWCubr2oDG2RTjdhSnB7FpRGwelWh/s1600/Kayaking+Sportsman+Pond+NH+II.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484639080683165218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nyR98msZHnTqGa_s0IRAukQVAU18APrgESMDX91MVv5H-jhAl32jhpPMWqpq8WFjoI7icwIzn7-QiEKkgdqpLWGKyepRzi46L4ya-nXOqUiHHUZXWCubr2oDG2RTjdhSnB7FpRGwelWh/s400/Kayaking+Sportsman+Pond+NH+II.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>Today we welcome a guest post by Andrea, who lives in Ashby, MA. Andrea started kayaking last year and has managed to get out on the water at least once a week (I'm jealous!). She and her mom enjoy exploring southwestern New Hampshire. "It's convenient and there's an abundance of quiet water," she says.</em></span><br /><div></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>Kayaking Sportsmans Pond in Fitzwilliam</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#cc6600;"><em>by Andrea</em></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">This is a 152-acre pond that really invites exploration. From the launch, we paddled a 50-foot wide swamp channel that opened up to a small island. Little did we know that the island was blocking our view of a beautiful pond. There are only about 5-6 houses on the entire pond. We headed right and followed the shoreline to an outlet brook with a dam and a small bridge. Continuing along the shore, we encountered a pair of loons near the swamp inlet. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;"></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The swamp had channels coming out of it and looked like it had possibilities for exploration (maybe next time). Most of Sportsmans Pond is beautiful and completely wild, keeping you out of sight of the road and houses as the shore weaves in and out. We saw stone walls, boulders, and a pair of mallards. Around the last corner before returning to the launch, we came across my favorite feature.</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;"></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">We paddled to the end of the last inlet, thinking about turning around because of the tree stumps. Then we encountered two boulders, but when we paddled around them...it was like entering a different world: We found a beautiful boulder-filled brook and started weaving in and out, sometimes losing sight of each other. I don't know if a kayak much longer than our little nine-and-a-half footers would be able to navigate the boulders in this brook. We paddled this section until we came to a snowmobile bridge. There are spots that would allow portage and it looked like more paddling ahead, but we decided to call it a day. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;"></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">We paddled Sportsmans Pond early in the season, so I'm unsure about weed growth as the season progresses. We're hoping to get back there to explore further!</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;"></span></div><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Things to Know Before You Go:</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">Parking is roadside and only has room for about two cars. The launch is small and gravel. We drove past twice before we decided "this was the place."</span></span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"></span></div><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Directions:</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">Take Rte. 119 to Royalston Road. Stay on Royalston Road past Pierce Road. Cartop roadside launch is on the left side of Royalston Road. If you see the Sportsman Club, you've gone too far. </span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-91412341423737636972010-05-14T07:42:00.007-04:002010-05-14T08:20:24.724-04:00Kayaks/Canoes: Try Before You Buy<span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Test Paddle at Silver Lake State Park</strong></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Are you looking to buy your first kayak or maybe upgrade your current one? You're in luck -- There are two upcoming events in New Hampshire to help you with your decision. Tomorrow (Saturday, May 15), Eastern Mountain Sports will hold an on-water test paddle at Silver Lake State Park in Hollis, NH from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. </span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><br />You'll be able to demo kayaks from Hurricane, Neckey, Ocean Kayak, Old Town, Perception, Wilderness Systems and more. You'll also have a chance to learn from EMS staff how to choose the kayak, paddle, and accessories that are right for you. And yes, you can save money on same-day purchases. Since we're thinking about buying new kayaks in the near future, Doug and I are hoping to get to Hollis to check it out! </span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><br /></span><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Contoocook River Canoe Company Demo Day</strong></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Mark your calendar for next Sunday, May 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. That's when</span> <a href="http://www.contoocookcanoe.com/specials.html">Contoocook River Canoe Company </a><span style="color:#000000;">in Concord holds its 11th annual on water Demo Day. They bill it as New Hampshire's largest kayak and canoe on water demo -- and I believe that's true! </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Here's your chance to try out as many kayaks and canoes and accessories as you want and talk to the company reps. Over 200 boats will be available from more than 20 manufacturers. This is the event where Doug and I bought our <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2009/07/why-you-should-invest-in-good-kayak.html">Werner paddles </a>last year. It's well worth the trip to Concord if you're in the market for a boat or accessories. