Bahamas Weekend Cruise: Advice from a First Time Cruiser

 It's that time of year again - GIRLS TRIP!  Leanne and I have gone on a yearly summer trip since 2007.  Trips have varied from grand hiking adventures, to long distance road trips/sightseeing, to quick weekend adventures. This year, we tried something new - A cruise.  With little time for the trip, we wanted to find a long weekend adventure that would maximize our time together.  We found that there were multiple 3 night cruises out of Florida that visited the Bahamas.  Leanne and I (both age 41) had never been on a cruise before. I was skeptical - I don't like crowds, day drinking, gambling or a lot of time in the sun, and based on my understanding of the typical cruiser - it wasn't going to be my favorite trip.  I was completely wrong.  I LOVED our cruise and I can't wait to do another.  

Drinks at Radio Beach in Bimini

Our Cruise

We had a few options for cruise lines that fit our dates, destination, and length choices.  In the end, we chose a Celebrity cruise.  I relied on friends experiences, online reviews, and reddit boards to find a cruise line that catered mainly to adults and wouldn't have a frat-party atmosphere.  We chose a three night cruise that went to two islands - CoCo Cay and Bimini.  The cruise departed and returned to Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades cruise port - just 10 minutes from the Ft. Lauderdale airport. While cost for this starts as low as $280 a person, we upgraded to a room with a balcony and "concierge class".  With taxes, it cost me $595.  I later added internet, gratuities, and a couple drinks which was $200 more in total.  

Our Ship: Celebrity Reflection

Our room on Celebrity.  We loved our deck!

Transportation

I left on Friday morning 7 am from Boston and arrived in Ft. Lauderdale at 10:30 am.  Leanne flew in separately (from Los Angeles) on a red eye. We took a Lyft from the airport to the Port.  This should be a 10 min drive but our driver got lost and then got blocked by a train and we ended up having to use our limited Spanish to help him navigate there which took a total of 45 minutes.  As a result of this frustrating experience, I used a taxi to return - and sure enough it was 10 minutes from the Port to my gate. The taxi ride and Lyft were both about $18.

Boarding the Boat

Once at the port, Luggage Guys (I'm sure there's a name for this) will take your bag and put it on a trolley to take to the ship.  You'll need to know your room number to do this.  You also have the option of carrying your items directly on yourself.  We carried our day packs with us.  After dropping bags, you pass through a security checkpoint which includes a metal detector and passport check.  From there, we walked the gang way and went straight to our stateroom (we were room 9296) where your "SeaPass cards" are waiting for you.  Housekeeping doesn't have the room fully ready until the afternoon but you can drop off items.  Once you have your SeaPass card, you report to your muster station (on your card) and get a quick safety check in.  From there, your free to roam the boat!  

Room service (included)

Food

Our cruise ship had multiple places that fell under complimentary dining.  This included the main "fancy" dining room, a large buffet style cafeteria, and a few small grill areas.  However, in addition to this - there were multiple other specialty restaurants, bars, and snack spots. We loved the food - especially the main dining room.  Because we had a higher cost room, we got a special lunch on the day of boarding which otherwise wouldn't have been included.  As for drink, we did not get any drink packages.  Instead, we chose to pay out of pocket for drinks.  This consisted of an alcoholic drink with dinner and an cocktail by the pool.  

Delicious multi course gourmet meals in the main dining room

Ship Activities

The boat offered games, shows, casino, shopping, music, dance, and spa.  We took advantage of most of the "free" activities including the pool and hot tubs, evening shows (dance, comedian, and broadway shows).  Since this three night cruise spent two days docked at different islands, we didn't have a lot of time on the boat.  

We saw a show every night in the theater on Celebrity Reflection

Islands

Our ship docked at two islands and spent the day at each.  The first was a private island owned by the cruise company - CoCo Cay.  The second was Bimini.  I enjoyed them both but they were a different experience.  Here are my thoughts:

CoCo Cay 

Imagine an all inclusive resort that you're visiting with a day pass.  This is CoCo Cay. There are multiple beaches, many pools, grills and snack stations, and everyone there is from the boat.  We had fantastic weather at CoCo Cay and it was a wonderful experience.  We split out time between the large pool with the swim up bar and the beach - lounging out by a sandbar.  The food was open air grills with typical American fair - hot dogs, burgers, taco bar, and fruit.  It was family-friendly style food and while I'm sure the fries could have been saltier - it was consistent and hit the spot.  This island felt safe, fun, and accessible to all.  We did not pay to do any of the "extras" including the water park, excursions, or adult-only beach.  I'm glad - we had plenty to do.

