Category Archives: attractions

August 23, 2015

Chester-Blandford State Forest (Chester, MA)

After photographing a variety of mountainous, rocky state parks, I thought it was time to mix it up and visit a rocky, hilly waterfall. Initially, we planned on visiting CM Gardner State Park. But, the helpful park rangers at CM Gardner suggested something more picturesque, Chester-Blandford State Forest.

Since it encompasses such a large area (over 2,700 acres), Chester-Blandford has several entrances. The first part of the park we arrived at, Boulder Park, is a rather small area with a pond and a few ill defined trails. But, right from the rocky steps and mossy trails at the entrance it has a unique charm.

The trails also have some unique walkways and structures.

The highlight of the park may be the deep opening off the main trail.

Boulder Rock also has some eye catching plants and wild life.

The pond near the end of the main trail was a nice surprise.

Boulder Rock also had its share of wildlife such as this salamander and mouse.

Alas, our trip to Boulder Rock was over. But, about a mile down the road another entrance beckoned us, the main entrance to the Sanderson Brooks Falls trail of Chester-Blandford.

Pitcuresque views are scattered along the Brooks Falls trail.

Due to the lack of rain recently, the rapids weren’t very, well, rapid. But, the relatively still water and rocky brook provided some good shots.

Sanderson Brook Falls also had a fair share of wildlife such as caterpillars,

Toads

and dogs, like Loona.

After a roughly half an hour trek along some rocky terrain, a number of bridges and some steep inclines, I made it to the falls.

The brooks and falls are sure to be more active during the stormy seasons. But, it is still impressive and worth the trip.

To get the full effect of the falls, click on the short video below.

Is there anywhere in the New England area you would like me to visit?

What are some of your favorite waterfalls?

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2 Comments | tags: brook, brooks, Chester-Blandford, dogs, hike, Hiking, Park, parks, Photography, photos, pond, rocks, waterfall, waterfalls | posted in attractions, Chester-Blandford, dogs, flowers, hiking, New England, park, parks, photographs, photography, photos, pond, road trip, site seeing

August 16, 2015

October Mountain (Lee, MA)

By New England Nomad

Even though it’s only August, today was the perfect day for a trip to Mount October.

Roughly, a 45 minute drive west of Springfield, MA, Mount October is located in the majestic Berkshires. The wild flowers and plant life, which are a staple of the Berkshires, were in full bloom.

The wildlife at Mount October was also abundant.

There were salamanders

toads

caterpillars

centipedes

and dogs!

Olive posed during her walk with her dad

Emily stuck her head out for some fresh air.

While it serves as a campground, the hiking trails are perhaps the most notable part of the state forest. But, the most challenging part of Mount October was the terrain of these hiking trails. Dew and rain made for marshy, washed out paths which made it even more difficult when you had to cross rocky areas. Some parts of the paths were also fairly steep.

Interestingly, I visited Woods Pond earlier this year which is a section of Mount October. The blog for which can be found here. Even though I had already taken photos of Woods Pond previously, I took a few more during my visit at Mount October.

Mount October is the largest state park in Massachusetts. And, despite spending several hours there, we were only able to cover a fraction of the area. Perhaps I’ll come back in the fall.

Leave a comment | tags: Berkshires, campground, dogs, hike, Hiking, Massachusetts, Mount October, Photography, photos, pond, trails, Western Massachusetts, wildlife | posted in attractions, dogs, flowers, hiking, New England, park, parks, photographs, photography, photos, pond, road trip, site seeing, travel, wildlife

August 3, 2015

Mittaneague Park (West Springfield, MA)

By New England Nomad

Legend has it the Native Americans called Mittaneague (pronounced Mit-tin-aig) “the valley of falling water.” The park more than lives up to this description.

Mittineague Park was, without question, the park with the most difficult terrain to travel that I have visited while writing this blog. The sharp inclines, fences furnished with barbed wire and “no trespassing” signs, overgrown brush, unkempt make shift trails and other obstacles made it difficult to photograph.

It is a shame because Mittineague has some wonderful views.

Mittineague also has a tunnel under the railroad tracks that run through the park.

During my visit, the train passed by on the rickety rails.

and kept going…

and going…

and, well, you get the picture…

But, the gem of the park must be its stone bridges and walkways.

Mittineague also has an impressive assortment of trees. They are majestic not just in their stature but also in their sheer beauty.

