NH QUIET WATER PADDLING

(Update – August, 2009)

Maintained for AMC by Beck

Seer 62 hotmail com

Download a PDF Version here

Added in 2009

                Ballard Pond

                Gilman Pond

                Hoit Road Marsh

Merrymeeting  Run,  Merrymeeting  River – Section 1, Merrymeeting  River – Section 2

                Mountain Pond

                Stumpfield Marsh

                There is also a correction  removing a put-in to Little Dan Hole Pond - restricted area.

Ballard Pond                       Delorme   16-E7   (Added June 2009)             Rough relative size – 100 acres

                Route I-93, Exit 4   Derry

                Route 102 East through Derry

                Take Route ‘Bypass 28’ South at small traffic circle (there is no sign – turn right)

                Continue to intersection of ‘Bypass 28’ and Route 28 (R 28 is on right)

                Turn left on Island Pond Road (Between clam restaurant and trailer sales)

                Go approximately 3.5 miles

                Ballard State Forest and Sawyers Mill on Left

                Unload by Mill, then park across street or along road

Because of the heavy summer traffic on Route 28, and depending on your need for solitude, fishing, or company, you may want to carefully choose when to do this rewarding, matured, attractive, and undeveloped pond.  For solitude and for avoiding vegetation overgrowth, spring and fall would be best.  In season, it is a popular fishing spot for those who want that.  A trail around the pond and the pleasant mill area make it a comfortable spot for family picnics, but no toilet facilities are available.  There are actually two ponds.  Access to the main pond is only through the lower millpond and a short carry across a dam.  The millpond is small, narrow, and deeper than the upper pond, relatively free of vegetation other than lily pads.  Putting in at the first dam, you will cross that millpond in a few minutes, cruising through the lily pads and passing folks sitting, walking the trail, or fishing.  At the higher dam, there is an undeveloped carry path on the right.  The informal put in for the second pond brings you to an expanse of vegetation-rich shallow water and its wildlife.  The vegetation does fill in during the summer, but the sharp eye can find a channel through much of it, until reaching the marshier far end.  

Bearcamp Pond                                                  Delorme   40-F4                   Rough relative size – 200 acres

                Route 25 North from Moultonborough

                Through East Sandwich

                Left on Bearcamp Pond Road

                After a road bend, two adjacent accesses are on the left, perhaps a mile from route 25

                                First access – public (parking is very limited)

                                Second access – “Tamworth Town Permit Required - $50 fine.”

This is an aesthetically attractive, somewhat developed, quiet, mountain-surrounded pond with plenty of natural beauty:  A varied heavily wooded shoreline opens to an inlet through a marsh in the northwest part.  Since it is locally popular, off-season paddling will provide more privacy and less parking competition.  The locals tell me that they have never had a problem parking in the restricted lot during the off-season, but to be respectful, law-abiding, and worry-free an inquiry to the town offices might be worthwhile.

Big River                                                              DeLorme 36 K-7 

                Route 28 North from Epsom traffic circle or South from Alton

                East on Route 126 at Center Barnstead

                Pass Post Office, Suncook Kayak

                Across from Fire department on left

Take driveway into Library parking

Fork left on dirt into recreation area

Go left around skating rink to put-in

                Upstream is to the left (NE), downstream (South - merges into Suncook River) is to the right

The privacy and beauty of this little, not “big,” slow current river will surprise you.  Going downstream from the put-in, you can meander for some time, exploring bays and channels, or take a nice paddle all the way to the dam at Pittsfield.  A pleasant variety of older evergreen and deciduous trees lines the channel.  The water surface, banks and bottom display many forms of life.  The chirping, shady zones, occasional fisher-folks and stillness provide idyllic peacefulness.  At Barnstead Parade, the channel widens to become pond-like.

Turning left to go upstream from the put-in, takes you through a narrower channel whose beauty continually increases.  Depending on water depth and your willingness to do mild carries and ignore false endings, it can take you on a ways.  In spring, you can scoot across the few small logs and shallows that may cause a carry in lower water.

Blackwater River – The Bay                          DeLorme 35 I-9 

                Route 4 southeast from Andover or northwest from Salisbury

                Take Bay Road south

                Look for unmarked narrow dirt roads on your right (There are two of them)

                These short roads lead to the pout-in and parking

The bay is a still widening of the Blackwater River that has created a marsh and pond.  You may find it a delightful place for a family trip.  The access road off Bay Road leads to a wide sandy put-in that can serve as beach or picnic area.  The Bay is a wide pond at that point, but if you go in either direction, you find interesting marshes, channels, peninsulas, and a varied shoreline.  Going north through the meanders will eventually enable you to tour the Blackwater for a bit, but the river stays close to the highway.  Going south provides opportunities for exploration.  A few houses may be visible, but is mostly undeveloped. 

Bog Pond                              DeLorme 35-E8                                   Rough relative size – 100 acres

                Route 104 east from Danbury or south from Bristol

                Gould Hill Road south, 2 miles east of Danbury – 10 miles west of Bristol

                The first put-in is at a dam on your right - Danbury Wildlife Management Area

                Turn immediately right around the dam for the second put-in

                                One mile – road crosses narrowing of the marsh – put-in is on right

This is a classic narrow channeled marshland, quiet and mostly unvaried.  Not an exciting place, it is just a good place to simply be with nature. It is a perfect place for a long paddle in the sun, enjoying the ducks, blackbirds, and water life.  You may prefer the second of the two put-ins, since it is more quiet and rustic.  In addition, a wooded picnic area adjoins the put-in parking place.  From this more southern put-in you can paddle sinuously south for quite a distance.  Where the channel seemingly abruptly ends, you can carry across the beaver dam and paddle through a small swamp before the channel disappears.  The northern part of the area can be reached either from the first put-in or by passing through a corrugated medal tunnel under the road.  As you head north after the tunnel the channel slowly widens and opens and some houses come into view.  Near the northern put-in, where there is a dam it widens into a pond.  This is a perfect location for one way paddling, leaving a bicycle at one end to return to your car.  You could also easily walk the mile between the two. 

