Those considering Dummer as a place to stay will find several clearly defined points of interest: bodies of water, habitats, scenic views, and river history. When choosing a destination, it helps to distinguish between these themes. Kayaking is popular at Pontook Reservoir; the Glover Farm Wildlife Management Area focuses on diverse habitats and wildlife watching. The public boat access on the Androscoggin River and the historic use of the Upper Ammonoosuc River for mills add further water-related options. This lets you choose Dummer based on the interests you want to shape your stay, rather than making your choice of location depend on a single activity.
Water: Reservoir and River
Pontook Reservoir is in Dummer; it was created by the Pontook Dam. The dam was rebuilt in the mid-1980s to generate hydroelectric power. This gives the body of water a concrete infrastructure history in addition to its recreational appeal. Its popularity with kayakers and the history of the dam mark two distinct aspects of the reservoir: recreation and hydroelectric power.
There is public boat access on the Androscoggin River at the Bofinger Conservation Area. It is overseen by the responsible state agency; posted restrictions may apply at the site. The kayaking connection at Pontook Reservoir and the boat access on the river are thus two separate water-related options to consider when planning. Check the signs at the access point before your visit.
Habitats and Wildlife Watching
The Glover Farm Wildlife Management Area encompasses fields, wetlands, and a diverse forest landscape. These habitats support characteristic New Hampshire wildlife species, as well as species classified as endangered at the state and federal levels. The area was acquired to provide the public with recreational opportunities such as hunting and wildlife watching. Both the diversity of habitats and the recreational opportunities described are relevant when planning your trip.
The area also preserves the view from the Route 16 Scenic Byway. Landscape conservation here is connected with local habitats, adding a scenic perspective to the area's natural appeal.
River History, Views, and Regional Scope
The Upper Ammonoosuc River provided hydroelectric power for mills in Dummer's forested region. This is a different relationship with water from Pontook Reservoir's recreational connection: here, the focus is on the river's use for the mill industry. Those interested in the history of the landscape will find this historical context alongside today's recreational attractions.
A trail club map prepared for a 2012 ride-in describes the view of Pontook Reservoir and wind turbines from the Bickford Hill Trail. Together with the preserved view from the Route 16 Scenic Byway, this offers a comparison of two landscape perspectives: a view of the reservoir and wind turbines, and view preservation along the byway.
The area covered by the Milan Trail Huggers ATV Club also has a regional scope: it extends across Milan, Stark, and Dummer, between Route 3 and Route 16. ATV enthusiasts should therefore note that Milan and Stark are also within the club's stated area; Dummer is part of this broader region.
Discover more destinations: Lancaster, Whitefield, Groveton, Milan, Colebrook, Berlin, Carroll, Dixville Notch.
For the broader travel overview: Coos.
