Today is the first day of spring! However, let’s face it, Mother Nature loves winter and is making it linger. Who knows what she has planned for us in the upcoming weeks? But whatever Mother Nature does we hope you get outside and enjoy all that spring in New England has to offer! So while we make the slow transition into spring, here are our suggestions for Dog Friendly Adventures for whatever stage you find yourself. For more information, including directions, current weather, photos and more, click on the highlighted name. And as always, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page for all of our recommendations for tail wagging fun.
End of Hibernation: For those of you who have been hibernating all winter, for your first outing we suggest Downtown Newburyport, Massachusetts. The Harbor Walk and adjoining park is a great place to stretch your legs while enjoying a little people watching. Also be sure to stop by Pawsitively Best Friends to pick up a delicious treat to celebrate your return to civilization.
Cabin Fever Cure: With the ground still covered in snow and more on the way, Kingman Farm Trail in Madbury, New Hampshire is a popular destination for dog friendly winter hiking. A very active trail, on any given day there are snowshoers, cross country skiers, snow bikers, and the occasional horse. Oh and lots and lots of dogs, of course! Yet with approximately 334 acres, Kingman Farm Trail does not feel crowded and offers open fields and extensive trails for hiking.
Get It Before It’s Gone: Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine will soon be off limits to dogs starting on April 1st. But there’s still a little time left to enjoy a stroll along this paved walkway with spectacular views of the quintessential Maine coastline.
Spring Thaw: Let’s face it, all this snow has to melt eventually. Say goodbye to it with a visit to Chesterfield Gorge in Chesterfield, New Hampshire! The 0.7 mile Wilderness Loop Trail follows Wilde Brook and winds its way around both sides of the gorge, with scenic views of the series of waterfalls.
Choose Your Own Adventure: Consisting of over 10,000 acres and 40 miles of trails, Mount Agamenticus in York, Maine offers endless opportunities for dog friendly hiking. With hikes ranging from easy to difficult, there’s something for everyone. From the summit, on a clear day there are views of the Isles of Shoals, Cape Elizabeth, Casco Bay, the Boston skyline, and the Presidential Range including Mount Washington. Perhaps you’ll even see signs of spring!
Who knows what Mother Nature has planned for us in the weeks and months ahead? But whatever the weather, we hope you get outside and enjoy all that spring in New England has to offer! Happy Spring!