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#993300;"></span><span style="color:#993300;">On a personal note:</span> <em><span style="color:#000000;">I've been neglecting the blog lately, but not for lack of interest. Believe me when I say I'd love to be out on my bike or paddling around one of our state's beautiful ponds! </span></em><span style="color:#000000;"><em>The good news is our lives are filled with many blessings right now: Our oldest daughter is getting married four weeks from tomorrow AND Doug and I are in the midst of having a new house built and preparing to put our home on the market. </em><em>In between times, our soon-to-be son-in-law is running a marathon in Burlington, Vermont and graduating with his MBA. So we are busy, busy! </em></span><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#000000;">If you're lucky enough to be out enjoying the outdoors, please consider writing a guest post for <span style="color:#993300;"><strong>New Hampshire...Love it or Leaf It</strong></span>. You don't need to be a polished writer, I'm glad to edit your notes. Just drop me a line at </span></em><a href="mailto:lbryar1154@hotmail.com">lbryar1154@hotmail.com</a>. <span style="color:#000000;">Thanks!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-14952979393306893432010-04-27T19:23:00.006-04:002010-07-06T18:01:11.811-04:00Check Out NH's Northern Rail Trail<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbch3FSj4caPJOKFpNnjSVApIW86nD4NzhBC2SXZZ8kluv9DPTpawRMo1IO0Ty-4weGYiAqHAk1h6WtSJpVi6GiBbx2QVpJUmGkNAyxNY7CQcfX5XvzS5BGVJlC2s0Ar9nzF3H-eVDiVR0/s1600/PJ_Highland2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464965525999369746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbch3FSj4caPJOKFpNnjSVApIW86nD4NzhBC2SXZZ8kluv9DPTpawRMo1IO0Ty-4weGYiAqHAk1h6WtSJpVi6GiBbx2QVpJUmGkNAyxNY7CQcfX5XvzS5BGVJlC2s0Ar9nzF3H-eVDiVR0/s400/PJ_Highland2.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>Thanks to Patrice of <a href="http://wanderinglavignes.blogspot.com/">Life Less Ordinary </a>for sharing this post. The Northern Rail Trail has been on my wish list for a while. Glad to hear it's worth the trip! If you're biking in the Granite State this spring, be sure to let us know all about it. </em></span><br /><em><span style="color:#cc6600;"></span></em><br /><div><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Just Keep Pedaling (and You Won't be Bothered by Black Flies)</strong></span></div><div><span style="color:#000000;">J and I hit the Northern Rail Trail Saturday and it did not disappoint. Right now, there’s about 10 miles completed through Andover and just over the Franklin line, and supposedly another 25 miles between Lebanon and Danbury (but we can’t attest to that). Plus, in 2010, they are planning to connect the Andover line to Danbury and Boscawen. That would make for nearly 60 miles of rail trail! </span><br /></div><br /><div></div><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">The 10-mile section we did was just great! You ride on crushed gravel through wooded areas, passing a few lakes, ponds, streams and lots of signs of the old railway. For a spring day, I was surprised that it wasn’t that crowded, but it could have been the black flies. If you just don’t take any breaks from riding, they won’t bother you!<br /><br />The trail is open all four seasons for multiple uses and I imagine it’s gorgeous in the fall with the colors. The rail line ran from White River Junction, Vt., to Concord from the 1840s to the 1960s. At the northern end of the 10-mile section we did, there’s an old train depot, Potter’s Place, which in itself, is pretty cool.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Directions and Parking:</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">There are 3 parking areas along this 10-mile section. We parked at the Highland Lake Inn, which is on the SE side of the trail and serves as a welcome center for the trail (has toilet facilities). There is also parking at Blackwater Park and Potter Place. Those areas actually seemed more crowded than where we parked. All of the parking areas are off Route 11 in Andover. Check out</span> <a href="http://www.fnrt.org/">http://www.fnrt.org/</a> <span style="color:#000000;">for maps and more information.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>What You Need to Know:</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">The bike path is wide in most sections, but it’s used for multiple purposes, so be conscious of bikers, walkers, runners, strollers and horses and yield-to/passing rules. The path is not paved, but the crushed stone was still smooth enough. It was not too crowded when we went on a Saturday, but I imagine it does get crowded. When you park at Highland Lake Inn, you are not at the SE terminus of the trail. It goes another 2 miles or so over the Franklin town line. Potter Place is the NW terminus of the trail. </span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-14095922317777970652010-04-08T14:27:00.005-04:002010-04-08T19:26:29.238-04:00Hiking and Biking Suggestions<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5a9vDP4AZnNQdHG14gDbePFwM0yK9j4QKAVc06VxgKetKZk8sN7Uou3HNuhZDi_It8HtaM2dOAhEvIgPcLRkHkFC_QkplzjgdMK-YFrGTaD3bXl5qAAAQvTMyZKOh8vpDzEjT1jzGxUpU/s1600/Trail+signs.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456728044924614738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5a9vDP4AZnNQdHG14gDbePFwM0yK9j4QKAVc06VxgKetKZk8sN7Uou3HNuhZDi_It8HtaM2dOAhEvIgPcLRkHkFC_QkplzjgdMK-YFrGTaD3bXl5qAAAQvTMyZKOh8vpDzEjT1jzGxUpU/s400/Trail+signs.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#000000;">It's springtime in New Hampshire! Yes, that means lots of mud. But if you hurry, at least you'll get in some good outdoor time before black fly season. Not sure where to go and what to do? Today I'm posting links to an article on hiking and a news item about a new rail trail. Enjoy!</span> <div><br /><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Take a Hike</strong></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Cliff Calderwood posted this great article,</span> <a href="http://www.visitingnewengland.com/new_hampshire_hikes_walks.html">Popular Walks in the New Hampshire Lakes Region </a>on <a href="http://www.visitingnewengland.com/">http://www.visitingnewengland.com/</a>. <span style="color:#000000;">I'm intrigued by the West Rattlesnake Trail on Squam Lakes (little effort and great views, according to Cliff.) Also, the Mud Pond Trail in Fox State Park (Hillborough, NH) sounds interesting. All the trails (there are six) seem do-able for the average hiker interested in exploring nature. Some of them are suitable for children, too. </span></span><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Thanks, Cliff!