I was incredibly disappointed by my experience with New England Dog Sledding…read more I bought a gift certificate for a dog sledding ride as a Christmas gift. We finally picked a date to use it, and I emailed Steve at New England Dog Sledding to book an appointment. It took a few weeks for Steve to finally get back to me, and I had to send a second email to get a response from him. This was our first red flag. He finally responded and we confirmed a date. The place is a hefty 4-hour drive from Boston. We called a few days beforehand and once more the morning before we left Boston to confirm that we were still on for the sled ride. Steve didn't answer his phone either time, but we figured he was out with other groups on sled rides. We left a message and told him to call us if there were any issues. Four hours later, we arrive at the dog sledding place. No one is there. We call Steve. No response. We call the Telemark Inn, which New England Dog Sledding is affiliated with. No response. Eventually, we turn around, and drive the four hours back to Boston. When I sent Steve an email asking for a refund, he only apologized for the "lack of communication." There was no lack of communication -- we made an appointment that he failed to keep. We actually went out of our way to confirm the appointment with him multiple times, on multiple days, over both email and phone. There's no excuse for this mistake. He finally issued me a refund, but only after quizzing me about what the dog sledding farm looked like, as though I was lying about going there on our appointed day. He was totally baffled as to how we got directions there (spoiler: we went on their website and clicked on the link marked "Directions"). I would have loved to go dog sledding; it would have been a fun and unique experience. New England Dog Sledding really let us down. Don't waste your time or money with them.

We have always wanted to go dog sledding and heard about this place in the middle of our ski trip…read moreat Sunday River. I called the owner and was able to arrange a super last minute trip. Initially we only wanted to go out for about an hour but it was not possible to have the dogs and equipment transported and set up for such a short trip. So we ended up going on the half day trip, which was well worth it. In the beginning we got some lessons and interesting facts from our musher, Andy. We took turns mushing and learning the ways of dogsledding. Halfway through we stopped at a beautiful lookout point for a short break. We thought we might become bored on such a long trip but when this happened we were able to bundle up in the sled and enjoy the breathtaking views. We also got to partake in harnessing the dogs and providing their post journey meal of meat broth. The dogs were super enthusiastic about getting to work and the staff was also amazing. I highly recommend dogsledding, as well as this company.

We had such a fun time during our 5 mile cart ride with the dogs! During our visit, we learned…read moreabout their rescue and got to meet a bunch of the dogs (there's over 80 dogs!). Each one is so excited to meet you and super friendly. We did a 4PM ride which took us into the dark but they had headlamps for us to use when we returned and nice hot drinks. I would definitely come back simply to spend more time with the dogs! It was a cool experience and even better that we got to have some snow on the ground while doing so.

Our visit to Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel was one of the biggest highlights of our family trip to New…read moreHampshire. My husband found it while looking for something unique to do, and what I expected to be a fun winter activity turned into an unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, we could tell this wasn't just a business -- it's a passion. We loved interacting with both the puppies and the seasoned sled dogs who quite literally do much of the heavy lifting. During our sled ride through the White Mountains forest, we enjoyed the sights and learning. The dogs are treated like family, and are happy, affectionate, and genuinely excited to run. One of the most meaningful parts was talking with the mushers and learning how they came to Muddy Paw and how the dogs begin training. We also learned that when the dogs retire around 8-10 years old, many are adopted by families who've taken the tour. I'd be lying if I said my husband, kids, and I don't already have a list of dogs we hope to adopt someday -- we've even reached out to express interest! This is more than an excursion -- it's an experience filled with heart, care, and joy. I can't recommend it enough.

We could have stayed all day just admiring the beautiful view, enjoying the sun and the refreshing…read morebreeze. I wish I could live on this pond in the summertime. It really is big enough to be a lake and it goes by a couple of different names. It was quiet with just a few people around. A boat ride around the pond is ideal to fully appreciate the beauty of of the area.

Diana's Bath is a natural pool with some small waterfalls. The walk from the parking lot is about…read more.6 miles one way, it's a quick and easy hike to reach this gorgeous spot. There is a parking lot and we were able to find parking but I'm sure it gets full at peak times. We enjoyed the hike and the waterfalls. It was in late May so there were quite a few people there. It's a peaceful spot to relax, sit in the pool, and just enjoy nature. I'm glad my family and I got to visit during this trip!

