“If there is to be peace in the world, There must be peace in the nations. If there is to be peace in the nations, There must be peace in the cities. If there is to be peace in the cities, There must be peace between neighbors. If there is to be […]
Author: Andrew Reynolds
Howdy folks! My name is Andrew Reynolds. I've lived in New Hampshire for more than 4 years, and I recently graduated with a B.A. in Journalism from Keene State College. To put it simply, I'm a writer and photographer who loves everything about the outdoors--including but not limited to kayaking, mountain-biking, fishing, swimming, camping, backpacking, hiking, rock-climbing, picnicking, walking the dog(s), and meditating at a peaceful vista.
If I had to describe myself (and, therefore, my blog) in three words, I would choose the following: curious, adventurous, and quirky. I think curious fits because of my interest and passion in learning and education, which pushes me to research on my own as well as talk to the experts about the science and history behind our environment (ecology, geology, biology, astronomy, etc.). Adventurous is representative because of my everlasting wanderlust and dedication to adventuring to the state's countless "hidden gems," tranquil day-trips, and other interesting escapades. Lastly, but most importantly, I chose quirky because of the perspective I like to offer through this blog. Being disconnected from our natural environment has intense consequences, not only for our personal health and sanity, but indirectly for the well-being of others--present and future. One of the biggest reasons for why I enjoy the outdoors so much is because it's the most satisfying way for me to break out of the bubble, stray from the hustle-bustle, and gather a fresh outlook on what's truly important in life. I hope that documenting and sharing my experiences in this blog will serve as a vehicle to inspire more people to understand, care for, and appreciate our environment, as well as the health of our planet and its inhabitants. Happy (and safe) trails everyone!
Enjoying Nature’s Candy at Pitcher Mountain
If you liked my most recent post on the early summer blueberries at Greenfield State Park, get your hiking boots ready and grab a container to pick all of the wild blueberries you can eat at this week’s destination–Pitcher Mountain Fire Tower in Stoddard. Located in the midst of the Andorra Forest in southwestern New […]
Taste of Summer “Blues” at Greenfield State Park
It’s the beginning of another summer at Greenfield State Park, marked by its signature sights, smells, sounds, tastes, and feel. My skin sizzled under the simmering sun while a smokey scent of burgers and hot dogs on the grill wafted around me. Bountiful blueberry bushes stood tall against the shoreline, waiting to be picked. The […]
Pawtuckaway is for Paddlers
It has been said that no animal better symbolizes northern wilderness than the common loon, who has lived in this area longer than any other bird–an estimated 60 million years. However, like our enduring environment, this magnificent bird is in considerable danger. So, before the loon is completely pushed out of its natural habitat, Amanda […]
From Railroad to Rail Trail: A History of the Cheshire Recreational Rail Trail
At 160 years ago this month in the small town of Keene in Cheshire County a large crowd gathered on Main Street eagerly awaiting the arrival of something most of whom had never seen or experienced before. More than 5,000 people lingered in joyous anticipation, all seeming to concentrate around a specific crossing of newly-laid […]
Lightweight Hiking and Picnicking at Miller State Park
This week an old friend and I visited New Hampshire’s oldest state park Miller State Park off of Route 101 in Peterborough. Ever since being established in 1891 the park has been a popular destination for hikers and all-day picnics made famous by its 360-degree vistas, awe-inspiring picnicking areas, and clear views of the surrounding […]
First Paddle at Clough State Park
My favorite season is finally here! It’s so invigorating to finally experience the sensory extravaganza that spring brings. I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of seeing all of the budding trees, smelling the fragrance from the new flowers and grass, feeling the relief from a sweet breeze against the sun’s warmth, hearing the symphony […]
Through the Rhododendron Tunnel
Aptly named after its 16-acre rhododendron grove, Fitzwilliam’s Rhododendron State Park is ideal for a picturesque picnic and a serene hike. Featuring universally accessible trails, the park is perfect for all ages. As New Hampshire’s only botanical park, Rhododendron State Park has a lot to offer for nature- and flower-lovers alike. It is most famous […]