</span></div><br /><div></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>Ride a New Rail Trail</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">I just read about a grand opening celebration for a new rail trail in Newburyport (MA) and Salisbury NH. I can't find specifics other than the date (May 23) and time (noon to 4:00 p.m.). Also, the trail includes a water shuttle across the Merrimack River. I'll try to do more research to find out exactly where this is; in the meantime, if you have details, please write in. Kudos to the many people from </span><a href="http://coastaltrails.org/xoops/">Coastal Trails Coalition </a><span style="color:#000000;">who likely worked years to make this happen!</span><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-79211597876170973442010-04-05T12:51:00.009-04:002010-04-05T13:33:27.132-04:00Not to be Missed!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisF98O5WIiIX_7hdGwT7tHz4oPiIC_OFrl8-KTzEenTHUu9eMGAczGmkQOKXyOV6vWf8wVmQ55WbBD-B7KDszCn9FyooRiANvPOKhoAABcnzrfxY2cEWjCYTpvryzOzsgHpWQeeUykyNTr/s1600/Kayaking-NH.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456703181777192994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisF98O5WIiIX_7hdGwT7tHz4oPiIC_OFrl8-KTzEenTHUu9eMGAczGmkQOKXyOV6vWf8wVmQ55WbBD-B7KDszCn9FyooRiANvPOKhoAABcnzrfxY2cEWjCYTpvryzOzsgHpWQeeUykyNTr/s400/Kayaking-NH.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>New England Paddlesport Show runs April 9-11</strong></span> <div><span style="color:#000000;">If you are a canoeist or kayaker or even if you're just <em>thinking</em> about getting out on the water, there's something for you at the New England Paddlesports Show. This year's show almost flew under the radar for me. (I usually hear their ads on the radio, but they must have cut their advertising budget?)</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#000000;">Anyway, here's what I like best about this annual show: there are lots of knowledgeable vendors selling equipment and accessories. Many of them aren't so interested in making the sale, however, as they are in helping you find the right fit for your time on the water. Even more importantly, there are informative seminars and live pool demonstrations. So it's not all talk and sales pitches.</span><br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Here's a brief rundown on some of the seminars. Be sure to check out the <a href="http://www.ktpevents.com/interior.php/pid/3">website</a> for more details, including a coupon for $2 off the $7 admission price.</span></span><br /></div><ul><li><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">For Women Only: Getting Started Kayaking</span></li><br /><li><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">How to Choose a Kayak</span></li><br /><li><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Understanding Boat Control</span></li><br /><li><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Adventure Kayaking the Grand Canyon</span></li></ul><p><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The show runs for three days and many of the topics repeat each day. We're hoping to fit it into our schedule. Maybe we'll see you there!</span></p><p><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;">Note from Lucie:</span> <em>We've been very busy recently with</em> <em><span style="color:#000000;">family events -- one of them being our daughter's wedding in two months. Seems that we've had little time to get outdoors and play, but we're hoping that improves as summer approaches. What about you? Are you biking or kayaking? We'd love to hear all about it. If you've thought about submitting a guest post, please drop me a line so we can talk.</span></em><br /></p></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-76220882467151216042010-03-13T16:20:00.012-05:002010-03-13T19:21:48.477-05:00NH Maple Season: It's Steaming!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJcytn7IW2Kz8ldj1LeJtTaUvXpxzM1A7uEvRHuXBgyVOQ-MUXJRkI0rP_Sj2dSYglnWsoowNchivtg4DU2LkGRfmFkoVdEOHeINlzV18J2_Af2fnlmIfaMaTyhsJa7jUlZV45vw6BthL/s1600-h/Maple+Sugar_2006+01+12_0383.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448277750384497026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJcytn7IW2Kz8ldj1LeJtTaUvXpxzM1A7uEvRHuXBgyVOQ-MUXJRkI0rP_Sj2dSYglnWsoowNchivtg4DU2LkGRfmFkoVdEOHeINlzV18J2_Af2fnlmIfaMaTyhsJa7jUlZV45vw6BthL/s400/Maple+Sugar_2006+01+12_0383.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#000000;">The month of March in New Hampshire is typically gray, blustery, and boring -- especially when it comes to outdoor activities. The one bright spot for me is maple sugar season. Last year Doug and I visited a sugar shack for the first time and I thought it was pretty cool (Read <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2009/03/maple-guys-and-ice-out.html">The Maple Guys and Ice Out</a>). In this post, I'm highlighting some of the maple events taking place in our state in the next few weeks. If you want in on the action, my advice is to start planning now! </span><br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.nhmapleproducers.com/weekend2010.html">Maple Weekend </a>-- Over 65 sugar houses across the state will welcome visitors on March 27th and 28th (sponsored by the New Hampshire Maple Producers Association). Check out their website for a list of sugar houses by county and a description of events at each location. You can enjoy hot dogs boiled in sap; feed goats and chickens; take a horse-drawn ride and of course, collect sap and watch the whole syrup making process, weather permitting. Remember that sap doesn't flow until temperature conditions are just right. You can read the basics of <a href="http://www.nhmapleproducers.com/description.html">maple syrup production in New Hampshire here.</a></span></span><br /><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://www.bbinnsmwv.com/html/march_maple_madness.html">March Maple Madness </a>-- <span style="color:#000000;">This is an Inn-to-Inn event in Mount Washington Valley "held together by maple syrup and wacky fun," according to the sponsors. Basically, you take a self-guided inn-to-inn tour, sample some sweet maple treats all the way and earn points for select activities. There's a scavenger hunt and a "Hare Raising Quiz," along with a chance to visit several sugaring locations to see the maple syrup process firsthand. Tickets are $15 per person and are valid for both days: March 27th & 28th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.