There is also a variety of plant life and wild flowers.

Mittineague is also teeming with birds

frogs

and, of course, dogs.

Lucy did a great job fetching her frisbee.

Lincoln posed proudly with his mommy.

And Annabelle smiled broadly for her photo.

Mittineague also has well manicured soccer fields and baseball diamonds and its basketball and tennis courts as well as a play area for kids.

Or, the kids can just go for a swim in the various brooks and waterfalls at Mittineague.

Leave a comment | tags: attractions, birds, dogs, Hiking, mittineague, Nature, New England, Park, parks, photographs, Photography, photos, pond, road trip, scenic | posted in attractions, birds, flowers, New England, parks, photographs, photography, photos, road trip, site seeing, travel, traveling

July 19, 2015

Ames Nowell State Park (Abington, MA)

By New England Nomad

Given the less than ideal weather today (gloomy, overcast sky with nagging showers), I decided to visit a “basic” park close to home. Just about 30 minutes south of Boston, Ames Nowell State Park seemed like the perfect place for an uneventful, short jaunt. I was soon to be proven wrong. Ames Nowell is named after, you guessed it, Ames Nowell, the grandson of the 35th governor of Massachusetts. Ames Nowell purchased the land during the the Great Depression when the previous land owner could not afford the taxes for the land. One of the more usually mundane aspects of the park that is usually taken for granite (sorry) is the stones and rocks that are strewn about the park. They seem to be lined and piled in designs and formations. In fact, the entire park seems to be set up with design and aesthetics, perfect for a photographer. Ames Nowell is a 7,000 acre state park with roughly 10 miles of trails (I didn’t walk quite that much but it felt close to that) that encircles the vast Cleveland Pond. Although I didn’t walk the entire trail, I was able to capture quite a few birds during my hike like this goose, for instance. Suddenly, I heard a honking noise. It was momma duck calling and waiting patiently for her (rather large) goslin (no, not that Goslin). There was also this duck who showed me some flying skills There were dogs a plenty at Ames Nowell. I ran into Griffey I met Rusty and Marcus (Marcus is the dog, not the man) Flowers and various plant life is also aplenty in the park. Daisies and lilies among other plants thrive in the park Being that it was a windy day, the water on the pond created some captivating ripples. Ducks, geese, swans and dogs weren’t the only creatures I found at Ames Nowell. I spotted this blue dragonfly buzzing among the trees and plants. Ames also has a number of wooden bridges and walkways over the marshy and rougher terrain. This particular bridge had a brook running under it.

Finally, as I was about to leave for the day, I saw this family of geese being fed by a little girl

Then, they made their way to me, perhaps looking for dessert.

Closer and closer they approached as I photographed. Knowing how protective momma geese can be, I kept my distance until this happened. After eating a balanced breakfast, they left just as fast as they came, babies in the lead.

5 Comments | tags: Ames Nowell, attractions, birds, dogs, ducks, geese, Hiking, Historical, Nature, New England, Park, parks, photographs, Photography, photos, pond, scenic | posted in attractions, birds, flowers, New England, park, parks, photographs, photography, photos, site seeing, wildlife

July 13, 2015

Cutler Park (Needham, MA)

By New England Nomad

If you think all state parks are the same, with all the standard fare, you’ve obviously never been to Cutler Park.

Named for the State legislator, Leslie B. Cutler, who helped the Department of Conservation and Recreation of Massachusetts acquire the land, Cutler Park is majestic in its beauty.

You are sure to find something to like about Cutler Park.

Whether it is the rolling hills,

Transparent water

Or abundant wildlife, such as these robins, chipmunks, moths and even canines…you won’t regret the time you spend there.

Master of camouflage. Can you spot him?

Ever the comedian, Layla stuck her tongue out when I took her photo

Ladybug was wet from her swim in Cutler Pond.

Bodi was a good subject. Too bad I had my telephoto lens on.

Bella decided to cool off while I took her photo

England gave me a big smile when I shot her photo

The 600 acre Cutler Park also boasts an array of colorful plants and flowers. Such as cat tails, chrysanthemums and loose strife just to name a few.

Cutler Park’s trails vary from dirt trails, makeshift narrow rocky trails and wood bridges over the marshy land. The tall trees provide good shade and shelter from the elements. It’s easy to get off the beaten path, literally. But, be cognizant of where you are, Cutler Park is a huge park and one could easily find oneself lost or turned around. Not that I would be speaking from experience or anything.