View of CoCo Cay from our balcony

Poolside drinks on CoCo Cay

Bimini 

Bimini is a small island that is inhabited by locals and frequently visited by cruise ships.  Cruisers can pay to access a private beach, but we instead signed up for an excursion - snorkeling with sharks!  Unfortunately, weather - rain and wind - delayed our snorkeling trip and then it was canceled late morning.  Not wanting to lose the day, we decided to explore the island.  We left the ship and walked into town (10 min walk).  We looked for a taxi which discovered were mostly unmarked white vans.  We paid $5 a piece (plus a tip) to have the taxi take us to the other side of the island to Radio Beach.  Here, we walked out to the "shipwreck", then returned to the beach and set up for the day.  

Weather improved and we eyed the empty seaside shack of "Shadows Coconut Bar".  I was dying to try an authentic coconut drink.  When he arrived, I rushed to get one but unfortunately he was out of coconuts.  Darn!  No worries, I got a pina colada.  Later, we walked over to the beach front bar and got the coconut drink I'd hoped for! Taxi's were available to return the entire time so about an hour from departure, we grabbed a taxi back to the town and walked back on the ship.  

Shadows bar at Radio Beach on Bimini

Hanging out in the perfect ocean water with my coconut drink!

Walked to this shipwreck right by Radio Beach on Bimini

Overall Reflection

I had low expectations for my first cruise.  I'm not a fan of laying on the beach, crowds, heavy drinking and long hours in the sun. So perhaps it was surprising that I enjoyed this cruise so much!  I kid you not, I was hours returned from the trip and I was already researching other cruises.  Haha!  The great part of this travel is there is very little decision making.  The all inclusive nature makes for no worries about your food is coming from, and what you're going to do.  I think it would be especially fun to do it with a group too!  I hope to go on another cruise soon!

Save this blog to make your next Bahamas adventure a hit!

If you liked this adventure, check out these similar posts:

Key Largo Weekend

Southern Florida Girls Week

Ogunquit, Maine Girls Beach Weekend

Questions?  Want to connect?  Head over to my instagram:

Freelance Adventurer

DM me!

Little Harbor Loop Trail - A Portsmouth Treasure

 In my pursuit to find all the best Seacoast hikes, I realized I had left out what many would consider the "capital" of the Seacoast - the city of Portsmouth.  I've done many trails near Portsmouth - Great Bay, Peverly Pond, and Fort Constitution , but very few nature walks actually within the city limits.  I did some research and decided to try Little Harbor Loop Hike.  I liked it so much, the next day I went back with the kids!

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Little Harbor Loop Trail

Getting there:  Little Harbor Loop trail has three possible parking areas along the trail.  One is at Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion located at the address: 375 Little Harbor Road in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.  This historic site and grounds is managed by New Hampshire State Parks and offers free parking and a trailhead to the loop.  The other two parking areas are located on the Creek Farm Reservation Property which is maintained by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.

The Little Harbor Loop Trial is well signed. 
Follow the yellow blazes!

Trail:  The trailhead to Little Harbor Loop is right in the parking lot to the Wentworth-Coolidge parking lot and marked with a small wooden sign and a gap in the woods.  The important thing to note on this trail is to follow the yellow blazes.  The trail is well marked but there are several unmarked offshoots where a hiker could get off course.  Stay on the yellow trail and you’ll be fine.

The hike begins in the woods.  You will hike over uneven terrain of rocks and roots.  The trail winds through woods, crossing a driveway, passing through two rock walls, and eventually to a trail junction sign that shows you can veer off the loop to the right to visit the “view spur”.  This is definitely worth it.  Take the spur and you will be rewarded with views of the tidal bay, rocky shoreline, and a grassy marsh.  Return the way you came and continue on the yellow-blazed loop.

The trail will cross the road and enter the well signed “Creek Farm Reservation” and second parking lot.  The trail is well signed, but travels along the road - yellow blazes marked on trees on the shoulder until entering the third parking lot for this hike near the Shoals Marine Laboratory and Sagamore Creek Boat Car Top Boat Launch.

The trail continues around the grounds of the impressive building and hugs the shore, curving around an inlet marked on the map as a tidal pool. Continue to follow the yellow blazes (now marked on stones), along the shore with views of Goose Island on your right.  

The trail will cut back inland and travel the road back to the parking lot of Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion.

Part of the Little Harbor Loop Trail walks along the road. 
Follow the yellow blazes.

Difficulty: Mostly easy with some root/rocky footing in the first half mile.

Distance: 1.5 miles

Recommendations:

• Little Harbor Loop Trail is managed by the New Hampshire state parks and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.  It is open dawn to dusk.

• A trail map is available on the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion website.

• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

• At low tide visitors can walk out to some of the close islands and tidal pool areas. Be mindful of the tide so you don’t get stuck.