Brindle Pond                       DeLorme 36-J7                    Rough relative size – 100 acres

                Route 28 (N) from Center Barnstead

                Pineo Road (E)

                Boat launch on left

An undiscovered, still wild, treasure that is just now on the edge of development attempts.  One house is in view at the east end, but it is not obtrusive.  Shallow with pretty summertime vegetation it is highly varied.  Many beaver lodges, a beaver dam at the west end (where route 28 traffic may slightly distract the senses), and wildlife.  Includes wooded shorelines, areas of swamp vegetation which can be canoe or kayak whacked at some times of year.  At the east end, a long marshy channel narrows before ending.  Having now grown in, the wide turnaround area at the end is not accessible.  You will have to back paddle for a short distance.  Low-power motorboats occasionally and lightly use it, but it is too stumpy to attract many.  Old hunting blinds may offend some folks, but there is no evidence of recent use.

Chocorua Lake                   DeLorme 41-C8                                   Rough relative size – 200 acres

                Route 16 (N) from Chocorua

                There are two obvious put-ins

An enjoyable lake with good scenery, a great view of picturesque Mount Chocorua, a beach and nice paddling, but the sounds from Route 16 will remind you of civilization most of the time you are there – tourist abundance may also.  Development is not obvious, except for the road-hugging park.

Copps Marsh Pond                            DeLorme 40-K7                                   Rough relative size – 200 acres

From Route 25 in Moultonborough, East on Route 109

Or from Route 28 in Wolfeboro, West on Route 109

                At intersection of 109 and 109A, east on 109A

                                .1 mile, look for unmarked dirt road on left

                                Dam and put-in are at the at end of the short road

I may be letting out a secret, because this seems lightly accessed.   In the midst of the Lake Winnipesaukee motorized hubbub, there is an isolated and undeveloped marshy lily pond.   Small appearing at first approach, it is much larger when you are on it, perhaps 150 acres or more.  Nooks, bays, side-channels and irregularities will keep you there a while.  Islands, several types of ducks, heron, redwing blackbirds, mountains, bird songs, a wall-to-wall carpet of lily pads showing their white and yellow flowers, and a variety of movements and buzzings will warm your soul.  Though created by damming, the pond has the feeling of a natural and wild isolated northern pond.  Few sounds intrude from the outside world, and only occasional hints of buildings on 109A emerge.

Connecticut Lakes                             DeLorme 53 - various sections  

                First Connecticut Lake - not for family fun unless you like big, windy, powerboat heavens

                                Route 3 (N) at The Glen

            Second Connecticut Lake - not for family fun unless you like big, windy, powerboat heavens

                                Route 3 (N) at Idlewild

                Third Connecticut Lake - a pleasant smaller lake – about 300 acres with good backdrop.  Not                                                        developed.

                                Route 3 (N) on left near Canadian customs

The first two are huge lakes, if you like that kind of paddling, but not recommended for quiet water aesthetic paddling.  The waves can quickly get nasty, even in moderate winds.  There is some beautiful shoreline paddling where the big boats don’t travel, but paddling it must be balanced against the distances and weather risks.  The third is smaller, and a nice paddle if you are in the area, but not worth a special trip for it.  However, you might want to combine it with a visit to East Inlet, which is worth the trip (Scott Bog also, but it has not been tested out for you).  The Connecticut River in that area is also a nice paddle, but under the frequent spell of traffic noise.

Dan Hole Ponds                  DeLorme 41-I8                                    Rough relative size – 300 acres

From the intersection of Route 28 and Route 16 in Ossipee travel west

Turn left on Old Route 16 (Main Street) toward Center Ossipee (also called Moultonville Road)

In Center Ossipee, pass though town, bearing left in the village’s “business district”

Pass the general store and laundry on your right, eventually pass a dam and small pond

After some distance, turn right on Valley Road

(Careful - the Blake Hill Road and Valley Road signs may be turned)

At 1.5 miles, Valley Road bears left at a sign pointing to Roland Park.

The right of the Y goes to a campground, which you may opt for visiting or seeing if                          they have a put-in fee.

After .2 more miles on Valley Road a shallow put-in to Little Dan Hole Pond may tempt you,                                         but please be respectful and do not use it.  It is both private property and a                                               wildlife refuge. 

You have three choices:

                                1.  Paddle Little Dan Hole Pond from the campground, a pleasant short paddle

                                                At the south end broken down dam, a hidden portage is on the left

                                                Carry uphill 100 feet to a dirt road:  Go right for 150 feet to Dan Hill Pond

                                2.  Put in on Dan Hole Pond from the campground. 

                                3.  About .5 miles from the road Y, tennis courts and Garland Road are on the left

                                                Opposite them on the right there is an unmarked access road to Dan Hill Pond.

                                                Parking, however, will accommodate  no more than two cars at a time.

Being in a “hole” within the Ossipee Pipe (an eroded volcanic pipe), both Ponds are surrounded by the Ossipee Mountains:  Similar to the rounded and rough Green Mountains, they provide a nice aesthetic.  Large campgrounds complete with large boats have, though, invaded each pond – which may or may not appeal to your style and tastes.  Although I had a peaceful August paddle here, I will probably only return in early spring or late fall, outside of camping season, unless I decide to camp to enjoy it more slowly. 

Dan Hole is crystal-clear.  In most places, its bottom makes you believe that a master artisan has carefully pieced slabs of granite into a sloping pavement.  Where there is no pavement, the bottom is mostly flat and sandy, not mucky.  The eastern shoreline is varied and continually interesting, protected by a nature conservancy.  Docks, campsites, and houses line much of the western shore, but all was quiet and friendly while I was there on an August Monday.  The southern shoreline, inaccessible to you except by your boat or by camping at the Baptist Campground there, hosts that and a children’s camp.  Please be wary:  Dan Hole is big enough to produce large chops.  Its geography draws winds, which varied greatly and came up suddenly even during the two hours of the sunny day that I paddled there.  Sail-boaters love it. 

Deering Wildlife Sanctuary                            DeLorme 26-H7                  Rough relative size – 50 acres

                From Hillsborough, route 149 (S)

                Clement Hill Road

This will lead you into a small maze of dirt roads that make it a little difficult to get to this place, but consider it an addition to the adventure.  You will get there and it will be worth it.  You will find a small delightful pond, plenty of room for walking about, a swamp that you can kayak in - at least some times of the year - and nice scenery. 

Dubes Pond                          Delorme 28-I4                      Rough relative size – 100 acres

                From Manchester, south on routes 3 and 28

                At Martin’s ferry, East on route 27

                After Easy Drive on left

                                Look carefully for a “Conservation Area” sign and a small dirt road going uphill

                                You will be crossing a brook at that point.  That is the parking area.

