Join the Scout Abouts for a boating event on Dubes Pond in Hooksett, NH. We plan to meet at 9:30AM at the boat launch to gather, trade trackables, sign the log, talk yaking and caching and set out on the water for a half hour of paddling about. Afterwards those who want to stay can try their skills at finding a few yak caches. You will need a boat for this event. Please note that children under 12 must wear a life jacket in NH.
Suggested Gear Checklist:
- Kayak or canoe
- Paddle (1 per paddler), plus spare
- Personal flotation device (1 per person)
- Dry bags (for gear organization)
- Spare deck bungee cords
- Signaling devices (whistle, mirror)
- Towline/floating throw line
- Paddle leash
- Paddle float
- Sea anchor
- Bailer or bilge pump
- Sponges
- GPS
- Knife or multi-tool
- Cell phone in protective bag
- First-aid supplies
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Water bottles (filled)
- Energy food (bars, gels, trail mix)
- Paddling gloves
- Neoprene footwear
- Sandals
- Towel
- Change of clothes
About Dubes Pond:
This serene pond offers rich wildlife viewing, islands, and coves.
Dubes Pond is one of those special places that begs to be explored. It is a mere ten minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Manchester, yet out in the far reaches and coves of this secluded pond you feel as if you are in the North Country of Maine or Quebec. It is a haven for wildlife, and it would be surprising if you didn’t see herons, snapping turtles, painted turtles, big water snakes, beaver, foxes, or ducks during your visit. This is an absolutely great place to play wildlife bingo, as you are sure to see so many animals. There is even a “secret” pond that you can find, complete with a heron rookery.
Starting at the put-in, paddle your way out to the dozens of islands that dot this 111-acre pond. The western shore has a few homes on it, but most are hidden in the trees. The eastern shore is completely undeveloped and makes for interesting shoreline paddling amid the white pines and granite boulders dotting the shoreline. Find an island to explore and have a picnic. Just always be aware and respectful of wildlife, as birds use these islands to lay and hatch their eggs in spring. There are also several beaver dams on the pond, all with secret entrances below the waterline.