• The first half mile of the trail from Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion has a series of unmarked offshoot trails.  Stick to the yellow loop so not to impact more areas with unofficial trails- with the exception of the marked viewpoint.

I really enjoyed Little Harbor Loop twice this week. When I brought the kids, we didn't do the full loop - we just went down to the viewpoint and back.  This was the perfect length for my 2 year old.  Afterwards we enjoyed the lawn and waterfront views of the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion who's grounds were open to the public.  I hope you get to enjoy it too!

See more photos and adventure on my INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK!

Little Harbor Loop Trial in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

You might enjoy these similar experiences...

- Cutts Island Trail in Kittery

- Stonehouse Pond in Barrington

- Little River Park Loop in Lee

Morgan and Percival Loop: Ladders, Caves, and Amazing Views

Somehow I'd gone this far being an avid New Hampshire hiker without even hearing about the Mount Morgan and Mount Percival peaks.  Then, thanks to social media, I've been seeing photos of people climbing ladders, pushing packs through narrow rock holes, and enjoying stunning views on these lakes region peaks.  The first chance I got, I wrangled two work friends into joining me and we thrilled at the Morgan and Percival loop hike.  

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Mount Morgan and Mount Percival Loop 

Getting there: These lakes region peaks are located near Squam Lake in Center Sandwich, New Hampshire.  To get there from the Seacoast, I took 101 West to 93 North.  From there, take exit 24 onto Route US-3, NH-25 toward Ashland/Holderness.  Follow US-3 for 4.5 miles, then turn left onto NH-113.  The trailhead will be on the left after 5.5 miles. There is an overflow parking lot across the street, however, be warned - this trail has been extremely popular this summer and even on a weekday morning, my friend and I got the last spot open at 10 am.  Weekday hikers should plan for 9 am or earlier and weekend possible earlier!

After ladders, hikers crawl through cave on Mount Morgan

Trail: 

    Both peaks can be hit in a loop.  It was recommended to travel clockwise - hitting Mount Morgan first.  To do this, from the trailhead, hike about 0.1 mile to the junction where the trails meet.  Veer left on the Mount Morgan trail.  The trail ascends consistently through hardwood forest with moderate terrain.  The trail leads to a set of three ladders that allows you to climb a rock face.  THIS IS OPTIONAL!  My friend Kaley and her dog took the bypass while Danielle and I took the ladders.  Footwork is a little tricky on the third ladder.  Once up the ladders, the trail continues through a short and narrow cave.  Crawl through the rock and you will climb out onto a beautiful ledge with stunning views of the lakes and peaks below.  I really enjoyed this experience but those who are afraid of heights, struggle with mobility, young children, dogs, and large packs should take the bypass.  

    After the ledge, there is a short and somewhat difficult slab with high exposure to get to the near-summit view.  We spent a good half hour on this ledge view where the two trails meet up again.  From there, you will head back into the woods and pass the official summit of Mount Morgan (no view).  Continue onto the Crawford-Ridgepole trail through short, dense forest to Mount Percival.

    Mount Percival's summit has even more expansive views of lakes and peaks below.  The challenging portion of Mount Percival is directly below the summit - where hikers quickly descend into a boulder field followed by caves and rock outcrops.  At one point, we all had to remove our packs (even my small one) to descend a vertical drop into a hole.  I felt like Indiana Jones!  Looking at the map, there is a bypass for this as well, however we didn't take it.  This would be impossible for a large dog that could not be carried, a large pack (like baby carrier), or those with mobility issues.

    After the exciting caves, continue a moderate/steady descent on the Mount Percival Trail.  To get back to the parking lot, take the Morse Trail at the junction (unless you parked at the Percival parking lot), to return to your car.  

Crawling over boulders and caves on Mount Percival

Difficulty: Moderate with (optional) sections of difficulty - ladders, caves, and rock ledge/boulders

Distance: Entire loop is 5.1 miles

Enjoying the view on Mount Morgan, New Hampshire

Recommendations: 

- Take the clockwise loop with Mt Morgan first. This way you will be going with the flow of other hikers and also won't have to go down ladders.

- Parking is limited and fills fast on this popular hike.  Also, we did not have cell service in the parking lot.  Plan ahead and have a back up plan if the parking lot is full.  Street parking is prohibited. 

- There are no bathroom facilities available.

- Dogs are allowed on the trail but it is not advisable to take dogs on ladders and caves.  Take the optional bypass.  

- I do not advise carrying a baby-carrier on this hike.  The cave crawling is narrow and tight.  It would be extremely challenging and possibly unsafe to travel with a baby.

- Weather watch - ladders and caves are dangerous when wet.

- Practice LNT, practice social distancing, and wear a mask.

- Want to see what I packed for this hike? Check it out at my IGTV.

