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Get into the natural areas of the Cape and learn the best Hiking & Biking Guide to Cape Cod! Lace up the shoes and oil up the bike! Cape Cod has miles of beautiful hiking and biking trails and now is the time to explore–you might see cool wildlife and get in great shape!
See information on Cape Cod biking trails HERE.
Cape Cod Canal: You can walk any seven-plus-mile stretch of the Cape Cod Canal from Sandwich to Buzzards Bay (14 miles round trip, if you cover the whole distance) and enjoy the sights of sailboats and large marine vessels moving through the canal, as well as a variety of shorebirds and seabirds.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Cape Cod Rail Trail: The Cape Cod Rail Trail follows a former railroad right-of-way for 22 miles through the towns of Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet. Its paved surface, few hills, and well-marked automobile crossings make it ideal for cyclists. The trail has a wide unpaved shoulder on one side to accommodate horseback riding, walkers, and runners.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Cliff Pond Trail at Nickerson State Park – The Cliff Pond Trail at Nickerson State Park in Brewster is a moderately challenging three-mile loop with big views and plenty of opportunities to walk along soft sand beaches. It’s one of the most beautiful hikes on Cape Cod.
Click HERE to explore this trail with Eric Williams!!
John Wing and Lee Baldwin trails at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster: Located on more than 300 acres in Stony Brook Valley and adjacent to Brewster conservation land, the Wing Trail goes through upland woodland, salt marsh, dune and tidal flats on a mile-long round-trip walk. Tides can limit access, so check for times of low tide, unless you’re willing to wade through ankle-deep water for a while. For two quick strolls, the “Loop” and South trails at the museum provide a pleasant, if brief, diversion from the pressures of the day with a quarter-mile and three-quarter-mile trail, respectively.
Mashpee-Wakeby ponds: Two connected natural kettle-hole ponds under the administration of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife are treated as one large body of water covering 729 acres. It is fed by groundwater and drains to the Mashpee River. Access may be obtained through Lowell Holly Reservation in Mashpee. The 135-acre reservation boasts woodland rich with mature American beech, tupelo, red maple, black birch and several species of pine and oak. One of its two peninsular knolls juts out into Mashpee Pond and the other into Wakeby Pond, and both offer spectacular views over these large ponds. The ponds are renowned for their exceptional trout, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel and bluegill.
Massachusetts Audubon Society’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: Just off Route 6 in South Wellfleet, the sanctuary offers 1,110 acres of salt marsh, sandy beach, pine woodland, freshwater pond and heathland along five miles of trails. More than 250 species of birds have been sighted at the sanctuary, and staff there provides an ongoing series of educational talks, cruises, workshops and events. For further information, check www@massaudubon.org..
Murkwood Conservation Area and Scorton Creek: The Murkwood Conservation area covers 79 acres in East Sandwich, and a short trail meanders through a lovely woodland just off Route 6A near Scorton Creek. All around is sprawling salt marsh and the forest path is interrupted now and again with side paths, so walkers can glimpse the marsh. The path can be affected by the tidal flow, so be prepared to get your feet wet. There are numerous American hollies to view, but while walking, you should look out for poison ivy. The walk is especially lovely at sunset, and it is possible to catch sight of osprey, eagles and white-tailed deer. In the same area, it’s worth visiting Talbot’s Point on Old Country Road. This land stretches over 112 acres and extends along Scorton Marsh. Trails wind through oak, white and red pine, pitch pine, beech and spruce. Birding here can yield sightings of osprey, marsh hawks and terns.
Stony Brook Herring Run and Punkhorn Parklands in Brewster: At the end of Run Hill Road, you can gain access to the sprawling Punkhorn Parklands, nearly 800 acres of woodlands and pond habitat preserved by the town in a series of land acquisitions in the mid-1980s. The Punkhorn also offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, birding and picnicking. It’s wise to take a map of the parklands with you before you set out to hike, because the network of trails can be confusing. Nearby is the herring run, located at the intersection of Satucket and Stony Brook roads, just down from Run Hill Road.
