The trails situated on the elbow of Cape Cod allow nature enthusiasts to discover the area’s rich history and diverse ecosystems. Several trails skirt the waters of the Cape Cod National Seashore, while others run through the heart of original Native American settlements. Most trails are passable on both brisk winter, or sultry summer days. Wind-swept beaches, salt marshes, kettle ponds, cedar swamps, wild pine woods, open meadows, and historical markers await your exploration.
Eastham Trails
The Fort Hill Trail covers 1 ½ miles of fields and marshlands before opening up to lovely views of the Nauset Spit. During winter, look for seals at the Spit’s end before heading back to the parking lot, across from the historic, whaling homestead of Edward Penniman. The trail markers around Fort Hill also lead to Indian Rock, the site where for centuries, Nauset tribesman sharpened their tools.
Out of the following three trails, I like the Nauset trail best. The path loops for ½ mile past Salt Pond and Nauset Marsh, and through changing forests and fields. When not closed due to the pandemic, scheduled tours are usually offered at least once per week during the low season and multiple times per week during high season. The National Park Service (NPS) also provides self-guided tours showcasing the surrounding Buttonbush and Red Maple Swamp trails. Buttonbush is a short, easy, multisensory boardwalk trail that crosses a plant-filled pond, while Red Maple Swamp meanders through a vastly different Outer Cape ecosystem.
Need wheelchair accessibility? Try Doane Loop. The Loop features ½ mile of paved surfaces that serpentine through forest lands before opening up to amazing views of the Nauset Marsh. This easy trail is 1 mile east of the Salt Pond Visitor Center via Doane and Nauset roads. All sites are operated by the NPS.
Chatham Trails
Chatham, the most easterly point in Massachusetts, is a quaint New England tourist village. If you find yourself on a family vacation, check out the trails nearby. We personally enjoyed walking on the Harding’s Beach Trail, but others may prefer the Monomoy Nature Trail, leading to Harding’s Beach. The 1.8-mile Harding’s Beach Trail is accessible all-year-round, and offers splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean and Stage Harbor. Get your camera out, because when you reach the tip, you’ll want to snap a photo of the popular lighthouse. The landmark, built in 1880, helped guide sailors through heavy fog for centuries. Although the facility is private, you’ll enjoy viewing it from the trail. Try visiting before 9am since you’ll benefit from less crowding and free parking. Alternatively, you can walk the Monomoy Nature Trail; a 3-mile, easy loop along the sandy shore. In Fall 2020, due to erosion, access to the trail is gained through the refuge via a private path with a deeded public right of way. Check the Monomoy Refuge Center website for directions. The best time to access the trail is during low tide.
Orleans Trails
If biking is more your thing, pump your tires, get hydrated, and make for the Cape Cod Rail Trail. We joined at the Orleans Center Parking Lot, but the popular, paved bike path runs for 25 miles through six Cape towns. Depending on where you join, you’ll view woodlands, ponds, and marsh views, as you travel on a mostly flat surface. Families with young children especially like this trail, since it is easy to ride on – even with training wheels! However, the Rail Trail is not just for bicyclists. If you are a walker, horseback rider, rollerblader, runner, or cross-country skier, make sure you stop at one of the eating establishments nearby to sample local flavors.
Considerations
Prepare for your walk. Review the safety advice of the National Park Service or other managing land agency before you start. Stick to the trails and do not disturb wildlife. Cape Cod is known to be dotted with poison ivy, very buggy, and populated with harmful ticks. Bring bug spray and sunscreen, and keep all skin areas covered. Note that many beaches do not permit dogs. Check for closures before you start out.
Extra Info
We hope you are enjoying reading about outdoor tips and destinations on the East Coast of the U.S. If you’re interested in destinations in the Western U.S.A. check out the blog Fatmanlttletrail. For information about camping, hiking, and events in New England, visit https://www.outoftheoffice4good.com/new-england
References
- Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket: An Explorer’s Guide; Kim Grant
- Cape Cod Lighthouses: Stage Harbor Lighthouse
- Eastham Chamber of Commerce: Things-to-do Hiking
- Love.Live.Local: Harding’s Beach Trail
- Mass Government: Cape Cod Rail Trail
- National Park Service: Guide to Trails
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service: Monomoy
Resources
Mass. Government: COVID-19 Updates and Information
Photo Credits
Kathy Rusch