(If you reach Rowes Corner @ Chester Turnpike, you have passed it.)

When you first look at the pond two things will capture you mind, beauty and water skiers.   If you are put off by the water skiing, you may miss a gem.  There is a single defined water skiing channel in the center of the pond.  You will soon lose sight of it and will not even hear I after a bit.   A marsh to the right will quickly draw you to it.  You may already draw a curious beaver out.   Enjoy an exploration there and then head north along the shore.  You will soon be among islands and heading into the discovery of marshy channels.  Eventually you will see a tree line across a marsh.  You are then in the northwest corner of the pond.   If you are an adventurous explorer, you will find channels through the marsh to the trees that cover a low ridge.  To your delight, you will see another pond across that barrier ridge.  It is an easy carry to the other pond, which has no other entry.  Both ponds are aesthetically and wildlife rich.  Although almost within Manchester, you will fell as I you are far from civilization.  .

East Inlet                              DeLorme 53-C9                   Rough relative size – 50 acres plus stream

                Route 3 (N) in Connecticut Lakes region

                Enter a logging company road on the east side just short of Deer Mountain Campground

                                Signs will guide you, but take a good map

It is a long way north, just south of Third Connecticut Lake and feeding Second Connecticut Lake.  Yet, if you are in the area, this is a wonderful pond and bog with much wildlife.  The stream on the north end will take you farther than you might wish to go.  This is a wildlife management pond created by human damming, but it has a natural tone.  The access road is a little tricky to follow (watch for the sudden turn at an intersection), but it is well maintained.  The area is completely undeveloped.

Everett Lake                       Delorme 27-H12                  Rough relative size – 100 acres

                From Goffstown, West on Route 114

                (Signs will lead you to Cough State Park)

                Right onto Parker Station Road

                After a mile, right fork

                Another2.5 miles right onto Clough Park Road

                                Two miles to Park

                                Option 1 - Enter Park and turn right

                                Option 2 - Pass Park entrance

                                                Go about two miles

                                                Take Mansion Road, which veers to left

                                                .5 miles Mansion Road veers to right

                                                .5 miles - Go straight on partly maintained road

                                                1.5 miles - Pass gate on left, or enter if open

                                                Continue to bridge and put in there

                                Option 3 – Just past the usually locked gate in option 2 above

                                                Take unmaintained dirt road (rough) on left

                                                Nice (unintended) parking/picnic area is at end

                From the North

                                Route 13 west from Concord

                                Route 77 west from Pages Corner

                                Take Ray Road or Sugar Hill Road south

                                Turn Left from Sugar Hill for all options above

                                Or turn right from Ray Road for Northern options, left to enter for Park

Everett Lake feels more like a large pond than a lake.  For a facility constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers, it is amazingly natural and not sterile.  U shaped, the northern tips of the u are the most scenic and natural.  If starting at the Eastern U tip, from the unmaintained road, there are two bays to play in before passing a more formal put-in to the south, a looming dam, and a truly nice beach with all facilities.  Completing the U, you will skirt a perimeter that takes about an hour and a quarter at a moderate pace.  Lilly pads, shoreline flowers, a private natural beach, isolated picnic tables and pleasant scenery will pass by.  Nearing what appears to be the western tip of the U, you may assume as I did that the higher power ordained nothing but white lilies for this water. A patch of yellow lilies, though, may draw you toward it, as if a lure.   Rounding a bend behind the yellow patch, a sea of vermillion flowers (Pitcher plants, perhaps, but I am not an expert) draws you into a bay with a pronounced channel. The channel takes you a short way up the Piscataquog River, through accents of pinker flowers.  After returning to your car, you may want to take advantage of an additional paddling option at the southern end of Ray Road.  Park by a small dam, then head up a stream to a small pond that has no other access.  Generally a pleasant spot, this lake seems a wonderful family location for a day of sun and paddling.  (If you really want to make it a full day, Stumpfield Marsh   (about 100 acres) is a nice small paddle a sort way north of Route 77 via Sugar hill Road)

Exeter River                        DeLorme 23A&B-14  

                Routes 27, 101, 108 or other to Exeter

                South on 108

                Pass Phillips-Exeter Academy

                Left on Bell Avenue

                Put-in is in Gilman Park

                Alternate put-in if you want to camp

                                Exeter Elms Campground further south on 108

This is a long, winding, slow moving stream.  With no development intruding, other than the unobtrusive campground several miles upriver (south), the bustle of Exeter quickly fades away.  Tall trees, hanging moss, a great variety of plant life in the water and on the shore make it a wonderful treat.  Depending on the season, you may come upon ducks, heron, beaver, and many song-birds.  The many side channels, backwaters and marshes could fill a big part of a paddling day.

Garland Pond                     DeLorme 40-H3                  Rough relative size – 100 acres

 (Note:  There is another Garland Pond, small in a WMA)

                From Moultonborough, at intersection or Routes 109 and 25

                South on Route 25, about a half-mile

                Look for restaurant on left (east side) and Garland Pond Road on right (west side)

                                You may begin to back out of the road, thinking it is a driveway

                                                Keep going, passing the house on its right

                                                Caution – it would be wise to walk the first fifty yards before driving

                                                                It appears overgrown, but is not – does have a slightly high center

                                                Parking area is in a ways, on a good road

                                                                You may want to carry or wheel from there

Checkout the road to the small put-in.  It might be OK for you.

This is the second of two huge secrets hidden within the bustling Winnipesaukee/Squam area.  Like Copps Pond, it is completely isolated, surrounded by conservation land.  Partly marshy and mainly open, this is a long pond surrounded by appealing hillsides with varied vegetation.  You will feel and be alone here, rapidly loosing the Route 25 traffic noise as you move north.  At the northern extremity you can follow a sinuous smooth river for perhaps a mile.  You cannot go the distance here, though, without enjoying the skims or carries over beaver dams as you soak up the true wilderness.  You will probably want to stop at or after the fifth dam.  With a smaller boat, you can go further, but by dam number eight – if you can find it - you may decide that further effort is not worthwhile. 