Barnstable
Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore 1.5 miles of trails at Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary. There are two ponds, shady oak woodlands, and a coastal overlook with spectacular views of the Barnstable Harbor and Sandy Neck Barrier Beach. Click for photos.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Bridge Creek Watershed: Has an informal network of trails leading past old stone walls, abandoned fields and cranberry bogs encircled by a wooded upland landscape
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Burgess Park: Route 149 Marstons Mills
Crocker Neck Conservation Area: A total of 1.5 miles of walking trails are maintained on Crocker Neck. A leisurely stroll of the property takes less than one hour, but more time is recommended to soak in the rich tapestry of life to be found. Parking space is provided at the northern gate on Santuit Road and inside The Lane.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Hathaway’s Pond Conservation Area: Hathaways Pond is one of hundreds of “kettle” ponds on Cape Cod, formed where rock debris carried by the glacier and meltwater was deposited around colossal blocks of ice.
Walking the nature trail enables one to view these glacial features as well as the vegetation, wildlife, and unique habitats of this area. Total walking distance around the outer circuit is approximately 1.2 miles and involves an ascent of 70 feet. Trail markers are numbered sequentially traveling clockwise around the pond (see trail map).
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Meetinghouse Farm: Twenty-three acres of town-owned land await your pleasure in West Barnstable. Twenty-three acres divided into outdoor rooms such as a holly grove with a new butterfly garden; vegetable plots for families and another that grows produce for the Noah Shelter; the biggest white birch trees you ever saw; and a hilly trail thickly planted with rhododendrons.
CLICK HERE to view a map of the Conservation Area.
Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore 2.5 miles of trails at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary. Gentle woodland and meadow walking trails lead to a view of Barnstable Harbor flanked by the dunes of Sandy Neck Barrier Beach. Look for groves of tupelo, red maple, holly, and large oak trees along the trail.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Long Pond Conservation Area: There are 30 stops along the trail, each marked by a numbered marker. It takes about one hour to cover leisurely the distance of just over one mile.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Old Jail Lane Conservation Area: Offers hikers a passage from the Cape Cod Community College to Barnstable Village with a well-developed trail system.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Otis Atwood Conservation Area: A 1.6-mile rolling singletrack trail off Osterville-West Barnstable Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Sandy Neck Beach Park: Sandy Neck is a barrier beach system 6 miles long and up to 1/2 mile wide. This trail leaflet will guide you over a 1.6 mile loop trail, which will take about 1.5 hours.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Skunknett River Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore 1 mile of trails including the Overlook Trail, where you can see views of West Pond where black-crowned night-herons, ospreys, and migrating ducks may be spotted.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Trail of Tears: The Trail of Tears is a 1200 acre parcel of conservation land in the village of West Barnstable. The main recreation focus is multi-use and revolves around mt.biking, hiking, trail running and cross country skiing. Hunting is allowed in season.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
West Barnstable Conservation Area: The West Barnstable Conservation Area is comprised of 1,114 acres and is Barnstable’s largest conservation area.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Whelan Conservation Area: The Sandplain Grassland Trail is a half mile loop of easy walking through a changing landscape which reflects the ongoing effects of both natural succession and human habitation. It is a stitchwork of open fields, grassland, orchards and young woodland exhibiting a mix of native and introduced plant species.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Bourne
Bourne Sisters Woodland: The Bourne Sisters Woodland consists of 22 acres of woodland slopes and valleys bordered by a brook, millpond and cranberry bogs. A loop trail, bisected by several cross trails, provides walkers with interesting vistas.
The property is located 8/10ths of a mile North of the intersection of Clay Pond/Beach St. on County Rd, just South of Brookside Estates. Parking is available at the BCT signed area on the East side of County Rd. and across at the Town of Bourne Leary Property.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Bournedale Hills Trail: The Bournedale Hills Trail extends 1.4 miles along the north side of the Canal from Bourne Scenic Park to the Herring Run. The trail includes a .8 mile self guided loop which interprets the Canal’s historic and natural features.
Broyer Conservation Area: 12 acres of pine and mixed hardwoods, owned by the Town of Bourne and maintained by the BCT. Parking is available along the west side of Depot Road near the trailheads.
DeNormandie Woods Conservation Area: DeNormandie Woods is located in the heart of Cataumet. It was the first piece of land acquired by the BCT, donated in 1980 by Philip DeNormandie and Tina Rathborne.
Dimmick Waterfront: 2 1/2 acres of woodlands donated by the Dimmick family. A stone bench (Ferne Robinson memorial) in this field of wildflowers and grasses is an ideal spot for viewing sunsets over Red Brook Harbor. Parking is available here on Red Brook Harbor Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Four Ponds Conservation Area: Located entirely in the town of Pocasset on Cape Cod.
CLICK HERE to see a trail map.