You might also enjoy these similar adventures:

- 5 Miles, 3 Peaks, 1 Loop: Day Hike in New Hampshire's Lakes Region

- Welch-Dickey Loop

- Mt Carrigan Loop

Ledges, Lichens, and a Loop - Southern Maine Nature Trail

    In the late hours when other people are scrolling social media, reading a book, or binging Netflix, I am lying in bed internet-searching for new trails for myself and my kids.  Although I hike all year round - summer is truly my biggest "hiking season".  I have summers "off" and like to fill my days with my young children hitting the trails.  Here on the Seacoast, we have amazing kid-friendly, but I'm always looking for more.  And this week, I found one!  

    Nestled in a small preserve on the South Berwick/Ogunquit town lines is a perfect little-kid loop trail that provides views of ledges and even caves - all covered with beautiful lichens and mosses.  What's more, it's a loop!

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Kenyon Hills Preserve Loop Trail in South Berwick, Maine

Getting there:  For GPS purposes, the official address location is 110 Ogunquit Rd, South Berwick, Maine.  To get there from Dover, NH take Route 4 (Portland Ave) towards South Berwick, Maine.  Continue on Route 4 until it splits in South Berwick.  Curve right to get on Agamenticus Rd and drive for a quarter mile.  Turn Right on Emerys Bridge Rd and continue for 1.6 miles.  Turn right at Bennettlot Rd and continue for 4 miles.  Finally, turn right onto Ogunquit Rd.  The trailhead is on the right about 2 miles up.  The trailhead is well signed saying "Kenyon Hill Preserve: Great Works Regional Land Trust" from the road and their is a small uneven (free) parking lot.  The trail is open dawn to dusk.

Trail sign from the road: Kenyon Hill Preserve / Great Works Regional Land Trust

Trail:  From the parking lot, walk back from the road.  There is a small laminated signed stapled to a post showing the loop (see photo).  I also used AllTrails to record my hike so I wouldn't get lost. The trail is a well blazed one mile loop with blue blazes, however there are small small offshoot trails.  

    From the initial fork, we decided to start right - doing a counter clockwise trek.  This was a great choice because a lot of the "attractions" are early on this portion of the trail.  We saw huge glacial erratic boulders covered in lichen and moss, towering rock faces, and smaller rock piles perfect for toddler/preschoolers to climb. 

    The trail is easy but has some roots and rock tripping hazards (my four year old fell a few times).  There are small changes in elevation gain but nothing too noticeable. About half way through the loop we went up an incline and according to the AllTrails topo map, we were at the tallest point in elevation on the trail.  We scrambled up a large rock and enjoyed our lunch.   

    The last half mile of the trail was easy, flat, and straight.  Even though this trail is only one mile, our scrambling and exploring of small off-shoots clocked our hike at 1.8 miles, and we spent 90 minutes here!  The climbing rocks and cave made it a really fun one for kids, but adults will enjoy the varied views and beautiful lichen/moss covered rocks as well.

Curly lichens grown on large rock faces throughout the trail

Difficulty: The short distance and fairly easy terrain makes me categorize this trail as over all EASY but Great Works Regional Land Trust that manages it, labeled it "moderate".

Distance: 1 mile loop. However, we must have done a lot of off-trail rock exploring because I clocked our trek at 1.8 miles total.  

Recommendations:

- Parking is limited but it was not busy.  We only saw one other hiker on a sunny, summer weekday morning. There are no bathrooms or trash receptacles at the trailhead.

- The trail was clean.  Please keep it this way by carrying out your trash.

- Keep track of the blue blazes.  There are other "non-official" trails that are not blazed.  We accidentally meandered down a couple.  

- Bring bug spray.  The bugs weren't horrible but there were a few wetland type areas along the trail where the mosquitoes were noticeable.  

- Dogs are allowed on the trail.

This trail reminded me of one of our other favorite loops - the Winnie-the-Pooh Trail - that also has rock ledges and caves.  The kids really liked it and so did I.  I'm so glad my late night internet searches paid off!

You might enjoy these similar adventures...

- Pickering Ponds Loop 

- Cutts Trail

- Peverley Pond Loop

5 Miles, 3 Peaks, 1 Loop: Day Hike in New Hampshire's Lakes Region

My summer quest to seek out new and beautiful hikes continues!  I "found" this hike by following another New Hampshire hiker on Instagram.  She showed photos of a loop hike that incorporated three mountain peaks - all with fantastic views of New Hampshire's iconic Lakes Region.  This is hike was an attractive choice for me for three reasons:

1. It's close(r) than the Whites (only an hour from the Seacoast)

2. It has amazing views of mountains and lakes from the peaks

3. It's a loop!!!

I found friends to tackle it with me on a hot and humid late June day.   I loved it so much...I did it again the next week!!