George Pond                       Delorme 34-C2                                    Rough relative size – 100 acres

                From Enfield Center – South on Route 4A

                At Fish Market look for intersection of Bog Road on right

                First put-in is at Bog Road and Route 4A, just past bridge

                Second put-in is .1 miles up Bog Road on left

A small pond that is a treat you could only discover by “accident.”  This is an undeveloped and unspoiled marshy pond with a variety of animal and plant pond life.  Using the marshy first put-in, I disturbed about fifteen ducks.  The pond that the marsh leads to yielded a kingfisher, redwings, pond-skimming birds of some sort, turtles, and plenty of jumping fish.  The serene wildness was a joy.  At first seeming small, it increased in size and led to a clear feeder channel that extended to the culvert crossing under bog road.  A compulsive paddler could do the perimeter in an hour, or you could piddle-around for two hours if you like.  You might choose to combine this with a trip to McDaniel’s Marsh at the far end of Bog Road.  On Bog Road, you will also see a Forestry sign for a walk-in to Coles Pond – distance unknown.

Gile Pond                             Delorme 34-K6                    Rough relative size – 50 acres

                From Interstate 89 Exit 10 at North Sutton

                Turn south from ramp to immediate left on Gile Pond Road

                Pass New North Road on right (old North Road is other side of I89)

                Secondary Put-ins – more rustic and good for picnics

                                Turn Right on Gile Road

                                Look for pine grove on left – at least two informal put-ins

                Main Put-in

                                Pass Gile Road to parking area on right

This is a completely undeveloped scenic pond surrounded by low hills with mountain views from some locations.  Good shoreline and tree variety makes it a pleasant place to be, but some noise from I89 may intrude. 

Gilman Pond                       DeLorme 37-E8     (Added June 2009)           Rough relative size – 50 acres

Alton

                From Alton, Route 28 North

                Pass large Catholic Church on left

                Turn right on Gilman’s Corners Road

                Watch for a long straight driveway on right  

                                Recreation area sign on left of driveway near the road. 

                Put-in is at end of drive.

                Back your car out to the parking area after unloading

Except for a large house set back from the pond at the far end, Gilman’s Pond is undeveloped.  Take note of the huge beaver dam near the put-in and continue down the pond. You will begin on a clear pond with a pleasant view, water lilies, a partially rocky shore, downed trees, and water shrubs.  After the first island that you pass, the pond becomes increasingly shallow and marshy.  Depending on the time of year, your playing in the channels may lead you into temptation from a far side return channel.  It will be fun to explore, but a dead end. 

Grafton Pond                      DeLorme 34-C3                   Rough relative size – 250 acres

                From Grafton Center take Route 4A (S), south of Fish Market

                Grafton Pond Road angles to the east (Hard to spot – pay attention)

Among the best places in New Hampshire, Grafton Pond is an undeveloped delight.  Large enough to provide a lot of variety, natural features separates it into small zones, which are calm and peaceful, many feeling enclosed.  The scenery is great and includes islands, rocky shores, varied tree types, much wildlife, huge boulders in the water (some of which you can sun on) and peninsula to explore.  It is protected, as part of the Grafton Pond Reservation.  Bring a picnic and enjoy the picnic area at the boat launch, (sometimes a bit crowded), or sit on the dam and enjoy the sun.  Undeveloped and not overused. 

Great Bay                            DeLorme 30-I1                    Rough relative size – 4000 acres

                1. From Newmarket, Route 108 south

                                Just before Lamprey River

                                Left (east) on Bay Road, 4 miles to Adams Point

                2. From Newmarket, Route 108 south

                                Cross Squamscott River Bridge

                                                Put-in is just past bridge –access road not maintained well

1. Put–ins also at Sandy Point and Weeks Point
2.                                 Route 108 south to Route 33
3.                                 Route 33 northeast, check map for local roads north, such as Depot Road
4. In Newmarket, on the Lamprey River, near the bridge

                This is a magnificent tidal estuary.  Huge, it offers much for all levels of paddling and boating.  For the take-it-light folks, put in at the Adams Point end and head up the tidal part of the Lamprey River to Newmarket.  (Adams Points may or may not be the Research Center where we put in.  If not, the Research Center is another option.)  It can make for a nice day if you have lunch there and then return with the tide.  You may want to do it the other way, starting at Newmarket and returning or leaving a car or bicycle at Adams Point.  Whatever way you do it, be aware of the tide and plan for it.  You will want to be riding with it, not against it.  Also, be prepared to cross open bay water.  It is often smooth, but gods are sometimes pranksters.

Great Hill Pond                  DeLorme 40-C5                                   Rough relative size – 150 acres

                From North Sandwich – Route 113A (N)

                6.5 Miles

                Turn right on Pease Hill Road

                Left on Great Hill Road

                At .4 miles look for dirt road on left – just before a small bridge

                                Signs on each side “No Trespassing with Bear Dogs”  “No ATV’s”

                Pond is 600 feet in

                                Caution – after 200 feet the road may be too bumpy for low vehicles

                                                You can park and carry or wheel-in for 400 feet

This is a gem of natural beauty overlooked by the Wonalancet and Sandwich Mountains.  A greatly varied, sometimes marshy, shoreline outlines low tiers of vegetation and an open view of forests and mountains.  A central island and a peninsula provide a nice aesthetic.  While I was there, the peaceful stillness was the best part.  Please be aware that the land and water are private property, but open to public use and give this gift the respect it deserves.

Hoit Road Marsh                 DeLorme 28-B1 (Added July 2009)             Rough relative size – 200 acres

                From Concord, Loudon Road North (Route 106)_

                106 North to Loudon

                At Route 129, left into Loudon

                Pass South Village Road on left

                Pass Fox Pond Road on left

                Pass North Village Road on right

                Left on School Street

                At about 4 miles School Street Becomes Hoit Road at Concord city line.

Put-in is on the right a short distance beyond the city line

Conveniently located within the city limits of Concord, this is a pleasant, unspectacular, place for quiet paddling.  Yellow and white lilies, blue heron, songbirds, and typical marsh vegetation adorn this seemingly natural (though dammed) location.  The popularity means you will have some company during fishing season and summertime.  The traffic on Hoit Road takes away from the serenity at first, but the sounds disappear quickly.  The pond at the put-in gives way to four shallow, heavily vegetated bays that are fun to explore.  The inlet feeds the second bay on the right, providing additional opportunity for the adventurous.  At first approach, the channel seems blocked by a small downed tree, but it yields easily to a boat bottom.  With a little effort, a kayak can cross the six or so uncompleted beaver dams or downed sapling parts, built up by debris accumulating behind them.  Canoes will have more difficulty.  The fourth bay from the right is the farthest out and largest and has the thickest lily pad cover, making you work a bit for your pleasure.  It is an easy to get to and nice place to paddle. 

