Sunday, January 13, 2013

Gloucester- Fools Gold

Yeah, yeah, yeah. No wind today. I scout out some kiting spots, go for a uni ride around Goose Cove Reservoir, and hike through Gloucester's Dogtown Reservation to see Peter's Pulpit and The Whale Jaw, which turn out to be plain boulders with fancy names. It's exercise.

A beautiful day at Goose Cove Reservoir
Dog Bar Breakwater- No access? This whole area is marked PRIVATE, HOMEOWNERS AND GUESTS ONLY. I drive in past the first set of signs but feel like I'm trespassing and turn around at the second set of signs. I never get to the breakwater.

Niles Beach- This launch looks kitable in SW but the parking is marked RESIDENT STICKER PARKING ONLY. I don't see any nearby spots where it would be possible to park and walk in.

Good Harbor- I know this is a good wave spot in S to E winds but the parking lot is closed and gated for the Winter. Notgood Harbor.

No wind and no access. I feel like a double loser. Gloucester, you're not a friendly town.

I do find a small beach at the Fisherman's Wive's Memorial at the end of Rt 133. The road is a little close to the water but it could work as a launch point at low to mid tide if very careful. The beach at The Fisherman's Memorial, right nearby, might work too. Long beach, near Good Harbor also has public parking on one end, similar conditions as Good Harbor I think.

Why bother kiting here? I don't know. I probably won't. I was looking for hidden gems and found plain boulders.