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Piper, Belknap, and Gunstock Loop

Getting there: The trailhead is located on Carriage Road in Gilford, New Hampshire.  To get there from the Seacoast, I drove west on Route 11 (Mt Major Hwy) from Alton toward Gilford.  From here, take a left onto 11A (Cherry Valley Road).  Drive about 8 miles and take a left onto Belknap Mountain Road.  After 1.3 miles, turn left onto Carriage Road.  After 0.4 miles the lower parking lot is on the left.  It has room for about 4 cars.  Parking is not permitted along the road.  When we got there the lot was full (weekday morning) but there is an overflow lot about a quarter mile (guessing) up the road on the right that can hold an additional 5 cars or so.  This is where we parked then walked down the road to the trailhead.

Standing on Summit of Piper Mountain

Trail:  The trail system is complex but well signed.  I recommend using a map or recording your trip through AllTrails.  We frequently double checked were on the right trail system.  I decided to take the trail clockwise- starting with Gunstock, then Belknap, then Piper.  

    The trail entrance to Gunstock Mountain is just at the lower parking lot.  It was actually kind of hard to find but it's just up hill from the large trailhead sign.  

    Once on the trail it was a pretty steady up to the Gunstock summit.  Before you reach the actual peak there's a nice viewpoint (with a picnic table) that overlooks the lakes.  At the summit you are reminded that this is a ski hill!  We saw another hiking group eating a snack in the shade of the chair lift.  There are fabulous views of Lake Winnipesaukee. 

    From Gunstock, go back into the woods and follow signs to Belknap.  The trail dips down gradually and then climbs again to get to Belknap Mountain - peaked with a climbable fire tower for the view!

To get to Piper Mountain, take the White Trail to the Old Piper Trail to Piper Mountain Summit.  This is a fairly bare summit and my favorite of the three.  I enjoyed wandering around to see views from all sides. 

Continue on the Old Piper Trail down to the parking lot.  

  

Difficulty: Moderate - The up and down make this a workout.  All Trails claims there is 1,827 ft of elevation gain in total which is nothing to squawk at!  Still, there is no technical skill needed for the climb (no slab or scrambling) - just good old fashioned up and down.  

Distance: 5.5 mile loop

Recommendations: 

- I've done this hike twice in the last month.  The first time, I arrived on a sunny weekday around 10 am and the lower lot was full (4-5 cars).  There were still plenty of spaces in the upper lot (4-5 cars).  The street is covered with "No Parking" signs for over a mile, so if you want to guarantee a spot, get there early and avoid weekends.  The second time I went it was a cloudy/rainy day and there was no competition for spots.

- Use AllTrails to help guide your way.  There are a lot of side trails running in and out of Gunstock and Piper and a hiker could easily take the wrong trail.  All the trails are well marked, but unless you have a clear idea of which to take, I'd recommend the assistance of a map or technology.

- There are no bathroom facilities at the trailhead.

- This is a dog friendly trail.

My friends and I really enjoyed this loop.  If felt like we got so much bang for our buck!  I ended up going back the next week and did just the Piper peak in the rain with another friend.  What a difference the rain made - gorgeous bright green moss and trickling streams really gave the trail a romantic vibe.  This hike is one of my new favorites!

You might also enjoy these adventures...

- Bald Peak - Mountain Views at less than 3000 feet

- White Ledge Loop

- Mount Major Loop

Bald Peak - Mountain View at less than 3,000 feet

Last week, after visiting Sugar Hill to see the lupines, my friend Kaley and I decided to tackle a hike in the area before heading back to the Seacoast.  Bald Peak came up in my All Trails search as being in the area, having a view, and being a moderate climb.  The 4.5 mile out-and-back trail was lightly trafficked on a June Tuesday afternoon and all I hoped for - moderate climb and amazing summit views all to ourselves.  

Here's how to recreate this adventure...

Adventure: Mt. Kinsman Trail to Bald Peak

Getting there: The Mt. Kinsman trailhead is located just north of Franconia Notch State park in Franconia, NH.  To get there from the Seacoast or Massachusetts, take I-93 North through Franconia Notch.  Take exit 34 C onto NH-18  North toward Echo Lake.  Follow NH-18 north 6 miles and turn left onto Kerr Rd which turns into Wells Rd. After 2 miles, turn left onto NH-116 South.  The trailhead is 2 miles down this road on the left. There is a small parking lot.  There is no fee box or bathrooms.  It is two hours from my home in Rochester/Dover area.