Hubbard Pond                    DeLorme 20-H5                  Rough relative size – 200 acres

                Cathedral Rd. or Squantom Rd. to Squantom

                Hubbard Pond Rd. (E)

This is a terrific place surrounded on three sides by state forest and providing a view of Mount Monadnock.  With much variety, a good size, and little development, you can spend a good part of a day exploring the intricacies.  The marshy areas support varied wildlife and provide shallows for skimming through varied vegetation.  There is open water if you like it, but you can avoid it by sticking to the island-studded edges and marshy areas.

Kimball Pond                      DeLorme 27-I14                  Rough relative size – 50 acres

                Dunbarton Center                                               Bow Center

                Route 13 (S)                                         Wood Hill Rd. (S)

                Black Brook Rd. (E)                           Morse Rd. (W)

                Snow Rd. (N)                                        County Rd. (S)

                                                                                Kimball Pond Rd. (W)

This is a great undeveloped, midsize, dammed pond with greatly varied features.  The main pond can be paddled in an hour and a half, if you cannot contain yourself and enjoy a slower pace.  There are two large beaver dams at the far end, however, with the Great Marsh ponds beyond them.  Portaging over the one that is to the west provides a wealth of paddling opportunity.  It probably fills in too much as summer progresses.  Best to do it in spring or fall. 

Long Pond – Benton          DeLorme 42-I7                    Rough relative size – 100 acres

                Off route 116 between Benton and Boutin Corner

                South on Long Pond Road – narrow dirt road  (Previously North South Rd.)

                                or

                From Glencliff on Route 25

                North on Long Pond Road (Previously North South Rd.)

Rocks, spruce, birch, water flowers, loons, heron, ducks, beaver, islands, marshes, channels (dead end mostly), and moose (locals say) if you play your cards right.  That is the flavor, but nothing can describe the peacefulness and quiet, when the loons are still, or tranquility of this pond.  Seemingly undiscovered, it maintains its natural beauty with elegance that you may find that is yours to enjoy alone.  There are waterside picnic areas, restrooms, and viewing platforms, just right for some folding chairs at the launch site.  The paddle around is about an hour, if you are an obsessive paddler, or longer if you want to absorb the quietness, or explore the nooks, islands and bays.  I did both.

Manning Lake                    DeLorme 36-F5                   Rough relative size – 200 acres

                Gilmanton Iron Works

                Route 140 (W)

                Crystal Lake Rd. (N)

                Becomes Guinea Ridge Rd. (N)

                Right on unnamed road after campground road

While approaching Manning Lake you may be concerned by the over-development of Crystal Lake as you pass.  Manning, however, is protected on roughly three sides by nature conservancy land.  It is a scenic spot with, at least sometimes, a fair amount of wildlife - loons included.  It is good for a couple of hours of nice paddling in solitude (perhaps more populated during the summer).  Returning in 2004, I found that the conservation group had allowed the development of a Boy Scout camp.  They have placed large docks in the bay where the loons were most frequently active and cut out a swath from the woods.  It is still a good place to paddle, with varied shoreline, clear water, and a mountain view, but its charm has tarnished.  This was the first time I did not see loons there, but I cannot say they are gone.  

Marcus Wildlife Sanctuary                             DeLorme 40-I4                    Rough relative size – 25 acres

                General - From Route 109 in or Route 25 in Moultonborough follow signs to the Loon Center

                                You will be next door to the paddling attractions

                From Route 25 in Moultonborough take Blake Road southeast (right if coming from the south)

                Look for Access Road on the right

                                You will immediately see Lee’s Pond (The name is displaced on DeLorme maps)

                Continuing along Blake Road takes you to the Loon Center on a perpendicular road

                If you turn right on that perpendicular road, it will take you to a Lake Winnepasaukee bay

Lee’s Pond is a protected environment within the otherwise hectic Lake Winnepasaukee region.  A natural lake deepened slightly by a dam, it has a large central island, a varied shoreline that invites exploration, some marshes at the northern end – but also some traffic noise from Route 25, woodlands, and rocks that invite maneuvers.  Motors are limited to 7.5 horsepower, but I saw none, only two canoes.  The nearby Loon Center has wonderful hiking trails and information: It invites picnickers to use its screen-enclosed deck. 

While there, I also put in at the public landing on Winnepasaukee and explored the bay to the left, which did not tempt big motors.  Circling a small house on an island, I had a delightful conversation with the owner who thanked me for making a channel through the lilies and her teen-aged daughter who waded to pop my displaced skeg back into its normal place.  I tried to find a route into the marsh that the Loon Center hiking trail skirted:  Failing that, I returned with a collection of arm scratches and a kayak sporting broken bush-limbs.  After the waning of summer growth, I may try it again. 

McDaniel’s Marsh                             DeLorme 34-E2 and others               Rough relative size – 500 acres

                From Fish Market, South on Bog Road

Or Exit 13 from I89 to East Grantham

Route 114 to West Springfield

North on George’s Hill Road

                (Note: it is a hard to see this V-shaped intersection with 114)

                At intersection of Bog Road and Georges Hill Road

                                The Marsh put-in is directly across from Bog Road on the east side

An apparently natural marsh, the low dam at the put-in has formed a pond with marshy edges.  When you arrive, note the location of tall evergreens on an island directly across the pond.  When you arrive at that island, after exploring the pond edges, pass on the right to enter the shallower marshland, noticing the huge beaver lodge on the island’s edge.  You may then think that you will spend your day pushing through an apparent wall of pickerel weeds and lilies, but if you bear to the left a good channel will open to view.  That will windingly take you to the end of the marsh at its source in an evergreen forest.  McDaniel’s has all the features and life of a classical marsh, but provides an openness of view often blocked by high grasses in other marshes.  During summer bloom, you will pass through varying “fields” of color, which will alone make the trip worthwhile.  If you have time, you might want to combine this with a trip to George Pond at the far end of Bog Road or a hike into Cole Pond halfway along Bog Road.

