Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are not carefully planned.
Last year at same time we were in US New Hampshire visiting my brother-in-law. As he lived in Campton, very close to the White Mountain National Forest, we had a few opportunities to explore the beautiful autumn scenery of New Hampshire. Since we mostly enjoy visiting natural places, it was a lovely area for us. However, our visit was primarily to help him during his illness, so most of our time was spent with him rather than sightseeing.
Whenever we went out to shopping centers or grocery stores, we tried to enjoy bit of nature. Sometimes my husband would choose a different road instead of taking the usual highway. That is memorable little adventures.
One day we made our shopping trip in memorable surprises. As my brother-in-law James suggested us to drive on 175 and visit the Campton waterfalls. As He wasn't able to join us. he had given us directions and details.
There was hardly any traffic. The roads were clean, and colorful autumn trees lined both sides. Although the season was almost over, the remaining leaves still created a wonderful display. Driving through this peaceful scenery was a pleasure. Enjoying beautiful nature nature when we came across the church we realized we are passed the waterfall behind 2 kilometers.
We stopped car to return back. But a beautiful traditional classic New England church. Its prominent central spire, white exterior and elegant green trim immediately caught our attention, from the distance I took few photos. and after got some info from James.
The Historic Campton Congregational Church
The historic Campton Congregational Church is a charming example of New England architecture. Its multi-tiered wooden tower rises above the building, while the multi-pane windows and bold green details look particularly elegant against the white exterior. The church was old and rebuilt several times over the years. Church is still active. Admire the beautiful structure and we turned towards to waterfalls.
There was a small parking area, but the path down to the waterfall was not easy. After the autumn rain, fallen autumn leaves covered the ground, making the steep, primitive dirt trail slippery. We walked down slowly and carefully, and It was adventurous and exciting. We continued carefully until we reached the water.
At the bottom, we discovered deep natural pools where local people enjoy swimming during the summer. The Beebe River flows close to its meeting point with the larger Pemigewasset River. If you remember my previous post about the covered bridge, that bridge also crossed the Pemigewasset River.
The waterfall drops across three distinct tiers. Water cascaded energetically over dark rocks, surrounded by dense greenery. Recent autumn rain had made the flow especially active. From where we stood, water spray drifted through the bushes, refreshing the surrounding air.
We also tried to explore the upper part of the waterfall area, where some shops (closed for off season) and a wooden bear sculpture welcome visitors. However, we were unfamiliar with the surroundings, and the steep, muddy paths were too slippery for comfort. We decided not to continue.
After spending some lovely time in nature, we headed towards the shopping area in Plymouth. But, once again, we had taken an earlier turn than planned!
That became surprise visit to Smith Millennium Covered Bridge.
Smith Millennium Covered Bridge, also known as the New Hampshire Bridge, on Smith Bridge Road in Plymouth. This attractive timber bridge crosses the Baker River.
The bridge is built using heavy Southern Yellow Pine glulam (glued-laminated) timbers and impressive wooden arches. It also features a separate pedestrian walkway. Its engineering and construction make it a remarkable example of modern covered-bridge design.
We pulled over and spent some time admiring its beautiful wooden structure. Every panel, column and supporting beam seemed to reveal the care and craftsmanship involved in its construction. The pedestrian walkway allowed us to appreciate the details more closely. The internal wooden trusses and the play of light through the structure were particularly impressive.
After crossing the bridge, we explored the small sandy and clay riverbanks beneath it. There was a rope swing, and the area appeared to be a popular swimming spot during warmer months, with people enjoying the water and floating in the river.
What began as an ordinary grocery-shopping trip turned into a amazing journey of wonderful discoveries.
Thank you!
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