We came here on a nice Friday around 10:00am. When we arrived there was a bit of a wait to get in…read more The parking lot is kind of small so you have to wait for someone to leave to get a spot. When you park there is a kiosk to pay that takes credit cards. At the start of the trail there is a bathroom that is just a big outhouse. It was a little rough so I recommend not using it if you get sick easy. The hike is short and easy to the water. When you get there it is a little tough climbing over rocks and tree roots. We spend time in the water. It was not deep anywhere we were so not really swimming just cooling off or sun tanning on the rocks.

Bigelow Preserve is an absolutely gorgeous state-owned nature preserve in Western Maine…read more Established in 1976, this protected land is open to the public for hiking, camping, boating, fishing, fall foliage, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and so much more! At over 36,000 acres... you're sure to find something of interest. The flora and fauna are just breath-taking and it is absolutely worth a visit! I visited this vast parcel of land with the intent of climbing four out of the seven peaks of the Bigelow Mountain Range that are contained within the preserve. As some of the tallest mountains in all of Maine, I was excited for the challenge. The mountains are named after Major Timothy Bigelow who summitted the peaks in the late 1700s. There are many trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, that snake through this forested playground. The Maine Appalachian Trail Club maintains these tracks and provides caretakers at the backcountry camping sites. From the mountains there are impressive views of Flagstaff Lake and the mountain range itself. Open all year round. One of the most scenic hikes I've completed in a while! Breath in the fresh air and get outside.

Beautiful location with abundant fishing!! Brook trout ranged from 7 to 14 inches!!…read more Accommodations were what you would expect of an off grid camp. Beds and bathroom were clean and water was nice and hot in the shower. Food was good. Prime rib and Thanksgiving nights were the highlight. Breakfasts were outstanding. Boats were in great condition when we arrived. Only complaint was that boats were not cleaned out over the 5 days. Dock worker could have taken a broom or even portable vac and gotten the anchor dirt out of the boat daily. Overall, great trip and a fantastic place to relax. Definitely recommend Tim Pond!

Nice people, good fishing, delicious food and a relaxing environment. Definitely a good place to…read moreunwind. Having to head back to "reality" at the end of my stay was the only downside. Even if you don't fly fish (the pond has native brook trout), Tim Pond is a nice spot to relax. The owners and staff are welcoming and helpful, the cabins are rustic but really charming, and there's a lot of natural beauty and wildlife to take in while you're there, whether you're out on the pond, walking some trails, or sitting in a rocking chair on the porch. This year I went up for the fly fishing school taught by Bonnie Holding, who is, among other things, a Master Maine Guide and extremely patient instructor. I had been doubtful about it at first (I went with my boyfriend), but by the end of the weekend I was yanking fish out of that pond just like a pro. If I'd kept any of the fish, the kitchen would have prepared them for me for breakfast the following morning, but I let them all go. Maybe next time. Speaking of food, the freshly-prepared meals are de-LICIOUS (Saturday night: choice of prime rib or scallop-stuffed haddock) and always include a mouth-watering dessert if you've got room (the brownie pudding was in-CREDIBLE!!). (And really, who doesn't make room for dessert? Silly people, that's who.) And then there's the cookie jar, which is always well-stocked and accessible whenEVER you want a fresh chocolate chip cookie. Yum. Each cabin has a bathroom with hot and cold running water (with a toilet, sink & shower), beds with fresh linens, a wood stove (or fireplace), and a cribbage board for just in case. I saw pictures in the library taken in the early 1900s that suggest that some of the cabins may be original to that time period. Definitely adds to the character of the camp, as does the kerosene lantern you can use when the generator shuts off at 10:00 and you're in the middle of a "best-out-of-three" cribbage match. (No, I didn't win.) If you're looking for swank, this isn't it. But if you're looking to unplug, relax, and enjoy some good meals with good people, Tim Pond is the place to go. :)

Our first stay at this brand new campground! Really beautiful and quiet. Right on the Ellis River…read moretoo! It has a beach and the bath house Is beautiful! We stayed at site 1 with our toy hauler and it's perfect. Nice tables and fire pit. We came with our side by side and this place is on the trail. I would definitely recommend this campground! We will be back! I'm thrilled I have another day to enjoy!