Meeting House Pond Sanctuary                    DeLorme 19-E14                 Rough relative size – 50 acres

                Marlborough

                Route 124 (S)

                At Thatcher Road there are roads east, unnamed on the map

                                Explore and enjoy – you will get there

This is a small pond, but well worth the trip.  Although you can circle it in an hour, it has nice marsh and island features, and is completely undeveloped.  There is much wildlife, hiking trails to beaver ponds and other features, and it has a great picnic spot. 

Merrymeeting Run                            Delorme 37-G8 to 37-H9  (Added June 2009)

From Alton Bay (Winnepasaukee) to new Durham    

                See directions below and piece it together any way you like.

If you are willing to do a carry for perhaps a hundred yards going between the Alton recreational facility and the dam, you can pass by the dam and spend a long day on the Merrymeeting - simply combine Merrymeeting River section 1, section 2, and Merrymeeting Marsh #1 (not Merrymeeting Marsh #2).

Merrymeeting Marsh #1                  DeLorme 37-H9

                From Alton

                Route 11 (East)

                Put-in is on the right, clearly marked, just before a bridge

A long, sinuous, marsh meander, for as much of the day as you want to play.  It will take a while to lose the Route 11 traffic noise, but once you have, both the silence and the sounds will intrigue you.  There are many side channels to trick you and trap you, so keep a wary eye, drag a long string from the boat launch, or drop breadcrumbs on the water.  I have done it several times and still have much exploring to do.  By the way, if you want to see just how dark a marsh can get and how hard it is to follow a channel when it does, lose track of the time as I did one afternoon. 

Merrymeeting Marsh #2                  DeLorme 37-G9                   Rough relative size – 400 acres

                From Alton

                Old route 11 (Briefly north from the traffic circle, turn right)

                Perhaps a couple of miles, road on left (north), unnamed on my map

                                (Or go on to Brackett Rd. (going north))

                                (The unnamed road may be Chesley Road)

                Follow this road along Merrymeeting Marsh

                After a bridge at Merrymeeting Pond on left (or called Marsh Pond)

                                Begin to look for a left parking area with a large wooden sign

                                Put-in is hidden at far end of the parking area and down a small hill

This delightful paddle starts out in classic stream beauty.  Before or after the thickness of summer vegetation, and even during it if you are hardy, you can take a side trip just before Merrymeeting Pond to explore a not too obvious route into a beaver dam with a higher pond behind it.  Vegetation is varied and summer birds are fun.  Being a wildlife management area, all sections of Merrymeeting Marsh have waterfowl in season.  I once had a beaver swim along in front, as if guiding me back to the boat launch (or perhaps away from its lodge). 

Merrymeeting River – section 1                    Delorme 37-G8    (Added June 2009)

From Alton to Alton Bay and Lake Winnepasaukee

                Traveling west on Route 11 in Alton

                Left turn on route 140

                After a short distance, turn right on S Curve Road

                                Across from Fire Department

                                Between a Pond and Merrymeeting River

                Pass a dam on the left and look for town recreation area on left

                Turn into recreation area

                Put-in is at end of parking area

                (There are public and paid put-ins in Alton Bay – water sometimes rough)

In spite of its proximity to roads, this is a lovely sinuous and mostly narrow paddle.  It takes you under a bridge, through marshy areas, and on to boat yards at the lake.  If adventurous, you could paddle the lake for a short distance to the docks on the left and have lunch at one of the restaurants. 

Merrymeeting River – section 2                    Delorme 37-G8   (Added June 2009)

From Alton

                Traveling west on Route 11 in Alton

                Left turn on route 140

                Pass the Fire Department on the left and the pond and road on the right

                Cross the Merrymeeting River. 

                The put-in is immediately after the bridge on the left                 

                                (Please take care to leave put-in access open for others)

                                Alternate put-in is across the bridge, by the Fire Department.

This is a nice slow water paddle from one side of Alton to the other.  With difficulty for finding an informal way off the water, you can get off the river at the Route 28 bridge, if you would like to have lunch at the tasty seasonal deli/restaurant, or risk the walk across the traffic circle on Route 11 to McDonald’s.  If you cross under the bridge, you are then entering the western side of Merrymeeting Marsh #1, where you can paddle to exhaustion of you like.  (See Merrymeeting Marsh #1 above)

Mountain Pond                   DeLorme 45 –F11               Rough relative size – 100 acres   (Added June 2009)

                Chatham

                From North Conway, route 16 North

                Turn right on 16A after passing through Intervale

                At Lower Bartlett, turn right onto Town Hall Road.

                                (It may become Slippery Brook Road)

                After 2.5 miles, the mountain road becomes a dirt road for 4 miles.

                There is a well-marked parking area.

The lengthy dirt road drive and the uncomfortable (but not prohibitive) carry make the pond a bit difficult to get to, but it is well worth the prices it exacts.  After 1/4 mile (perhaps fifteen minutes), of carry-in you will come upon a trail that loops around the pond.  Turn left.  About 100 yards along the trail a short trail on the right takes you to the put-in. Staying on the loop trail will take you the camping shelter near the end of the pond, should you want to stay a while.  Mountain Pond’s clear crisp water, partially rocky shoreline, varied vegetation, and natural beauty, are soothing treats, a wonderful place to be.  It is not a huge pond, but you will not feel in a hurry to complete your circuit.

Nubanusit Lake                  DeLorme 20-A2                   Rough relative size – 650 acres

                Hancock

                Route 123 (N)

                Hunts Pond Rd. (W)

                Kings Highway (N)

A big U-shaped lake it can be fun to paddle but is usually windy and rough.  Developed with many large houses, most of which have boats – some large, it is a popular fishing destination.  It does provide portage access, however, to Spoonwood Lake, (straight across from the boat launch), which is a treat.  There are campsites on Spoonwood, managed and reserved through a private club – membership cost is low (see Spoonwood Pond below).  Nubanusit boasts one of the few Bald Eagle nesting trees in New Hampshire (follow the shoreline to the right and honor the roped-off area).  Although there was concern that the Eagles had left after raccoons ravaged their nest, they are still there in 2004.  There are a couple of swimming holes, one with a rope swing, across from the boat ramp.  Be aware that Nubanusit is heavily developed.

