Chasing Lupines in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

One of my favorite annual adventures

For years, I dreamed about visiting Sugar Hill, New Hampshire during lupine season. But between my hectic teaching schedule, the long drive from the Seacoast, and the challenge of traveling with toddlers, it just never happened.

That all changed five years ago when I finally made the trip - and I’ve returned every year since. Now, it’s one of my favorite early summer traditions. The fields of purple, pink, and white wildflowers bloom against a backdrop of mountains and barns - it’s pure New England magic.

While things have changed a bit over the years, the magic remains. Sadly, due to issues like trampling and litter, one of the main fields (Stop 2 below) restricted access last year. You could still view it from the roadside, but visitors were not allowed to walk through the field. It’s a reminder that these stunning places rely on all of us to care for them respectfully.

Thinking of making your own lupine pilgrimage? Here’s how to do it.

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Adventure: Walking through fields of lupines in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Getting There:

Sugar Hill is tucked into the northwestern edge of the White Mountains. From New Hampshire’s Seacoast, take I-93 North. Get off at Exit 38 and follow NH-117 toward Sugar Hill. Below are some of my favorite photo stops along the way!

When To Go:
Peak lupine season in Sugar Hill typically falls during the second week of June. Some years it's a little earlier or later depending on weather, but mid-June is a safe bet.

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 Top Photo Stops

1. Polly’s Pancake Parlor – 672 Sugar Hill Road

Across from the legendary pancake spot (worth a visit of its own!) is a lovely field of lupines framed by mountain views. The field is moderate in size, with well-trodden paths and sometimes even a white horse grazing near the barn. It's a great place to start your tour and one of the most photogenic.

Views of lupines from the field across from Pollys

It can be a long wait, but Polly's is worth it

2. Sugar Hill Road & the Stone Wall Field

A little ways up from Polly’s, you’ll spot another vibrant lupine field to your right. It was once accessible through a small opening in a stone wall, leading to narrow trails weaving through dense blooms. In recent years, however, visitors have been asked not to enter the field due to damage and misuse. You can still admire and photograph the view from the roadside, just be mindful of traffic and respectful of property lines.

Last year, visitors were not allowed to go into the field.
  I got this photo in 2021.

Respect signs!!

3. St. Matthew’s Chapel

Continue up Sugar Hill Road and you’ll find this iconic white steepled church overlooking the hills and fields below. It’s a favorite for postcard-worthy photos and well worth the stop- even if just to take it all in.

The chapel is the perfect backdrop!

4. Sunset Hill Conservation Land

Turn onto Sunset Hill Road and look for the red barn marked “Sugar Hill.” Just beyond is a conservation area with a wide lupine field and sweeping mountain views. The blooms here are a bit more spaced out, but the scenery is spectacular.

The red barn is the perfect backdrop!

The final stop gives mountain views behind the flowers!

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Tips for a Great Visit

• Respect the flowers and land – Stick to existing paths and resist the urge to create new ones. Trampling harms the plants and ruins the experience for others.

• Weekdays are best – For a quieter experience, aim for a weekday morning. Weekends can be crowded, especially during peak bloom.

• There are no restrooms – Plan accordingly!

• Be kind to other visitors – Wait your turn for the perfect photo, and try not to photobomb someone’s shot.

Some years I go with friends but others I've brought my kids

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Add-On Adventure:

After photographing the lupines, consider a nearby hike. One of my favorites is the short but rewarding climb up Bald Mountain from the Mt. Kinsman Trailhead, just a five-minute drive away.

Bald Mountain hike add on makes it a perfect day!

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Sugar Hill in bloom is truly something special. I’m so grateful I finally made the trip—and even more grateful that it’s now a beloved yearly tradition. Whether you're an avid photographer or just want to bask in early summer beauty, a visit to Sugar Hill during lupine season is sure to be unforgettable.

Visit Sugar Hill in New Hampshire for gorgeous flower viewing!

Follow along on Instagram at @FreelanceAdventurer or on Facebook at The Freelance Adventurer for more New England hikes, photo spots, and outdoor adventures!

