The weather at the Granite State Carriage Association 2009 Hancock Ride/Drive held over Columbus Day weekend, October 9-11, 2009, was chilly and windy but between the spectacular views and symphony of fall colors, it was hard not to enjoy oneself. There was a good turn out of campers, 10 in all not including those who came for the day only on Saturday and/or Sunday. Carolyn Townsend and Becky Greenan came to enjoy their second ever campout with their horses. Also camping was Cindy Pirkey, Laurie Bryan, John Huether (all the way from the Cape), and Elaine and Junior Whitney.

Others coming in for the day included Linda Roth, Nils and Pat Pearson, Beverly Salo and a group of friends with Minis, Linda and Dick Misiaszek and their team of Haflingers, friends of Elaine and Junior Whitney, Linda and Tom Marshall, Laurie Bryant,and Rick and Connie Moses. It was great to see everyone.

The scenery in Hancock is really breathtaking but this particular location is really special. The field we camp in is surrounded by ponds on three sides, and they are all lined with the splendor of brilliantly colored trees. The ponds are teaming with wildlife and water fowl. The property has a huge restored antique red barn that gives a perfect backdrop for the colorful leaves. The barn houses some antique farm equipment that is very interesting to see.

If you have not come to this drive you are missing some lovely driving roads with loops to suit all levels of carriage drivers and riders. All along the driving roads you will find beautifully restored antique homes. Some of the roads that are included in the drive are historic roads. Most notably, The Kings Highway which was built by settlers around 1768 to get grain from Stoddard, NH, to the nearest grist mill in Peterborough, NH. Many thanks go to the landowners who generously allow us to use their property.

We love this little piece of heaven in Hancock and we’d love you to come enjoy it too. Make sure to include the Hancock Ride/Drive 2010 into your schedule. With 3, 5, and 10 mile driving loops you will not be disappointed even if you come just for the day although you may end up wishing you came for the weekend. Many thanks to all who attended and many thanks to my co-host Karen Desroches.

See you in 2010! For more information about Granite State Carriage Association please visit our website at: www.equinesite.com/gsca/.