One thing I noticed that I had not remember seeing before was the clouds reflecting on the shimmering waters of Cutler Park.

Kayakers are prevalent at Cutler Park

People weren’t the only ones having fun in the water. Ducks were dunking and Roscoe was fetching.

Also, off the beaten path you can find a tunnel, presumably once used when the state park was used as a water supplier. Now, it carries graffiti and memories. If tunnels could tell stories.

A rickety staircase leads to some rail road tracks. Weirdly, the MBTA’s Commuter Rail runs through Cutler Park. Granted, it is off the main paths, but it still out of place. At least some people have a pretty view on their way home.

As inviting as public transportation can be, I decided to drive to Cutler Park. But, whether it is by plane, train or automobile, you should visit as well.

1 Comment | tags: attractions, cutler park, dogs, ducks, Historical, Nature, New England, Park, parks, photographs, Photography, photos, pond, scenic, site seeing, tourism, trains | posted in attractions, birds, flowers, New England, park, parks, photographs, photography, photos, site seeing, travel, traveling, wildlife

July 8, 2015

Mount Tom (Holyoke, MA)

By New England Nomad

Sometimes you find treasures in the most unexpected places. Such is the case with Mount Tom. Tucked away off Route 202 in Holyoke, Mount Tom is a 20 minute drive outside of Springfield, MA, is not one of the first parks that comes to mind when you think of the plethora of state parks in Western Massachusetts. In fact, it almost seems to pride itself on being a hidden jewel. Unless you were specifically looking for the park, you could easily pass right by it. While there is not a designated parking lot for Mount Tom and barriers prevent cars from entering the paved trails, you can usually find parking just outside the park. Or, since there are various entrances to the many trails, you can find places to park along the side of the road to the main entrance. The first impression of Mount Tom is slight disappointment. Pretty views of flowers and landscapes are spoiled by chain link fences. However, with some effort and ingenuity, you can work around these barriers. With the aid of some strategically placed rocks and other objects that you can climb, you can get some beautiful, unobstructed views of the park and Western Massachusetts Mount Tom is also a popular spot for paragliding (the speck between the two wires is a paraglider) There are a variety of flowers such as black eyed susans, sumac and daisies . Although various plants are plentiful, I found many of the flowers and plants to be somewhat drab and not artfully laid out. I suppose this does give Mount Tom a more natural feel. But, the colors didn’t pop off like they do at other parks, such as Stanley Park and Prescott Park in New Hampshire just to name a few that I have visited recently. There is also a variety of wildlife at Mount Tom. Both creatures big and small reside at Mount Tom such as frogs, falcons and groundhogs. There were also some chipmunks and a variety of birds that were too elusive for this photographer to capture. We also spotted fresh hoof prints from an animal, most likely deer, that had recently been in the area. Along the way , we found some buildings in disrepair and graffiti riddled because, of course, what else would you do to a perfectly good abandoned structured? Just another example of why we can never have nice things. The graffiti and vandalism aside, the structures gave a nice backdrop to some of the shots. Finally, we arrived at the crater like area of Mount Tom. Although many people lay claim to the inspiration of Mount Crumpit from Dr. Seuss’ Whoville in the story/show/movie How The Grinch Stole Christmas (Squamish in British Columbia for one), Mount Tom is rumored to be the inspiration for the tale. Since Theodor Seuss Geisel (“Dr. Seuss”) was from nearby Springfield, Massachusetts, it is a good chance this is the place that inspired him. See for yourself (and these aren’t even the “best side” of the hill). It’s a long way down there. Be careful. Satanists in Holyoke. Who knew? Having traveled a “good distance” (not to be too precise), we agreed it was time to head back. Along the way, we saw flowers and landscapes that made for fine landscape photography. Bees and butterflies hovered over and landed on the plants, lighting and pollinating them. The orange looking objects in the photos are not flowers but rather butterflies. A brook runs through Mount Tom. The cliffs and jagged rock that formed on Mount Tom were formed many years ago from faulting and earthquakes. This, coupled with the cooling and heating of the Earth’s surface made for some unique shapes and surfaces. Of course, no blog post of mine would be complete without a photo of a dog. None were present during my stay at Mount Tom. So, I made a special stop at Westfield Dog Bark (yes that is the name). Mollly was my obedient subject. But, she seemed more interested in something in the distance. Mount Tom is massive and little did we realize at the time the majesty awaiting us on the other side of the rocky hill. It was only after I had googled images of Mount Tom that I realize many of the other parts of the park that we did not reach. That clinched it. Another trip to Mount Tom is in order.