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My original Sugar Hill Lupine Post

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Family Trip to Acadia

Livermore Trail - Easy Multi-use trail in the White Mountains

Stopping along the Livermore Trail in Waterville Valley

Sign off of Tripoli Rd directs you to trailhead

A couple weeks ago, Summit and I headed up to the Waterville Valley area to tackle Mt. Osceola - a popular 4,000 footer in the White Mountains range.  Unfortunately, when I got there, I discovered that although it was May 9th, the access road was still closed for "winter".  Hiking the road would have essentially doubled my hike, so I decided to try the Livermore Trail head, which I had passed on my drive up.  

My plan was to take the Livermore Trail and try to possibly summit South Peak of the Tripyrmids.  I felt the loop would be too challenging for the dog and on this day, hadn't allocated enough time to finish the loop.  As it turns out, I got bogged down by multiple stream crossings on the Mt. Tripyramid trail and ended up turning around.  On the bright side, I discovered that the Livermore trail is a wonderful family-friendly trail for hikers, bikers, and skiiers.  The wide-gravel trail proved to be a perfect day with the dog including multiple views of forests, streams, and cascades.  Read on below to recreate this adventure...

Livermore Trail is more like a road...

Adventure:  Livermore Trail in the Waterville Valley

Getting there: From Boston/Southern New Hampshire.  Take I-93 N to Exit 28 in Campton.  Follow Rt 49 East towards Waterville Valley.  Before you reach the town center, take a left onto Tripoli Rd.  You will pass Ski Area Rd on the left and soon after there will be a turn off onto Livermore Road Parking area on the right.  Turn here and park in the lot.  This is a White Mountain National Forest trailhead so you will need a National Park pass or $3 cash/check to pay for parking.  There are privy toilets at the trailhead.

Trail:  The Livermore Trail is more like a road than a trail.  This multi-use path is used as a ski trail for the Waterville Valley Ski Resort in winter and for hikers and mountain bikers in summer.  I'm not accustomed to seeing such wide, graded paths in the Whites and kept expecting it to narrow, but it didn't until it reached the Tripyramid loop.  The trail was a pleasant uphill and gradual climb.  It serves as a main vein for a number of smaller trails including Greeley Ponds Trail, Big Pines Path, Boulder Path, Kettles Path, and North Rapids Trail.  I stayed on the main drag - hoping to get to one of the Tripyramids.  Along the way, I enjoyed the hardwood forests and the many interactions with the Cascade Brook.  Summit enjoyed splashing in the water.  This trail had bridges and culvert crossings so no worries about wet feet!
      At 2.6 miles there is an intersection for the south end of the Mt Tripyramid Trail.  The Tripyramid loop is

Black Cascade off of Mt. Tripyramid Trail

not recommended for the casual hiker.  I've done this once before and it is a gnarly climb including a scree slope and plenty of bouldering.  I decided I'd take a right at the fork and see how far Summit and I could get up the South Tripyramid before we needed to turn around.   Right away, we had a wide river crossing across Avalanche Brook.  Unfortunately, the river was high and there were no dry crossings.  I gave it my best shot, but...SPLASH... I slipped on a rock and ended up submerged to my shins.  After wringing out my socks, I continued.  The trail narrowed and meandered up into the woods.  It was evident that the trail had not been frequented and was in need of trail work.  Heading up the path, I saw no blazes (unusual for the Whites), although on the decent I saw some.  Also, the deeper we hiked, the more moose droppings we encountered. At about 1 mile in, I think we encountered what on the map is labeled as "Black Cascade".  It was a beautiful spot - rushing cascades and small waterfalls.  I could see the trail on the other side of the cascade but with high/fast water I decided it wasn't worth the risk to cross (and then cross again on my return).  It was here that we turned around and hiked the 3.6-ish miles back to the parking lot.

Junction for Tripyramid Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2.6 miles one way to Mt.Tripyramid junction.  I continued another ~1 mile on Mt. Tripyramid Trail before turning around at Black Cascade.  (~7 miles total)

Recommendations: 

- This is an easy climb and a nice wide/graded trail - perfect for families with young children or people who need an easier hike but still want to see the White Mountains.

Views of Cascade Brook

- The Livermore trail does not provide mountain views- although it had lovely streams and forest.

- Try one of the short offshoots to elongate your hike.

- Make sure to bring a National Park Pass or $3 exact so you can park in the lot.

Even though it wasn't the 4,000 footer I had planned on tackling when I got in the car that day, the dog and I enjoyed this forest hike among the trees and water.  It's always exciting to discover another trail.