Waterfall along Mt Kinsman Trail

Trail:  The trail is mostly a steady uphill climb.  Although strenuous to constantly climb up, there is no technical slab, rocks, or slides on this hike.  We slowly climbed through hardwood forest, passing what I assume is some sort of maple shack in the first quarter mile.  The last mile or so we were rewarded with some small stream crossings including some beautiful cascades and a small waterfall.  Water was low and it was easy to cross.  

    The last quarter mile we reached the junction for the Bald Peak spur.  Turn right and follow the spur trail that brings you to the open peak.  The "summit" rewards you with a gorgeous 270 degree view of the Kinsmans and northern Franconia Notch.  There's a large open rock slab with a boulder sitting in the middle. We loved sitting in the sun and enjoying the view.  Kaley even said she thinks it's more impressive than Mt Willard (I disagree).  To return to the car, go back the same way you came up.  It is an out-and-back trail.

Difficulty: Moderate.  The steady uphill climb can make you really huff and puff and small brook crossings can be somewhat challenging but there's no technical hiking/climbing skills needed.

Bald Peak Spur Trail

Distance: 4.5 miles total 

Recommendations: 

- There are no bathroom facilities available at the trail head. 

- Parking is free.

- Hike this in June and pair it with a trip to see the Sugar Hill lupines!

- This is a dog friendly hike.  Please be considerate to hikers and leash your dog when approaching others.

- I used AMC White Mountain Map for Franconia-Pemigewasett. 

Panorama of summit of Bald Peak

A Perfect Day

Combine wildflower viewing with a White Mountain hike and stellar views made for a perfect day in the Whites.  Perhaps I will have to recreate this next June!

You might also enjoy these similar adventures...

White Ledge Loop

Mount Osceola 

Welch and Dickey Loop

View of Mount Kinsman from Bald Peak

WM Gonic Trails - River Views and Waterfalls

I've blogged this one before. The Gonic Trails on the Waste Management land in Gonic (Rochester), New Hampshire is probably my most hiked trail in the Seacoast.  It's about 5 minutes from my house and provides river and waterfall views, easy to moderate walking, and limited mileage - perfect for a quick after work dog walk or Saturday family morning stroll.  I also love doing it as a winter hike or snowshoe.  After posting photos of it on my Instagram stories this week, I realized that the only post I had about it was for deep snow and winter walks.  It's a slightly different experience when there's no snow on the ground.

Waterfall views on the Gonic Trail.

Here's how to recreate this adventure:

Adventure: WM Gonic Trails in Summer/Fall

Getting there:  The main parking lot for this trail is located on Rochester Neck Road.  Take Rt 125 to Rochester Neck Road (across from 1st City Motors Auto Dealer).  The parking lot is located on the right about 0.7 miles down Rochester Neck Rd.  Park in the gravel lot.  There is a sign in the parking lot that says WM Trails.  Parking is free but there are no restrooms.

Trail Sign in parking lot (with map)

Trail: There are three trails in this system - blue, red, and yellow.  There are multiple opportunities to take a loop (see map).  My favorite is to start by taking the yellow trail toward the waterfall.  When facing the parking lot from the road, this trail starts to the far right.  This path is wide and easy.  It travels through hemlock forest on the outskirts of the waste management land.  There is a slight decline and a fairly straight stretch.  When you reach the Isinglass river, you can see remnants of a bridge or damn.  The trail curves left and goes down a moderate rocky area, past a rock wall to low area where you can approach the waterfall.

After enjoying the waterfall, continue on the yellow trail (trail markers on trees).  It will wander up and down with small elevation changes until it drops back to the river and it meets the Red Trail.  Here I continue with the river on my right until I get the second offshoot of the red trail.  If you continue straight here on yellow, you will go multiple miles more to a different parking lot.  There is a sign present which warns that the red to the left is the last option to loop back.

Take Red up a steep incline.  After about 20 feet, the trail levels off again and you will enjoy an easy walk back to the parking lot through hardwood forest.

Trail Map available here.

Difficulty: Easy with a few short/steep portions.

Distance: The yellow to red loop is about 1.5 miles.

Yellow Trail

Recommendations/Additional Information

- There usually is ample (free) parking in the dirt lot.  At times it can get crowded on hot summer days.

- Leashed dogs are allowed.  Be prepared to see them on trail.

- There are no bathrooms available at the trailhead.

- For an even longer hike (or different approach), hike the out and back yellow trail.  You can also access this trail further down the Rochester Neck Road on the right.  It's labeled Isinglass River Park.

Yellow/Red Trail right before taking red back toward parking lot.

I've hiked this trail in every season and really enjoy all that it offers in such a reasonable loop.  It's one of the many short, yet beautiful scenic hikes in Seacoast New Hampshire.  

