Can’t Miss Resources
June 13th, 2008 by KimTravel and weather have kept Sadie and I from doing any paddling recently (but I’m hopeful that we’ll get out briefly this weekend to explore some place new or familiar). In the meantime, here are some sites and resources that if you don’t already know about, you’ll definitely want to tag.
- American Canoe Association (ACA): ACA provides a wealth of information about canoeing and kayaking. From places to paddle to education and stewardship, it’s a site worth exploring. Be sure to explore the safety section of their web site to brush up safe paddler skills. And if you want to plan the ultimate paddling adventure, take a look at their directory of water trails throughout the country.
- Northern Forest Canoe Trail: Speaking of ultimate traveling adventures, be sure to learn more about the NFCT right in our own backyard. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a long-distance paddling trail connecting major watersheds across the Adirondacks and Northern New England via 22 rivers and streams and 56 lakes and ponds. In the 740-mile trail across New York, Vermont, Quebec, New Hampshire, and Maine, paddlers can trace history following the traditional water routes used by Native Americans and early settlers. Visit the web site to learn more about the trail and consider joining or donating your time to support their mission of celebrating the rich human history associated with the trail and environmental stewardship.
- Guide to Kayaking With Your Dog: This article from Topkayaker.net is a great introduction to the steps involved in teaching your dog to be a responsible K-9 kayaker and feel secure at the same time. Throwing your dog in the kayak or canoe without a proper introduction is one of the worst things you can do to build the confidence of your dog. This introductory guide will give you some terrific pointers and appropriate steps to take. Also be sure to watch for Go-Paddle’s own version of “Teaching Your Dog to Kayak” coming soon.
- New Hampshire…Love It or Leaf It: Looking for more places to paddle and enjoy the outdoors in New Hampshire? This local blog will provide you with more places to paddle as well as great biking, fishing and outdoor recreation in NH (and sometimes beyond).
McDaniel’s Marsh
May 29th, 2008 by Kim
First looks can be deceiving. That’s certainly the case when you arrive at McDaniel’s Marsh in Enfield, NH. At first glance you see a relatively large body of water, but you can see the shore and you’re sure it will be a short day of paddling.
In all actuality, McDaniel’s Marsh is larger than popular Grafton Pond (and a lot quieter on the weekends). As you paddle the quiet waters you’ll discover the marsh continues on for quite some distance and well beyond what your eyes thought they saw.
Lots of birds make their homes here. From wood ducks and canadian geese to red-wing blackbirds and a number of tree sparrows, bird-watchers will find this an enjoyable location. A number of abandoned beaver huts may lead you to believe that the beavers have long since abandoned this marsh. But, the last time I paddled here, several beavers made it clear that this was their home and I was not welcome.
McDaniel’s Marsh is a quiet place to paddle with only one house along the shore and close to the boat launch. A few nicely cleared locations on the bank allow for a nice lunch break or opportunity to stretch your legs.
This is definitely a place to paddle in the spring and early summer. Late summer paddlers may find the vegetation too dense to paddle through successfully.
All in all, when other paddle locations are too busy for a comfortable or quiet day, McDaniel’s Marsh is an excellent place to go.
How to get there: From Take Route 4A to Bog Road (just outside of Enfield Center). Follow Bog Pond Road all the way to the end where it meets George Hill Road. You’ll see the boat launch right with ample parking in front of you.
The boat launch: Easy gravel and shallow.