2 Comments | tags: attractions, Hiking, Holyoke, mount tom, Nature, New England, Park, parks, photographs, Photography, photos, site seeing | posted in attractions, flowers, Mount Tom, New England, park, parks, photographs, photography, road trip, site seeing, travel, traveling, wildlife

June 22, 2015

Woods Pond (Lenox, MA)

By New England Nomad

When one thinks of the jewels of Lenox, places like the Pleasant Valley Sanctuary, Tanglewood and their many historical and cultural attractions come to mind. Wood Pond does not necessarily come to mind at first. It is, however, truly a hidden jewel in the Lenox area of the Berkshire region. Woods Pond, an hour west of Springfield and roughly 2 and a half hours west of Boston is a straight drive on the Mass Pike (exit 2) with a few lefts and rights once you’re off the exit.

If there is one thing Woods Pond doesn’t lack it is scenic views. In fact, after viewing one of my photos taken at Woods Pond, a friend of mine described it as looking like a painting. Although I only walked a fraction of the trails, I was awestruck by the beauty I viewed.

Unexpectedly, the breezy and overcast weather conditions actually provided for some pretty photography. The wind created modest ripples in the shimmering blue water contrasted with the vibrant green hues of the algae.

A variety of flowers and plant life such as babies breath, daisies and chrysanthemums are evident at Woods Pond, just to name a few.

Unfortunately, a common issue with many parks, Woods Pond is littered with trash. Bottles, charred ash from campfires, plastic bags and even the skeleton remains of a de-boned fish are scattered throughout. Like a scratch on the Venus de Milo, this debris stands out all the more against the otherwise pristine environment. People, yuck.

Another issue I did have with Woods Pond goes back to the desecration of the land. To meet the electrical needs of houses that arguably should never have been built in the area, annoying power lines traverse the pond. Also, transformers scar an otherwise picturesque woodland. I can only imagine how many two headed fish we will see during my next visit. Oh yeah, a construction company liberally posts how trespassing is frowned upon. This private property extends from the right side of the trails of the pond, a rather large area.

Those issues aside, Woods Pond is a beautiful pond with an easy trails to hike, bike, walk or jog. And, in case you forget your umbrella, trees provide shelter from the sun and rain. Cars are also allowed on the trails.

There is also a diverse group of wildlife at Woods Pond. Many shrieks and rustling of leaves can be heard. The hard part is tracking down the origins of these noises. I did find these critters.

It was so sweet to see mommy and daddy protecting their babies.

Dogs are also allowed at the park. Patrick was too excited to stand still for a photo.

Also, Woods Pond has a launching area for kayaks and there were several kayakers enjoying the seasonable weather.

Alas, just when you might think your visit to Woods Pond is complete, there is a Train Museum with a functioning rail train. A toy train model and a old time control board are some of the displays in the museum.

Yes, in case you’re wondering, The train still makes trips.

In the rear of the museum, there is a train. The very one that still makes treks out to New York and other surrounding areas (Lenox is only 42 miles from Albany, NY)

With its winding trails, picture perfect and train museum, Woods Pond is definitely a must-see. Just expect to spend a long time. My only regret is I didn’t have more time to spend at this true gem.

6 Comments | tags: geese, Hiking, Lenox Massachusetts, museum, New England, Park, parks, photographs, Photography, pond, trains, Woods Pond | posted in attractions, flowers, New England, park, parks, photographs, photography, photos, road trip, site seeing, travel, traveling, wildlife

June 14, 2015

Bearskin Neck (Rockport, MA)

By New England Nomad

A mere hour and change north of Boston, Rockport is famous for its scenic views, waterfront vistas and quaint setting. I decided to begin my trek at the historic Bearskin Neck.