Please leave comments and questions below.  Follow us on Facebook at The Freelance Adventurer. or on Instagram @freelanceadventurer.


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Summit and I enjoy a girls day out in the White Mountains!

Mt. Moosilauke - Moderate Hike for Major View

View from Summit of Mt. Moosilauke

Approaching the summit of Mt. Moosilauke

It's been far too long since I wrote a post.  I partly blame the long winter that kept me from my traditional early spring hiking, but I also blame this wonderful spring weather we are currently experiencing.  The long-awaited spring weather caused me to fling myself into outdoor adventures and I've been reluctant to sit inside writing.  As a result, I've had quite a few hiking adventures this month and find myself having to "catch up" on sharing them.  Where do I start?  How about with last weekend...

Over the past couple months, I've been mostly hiking small, close peaks to my house - Pawtuckaway, Mt. Major, Mt.Cardigan, and Gonic Trails, but last weekend I told Matt I needed to get up to the White Mountains and tackle a 4,000 footer.  To ease into larger hikes, I decided to go with one of the easier 4,000 footers - Mt. Moosilauke.  I haven't done this peak in probably six years, but I remember it has a wide open summit and multiple choices for ascents - ranging from moderate to very challenging.  Read below on how to replicate my adventure...

The trail is well signed

Adventure: Mt. Moosilauke via Gorge Brook Trail

Getting There:  The Gorge Brook Trail leaves from the Dartmouth Outing Club's Moosilauke Ravine Lodge.  To get there from Boston, take 1-93 North and get off at exit 32.  Turn Right onto Rt 112 West.  This will take you into the town of North Woodstock.  After 3 miles, take a left onto Rt 118 South (we missed it the first time - so if you pass Beaver Brook parking lot you've gone too far). Rt 118 winds up the mountain. After 7.2 miles, turn right on Ravine Road.  Take the dirt/gravel road to the end and park along the road. Parking is free. Once parked, walk down past the lodge toward the river.  Here you will see signs for Gorge Brook Trail.  The drive took me two hours from southern New Hampshire (2.5 from Boston).

Trail:  Although there are multiple ascents up Mt. Moosilauke, we chose to go out and back on the Gorge Brook Trail because it is one of the easiest approaches as well as the shortest (3.7 miles each way).  The trail leaves from the lodge, crosses a bridge over the brook, and meanders up through hardwood forest. Due to it's high

Crossing Gorge Brook Trail

elevation start, the forest soon turns to evergreens.  The trail is easy to moderate as it climbs near the brook.  We discovered that it was re-routed onto the Snapper trail for a short piece but then reconnected with Gorge Brook Trail.
     Along the hike, you get a few peaks of views where the trees have been cut back.  As you climb, the evergreens get shorter and shorter. We were surprised to still have snow and ice on the trail over 4000 feet on May 17th!  Once above treeline, you can see the summit for the last quarter mile of trail.  Unlike most other White Mountain 4,000 footers, there was no slab hiking or bouldering near the summit.  It was a smooth hike (with some rocks and roots) but nothing technical.
     The summit is beautiful!  At 4,802 ft, you get 360 degree views of the surrounding valley and White Mountains.  The wind whips over the bald peak, but thanks to rock shelters, we were able to sit and enjoy our lunch with a view.

Difficulty:  Moderate

Distance: 3.7 miles one way.  7.4 miles out-and-back

Recommendations: 
- This is a perfect way to start back up on big hiking in the Whites.  The distance is substantial but the hike is

Still snow in mid-May!

only moderate difficulty.  If you had plenty of time, it would also be a great way to introduce a child or teen to big mountain hiking.  What's more, is that with relatively easy hiking, you get a top-notch view!

- Surprisingly, there was still significant snow and ice over 4,000 feet in mid May!  We were not prepared for this - and as a result got some wet ankles when we post-holed through the snowy trail.  It also made the trail slick.  In retrospect- trekking poles or microspikes would have prevented my three falls on the way down.

- The summit is completely exposed - bring multiple warm layers/windbreaker to stay warm.

- Before heading back home, stop in at Woodstock Inn and Brewery in North Woodstock for a beer and bite!

Lunch break on the summit of Mt. Moosilauke

Although it had been a few months since I tackled a 4,000 footer, I had no problem summiting Mt. Moosilauke.  Just as I remembered, the hike was pleasant and the views amazing on this beautiful New Hampshire peak!

