Friday, September 1, 2023

ORFS - Kayak, Hike, Sculptured Rocks - Newfound Lake Via Grey Rocks Conservation Area

Proud to be in Outdoor Recreation for Seniors
ORFS!

Who are the ORFS?  Join ORFS, an active 55+ year-round group to walk, hike, and kayak throughout the Lake Sunapee and Upper Valley regions.


Scheduled events take place each Tuesday beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the designated activity location.

Today's Tuesday trip takes us to Newfound Lake

Where is Newfound Lake?

Newfound Lake is located in Grafton County, New Hampshire. It is situated in the Lakes Region of central New Hampshire, in the towns of Alexandria, Bridgewater, Bristol, and Hebron.

A pristine, spring-fed lake surrounded by undeveloped land.

Reaching down 183 feet, Newfound Lake is considered to be one of the deepest lakes in New Hampshire. It’s also thought by some to be among the cleanest lakes in the world. Explore the lake’s 22 miles of shoreline, which include nature preserves, hiking, year-round events and unprecedented stargazing.

How do the ORFS get there today from New London, NH?

178 N Shore Rd
Hebron, NH
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From New London, NH follow Route 11 East, turn left on Route 4, and follow 7 miles to Danbury. Turn right on Route 104 East and follow 9 miles to Bristol. Turn left on Route 3A North and follow for 8.8 miles. Turn left on North Shore Road and follow for 1.6 miles to 178 North Shore Road, Hebron, NH.

Presenting our trip today in three videos:

First Video is the Put-in at The Grey Rocks Conservation area



The Grey Rocks Conservation area provides a gateway to Newfound Lake and the Cockermouth River. Ample free parking is available. One can paddle along the shores of Newfound Lake near Audubon property where Bald Eagles nest. You can also paddle for a couple of miles up the Cockermouth River on smooth water.



 For ORFS hikers, a system of trails winds through the heart of the Cockermouth River delta with observation platforms for views. Wander the level and well-marked trails and enjoy the serene surroundings.  Bring your chairs and lunch to enjoy near the boat launch.

Green is Start
Blue is Current Position

The second Video is Take-Out at Gray Rocks Conservation Area




Third Video is Sculptured Rocks Geologic Site

Sculptured Rocks Natural Area, which spans 272 acres, is a unique example of nature's powerful yet delicate artistry. The Cockermouth River carved a narrow canyon in bedrock on its way to Newfound Lake, beginning as the last ice age drew to a close. Nature used grains of sand suspended in the current to carve the walls of the canyon into curious shapes and create potholes in the bedrock.







References