Durham, New Hampshire, and the Great Bay Region - Durham NH Off the Beaten Path

Preview: Past Portsmouth harbor, the Piscataqua River opens into Little Bay, which is fed by the Oyster River and Great Bay. At 5 miles long, Great Bay is the largest inland body of salt water in New England, but it’s very hard to see since only one road, Route 4, passes within sight. Even that allows views of only the northern end. The towns that lie along the rivers feeding it are all far from its tidal shores. The best way to see this area is from the water, on a Piscataqua River Cruise, a three-hour trip from Portsmouth to Durham, with a stop at the site of the Bickford Garrison to learn how it was defended in 1694 by one farmer who cleverly changed coats and voices to make the post seem well-manned. The tour includes a buffalo farm (see below) and a chance to sample a buffalo burger as well. Paddlers should be aware that the current under the bridges is among the strongest on the East Coast, a place to avoid. But you’re going the other way, north along the shore of Dover Neck and the Piscataqua River. You have two possible destinations from here: The Piscataqua is formed by the Cocheco and Salmon Falls Rivers. The first leads to Dover (about 6 miles), and the second to South Berwick, in Maine, about 7 miles. The shores of both are fairly undeveloped, so either makes a scenic trip. The Little Bay Buffalo Company is a family-run farm on rolling meadows and woodlands extending to the waters of Little Bay. It is a habitat for a number of wildlife species and a migratory stop for waterfowl. The bison here are not for petting, but they are usually visible in the pasture, often at close range. Also at the farm are displays on the interrelationship between the bison and the Indians’ way of life, as well as information on local Indians who camped here in the summer to fish and hunt. The Company Store sells buffalo meat, hides, and related products such as buffalo tooth necklaces. The clear message here, well stated by the Langley family, is that using resources requires responsibility. The above description is an excerpt from "New Hampshire: Off the Beaten Path." Whether you're a visitor or a local looking for something different, this chapter from the Off the Beaten Path series will help you take the "road less traveled" and discover hidden attractions, unique finds, and unusual locales that most tourists miss.
© Copyright Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Stillman Rogers published by Insiders' Guide all rights reserved.


This travel guide comes from:
New Hampshire Off the Beaten Path Guide Book