New Hampshire is the kind of state that offers plenty of ways to get outside. But "getting outside" doesn't have to mean a hearty hike through the wilderness. In a lot of areas it can mean just stepping out your front door to appreciate the breeze and the sound of the trees. There's no better way to clear your head than by taking a walk outside in the Granite State and this is a great way to do it in a leisurely way.
Created in 1992, The Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge has been a dedicated place of protection for native wildlife and migratory birds for more than two decades. It's located in Newington on the eastern shore the Great Bay.
Visitors will find more than 1,000 acres of wetlands including marshes, swamps, mud flats, streams, ponds and streams. There are also plenty of woodlands and fields to enjoy.
There are two routes to explore the area. The William Furber Ferry Way Trail is considered moderate in difficulty and runs just under 2 miles. The Peverly Pond Trail is comprised entirely of boardwalks, making it wheelchair accessible. It's also a lovely way to explore the area for those who are a little unsteady and want to avoid rocks.
The trail, which is a half-mile can be accessed via the trailhead on the left side of the parking lot.
The first part of the walk will take you through forest. This is lush and green in the summer months and if it's hot you'll enjoy the cool feeling of being shaded by these giant trees.
Soon you'll arrive at Upper Peverly Pond.
Here there's a small observation deck overlooking the pond. It's a great way to experience the sights and sounds of the area which often includes birds and breezes.
After taking a look, follow the trail left along a stream and the vernal pools. This is a great way to understand more about the ecological landscape of New Hampshire.
Then, you'll head to the end of the boardwalk back at the parking lot where you started.
In addition to offering a relaxing way to enjoy nature, The Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is wonderful for wildlife viewing. White-tailed deer can be found during the summer along the Ferry Way Trail. Throughout the area you might come across a variety of birds including
goldfinches, ruby-throated hummingbirds, Baltimore orioles, and yellow warblers.
Fall is a great time to visit if you love foliage. But also be sure to keep an eye out for migratory waterfowl, beavers and porcupines.
The Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is open throughout the year from sunrise to sundown. Be sure to stay on the designated paths. Unfortunately, you'll need to leave the furry (and even the non-furry!) pets at home for this outing. To learn more check out their website here.
For another boardwalk hike go ahead and explore the Philbrick-Cricenti Bog in New Hampshire for a unique outing.
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