Pawtuckaway Lake           DeLorme 29-H9 (Big lake – this is a good place to put in)

                                Rough relative size – 900 acres

                Route 43                                                                               156

                Parade Road into Deerfield                                               Nottingham

                Nottingham Rd. (E) – becomes Deerfield Rd.                Deerfield Rd.  (W)

                Watch for boat launch signs to the south.                      Watch for boat launch signs to the south

This can be a beautiful place to be, but open water can get rough in the wind.  If you stay at the northwest end, you can convince yourself that it is totally undeveloped, while absorbing Mother Nature's good stuff.  If you want to explore further, go down the west side and enjoy the islands.  At the south end, you will find a big campground and facilities, and some nice paddling through bays, some of which are developed.  The east shore is heavily developed.  Pawtuckaway has many features for off water exploration, including a fire tower that is open to the public, gentle hiking trails, a road to a delightful small wood-pond that you could canoe or kayak, and many roads to walk. 

Pillsbury State Park Ponds  (This is not Pillsbury Pond)            DeLorme 26-D2  

                                                Rough relative size of largest pond – 200 acres

                Washington

                Route 31 (N)

A delight for anyone, the ponds at Pillsbury State Park can be a family delight.  Even the drive will lift your spirits as you move more deeply into nature and ascend into changing vegetation.  Scenic picnic areas and a playground enhance the potential water adventures.  This is a lightly developed, dispersed park, with primitive (toilets available, but no showers or other amenities) sites on and off the waterfront and a separated group camping area.  Some sites are isolated from the others and some are across water.  Portage trails are available between the ponds and at least three ponds are accessible directly by car.  In a beautiful unspoiled natural setting, the small ponds offer a variety of experience.  It is a great place for picnicking and pop-in paddling, or a longer adventure of exploration.  During my first paddle, loons allowed me to watch them feed small fish to their young.  The largest beaver I have ever seen paddled alongside, quietly exchanging fifteen minutes of coexistence on the planet with another grandfather.  

Piscassic River                    DeLorme 29-J12 (Name not on map) 

                North of Epping and south of Lee

                Route 125

                Turn east on Route 87

                Small put-in where creek crosses 87 (Construction during 2004 may make this difficult)

                Second put-in at intersection of Routes 27 and 125

This is included with hesitation, because it is probably not good for a family outing and involves some work.  Take fair warning not to head north of Route 87, unless you bring a machete and like that kind of paddling.  The trip south will also make you earn the first 200 yards or so, but it is worth the small extra work.  Tree falls further along the river may cause an occasional carry.   It is not a long straight-line distance, but meanders extend the distance.  The isolated river meanders through surrounding vegetation that varies as you travel.  Pleasant nature in the raw will engulf you.  During the spring the current is strong, flowing from Epping northward, causing one strong quick-water spot (which may require a carry during low water) at an old dam near the Epping end.  A more mild quick-water section appears a little further along.  I like entry from the northern end on route 87, because I prefer to be with the current during the return.  The traffic noise also fades more rapidly at that end.  .  

Pleasant Pond                     DeLorme 27-G8                   Rough relative size – 50 acres

                Route 114 north of Weare

                East to Chase Village

                Paige Hill Rd.

                Reservoir drive (W)

                Upper Craney Hill Rd. (N)

                Deering Rd.

This pond has little development and sits comfortably in open country.  It is not a highly interesting place to be, in terms of features, but is a good place to swim, picnic and see the surrounding country.  It is a truly pleasant paddle.  You could comfortably combine it with a trip to the Deering Wildlife Sanctuary.  Locals speak highly of the pond, saying that it has kept its character for many years and that only low-power boats are allowed.

Robartwood Pond and Campton Bog                           DeLorme 39-F10 

                I93 Exit 27

                Bog Road West (there is a sign on the ramp)

                2.4 Miles to Beech Hill Road on left

                Access is immediately visible

                                (I prefer the grassy slope to the right, where the water is shallow.)

A quiet water paddler’s playground, this pretty pond (with houses only near the put-in) soon becomes a wide meandering channel through marshes.  You may be thrilled to hear the water flowing over the nearly two foot high beaver dam at the pond’s end before you actually see it.   To the left of that dam is a short portage to the raised Campton Bog (think which end of your boat you will want in the water – little turnaround space).  With its many bays and channels, the bog is a treat.  When you think you have run out of water, look for a narrow channel on the right:  It will provide some more play time. 

Salmon Falls River (small section of marshy paddling)            DeLorme 37-F14 

                Forms NH ME border

                Route 125 south from Union or north from Milton

                East to Milton Mills

                                Through Laskey Corner

                                On Branch Road (unlabeled and perhaps renamed)

                North on Jug Hill Road, at Country Store in town center

                Pass Milton Mills Post Office on left; drive another 0.3 miles to Hopper Road on the right

                The first put-in is about a half mile up Hopper Road, by a bridge, above a dam

                The second put-in is farther along the road, but has less parking.  This is the better end to paddle.

This is not a large area, but it is unspoiled and fun to paddle.  After putting in, head north to get the most wilderness, moving away from the road and minor development.  After a short marshy paddle from the more northerly put-in, a broad channel will narrow at a beaver dam.  During high water, you can paddle over it.  The rest of the time you will carry, but it is fun and worth the effort.  The channel narrows and becomes lightly sinuous, with marshy side channels, some deceptive.  Numerous redwing blackbirds, swallows, dragonflies and other things of the air will greet and accompany you.  About halfway up, a false channel will pull you to the right towards some cabins, but it is fun to explore.  The main channel is to the left through marsh, with opportunity for playing.  Toward the end of the marsh, the roles reverse with a smaller channel pulling you to the left.  The slightly longer and more open paddling opportunity is on the right.  Both channels end at new beaver dams of green wood, not yet mudded in.  You can cross, but you will not yet find much paddling beyond them.  The dam at the more southern put-in would be a nice place to picnic.

Shellcamp Pond                  DeLorme 36-I4                   Rough relative size – 150 acres

                Gilmanton – Intersection of routes 140 and 107

                West on route 140 – short distance

                Meadow Pond Rd. (S)

This is a pleasant small pond with an irregular shoreline and varied vegetation.  You can usually be sure of a smooth and gentle paddle, even on days when wind whips up the nearby big lakes.  Development has increased in the last three years, no longer restricted to the south end of the pond, but you will enjoy the paddling. 