 Please leave comments or questions below and feel free to like us on FACEBOOK!

Summit loved our hike!

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Sugarloafs - 2000 footers with Outstanding Views

View from Middle Sugarloaf Mountain, NH

I told my friend to pick out a hike that had great views, but that my 4 month-old puppy, Summit, could handle.  Her suggestion was a hidden gem - an under four mile hike with two peaks, amazing views, and lazy rivers.  This is a great hike for everyone from an experienced hiker to a family with small kids.  It was the perfect way to start summer.


Here is how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure:  Middle and North Sugarloaf Mountains, Twin Mountain, NH

Trailhead sign to Sugarloaf Mountains

Getting there:  The trailhead is located on Zealand Road (on the South Side of Route 302).  I took 93 North from Southern New Hampshire, took exit 35 to Route 3 North, and merged onto 302 East.  About 2 miles after the Rt 3/302 junction, turn right onto Zealand Road (large sign for Zealand campground).  Drive past the Sugarloaf campground entrances and park at the trailhead (sign). If you drive over the bridge, you've gone too far.

There are no bathrooms at the trailhead (but are at nearby campground).  There is a $3 per day cost to park at the trailhead.

Rock steps on trail.

Trail:  We took the Sugarloaf trail from the parking lot.  Early on, the trail walked near the river and then began a moderate ascent to the junction for both peaks.  Most of this portion of the trail is dirt and roots.  Although ascending, the terrain is fairly easy.  The last 0.2 miles gets steeper- with some rocky steps built into the trail.  After 0.7 miles, we reached a junction.  We turned left and took the 0.5 mile trail up the last 300 feet to the summit of Middle Sugarloaf (2539 feet).  This section had one section with a stair case - easy for adults, but could be challenging for small children (or in my case- puppies). 

Middle Sugarloaf had amazing 200° views of the Presedential Ridge and foothills.  We enjoyed laying out on the granite slab and soaking up the sun while enjoying our snacks and water.

From Middle Sugarloaf, we descended the 0.5 miles to the junction and continued straight to summit North Sugarloaf.  From the junction, this portion travels 0.4 miles up 200 feet to the summit of the north peak (2310 ft).  This had another awesome view and plenty of room to lounge in the sun.

We descended the way we came in - returning to the junction and hiking down the Sugarloaf Trail.  We stopped for a cool dip in the river before returning to our cars.

River near trailhead

Difficulty:  This is an easy to moderate trail hike for the White Mountain region.  It was a perfect start to my summer hiking season (I might have gotten a little out of shape), and it was easy for my puppy, Summit, to handle (with the exception of the stairs).  I recommend this for any hiker looking for great views at a low cost. 

Distance:  Approximately 3.2 miles round trip - longer if you leave from the campgrounds.

Recommendations:

• Remember to bring $3 for parking at the trailhead.
• There is no cell service at the trailhead. If you are meeting someone there, make sure they are aware that the trailhead is AFTER the Sugarloaf Campgrounds.
• This is a perfect hike for a busy summer weekend when all the better known trails are crowded.  You won't have to fight for a spot on the summit!
• Bring plenty of water (at least 1 L per person), a warm/waterproof layer, AMC trail map, and First Aid Kit.
• Enjoy a lunch/snack break on one of the summits.

Summit the dog on the summit

Sarah recommended the perfect hike to start our summer hiking season.  With great views, river soaks, and manageable terrain - don't forget to explore some of the smaller peaks in the White Mountains this season!

You might enjoy these other posts about family-friendly hikes in the White Mountains...


5 Best Family Hikes in the White Mountains
3 Great Spring Hikes in Northern New England
Kancamangus Cool Down


Please leave comments and questions below...

View from North Sugarloaf Mountain.

3 Great Spring Mountain Hikes in Northern New England

The snow is finally melting and you are putting your snowshoes back in the attic.  You know what this means...It's time for some spring hiking!  Here are three great spring hikes to try in Northern New England.

