Friday, October 4, 2024

Etna, NH (USA)

Spent a beautiful afternoon on Lake Mascoma!  After work (1500), I drove east from my condo (through Etna and Enfield) in search of paddling location. First, I checked out the Shaker Village end of the Lake but there was no parking.  Instead, I returned to Lakeside Park (near the rail trail and bridge) and got set up for my paddle (1600).  When I first moved to the area, I paddled the south/eastern end but had been unable to get into the other part due to wind and lots of motorboats.  Today, though, the water was like glass and there were only scullers and kayakers on the north/western end.  Temps were in the high 60s and the water’s edge was speckled with brilliant Fall colors.  I saw loons, ducks and geese while I completed a counterclockwise loop (from the non-motorized boat launch at Lakeside Park) up to the Mascoma Dam and back.  My pace was good and I logged 4.5 miles in 90 minutes (done at 1730).  Afterwards, I drove a short distance on NH-4A to the Baited Hook (1745). I'd been wanting to check it out for several years and passing it on the water reminded me.  The place was quaint but their beer selection (and costs) were not very impressive (only bottles).  Still, I enjoyed the place and the reward after my time on the lake.  I wasn't there too long - afterwards, I drove home via US-4, Forward's Garage and Heater Road (arrived at my condo at 1830).  Life is good!