</span> </span><br /></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://www.nhmaplefest.com/">NH Maple Festival</a> -- <span style="color:#000000;">This two day event (same weekend) takes place in the Woodstock area and is about as serious as you can get with maple sugar fun. Let's see...there's an opportunity to "bring in the sap," enjoy a maple dinner, and watch the</span> <a href="http://www.nhmaplefest.com/activities/maple-parade/">Maple Sugar Parade</a>. </span><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">This year's parade features the crowning of the first-ever Maple King and Queen and the ever-popular bed race. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">There's more to this Festival, too. You can take part in a </span><a href="http://www.nhmaplefest.com/activities/obstacle-course/">sap-collecting obstacle course </a><span style="color:#000000;">on snowshoes (is there enough snow in Woodstock still?) I'm not sure how the sap collecting works, but someone rings a cowbell and the contestants are off! According to the website, you'll need to collect at least two quarts of sap to be a serious contender.</span> </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://prescottconservancy.org/education/maple-sugar-madness-march-only/">Maple Sugar Madness! </a><span style="color:#000000;">Last but not least, this is hands-on maple sugaring at its best. Each weekend during March, Prescott Farm Education Center in Laconia NH offers the chance to do it all yourself -- from tapping a tree to boiling and finally, tasting the sweet syrup. You need to reserve a spot in advance, either online or by calling 603-366-5695.</span></span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost">If you know of any other maple sugar events in the state (and I'm sure there are many more!), please drop us a line. </div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-40613701522900945492010-03-07T17:03:00.012-05:002010-07-06T18:02:18.416-04:00Chocolate + Snow = Happiness<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7UIR2wsyJa8KOiqeAPT1mTvJCw-tFL5dFmgQd6U8LHNA_-2GDSvx1tUXYb-TTyt2mft-gfkvgKOqCG4dEYEwLVoLCduzLndutG4uyG4HOsY53etCNlWZaY-bQTKiBG4k1x_dM8b8yLqc/s1600-h/J_ski_Pipeline_Trail.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446031226231316994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7UIR2wsyJa8KOiqeAPT1mTvJCw-tFL5dFmgQd6U8LHNA_-2GDSvx1tUXYb-TTyt2mft-gfkvgKOqCG4dEYEwLVoLCduzLndutG4uyG4HOsY53etCNlWZaY-bQTKiBG4k1x_dM8b8yLqc/s400/J_ski_Pipeline_Trail.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>Before we leave Old Man Winter behind, I'm happy to share another guest post from Patrice (see her great blog at <a href="http://wanderinglavignes.blogspot.com/">Life Less Ordinary</a>.) Patrice and her partner in crime (a.k.a. her husband Justin -- that's him shown on skis) were lucky enough this year to check out the Annual Chocolate Festival in Intervale, NH. We're lucky that she decided to share it all with us here. Enjoy!</em></span><br /><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>Chocolate Indulgence Without Guilt</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">For the last few years, I've seen the advertisements for the Annual Chocolate Festival in Intervale NH and always wanted to go. This year, I finally got there! (Check out </span><a href="http://www.crosscountryskinh.com/chocolatefestival.html">www.crosscountryskinh.com/chocolatefestival.html</a> )</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>What's it All About?</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">The Annual Chocolate Festival combines two great loves: chocolate and skiing/snowshoeing. From 11 a.m. to 4: 00 p.m., Intervale's 65km of trails are open with special pitstops for participants. This year, there were nine "official" locations where you could receive stamps and a special chocolate treat. Stops included the</span> <a href="http://www.raggedmountain.com/">Ragged Mountain Equipment</a>, <a href="http://www.the1785inn.com/">1785 Inn</a>, <a href="http://www.adventuresuites.com/">Adventure Suites</a> <span style="color:#000000;">and Whitaker Meeting House. The treats ranged from chocolate cupcakes to fondue to brownie sundaes to chocolate wine and beer. Aside from the nine stops, some local businesses also offered discounts and deals. </span></span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>What to Know Before You Go</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Tickets are cheaper when purchased in advance ($20 vs. $25). You don't necessarily have to ski or snowshoe, but that might make you feel less guilty about all the chocolate treats! They advertise a shuttle running between stops, but I never spotted it. You could even walk or drive around town to each stop; I saw a lot of people doing that. If you go to all nine stops and get all your stamps, you're entered into a grand prize raffle. </span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong></strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>My Opinion</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">I've never skied Intervale's cross-country trails before, but they definitely seemed used and abused for this event. Some of the trails were even closed for lack of snow. It could have a lot to do with the fact that there were 100s of people hitting the trails and Mother Nature hasn't sent us much snow this winter. In any case, if you participate next year, I would say don't expect stellar skiing. I was on cross-country skis and I almost wish I had snowshoes instead. There were a few sections where we had to go ski-less because it was too muddy. On the flip side, you go slower when snowshoeing.</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The Mt. Washington Valley Ski Touring and Snowshoe Foundation puts on the annual fundraiser which always occurs on the last Sunday in February, so mark your calendars for next year. I don't know if I'll go again, but I'm glad I finally marked it off my list! </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Note from Lucie:</strong></span> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>For those planning to attend next year: Be sure to check the event website for trail conditions in advance.</em></span> <span style="color:#cc6600;">As an aside,</span> <em><span style="color:#cc6600;">w</span><span style="color:#cc6600;">e haven't been able to get outdoors much this winter</span></em> <em><span style="color:#cc6600;">for lots of reasons. Let's just say we're thinking spring! If you're out and about exploring New Hampshire, why not send in a guest post? You can contact me through the comments section or at <a href="mailto:nhloveitorleafit@gmail.com">nhloveitorleafit@gmail.com</a>. </span></em></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-90365680085130302442010-01-26T18:47:00.011-05:002010-07-06T18:03:04.000-04:00Yurt Camping II: The New Hampshire Way<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYNDMXWZ4QsudXZ3_mrubl7VNKHwv-QYYQCgrhGVg9mZd9cClPj2P42TUxpihkf1IBrtPnQDiItgI20CzOAqYmAEAAJs4jJSdxL5S_aX6VNekM2G00AKUJioXUtyL44Or5ejAkSteo8Pa/s1600-h/P1080054.