Isinglass River in September

For similar experiences, check out:

- Winnie the Pooh Hike in Barrington, NH

- Hanson Pines in Rochester, NH

- Pickering Ponds in Rochester, NH

Girls Trip 2019: Kayaking in Johnstone Strait, British Columbia

Girls Trip 2019 took me to Johnstone Strait in British Columbia for four days of kayaking in the wilderness.

Last fall, I was already thinking of where I wanted to go for my yearly "girls trip" with friends.  Past trips had included Iceland, Italy, New Zealand, Colorado, Newfoundland, Maine, Michigan, and so much more. My parents had agreed to watch my young children in Portland, Oregon for the week so I started tossing around ideas for the Pacific Northwest.  My parents are experienced travelers and adventurers.  They suggested taking a kayak trip with Spirit of the West Adventures in Johnstone Strait, British Columbia with the promise of seeing orca whales in the wild.  SOLD!  Over the next few months, I assembled a group to join.  My sister, Kelly, reached out to her friends as well which made this year the largest group in a decade of doing these trips- we had ten!  We booked the Johnstone Strait Ultimate Tour for July 12-15, 2019.

The only problem with taking a trip with Spirit of the West is getting there!  Our group was coming from all over the country - Maine, New Hampshire, North Carolina, California, and Washington.  Even though the kayak was only four days, the actual trip took seven because of the travel.

Here's how to recreate this adventure:

Day 1 - Travel to Vancouver, British Columbia

View from Vancouver waterfront

I needed to leave from Portland, Oregon because that's where my kids were staying.  Matt and Leanne flew to Portland to keep me company on the first (and longest) section of driving.  We rented a car in Portland and drove to the city of Vancouver.  The drive took about 10 hours including a border crossing.

I found that Vancouver's West End lodging is very expensive, even with a favorable exchange rate, so we opted to stay at a hostel.  We were able to get into town in time to enjoy some sightseeing including sunset over the waterfront. I enjoyed dinner and cocktails at Mary's on Davie which was having their "Drag Queen Bingo Night".  Fun!

Day 2 - Travel to Quadra Island, British Columbia

Another day in the car.  We caught a 10 am ferry from West Vancouver to Vancouver Island's city of

Lovely loft room at Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge

Nanaimo.  Be sure you are getting to the correct ferry entrance! We made the mistake of pulling up to the pedestrian entrance only to have to get back on the highway four exits until we found the right place.  This could have been catastrophic if we weren't already early. From Nanaimo, we drove up the island to the town of Campbell River.  We got in line for the ferry to Quadra island (no reservations offered) and since the current one was full, we had to wait an hour for the next.  No worries - we saw seals in the harbor and grabbed snacks at a local pharmacy.

Once on the island, we drove a short distance to Heriot Bay Inn where we met our guides and owner of Spirit of the West Adventures owner, Rick, for our Pre-Trip meeting.  It was the first time our entire group got to meet each other!

After the meeting, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at the Inn before driving down island to our lodging at Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge. This place was BEAUTIFUL!  I highly recommend the location and venue.  The lodge was gorgeous and super affordable compared to Vancouver.  They even had a loft room with three queen beds.  Before bed, we drove down the road to Cape Mudge Lighthouse where we watched the sunset.  I was sad we couldn't explore this area longer.

Sunset from Cape Mudge lighthouse on Quadra Island

Day 3 - First Day of Kayak Tour - Water Taxi to Camp and Short Kayak

2.5 hour taxi boat took us from Quadra to camp

We were finally ready for our kayak tour!  This place is remote.  To get there, we took a water taxi 2.5 hours into Johnstone Strait to Spirit of the West's remote camp.  The taxi pilot pointed out notable scenes, told about the history, and was a friendly introduction to the area.  What an enjoyable boat ride!

Once at camp, we all helped unload the gear from the taxi boats and got to explore camp. It is GORGEOUS!  Tent platforms are sprinkled on the cliff side with views of mountains and water.  The open air dining area, kitchen, toilets, and shower were all clean and welcoming and perhaps most surprising of all is the wood-fired hot tub on the cliff side.  I was so excited to be there!

Short paddle on Day 1 - got to see abundant intertidal life

After choosing tents and setting up our sleeping area, we met with the guides and got to get out on the water.  In about an hour kayak, we explored the intertidal life and local scenes.  I saw sea stars, sea cucumbers, urchins, and more.  As marine biology majors, Leanne and I were really geeking out over the organisms.

We wrapped up the day with appetizers, free time, salmon dinner, and a soak in the hot tub.  I fell asleep to the sound of water lapping on the rock beach below.  I was in paradise!

Glamping!  Wood fired hot tub

This is lunch - Spirit of the West Style!

