The Anchor Club

Community

The Anchor Club was first formed in 1916 on the basis of friendship by a group of masons that worked for the railroad. One of the founding members, Joe Smith, owned huge expanses of land and he donated a magnificent section of shorefront that included a natural sandy beach, for the club to build a lodge.

Wildlife on the Lake

It is not unusual to see Great Blue Herons by the entrance to the Snake River in the shallows and Mallard ducks often parade their brood along the shoreline . The real treat however, are the Loons, over twenty years ago they returned to Lake Winona and each spring they can be seen with their fuzzy coal colored chicks riding on their backs. Their call is delightful to hear as it echoes across the lake. Please enjoy them at a distance and do not approach too closely. If you would like to learn more about these birds The Loon Center is located just 10 miles from the Anchorage and it makes a great educational day trip for the whole family.

Hiking and walks

The Anchorage is located at the base of a place the locals call Butternut Mountain, although considered an oversized hill by some, it makes a great 2 hour roundtrip family hike and boasts beautiful westward views of all the surrounding lakes, rivers and mountain ranges. The trail begins on the left off the old railway line about a half mile past the rock pile. The landmark for the trail head is an old tumbledown cabin in the woods. For those that prefer horizontal hiking, the one hour walk around Winona is a lovely mix of tracks and roads with a view of the lake from almost every footstep.

Blueberry Season

There is nothing better than pancakes made with a handful of fresh blueberries in the batter. Typically the season for wild blueberry picking begins the third week in July and continues into the first week in August, depending on the weather the season may run a bit earlier or later. The Anchorage property has many lovely high bush blueberry bushes that are hundreds of years old. For those that want to gather enough for a pie you can venture along the shore by boat, many good picking spots can be found along the shore near the entrance to the Snake River. There is also many Pick your own farms in the area.

Campfire Ring

Nothing like a gathering around the Campfire in the evening. Hearing the Loons and the Echo’s from around the lake. Just relax and watch the flames.

Canoeing and Kayaking

The lake offer a great place to canoe and kayak, Members may offer their use of canoes and kayaks to use to explore the lake. There are two canoes a paddle boat and rowboat for members. Use at own risk. PFD’s are required.

Fishing

A New Hampshire fishing license is required. Fish Lake Winona or use the Club as your base camp to fish Lake Winnipesaukee or the many other lakes and streams.

Farmer Markets and Yard Sales

The area offers some great local farmer markets with local products. Yard sales offer great finds in the area. Pick up the local paper at a local store and check for yard sales.