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431203402746733794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYNDMXWZ4QsudXZ3_mrubl7VNKHwv-QYYQCgrhGVg9mZd9cClPj2P42TUxpihkf1IBrtPnQDiItgI20CzOAqYmAEAAJs4jJSdxL5S_aX6VNekM2G00AKUJioXUtyL44Or5ejAkSteo8Pa/s400/P1080054.JPG" border="0" /></a><em><span style="color:#cc6600;">Today, guest blogger Patrice of <a href="http://wanderinglavignes.blogspot.com/">Life Less Ordinary </a>writes about camping in a yurt in New Hampshire. Not sure what a yurt is? Be sure to check out Patrice's earlier post about <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2010/01/yurt-camping-try-it-you-might-like-it.html">yurt camping </a>at Frost Mountain in Maine. </span></em><br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="color:#000000;">My husband Justin and I recently took a second yurt trip, this time to <a href="http://www.greenalpacayurts.com/">Green Alpaca Yurts </a>at <a href="http://www.thegreenalpaca.com/">Crown Point Alpaca Farm </a>in Strafford. Again, I can't rave enough about the yurt experience. The yurt at Green Alpaca is actually constructed by one of the only NH-based yurt manufacturers, White Mountain Yurts. (I have a soft spot for NH-made products.)</span></span><br /><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">Since this summer, the model at Green Alpaca has been open for a quick look or for rent as an overnight excursion. Farm owner Val Newell is thrilled to have the yurt model on her property and is happy to share her love of yurts with others.</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#993300;"><strong>Animals and Outhouses...oh my!</strong></span></div><div><span class="fullpost" style="color:#000000;">The yurt at Crown Point Alpaca Farm is set back in the woods, up on a hill and extremely private. As with <a href="http://www.frostmountainyurts.com/">Frost Mountain Yurts</a>, there is no running watter or electricity and no vehicle access. This one has two bunk beds, a futon, and all the supplies you need for an overnight: dishes, silverware, cookware, propane stove, grill, candles, games, and more. I have to point out that I liked the outhouse here better than the one at Frost Mountain; it's the little details that count!</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">There are snowshoe/ski trails all around the area, although we didn't explore this time. The bonus, though, was being able to experience the farm. With more than 65 alpacas and tons of ducks, chickens and turkeys, I would say it's a very kid-friendly place. You could even request farm fresh eggs to cook up for breakfast! Again, I highly recommend yurt camping.</span> Try it once and, like us, you just might find yourself going back for more. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Lucie's note:</strong></span> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>I'm jealous! We haven't been able to camp in a yurt yet, but it's on my wish list for 2010. Sounds so appealing...to be surrounded by nature, to be able to escape electronic distractions and enjoy peace and quiet! If you've tried it, be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you thought. </em></span><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-4755573801886900502010-01-15T11:30:00.012-05:002010-07-06T18:03:38.439-04:00Yurt Camping: Try it, You Might Like it<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7nZYxDmqqppSV_VV_cCJ7ElIGRxuzzt4LIpp50cQuDnXDuvjEzUdn5kQFA7_wpEV1tjo7kd8eAyxE0H_8iumwAaDNiYH17f2bARkl_hJqs5Vj-8kRuPzXCMphyphenhyphend2uWaOz7aplK256EqHm/s1600-h/Standing+in+front+of+yurt.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427018808424891170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7nZYxDmqqppSV_VV_cCJ7ElIGRxuzzt4LIpp50cQuDnXDuvjEzUdn5kQFA7_wpEV1tjo7kd8eAyxE0H_8iumwAaDNiYH17f2bARkl_hJqs5Vj-8kRuPzXCMphyphenhyphend2uWaOz7aplK256EqHm/s400/Standing+in+front+of+yurt.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>Today I'm excited to publish another guest post by Patrice, a fellow blogger and adventurer. Be sure to check out her witty take on life at </em></span><a href="http://wanderinglavignes.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#cc6600;"><em><span style="color:#336666;">Life Less Ordinary</span>.</em></span></a><span style="color:#cc6600;"><em> You can also read an earlier post she wrote for <span style="color:#993300;"><strong>New Hampshire: Love it or Leaf it</strong></span> on </em></span><a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2009/07/kayakingcamping-on-squam-lake.html"><em><span style="color:#336666;">Camping at Squam Lake</span></em></a><span style="color:#cc6600;"><em>. She and her husband "J" are never sitting on the sidelines!</em></span><br /><em><span style="color:#cc6600;"></span></em><em><span style="color:#cc6600;"></span></em><br /><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>What's it all About?<br /></strong></span><div>I am so in love with the idea of camping in a yurt that I want everyone to try it once. My husband Justin and I tried it for the first time as a New Year's vacation and we will definitely be doing it again; in fact, we may buy our own yurt sometime in the future.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />If you've never heard of a yurt, I think the best way to describe it is as a cross between a tepee (but much bigger) and a cabin. The walls are canvas and there's a door and even some windows.<br /><br />For our trip, we stayed at <a href="http://www.frostmountainyurts.com/">Frost Mountain Yurts </a>in Brownfield, Maine, which is only 16 miles from Conway, New Hampshire. They have four yurts for rent on 60 acres of land. In my opinion, this is the most luxurious form of "camping" out there in all seasons, but it works really well for winter camping.<br /><br />Let me get right to the dirty details. </span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Things to Know Before You Go</strong></span><br />Typically, you cannot drive to the yurts. The ones at Frost Mountain were approximately 1/10 mile from the parking area, but with snow and hills, we relied on our snowshoes to make the trek easier. So it's a cross between backpacking (hiking in) and car camping (driving up to a site).