Spoonwood Pond                               DeLorme 20-A2                   Rough relative size – 150 acres

                Hancock

                Route 123 (N)

                Hunts Pond Rd. (W)

                Kings Highway (N)

                Paddle across Nubanusit (heading at 1:00 before you) or turn right from the boat launch to follow                                                 the shore.

                                At opposite shore, use short, marked portage trail or carry over dam

A quiet, nature-sweet, moderate sized pond with interesting features, accessible only by a short portage across a dam separating it from Nubanusit Lake.  It is a good place to spend a day.  There are campsites, but they are reserved for members of the Harris Center, a nature group that manages the pond.  The nearby Harris Center has hiking trails and other activities.  To reach Spoonwood, you cross Nubanusit Lake, which is always windy and sometimes rough, but a nice place to be.  Nubanusit boasts one of the few Bald Eagle nesting trees in New Hampshire.  Spoonwood Pond itself is not developed, but Nubanusit is. 

Stumpfield Marsh              Delorme   27-F10 (Added August 2009)     Rough relative size – 100 acres

                Route 9/202 east from Henniker, about 5 miles

Right on Stumpfield Road, just before bridge over Hopkinton Lake

or

                I89 west from I93 south of Concord

                At exit 5 enter route 9/202 west

                After crossing Hopkinton Lake at 1.5 miles

                                Turn left on Stumpfield Road

                Stumpfield Marsh sign and road are on the right at about 1.7 miles

                                Just before a long set of guardrails

 The parking area adjoins an area of needle-covered ground under a grove of tall white pines, which could be a nice spot for a light picnic near a crystal-clear stream and the sounds of the water flowing across the beaver dam.  From the easy put-in, three elusive and shallow channels lead into the natural and undeveloped beaver marsh.  The one at about 11:00 from the put-in is the easiest to find and has slightly deeper water.  The marsh is not large, but there are plenty of opportunities for exploring channels, weaving around hummocks and islands, and finding hidden coves, all while surrounded by a pleasant and interesting variety of vegetation.  Spring or fall may be better than summer for your excursion, unless you truly enjoy the sound of hull against lily-pads, the moderate effort required for paddling through the lily leaves, pickerel weed, and tall grasses.  Even in the more open spring or fall water, you will probably chuckle over the sudden hang-ups on unseen mud hummocks or logs.  There are many delights while on the water, including silver dollar sized floating snail shells - complete with matching snails, four huge heron nests in two barren tall trees, and at least two beaver lodges.  Perhaps you will even have the treat of seeing three huge herons in another barren  tree, or the high-soaring hunter circling above.  The inlet was not accessible during August, but it would be a good guess that the marsh will seem larger outside of growing season, maybe even opening to the inlet.  

Umbagog Lake                   DeLorme 51-F10 (A big lake – this is a good put-in place)

                                                Rough relative size – 8000 acres

                Errol

                Route 16 (N)

                Pass dam

                Look carefully for lightly used roadway on right

                Often thought of as too windy and rough, except for passing-through adventure travel, Umbagog has some beautiful tranquil spots.  If you put in at the (fairly well hidden and lightly used) boat launch at the wide spot on the Androscoggin River (west of what is called Sweet Meadow on the maps) then paddle east, you will have great treats in store.  Those treats are more likely to include Moose than most New Hampshire paddling places.  There are marshes to explore on the way and it is a nice section of the river.  When you enter Umbagog, you are in an island area that is fun to paddle and has campsites (Reservations needed from the State during active times).  Much of the northern sector is good paddling.  You can also go farther north to the ranger station for a put-in and come down the Magalloway river, but the scenery becomes repetitive.  It is not a fast river in that section.  The Magalloway River and some sections of Umbagog have development in some places, but not in the northwest section of the lake. 

(Name unknown) Pond                      DeLorme 26-J7  (On Falls Road, off Old county Road)

                                Rough relative size – 50 acres

                Hillsborough

                Route 149 (S)

                Old County Rd. (S)

                Falls Rd. (W)  (Left)

                This is shortly after the intersection with Wolf Hill Rd. on the right (if going south)

If you visit this little known beaver pond, you will want to send your god (if you have one) a thank-you note.  You will be thrilled from the moment you see the nearly century old beaver dam that parallels the road.  (Put-in is at far end of the dam.)  Although the trip around it takes little more than an hour, it is through islands and marshes, with swallows darting above your head.  The variety of surrounding terrain and island vegetation will please your soul.  It is just a truly nice place to be.  Bring a lunch, because there are plenty of places to get out and enjoy - but, especially here, "pack it out."  There is only one house to betray the solitude, perhaps built before the pond and surrounding 200 acres were gifted to the NH Conservancy.  The house is at the far end.

White Oak Pond DeLorme     39-I14                              Rough relative size – 300 acres

                From Holderness – East on Routes 25 and 3 toward Meredith

                Put-in is just before the White Oak Motel on your right

                                Look for the pond and a small intersecting road at a sharp angle to the right

The road traffic and the development around the put-in may give you a negative first impression, but both rapidly disappear.  There are a few small docks scattered about the lightly developed pond, but there are no powerboats:  Although there is an expanse of open water, motors are limited to 7.5 horsepower.  A truly nice, quiet, mountain-surrounded pond with heavily wooded shoreline, this has several islands, backwaters, bays, and a long input channel eventually interrupted by a beaver dam.  I did not cross the dam during my trip, but there is at least some paddling opportunity on the other (higher) side. 

Wickwas Lake                    Delorme 35-B14                  Rough relative size – 350 acres

                Route 104 between Meredith and New Hampton

                Meredith Center Rd. (S)

                Chemung Rd. (W)

A very pretty lake with much variety, including marshes, short streams, and islands.  Nice wooded shoreline, although now partially developed.  It is best to find a time when motorboat traffic is likely to be lower, unless you enjoy their company.  Pretty and quiet in the spring and fall. 

Willard Pond                      DeLorme 26-K4                   Rough relative size – 100 acres

                Route 123 (S) from Route 9 to South Stoddard

                Willard Pond Road on left (if headed south)

This is a delightful place to be.  Usually calm it has many interesting features, great backdrop, and lots of nature in the raw.  An Audobon Preserve, it has only one house, near the boat ramp.  People swim at the boat ramp and there are plenty of islands and rocks for additional swims in the Pond.  To round out a day bring a picnic, and use the hiking trails around the pound or up the mountain.  You will return, probably more than a second trip.