Summit of Chocura

1. Mt. Chocura - The Piper Trail - New Hampshire
This mountain hike is great anytime of year, but I love to summit in the spring, when the leaves are just starting to bud and the air is cool.  It is a moderate hike in the spring - traveling through hardwood forest, evergreen forest, and a rocky bald scramble to the peaked summit.  Although there are multiple ascents - all great hikes - I love a spring walk up the Piper Trail and back.  This 7.7 mile out and back is perfect for the experienced hiker and even experienced children and teens.  This is accessed right off Rt. 16 - 3 miles north of Chocura lake (check out the view of the mountain from here!)  There is a sign on the road that directs you into a dirt parking lot.  Parking is $3.  There are no facilities at the parking lot.


2.  Tumbledown Mountain - Brook Trail - Maine
Imagine hiking to the top of a mountain and finding...a lake!  Tumbledown Mountain in Western Maine has a

Summit of Tumbledown Mountain

unique summit and a great hike.  There are three trails to the summit.  The Brook Trail is the easiest trail.  It meanders through hardwood forests before turning and steeply climbing through the evergreen forest and emerging on a wide ridge with Tumbledown Pond and views of the Rangeley region.  The trail is a 3.0 mile out and back.  To access this trail, from Rumford, ME take Rt 17 to Weld.  Take a right on Weld Road.  About 2.5 miles down, bear right onto "Weld to Byron Road".  The Brook Trailhead is about 2 miles down the road on the right.  There is a dirt lot and parking is free.  There are no facilities at the parking lot.

Summit of Mt. Major

3.  Mt. Major - Boulder Loop Trail to Brook Trail - New Hampshire
This easy to moderate hike is a excursion for families, couples, or single hikers.  Located near the impressive Lake Winnipesaukee, this small mountain provides scenic views of the expansive lake and stunning Lakes Region.   The Boulder Loop Trail is the more challenging trail so I prefer to take the 1.4 mile up and return via the wider, more gradual 2.4 mile Brook Trail back.  The large and well signed trailhead is in Alton, New Hampshire - 4.2 miles north of Alton Bay.  Parking is free and there are no facilities at the parking lot.

Spring Hiking

Remember that Spring weather can be unpredictable.  Remember to wear layered clothing and pack first aid gear, map, compass, and raingear.  Check the weather before you leave and follow LNT guidelines. 



Spring is one of my favorite times to hike.  New green leaves, no crowds, and cool air - it's the perfect time of year to hit the trails.

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 Please leave comments and questions below. 

Mt. Pierce in Late Spring

View from Mt. Pierce summit.

Hiking for a view and a hut visit in the White Mountains of New Hampshire!

Last fall, my friend Jenny and I hiked up the Crawford Path to camp near Mizpah Hut in the White Mountains.  We slept outside as snow fell around our tent and experienced amazing views.  The blog post of the trip was one of my first on this website (HERE).  At the time, my friend, Anne, was cartaking at the AMC hut.  Anne is back at Mizpah - this time as the spring caretaker.  I decided to solo hike up to Mizpah to see Anne and visit the summit of Mt. Pierce.  Even in late May, much of the trail had snow/ice.  It was do-able without traction for a fit and skilled hiker.  The views on the summit of the 4,310 ft Mt. Pierce.

Here is how to recreate this adventure...

Steep ascent up Webster Cliff Trail to Pierce from Mizpah

Hiking Challenge Level: Moderately challenging - experienced.  The first section to the hut is a stead uphill climb over rocks.  The hardest part of the trail is the Webster-Cliff trail from Mizpah to the summit of Pierce which has a very steep ascent at the beginning including ladders.

Distance: 
- Rt 302 to Mizpah Hut (Crawford Path and Mizpah Cutoff) = 2.5 miles
- Mizpah Hut to Mt. Pierce Summit (Webster Cliff Trail) = 0.8 miles
= 3.3 one way
= 6.6 round trip
*This took me total about 4 hours with stops.

Gear:  AMC White Mountain Map #3 (Crawford Notch-Sandwich Range), Daypack with spring hiking gear (1 L of water, snack, rain gear, warm hat, warm layer, first aid kit, sunglasses, sunscreen, visor)

Summit Trail

* It was 70˚F in the Mt. Washington Valley and 38˚F on the summit.  I wore running shorts, hiking boots, t-shirt and carried a fleece, wind/rain paints, and warm hat.  All were necessary. 

Directions to Trail Head:  Drive to North Conway, New Hampshire.  Take Rt 302 West into Crawford Notch State Park.  Park at AMC Highland Center.