<br /><br />Most yurts for rent have no running water. You pack in whatever water you think you'll use. My advice? Wash dishes in a bucket and be conservative, dumping your dirty water in a concentrated area away from the yurt. Frost Mountain provided non-drinking water, so we brought our own drinking water. Some yurts, including the one at Frost Mtn., have a solar shower for use in the summer. They should all have some sort of outhouse.<br /><br />The idea of a yurt is to escape the hustle and bustle of daily living. So no electricity either. Many yurt rentals provide candlelight and gas lanterns, but we also brought extra flashlights.<br /><br />How do you keep warm, you ask? All yurts are heated by wood-burning stoves and usually cut wood is provided. Our yurt stayed toasty, despite the fact it was frigid outside.<br /><br />The Frost Mtn. Yurt was well-equipped, so we just packed in our food, drink, clothes and bed linens -- carried in on sleds. We brought a cooler because we were there for four days and we actually ate better than we do at home: cheese fondue, French toast, bacon, chocolate fondue. The yurt was supplied with a fondue pot, three-burner gas stove and a grill.<br /><br />The yurt had lots of games and you can also borrow cross-country skis or snowshoes for free. There are miles of trails to explore or you can just spend the whole time staying cozy in the yurt and enjoying the serenity. The yurt we stayed in slept eight people, but there were only two of us. I think the cost was $85 per night.<br /><br />So there you have it: the basics of our first yurt camping experience. If yurt camping is in your future, be sure to check out the Web site of the company you're planning to rent from; generally, there's lots of helpful information there. Next on our agenda is a weekend overnight yurt trip at <a href="http://www.greenalpacayurts.com/">Green Alpaca Farm</a> in New Hampshire. I'll be sure to update you if there's new information to add.<br /><br />In the meantime, I encourage everyone to set a goal in 2010: Stay in a yurt. I promise you, there is truly something magical about it! </div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-64935830956293515992010-01-01T17:00:00.015-05:002010-01-04T18:14:58.128-05:00Guided Snowshoeing in NH<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnvhwlEweTayXLjDml2ZN1AdfgxOZvyHt9PmHE789o1wscAdvKa7H8FGCm5rxid7Nq0PdvItyr0ZEP20v22_p-A5iwPgKqvF6NsBdlmo5RtvClhKJHyFUhYKObabh98LwNzt_c-4_ojEO/s1600-h/2009+01+31_Massabesic+Audubon+Society+m+name+here_0229.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422649167230576690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnvhwlEweTayXLjDml2ZN1AdfgxOZvyHt9PmHE789o1wscAdvKa7H8FGCm5rxid7Nq0PdvItyr0ZEP20v22_p-A5iwPgKqvF6NsBdlmo5RtvClhKJHyFUhYKObabh98LwNzt_c-4_ojEO/s400/2009+01+31_Massabesic+Audubon+Society+m+name+here_0229.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#000000;">Snowshoeing has become a "hot" winter sport. Lots of nature centers, mountain areas, and organizations are now promoting some type of snowshoeing activity. It's fun, low cost, and easy to do. And there's plenty of room out on the trails.<br /><br /></span><div><span style="color:#000000;">So, here's a sampling of some guided snowshoeing programs to check out in New Hampshire this winter. And for those of you who prefer to go out without a guide, check back soon -- I'll be posting some trails you can explore on your own.<br /></span></div><br /><div><span><strong><span style="color:#990000;">Guided Snow Shoe Programs<br /></span><span style="color:#cc6600;">Beaver Brook Association (Hollis, NH)</span></strong> -- <span style="color:#000000;">There's something for everyone here. There are Beginner Snowshoe Hikes for Women on Jan. 30th and Feb 27th; A Yoga and Snowshoe program on Jan. 16th; Wildlife Tracking on Snowshoes on Jan. 24th, as well as Winter Fitness Hikes at a moderately fast pace every Friday morning, January through March, plus more. Check it all out in their </span><a href="http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs017/1102329644056/archive/1102891947052.html">winter newsletter.</a> </span><br /></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc6600;"><strong>Nashua Parks & Recreation Department</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">is hosting a snowshoe program beginning January 13th. It's a daytime activity, taking place in Mine Falls Park in Nashua every Wednesday and Friday morning at 10 a.m. For more information, call Tom at 603-589-3370.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc6600;"><strong>Eastern Mountain Sports</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">offers a guided snowshoe trek along the Saco River in North Conway, NH. Check out the</span> <a href="http://emstrek.com/newhampshirewhib.html">Eastern Mountain Sports </a><span style="color:#000000;">site for more.</span> </div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#cc6600;"><strong>Loon Mountain</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">has a guided snowshoe hike of the summit. This one is for intermediate snowshoers. Check out the</span> <a href="http://www.loonmtn.com/info/winter/advctr.aspx">Loon Mountain site </a><span style="color:#000000;">for details. </span></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc6600;"><strong>Jackson Ski Touring Center</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">offers instructional guided nature hikes on snowshoes throughout the winter. Check out their</span> <a href="http://www.jacksonxc.org/snowshoe.htm">website </a><span style="color:#000000;">for information. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#cc6600;"><strong>NH Audubon Society</strong></span> <span style="color:#000000;">offers snowshoe programs as well. In Auburn, the</span> <a href="http://www.nhaudubon.org/detail.php?entry_id=640">Massabesic Audubon Center</a> <span style="color:#000000;">rents snowshoes throughout the season and has a guided Snowshoe and Tracking program on Feb. 13th. The</span> <a href="http://www.nhaudubon.org/detail.php?entry_id=634">McLane Center </a><span style="color:#000000;">in Concord offers Winter Wildlife Hikes on snowshoes, conditions permitting, of course.