As I look at these images, I realize just how much I appreciate the simple scenes of the White Mountain National Forest. Even though both locations are only minutes off the beaten path, they represent nature in its grandest form. No sign of human impact anywhere, mankind is completely absent. Many nature lovers would consider this to be a perfect setting.
Pemigewasset Wilderness, New Hampshire – The Pemigewasset (Pemi) Wilderness in New Hampshire is 45,000-acres of protected designated wilderness area that will keep any outdoor photographer busy for days. Every corner of the wilderness has interesting features to explore, and most areas are rich with East Branch & Lincoln Railroad history. Here are five shots from the Pemigewasset Wilderness that you may have never seen.
Shoal Pond, Pemigewasset Wilderness – Shoal Pond is a secluded 5-acre pond in the Pemigewasset Wilderness in the New Hampshire White Mountains. The average depth is one foot with a max depth of three feet (source, NH Fish & Game). The definition of “Shoal” is an area of shallow water, so this is likely why the pond was given this name.
This serene pond located along the Shoal Pond Trail, off the Appalachian Trail, is one of the unique features of this 45,000-acre designated wilderness. The reflection of the forest and Mount Carrigain in the pond early in the morning is excellent! And it is a great place to view wildlife and / or camp near for a few days.
The Perch Shelter, White Mountains – The Perch Shelter is located along the Perch Path in Cascade Ravine, just off Randolph Path and Israel Ridge Path, in the Presidential Range in the New Hampshire White Mountains. Four tent platforms are also located at the Perch Shelter site.
Originally a birch bark building, the Perch Shelter dates back to the 1890s (around 1892) when J. Rayner Edmands built three camps in Cascade Ravine: Cascade Camp, Cliff Shelter, and the Perch Shelter. It has been renovated numerous times over the years, and the above photo shows how the shelter looked before the Randolph Mountain Club renovated it in July / August 2010 (July 12 – August 20, 2010 +/-) .
ScenicNH Photography LLC
Specializing in environmental conservation and historic preservation photography mainly in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, Erin Paul’s photography and writing focuses on the history of the White Mountains, and telling the story of abandoned places and forgotten historical sites.