Trail:  I took the Crawford Path from across the road from AMC Highland Center to the Mizpah Cutoff, then summited Mt. Pierce and back down the same way, but there are multiple approaches.  Use the AMC White Mountain Map #3.

I had a great day hiking and the beautiful views of the whites.  This is one of the best and easily accessible 4,000 footers in the Whites and provides views of the Presidential Range including Mt. Washington.

Hiked this one solo.  Selfy shot.

To learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club's Hut System visit their website: http://www.outdoors.org/

Pleasant Mountain Lives Up To Its Name

Try this moderate mountain hike only one hour north of Portland, Maine.

Jenny enjoys the summit views at Pleasant Mountain

On a late April weekend, I wanted to get a little exercise and enjoy the sunshine.  Usually, the only option for a moderately challenging hike is to drive two hours north to the White Mountains, but on this weekend, Jenny suggested we try Pleasant Mountain - the tallest mountain in Southern Maine at 2,006 feet.  Friends- Jenny and Holly - joined me for this sunny adventure to a new peak.

Although the trees were not yet green, it was still a beautiful day with gorgeous weather and views of the lake region below.  This is an ideal hike for someone looking for a half day away from the city or a family looking for a moderate trek up the mountain.

Trail Head sign at the Ledges Trail

Here is how to recreate our adventure....

Adventure:  Pleasant Mountain/Shawnee Peak hike in Bridgton, ME.

Getting there: Take Route 302 west out of Portland.  Follow it about 6 miles out of Bridgton and turn left on Mountain Road.  Pass the Shawnee Peak Ski Area.  The Ledges Trail is on the right (parking on left) about 2 miles past the ski area.  There is no fee to park there.




Trail:  We hiked the "Ledges Trail" up and back.  But there are multiple ascents.  Ledges provide a few good views on the way up.

Trail head map of Pleasant Mountain

Difficulty:  Moderately Difficult Trail.  This should be fine for anyone in moderate shape.  If you struggle with join pain, use treking poles as it does have a rocky incline/descent.  This should be a good family hike for grade-school age children and up as long as you take your time.  

Distance:  1.8 miles one way on the Ledges Trail.  3.6 round trip.

Recommendations:   Wear appropriate footwear (sturdy sneakers or hiking boots), carry a daypack with at least 1 L of water, a snack, and rain gear.  The summit is exposed and can be windy.
There are no bathrooms at the trail head or summit. 

It was nice to get out of the city for a little adventure and hike.  Pleasant Mountain provided a moderate hike with great views only one hour from Portland, Maine.  I can't wait to go again!

Impressive fire tower at summit of Pleasant Mountain

Please contact me or leave a comment if you have questions, comments, or concerns.

Southern Coast on Dwellable

Mt. Greylock Hike - The tallest mountain in Massachusetts

 When the snow has melted and the sun come out - it's time to visit the Berkshires.  

Baby's First Hike - Mt. Greylock, MA

Friends- Courtney, Ingrid, and I don't get together often.  With one in Maine, another in Eastern Mass, and a third in upstate New York, we aren't exactly nearby each other  We decided we were in desperate need of a girls weekend and an adventure.  For a quick trip, we decided to all drive to North Adams, Massachusetts on a cool spring Friday, and spend a Saturday hiking Massachusetts tallest mountain - Mt. Greylock.  We were there April 19-20, 2013.

This turned out to be a wonderful idea. After about 3 hours of driving from each direction, we all got to spend a wonderful 24 hours together.  Ingrid's baby girl came along for our trip and enjoyed her first big trip.

Here is more information about our adventure for those looking for a similar getaway...

The Porches Inn, North Adams, Ma

Where we stayed:  We decided that camping this early in the year was not an option with a baby.  Instead, we stayed at The Porches Inn at Mass MoCA.  This inn provided comfortable and charming accommodations including a swimming pool/jacuzzi and a delicious complimentary breakfast.

Where we ate:  Friday night we ate at Desperados.  It is a Mexican restaurant in town with a lively and family friendly feel.  Their food was typical chain Mexican and have a bar.  They were accommodating to food allergies and the baby.  We ate breakfast at the Porches Inn and packed in lunches.