</span></div><br /><div><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">So there you have it! A few programs to get you started on this great cardio activity, particularly if you are new to the sport and looking for guidance. If you know of any other programs in the state, be sure to leave a comment. </span></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-69540683341141602352010-01-01T15:55:00.000-05:002010-01-01T15:56:04.565-05:00Which Direction in 2010?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnYodrBsWP34gvNw_bS1e6IS1tPpqKrVGh9-LNYPmb4lbikH-pmz9pJSajRaCrREpKsqkGA_W7AWoicKoB-E2nIBVWJQnIcmIUJdqVp-UKFDctYTrp4obLivgKnl_SoT3ldreDnQO31VF/s1600-h/2009+01+23_Peabody+Mill_0158.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421876012263742738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnYodrBsWP34gvNw_bS1e6IS1tPpqKrVGh9-LNYPmb4lbikH-pmz9pJSajRaCrREpKsqkGA_W7AWoicKoB-E2nIBVWJQnIcmIUJdqVp-UKFDctYTrp4obLivgKnl_SoT3ldreDnQO31VF/s400/2009+01+23_Peabody+Mill_0158.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#000000;">Happy New Year, everyone! I'm excited to see where 2010 will take us all. It's been a while since I've posted; let's just say that "everyday life" sometimes gets in the way of pursuing our passions. But here I am today, looking forward to our first snowshoe adventure of the season (sometime soon I hope) and pausing to think about my blog resolutions for 2010. </span><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;">I promise to write a short post on some great snowshoeing programs in the next day or two. For now, I'd like to discuss my vision for the future of <em><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>New Hampshire: Love It or Leaf It</strong></span></em>. </span></div><span class="fullpost"><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;">In which direction would I like to take this blog in the year ahead? I've given it some thought and realized I'd love to turn this into a true blogging community. What exactly do I mean by that? Well, I would like to encourage many more comments from visitors and maybe even to introduce a live chat. It would be a way for us to learn from each other and gain a fresh perspective. Not sure if I have the technical skills and time to pull off a live chat feature, but I can dream! </span></div></span><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;"><br /><div>Secondly, I want to open up the blog to more guest bloggers. As much as Doug and I try to get out there to explore our wonderful state, we're limited by time and energy. I would like to publish more guest posts from all you folks who are kayaking, biking, snow shoeing, and just plain exploring New Hampshire. </div><br /><div>How will the blog get from "Point A" (where we are now) to "Point B" (where I'd like to be a year from now)? Well, that's for me to figure out, I guess. For now, I've taken the first step: I've shared my "secret" goals here. In a way, I've challenged myself to make it happen. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>How about you? Is there anything you'd like to see on <span style="color:#993300;"><strong><em>New Hampshire: Love it or Leaf It</em></strong></span>? Please take a moment to leave a comment. In the meantime, I wish you safe and happy outdoor adventures in 2010! </div></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-50391710071378461342009-12-09T19:16:00.000-05:002009-12-09T18:45:58.647-05:00Tandem or Solo Kayak?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg88eiOPjHpD6Lg-sUoXqZI9rimYLZ3ybyzwHZACX4Bjv-VRnol29b_Wxizln28AseOfAX_GQ36NLXasRM7C3Xrs_DDZsPBcXH75WViOcAO2wX4VplPJp0DowDy6XpId2PcOlue_7mD0m/s1600-h/Kayaking-NH.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413378558848256738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg88eiOPjHpD6Lg-sUoXqZI9rimYLZ3ybyzwHZACX4Bjv-VRnol29b_Wxizln28AseOfAX_GQ36NLXasRM7C3Xrs_DDZsPBcXH75WViOcAO2wX4VplPJp0DowDy6XpId2PcOlue_7mD0m/s400/Kayaking-NH.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#000000;">We had our first snowfall this week -- a wet slushy mess that's not quite prime for snowshoeing. And obviously, it's too late in the season for kayaking. But today seems like a good time to talk about a question I hear all the time from those considering their first boat purchase: Should I buy a tandem or solo kayak?</span><br /><br /><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;">If you're a faithful reader, you know that I have a personal bias against tandems, based on our "disastrous" <a href="http://nhloveitorleafit.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-we-lost-our-groove-in-florida_14.html">experience in Florida </a>last winter. But I'm going to try to set that aside and discuss the pros and cons here. </span></span><span class="fullpost"><span style="color:#000000;"><br /><div><br /></span><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>If You're Thinking About a Tandem</strong></span></div><div><span style="color:#000000;">Let's start with the obvious. Tandem kayaks are bigger and heavier. That means they're more difficult to transport and certainly more difficult to handle on the water if you decide to paddle alone at any time.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">On the otherhand, a tandem may be a good idea if one person is far less experienced than the other or if your paddling partner is a child. It's not fun to go out paddling and get left behind or to have to constantly wait for the other person to catch up. With a tandem, you'll always be together.<br /><br />A tandem kayak may also be a good option if you usually plan long kayaking trips -- you should be able to paddle further with less fatigue, since you can take breaks while the other person paddles and then return the favor.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Something else to consider before making your purchase: tandem kayaks require a high level of communication between the two paddlers. The person in back is steering, but the person in front usually has the clearer view of obstacles. So constant and productive communication needs to take place; unfortunately, that didn't happen when Doug and I paddled a tandem in Florida. I had to laugh when a reader wrote in and said in her family dubbed their tandem "the divorce boat. