I truly could not have picked a better weekend. The weather was absolutely perfect! Is there a word for "better than perfect"? Because if there is, then that's the word I'd use. Bright blue skies, 65 degrees and a slight breeze. No bugs!! A perfect weekend to spend outdoors hiking in the woods.
We left early on Saturday morning and stopped first at one of our favorite places - The Tilt'n Diner. No waiting, even though it was Saturday. And a great, big, yummy breakfast for about $25.
Next we stopped at The Flume
There is just no way to adequately describe the beauty of the Gorge. Along the way there were other interesting things to see.
This is Purple Trillium
A bridge before we get to the Gorge.
Despite the gorgeous, sunny day, it was a smidge chilly so close to the water and high, granite walls.
Walkway leading in.
Stairways right up against the granite walls.
The sun was way, way up!
After you're through the Gorge, this is Cascade Falls.
And then there's a rather pleasant walk through the woods to return to the beginning.
Just up the road from The Flume is The Basin
A natural rock formation carved into the granite by the force of the water.
We finally got to see Echo Lake on a beautiful day. We've only ever seen it in the rain!
We both thought the water was a bit chilly.
Back to our hotel to re-group. I can guarantee this photo was staged!
Then up to Littleton, where we had a rather disappointing meal at Grill One-Eleven. Should have checked Trip Advisor!
They did have a very nice downtown. However, at 7pm on a Saturday night, not much was open!
Tag would really have liked to look in this store!
This place was open. It was named "Bad Art". Of course Hubby found a place that sold used records!
Back to the hotel to attempt a swim in the pool. The "heated" pool water was very cold, and the tiny hot tub was crowded. So we only stayed a 1/2 hour then went to bed!
In the morning......another disappointing hotel breakfast. :( I had threatened to skip the hotel breakfast and find something better, but Hubby said cereal and yogurt was fine with him. Next time I'll insist!
We left the hotel and headed out onto the Kancamagus Highway. 32 miles of trees and water!
One of my favorite stopping spots is Sabbaday Falls. Again, pictures don't do it justice.
After a 1/3 mile walk in the woods, you come to the falls with a big long set of stairs to go up to the top.
Some other pretty flowers!
And our last stop along the parkway was the Lower Falls. I was excited to put my feet in the water.....for about 2 seconds!
The Lower Falls were spectacular with all the spring run-off.
Hubby relaxed on a rock!
I had a lot of fun climbing on the rocks!
We finished the drive to the end of the Parkway and stopped in North Conway, where we indulged at Zeb's Country Store, and checked out some antique shops and bookstores. We also stopped at the NH Artist Guild, which is always awe-inspiring!
We capped of the weekend with lunch out on the deck of the Muddy Moose.
A great way to turn one free hotel night into a lovely weekend getaway!