Where we hiked: We took Cheshire Harbor Trail trail up Mt. Greylock which is accessed from a parking lot at the end of West Mountain Rd.  The trail ascends 2.6 miles at a moderate grade up through deciduous forest and connects with the Appalachian Trail for the last 0.7 miles.  It provides views of streams before reaching the summit at 3,491 ft.  The summit has a visitor center (still closed for winter when we were there) and an enormous war monument.  It provided views of the Berkshire Mountain and valley bellow.  We descended on the same trail making the trek 6.6 round trip.  For a detailed trail map and description download this Mass Gov Pdf.   

Summit of Mt. Greylock 

Recommendations:  I truly enjoyed this voyage into Western Massachusetts, however, I think it would be even better to visit in the fall or summer when the leaves are present on the trees.  Early spring conditions provides a brown landscape that gave the illusion of a dead forest.  I can imagine that the deciduous forest is breathtaking in the fall months when the birch leaves are changing.

I loved my girls trip to the Berkshire of Massachusetts and an opportunity to see my dear friends.

Please feel free to leave comments or questions for Lindsey below...

Marginal Way in Ogunquit Maine

Ocean cliffs, lobster boats, and a bowl of chowder...the perfect way to welcome Spring!

Perkins Cove, Ogunquit, Maine

There are many beautiful beaches, shorelines, and walking areas in Southern Maine.  My favorites include Cape Elizabeth's Fort Williams Park, Kennebunkport's Parson's Way, and this one....Marginal Way walk in Ogunquit, Maine.

The Marginal Way walking path connects the tiny port of "Perkins Cove" to the bustling tourist center

Marginal Way Walk along beach cliffs in Ogunquit.

of Ogunquit by a paved path along ocean cliffs.  The trail offers views of jutting rocks and pebble beaches to the East, as well as, resorts and seaside homes to the West.  One of the reasons this is one of THE BEST walks in Southern Maine, is that not only do you get a great seaside walk, but it also connects two areas with fantastic shopping, eateries, and watering holes.  

Like most residents of the southern seacoast, I avoid the many coast towns in the peak summer months when tourists and traffic clog our usually quiet streets. As a local, spring provides the perfect time to enjoy Ogunquit and Marginal Way without the summer crowds.  My friend Jenny and I decided to venture down the coast on our first weekend of April break for a cliff walk, a bowl of chowder, and an afternoon escape from our routine.  Below is our adventure.

Marginal Way and Beach Walk
1.0 mile one way on Marginal Way, 2.0 round trip
** Up to 3 miles one way if you travel to Ogunquit Beach and do a beach walk.
Terrain: Easy

- From Rt. 1, Drive down Shore Road and follow signs through Ogunquit Center to Perkins Cove.

Map courtesy of Google Maps 

- Park in Perkins Cove (A on Map)
**Town lots charge in the summer, but it was free in early-mid April.  
- Walk paved Marginal Way trail North.
- At the "mini lighthouse", you are half way (0.5 miles) to town.
- Continue until you pop out next to the Sparhawk Resort (on right). (B on Map)
- Turn Right and follow Shore Road into town.
---This is one mile and concludes the Marginal Way walk ----
- To continue your walk to the Ogunquit beach, walk along Shore Road to Route 1, but take a sharp right onto Beach Street.
- This street goes all the way down to the beautiful and sandy Ogunquit Beach.  (D on Map).
** Jenny and I walked another mile or so on this before turning around.
- Walk back the same way, returning to Perkins Cove.
**All together, Jenny and I traveled around 4-5 miles round trip.

Shells on Ogunquit Beach

This is a great walk to do with people of any ability range.  The path is paved and wheelchair/stroller accessible, so it is a great choice for families.

Since it is narrow, this trail is not a good choice for joggers or people in a hurry because it is hard to pass other groups.  This is especially true during the busy summer season since it is usually crowded.

Marginal Way is a great way to enjoy the scenic Southern Maine Coastline.  After our little walk, Jenny and I enjoyed a ice tea, bowl of chowder, and garlic bread and the well known Barnacle Billy's restaurant in Perkin's Cove.  It was a great way to welcome spring to Maine.

Clam Chowder, Ice tea, and Garlic Bread at Barnacle Billy's in Perkins Cove

Those who enjoy Southern Maine Coastal Walks might also enjoy my other blog posts:

* A Brisk Lighthouse Walk
* Kennebunk Beach Walk - Off Season Adventures

Jenny enjoys the seascape on Marginal Way

Ogunquit on Dwellable