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>On the Otherhand, Solo May Be Best</strong></span></div></span><div><span style="color:#000000;">So, what are the pros and cons of solo kayaks? Pretty much everything negative about a tandem becomes a positive for a solo kayak and vice versa. Solo kayaks are lighter and easier to transport. They're easier to handle in the water on your own. They can be a drawback, as I mentioned, if you have different levels of experience and one person is powering ahead while the other person is struggling to keep up.<br /><br />If there's an issue about who will control a boat, then solo is probably the best way to go. Our paddling style can best be described as "alone, together" and that's how we like it. We're together on the water -- always within sight and shouting distance -- but at any given moment, we're each off exploring different things. When we purchased our boats, we never even considered a tandem. (Hmmm....Is there someone here who doesn't play well with others?)<br /><br />In the end, take a close look at your personal paddling preferences before making a decision</span>. I <span style="color:#000000;">always tell people to "rent before you buy," which is what we did. (It will also help you decide if you want a sit-inside or a sit on top boat -- a discussion for another day.) When it comes to tandem or solo, think about the ease of carrying, handling, and storing a large boat. Also consider if you'll always have a partner or if you'll want to go it alone sometimes. Do you work well as a team and enjoy clear communication? Are there children or less robust paddlers involved?</span> <span style="color:#000000;">Once you've looked at all the angles, I say go for it! Solo or tandem, I don't think you'll regret your time on the water. </span><br /></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81924678060131480.post-35584610626150225852009-11-06T15:20:00.011-05:002009-11-06T16:27:26.485-05:00Paddling Pillsbury State Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4OrwFzitIKJEn2V4jKwYkJMfB53WHyThcIXH-ZkMqw_1K9kikCa9tJaI8A9I5iQgGCIsecUw1C22CPtuAVLyz_HZjQGqTUfCQtPwwLxQREWQQGPFw2nSf6t6eGShpgvCMPs2cLns1l6j/s1600-h/Kayaking-North+Pond-New+Hampshire.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401098120468228946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4OrwFzitIKJEn2V4jKwYkJMfB53WHyThcIXH-ZkMqw_1K9kikCa9tJaI8A9I5iQgGCIsecUw1C22CPtuAVLyz_HZjQGqTUfCQtPwwLxQREWQQGPFw2nSf6t6eGShpgvCMPs2cLns1l6j/s400/Kayaking-North+Pond-New+Hampshire.jpeg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#993300;"><em>I'm so excited to welcome guest blogger and fellow paddler Matt Hoffman of Grantham, NH. Matt is still happily canoeing even though it's early November. When he's not out exploring New Hampshire's great outdoors, he works as a fine art and adventure photographer. Be sure to check out his incredible photos on his </em></span><span style="color:#993300;"><em><a href="http://web.mac.com/climbingsponge/Matt_Hoffman_Images/Welcome.html">website.</a></em></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#993300;"><strong>Perfect Spot for Late Season Paddle</strong></span><br /><em>By Matt Hoffman</em><br /><span style="color:#000000;">For most of us, this is the time of year when we hang up our kayaks and canoes for the season and prepare for winter sports. But the snow hasn't started to fly yet, and there are still good paddling days to be had before the freeze sets in.</span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">The key to staying warm and dry this time of year is to find a place to paddle that is not too open and offers lots of shelter from the wind, while still providing plenty of scenery and nooks and crannies to explore. One such place is <a href="http://www.nhstateparks.org/state-parks/alphabetical-order/pillsbury-state-park/">Pillsbury State Park</a>, located off Route 31, about 10 miles south of Newport, NH. There's a $4 per person entry fee, but that gives you access to a number of trails and four lakes, all easily paddled with only short portages between the latter two.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;">The ranger station is conveniently located at Butterfield Pond, which is a great place to start your paddling adventure. Butterfield Pond is relatively shallow, with protruding rocks and small islands, but these obstacles keep the paddling interesting. There are two campsites on the southern shore of the pond, accessible only to paddlers.<br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i35.tinypic.com/5pn7dh.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Heading east across the pond, a tight squeeze through some large boulders gains you access to May Pond, the largest pond at the park. May Pond is an open water pond, but it offers excellent scenery and great fishing. Hugging the southern shore, you might be treated to wildlife sightings, such as beavers and otters. The northern shore is dotted with campsites. At the far northeast corner of the pond, a small inlet stream is your cue to take out and begin the short 1/4 mile portage to Mill Pond.<br /><br />The smallest of the four ponds, Mill Pond is a wildlife haven. Moose are regularly spotted here and turtles abound. The short paddle across this pond takes you north to the next portage. This portage, marked by a sign, takes you to the 1/8 mile easy trek to North Pond.<br /><br />North Pond is where you will really feel the wildness of the park. There is not one single man-made object visible from this pond. There are two campsites here, one at the put-in and another along the eastern bank. Both are accessible only by hiking in and as a result, they are usually empty.<br /><br />The western side of North Pond is full of coves and inlets that beckon you to paddle as far into them as possible. At the north end of the pond, a small inlet leads to a beaver pond. Exploring here can take a while, and it is a great place to just sit in your kayak and feel at one with nature.<a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i34.tinypic.com/ng7d3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />From North Pond, a reverse of the above description will take you back to your car. For a shorter paddle with no portages, try exploring just Butterfield and May Ponds. Or, you can drive to Mill Pond, paddle it, and have one short portage to North Pond. There are many options at Pillsbury State Park.<br /><br />This is a great time of year to have a lake or pond all to yourself. While most people have already hung up their kayaks for the season, you can be out enjoying the wilderness as nature intended -- and Pillsbury State Park just might be the perfect spot to do that. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4