Day 4 - Kayak and Hike to Eagle Eye

After a delicious hot breakfast and coffee, we took off for a day of kayaking and hiking.  We enjoyed kayaking north in search of beautiful views and wildlife.  We stopped for snacks and potty breaks at rocky beaches.  Later we enjoyed a long lunch break with a wide spread of sandwich fixings, fruit, and veggies.

Another great stop was to hike up to Eagle Eye - a orca monitoring station.  At Eagle Eye, there was an informational talk by the volunteer scientists about resident killer whale behavior.  After the hike, we returned to camp hitting mostly calm, smooth waters for our return.
Again, we were greeted by appetizers, amazing meal of chicken and rice, and hot tub time!  I took up the challenge to jump off the cliff into the frigid sea before hopping in the hot tub.

Camp time was a great time to relax, socialize, and undwind

Day 5 - Kayak and Camp

Chose a double kayak with
my sister, Kelly, on Day 3

We headed the opposite way on this day.  Kayaking south, we had flat water for the first part of the day.  We pulled out at snack spots and enjoyed another lunch on a pristine rocky and driftwood covered beach.  Returning to camp after lunch, we hit some wind and slightly rougher seas.  I got my workout for the weekend on this day!

Nachos, tacos, and fondue were the perfect end to the day.  We realized our adventure with Spirit of the West was almost over.




Day 6 - Leaving Camp and Travel to Nanaimo

Our guides: Mac, Bob, and Nicole

The final morning, most of us opted to do an optional early morning kayak.  The tide was in our favor - a low low.  We saw amazing intertidal life and by guide Nicole's suggestion, paddled the 1.5 hours in silence.  The seas were the calmest we'd ever seen with the bluest skies of the trip as well.  It was magical!

Back at camp, it was bittersweet as we packed up our gear and cleaned out our tents for the next group.  Around noon, our water taxi arrived to take us back to Quadra Island.

Humpback!

As we boated down the strait, we reminisced about how (almost) perfect our trip had been - except for the one disappointment of not seeing any whales.  Then to our delight and absolute glee - our pilot spotted a humpback!  We got closer and watched as the whale essentially put on a show - tail flips, fluke slaps and more!  After about 20 minutes we left our whale friend and continued on.  Again, in a magical conclusion to our trip a pod of fifty or more dolphins bow rode our wake for another 10-20 minutes.  It was truly amazing.  All including our pilot expressed joy from the experience.

Completely elated, we pulled into Quadra, grabbed our rental car and got in line for the ferry to take us back to Campbell River.  From Campbell River, we drove to Nanaimo where we spent the night at the Coast Bastion Hotel.  We also had a fantastic Italian dinner in Nanaimo at La Stella Trattoria.

Ali and the dolphins

Day 7 - Travel back to Portland, Oregon

Nanaimo, BC

We took an early 6 am ferry from Nanaimo to get Ali back to the Vancouver airport for her midday flight.  We dropped her off at the Yaletown train station which would take her directly into the airport.  From there, Matt, Leanne, and I drove to Stanley Park.  We wanted to see the aquarium!

Now...Leanne and I have this observation, that on every girls trip, there's some sort of mishap - this is when the mishap finally struck.  Our tire popped right in Stanley Park!  After much frustration on the phone with tire stores and our rental company (thank goodness Matt had international calling), we were able to get the spare tire on.  Since we couldn't drive all the way back to Oregon on a spare tire, we arranged to exchange it for a new rental vehicle in Vancouver.  Matt was determined not to let this influence our plans to see the aquarium however, so we went there first.

After the aquarium, and with a new rental car, we booked it back to Portland just in time to get Matt to the PDX airport.  Leanne and I returned the rental car and went back to my parent's house.

Vancouver Aquarium

Girls Trip 2019 Wrap Up

Me and my companions about to part and get on the Quadra ferry

Girls Trips have brought on a whole new meaning for me.  Now, with young children, it's almost impossible to have five minutes to myself - let alone a week.  This trip is something I desperately looked forward to all year - time when I don't have to care for children, pets, house, and carry the mental load of the family.  I can feel free to socialize, exercise, and relax.

I couldn't do this trip without the amazing support of my parents - who cared for my children while I was away and wholeheartedly support travel and adventure.  I also am grateful to my best friend Leanne who has been my reliable and faithful companion every year.  As I discovered on this trip, her love language is the quality time she spends with me - and she shows it well.  Love you friend!  I'm also thankful for the other companions: Ali, Matt, Kelly, Trux, Lil P, Serb, Dana, Kama, and honorary Brad, Lyndsey, and Kelly.  Everyone was a blast!  Thank you also to our guides Nicole, Bob, and Mac - you guys were great.

Until next year...

Heaven

If you'd like to learn more about my trips or see more photos, follow me on instagram @FreelanceAdventurer and Facebook at The Freelance Adventurer.  Thanks!