A cozy, sleepy town just off the beaten path of Rockport Center, I have only one gripe about Bearskin Neck (one which is common among New England attractions); parking. There are a scant 11 parking spots at the edge of Bearskin Neck where most of the tourists congregate and you will want to be cognizant of the time you spend while you’re parked. There are parking meters which do take coins as well as credit and debit cards and it is strictly enforced. Parking is also limited in the Rockport Center area, although you may park in a lot across from the beach in Rockport for $15 for the entire day. Parking is also available at the town’s municipal parking lot. From there, a free shuttle will also drop you off at Rockport Center.

Depending on who you choose to believe, Bearskin Neck’s name can be traced back to John Babson or, more predictably, a bear. According to a sign posted in Rockport, Bearskin Neck got its name from a bear that got caught in a wave and was killed when it came to shore. But, another tale insists it got its name when fishermen who saw the bearskin a prominent resident, John Babson, had left to dry on the rocks that occupy much of the area.

Arriving at Bearskin Neck, I feared I had taken a wrong turn down a pedestrian only road. It is easy to be confused by this since Bearskin Neck is only one small yet busy walkway. But, eventually you will arrive at Bearskin Neck. Be careful while driving o that road as people walked aimlessly throughout the road, stopped to take selfies in the middle of the road and paid little attention to the traffic around them. When you do reach the end of Bearskin Neck you will find a small parking area, a sitting area with panoramic views, and a rocky walkway that ends in a peninsula.

Bearskin Neck is also a popular spot for boaters

In fact, it was once a thriving fishing and lobster trapping area. Now, not so much. But, there are still some fishermen and women who still call it their trade.

Naturally, one of the more eye catching things about the Bearskin Neck section of Rockport are….the rocks.

Lots and lots of rocks

The Straitsmouth Isle Lighthouse is visible from Bearskin Neck. The island is closed to the public. So, unless you have a boat, this is the closes you will get to it

Bearskin Neck and Rockport are a walking area with a quaint feel. Art galleries, independent book stores and gift shops line the narrow, pedestrian streets of Bearskin Neck.

There are many fun activities to do in bearskin Neck from kayaking to palm reading. I would probably do the former prior to the latter just as an extra precaution.

The “other” popular attraction in Bearskin Neck, besides the rocky peninsula, is Motif No. 1. Motif number 1 is a replica of a fisherman’s shack. The original Motif 1 was destructed during the Blizzard of 1978. It has been featured in many classic paintings and even in film

Bearskin neck is also teeming with wild life of all species. For instance, I ran into “Paws” while I was on my journey.

Of course, there are also seagulls a plenty in Bearskin Neck. They are especially fond of Motif No. 1.

This one seemed too shy to fly away.

He eventually decided to go for a dip with a friend instead

This seagull just wanted to get away from it all. But, i still found him.

And then it was on to Rockport center. Yes, that all pictured above happened in the Bearskin Neck section of Rockport – one small road and connecting peninsula. Rockport Center has a more modern feel to it, albeit just slightly more modern.

Most of the noteworthy attractions, such as the Rockport Art Association, are located in the Cultural District on or off Main St.

The First Congregational Church of Rockport has been in the same location since 1805, although other churches with the same name had been at different locations dating back to the 1700’s.

One of the coolest things about Rockport Center, at least for photographing, are the nooks in between buildings that allow for more unique photograph taking

Rockport Front Beach is a cute little beach for boys and gulls of every age. Sorry.

On the way back to my car, Hooda let me take her photo. But, only if she could stand by her dad.

To enjoy Rockport to its fullest, a weekend trip or, better yet, a three day weekend would do it justice. I was barely able to take in a sampling of the main attractions in one day. And, I still missed out on some of the attractions. Beautiful and entertaining places are abundant. I have many more shots I didn’t include in this blog. To date, Rockport has been the most photo friendly, fun place to photograph.

1 Comment | tags: attractions, Bearskin Neck, dogs, lighthouse, New England, photographs, Photography, Rockport, scenic, seagulls, tourism, tourist | posted in attractions, Bearskin Neck, birds, boats, flowers, historical, New England, ocean, photographs, photography, photos, road trip, site seeing, travel, traveling

New England Nomad

Category Archives: attractions

Chester-Blandford State Forest (Chester, MA)

October Mountain (Lee, MA)

Mittaneague Park (West Springfield, MA)

Ames Nowell State Park (Abington, MA)

Cutler Park (Needham, MA)

Mount Tom (Holyoke, MA)

Woods Pond (Lenox, MA)

Bearskin Neck (Rockport, MA)

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