Here in the Great North Woods of NH we are beginning to experience the cool days of fall. This is the time of year when we have cold (in the 30's) nights and gorgeous warm days. Summer is not done just yet. Mother Nature is just preparing us for things to come. One is the color changing of the leaves better known as the Fall Foliage Season. New England shines this time of year. The amazing transformation draws you to the outdoors to explore the beauty of fall. This is one of the best times of year to check out God's Country as I call it. There are so many places to explore and events planned for this time of year.
Before I continue: [PLEASE REMEMBER TO PRACTICE: "LEAVE NO TRACE!"] (Carry in carry out always!) Thank You!
My favorite is to drive north and take in the majestic beauty along the Androscoggin River into the Thirteen Mile Woods Area north on Rte 16. Along this stretch one needs to keep their eyes wide open. Here you will see moose, dear, bear, fox, bald eagles, the occasional Canadian Lynx and a lot more. You pretty much name it and we might just see it. I enjoy stopping along the river just to hang out with friends and have a picnic or to fish and swim. Fishing in this river is a load of fun. Nice Rainbow trout to catch and many other types of fish. One will also find many places to stop for a swim along the river.
We continue north into the Lake Umbagog Area. Here there is the Lake Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge. Great place to take the kids. In this area one will find Lake Umbagog as well as The Lake Umbagog State Park and Campground. This campground offers lakeside camping, three cabins as well as campsites accessible only by boat.
We continue our drive to the east where you will find gorgeous and breathe taken views of the Western Maine Mt's. also known as part of Appalachian Mt. Trail System. A must stop location is the Grafton Notch State Park. Here you are able to enjoy Mother Walker Falls, Screw Auger Falls, Moose Cave and the Moss Garden to name a few.
There are many short hikes or day hikes to choose from. One of the favorites is Step Falls located on Rte 26 about 7 and half miles from Bethel Me. At this site you can take a short hike and view the cascades and the chutes. Don't forget your swimsuit so your can try the chutes. What a blast! The kids would love.
Our ride continues into Bethel Me. at the intersection of Rte 26 and Rte 2 (we usually stop for ice cream here.) take a right on to Rte 2 going West. You will find the Sunday River Brew Pub. Stop in and sample their spirits. Remember Maine has a very strong DUI enforcement so if you plan on sampling more then one or two you may want to consider one of the local hotels there and not drive. Bethel has a couple of interesting places to visit. Make sure to check out the Bethel Chamber of Commerce website. They offer more information on their website.
We continue our adventure on Rte 2 West. This takes us back into NH. In Shelburne don't forget to take the North Rd. Off the beaten path (dirt roads on the left side of North Rd) are some of the most amazing panoramic views. Plus you can enjoy short or long hikes in this area to waterfalls and there are wild raspberries and black berry spots for your picking.
Remember to Leave No Trace. We cannot stress this point enough. This keeps the environment healthy and clean for our children and grand children to enjoy. Plus it carries a stiff fine for littering.
Our drive is almost complete as we continue on Rte 2 West which brings us to Gorham. NH. Here we pick up Rte 16 North.
In Gorham there are many places to stay and great places to eat. By now it's almost time for dinner and one of our favorite places is Mr. Pizza. This is a great family dining experience. Occasionally you may even find some entertainment in the lounge. It is a good time to sit back and enjoy the river view and spend quality time with the family.
After dining is a good time for a stroll down Main Street. Check out the local shops. Enjoy conversations with the locals and take your children to the Gorham Common to play in the park.
The day winds down as we drive north on Rte. 16 into Berlin NH. This was our starting point of our adventure and where we call home. It makes for a full day the children are tired and so are we. The experience has left us all with tired limbs and full bellies. This make for great sleeping. Please make sure to check out our local chamber of commerce for all of the latest events here in Berlin and the Great North Woods.
Have a Great Day
Nrthrngrl64
Thanks to Nrthrngrl64 for a wonderful guest posting today!
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