Just WOW!! What a wonderful campground. The atv trail access is literally across the street, they…read morehave amazing overflow parking for side-by-sides, atvs and truck/trailers. RV sites are spacious, they have a variety of different sites: rv, tent and even LARGE camping sites for people with horses with a walking trail to excercise your horses!!! Nice little beach with swimming hole and sand! the grounds are very well taken care of, green lush grass, trees. Staff and owners are very friendly and helpful. Well stocked campstore, lots of games and things for kids to do outdoors or borrow a game from the desk for your campsite, plenty of safe space for kids to ride bikes and explore. Nice shower house. I honestly can't say enough good things. We loved this place.....did I mention they have a beautiful camping trailer for rent AND a glamping tent....ya amazing.

Great facilities here and an interesting layout to explore with some fun trails leading directly…read morefrom the campground. We really liked taking a dip in the swimming area after a day of hiking Mt Madison and Adams which are very close by. Campsite 43 was spacious with fire pit and picnic table, close proximity to site 42 and 41 which were empty for most of our stay. Staff were welcoming, great experience all around

Nice park! Very close to town and the Mt Washington auto road. We had camp spot 34 which was right…read morenext to the bathroom and a few steps away from another bathroom with showers. I usually do not like to be so close to the bathrooms but it was a great location. There is a huge grassy area behind the camp spot which made it feel so much bigger!

This little picnic area is nestled in the downtown area of Belgrade. A few picnic tables, benches,…read moreand plenty of spots to throw a cast. There is a few parking spots right in front and if not too busy across the street. The view is pretty amazing to take in while eating a bagged lunch or take out from one of the eateries in the area. Plenty of ducks to admire too!

Cute little Public park with benches overlooking Long Pond and just steps away from Days Store…read more Seems like a lot of people bring their lunch, kids and read books by the waters edge here. Dogs are not allowed there which I thought funny but did see people with their pets there. Many came to fish for a little while and others came to play their guitar too. Nice quaint spot to stop in and check out in Belgrade.

Maine Trip #1…read more "Something will have gone out of us as a people if we ever let the remaining wilderness be destroyed ... We simply need that wild country available to us, even if we never do more than drive to its edge and look in." ― Wallace Stegner, The Sound of Mountain Water Androscoggin Riverlands State Park (ARSP) first came to my attention while in Maine visiting my family. I had never heard of it before, and when I did some research, I found out why. ARSP opened six years ago, but hardly anyone was using this amazing park. A year ago, they put up more trail signs in order to encourage people to visit, in the hopes that they won't be so nervous about getting lost in the 2,700 acres, 12 miles of river frontage, and 22 miles of trails. History: The Androscoggin River is the 3rd largest river in Maine, and it begins in the mountains of New Hampshire. The Native Americans camped and fished for at least 9,000 years, and they gave the river its name--meaning "plenty of fish." Thanks to riverfront industries, the Androscoggin River became one of the ten most polluted rivers in the country back in the 1960s, but thankfully, the Clean Water Act in 1972 helped water quality improved tremendously. Amenities: * Toilet (outhouse--these things are probably way better than portable toilets. Open-air and wood building makes for no odor. * Large, dirt parking lot * No fee * ATV riding * Canoeing * Cross-country skiing * Fishing * Hiking (trails) * Horseback riding * Hunting (except Sundays) * Kayaking (two water landings) * Off-road biking * Picnicking * Snowmobiling * Snowshoeing * Watchable wildlife * Carry In-Carry Out * Pets welcome (on a leash at all times) * 8 old foundations show the community that existed here before 1927 I had a wonderful time hiking the Homestead Trail. It has several different terrain and lots to see. Unfortunately, I didn't know exactly how far the trail would go, so I turned around. (I now have a trail map and will post it.) At one point, I did lose cell signal so be prepared for that. Make sure you bring bug spray! I didn't see a single soul while I was on my hike, which is wonderful for me. I love the solitude and the "wilderness" at ARSP. I think you will too.