John E. Handy Conservation Area: The 1/4-mile trail winds from Depot Road through a cedar grove and terminates at County Road. Parking is available on the west side of Depot Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Lawrence Island beaches: 7 acres of wooded uplands and sandy beaches. Parking is along Grasslands Lane with access to the island along the shoreline below the high tide mark.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Little Bay Park and Monks Park: Over 1 mile of trails on 29 ac.of Bourne Conservation Trust and Town owned land that has a waterfront area and beautiful views. Parking on Shore Road and Valley Bars Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Nickerson Conservation Area: Eight acres of woodland on the Cape Cod Canal. Parking is available at the entrance to Aptucxet Trading Post. A short access trail leads to a loop trail and connecting trail to the Cape Cod Canal bike and walking path.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Nivling-Alexander Reserve: Half mile wooded trail along Red Brook Pond. Parking is located at Shore and Thaxter Roads.
Red Brook Pond Conservation Area: 1.2 miles through pitch pine woods and cranberry bogs. Entrance is at Thaxter Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Robinson Conservation Area: This 29 acres consists of 18 acres owned by the Town of Bourne and maintained by the BCT and 11 acres purchased in 10998 from Tom Kingman and member donations. The trail winds through mixed hardwoods, pine, spruce, uplands and wetlands. Parking is available at Cataumet Depot or Dimmick Waterfront (Red Brook Harbor Road).
Sagamore Hill Trail: In Scusset Beach State Reservation the .7 mi (1.1 km) trail to Sagamore Hill provides access to an area that was once a Native American Indian meeting ground and later the site of a World War II Coastal Fortification. The top of Sagamore Hill commands a view of the Canal’s east entrance and Cape Cod Bay.
Boot Swamp Trail: A section of the Punkhorn Parklands beginning at the end of paved Run Hill Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Calf Field Pond Trails: The rail system passes through beech groves and by hole where large granite boulders were quarried in centuries past. The 2.5 mile outer loop includes inner loops for shorter walks.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History trails: See John Wing Trail and Lee Baldwin Trail
Eagle Point: 1.31 miles starting from the access point at Upper Mill Pond. There are several loop trails that include bluffs overlooking Mill Pond, and a view of an old cranberry bog.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Eddy Bay Trail: One mile trail starting from Lower Road leading past 1870’s barn and house foundations, through a grove of holly trees, and then pine and oak woodland.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Eddy Sisters Trail: Half mile trail following a maple swamp, upland forest, dikes of old cranberry bogs and farm fields from the 18th and 19th centuries.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
John and Kristi Hay Trail: This trail winds through pine-oak forest. A segment of the trail follows an ancient road which was once the connection between Stony Brook Valley 18th century factory village and Wings Island.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
John Wing Trail: 1.3 miles of the Cape Cod Bay shore starting from the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. John Wing was Brewster’s first colonial settler.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Lee Baldwin Trail: A one mile trail honoring Lee Baldwin, a native Cape Cod naturalist. The trail crosses the Stony Brook marsh and extends to upland groves of beech trees.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Nickerson State Park: Eight miles of roads, hiking trails, an eight mile bike path that connects to the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Punkhorn Parklands: Three trails make up the Punkhorm Parklands – Boot Swamp Trail, Calf Field Pond and Eagle Point.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Quivett Marsh Vista: This is a short trail loop overlooking the marsh. Parking is located directly off Route 6.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Seymour Pond Trail: This three mile trail passes through cranberry bogs, red maple swamps and upland mixed pitch pine and oak forest with huckleberry understory.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Spruce Hill Conservation Area: This .8 mile trail is named after the grove of tall Norway Spruce trees.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Barclay’s Pond Trail: This trail courses through pine-oak forest and provides views of the Barclay’s Pond, is located off Old Queen Anne Road and is marked by a sign.
Frost Fish Creek Trail: This large 83.7 acre area that follows Frost Fish Creek from Rt. 28 SW to Meadowbrook Rd. consists of 8 parcels. The entrance to the trail is a dirt road on the left just before the creek that runs under the road.
George Ryder Road, South Trail: This trail is off Route 28 opposite Ocean State Job Lot. Here you will see woods, cranberry bogs and brackish marsh during this 2.5 acres walk.
Harding’s Beach Trail: Approximately 1.2 acres, walk from the second parking lot at Harding’s Beach and walk east toward the lighthouse.
Honeysuckle Lane: Off Stage Harbor Road, comprised of two short trails leading to Old Ice Pond. It also leads to other trails in and around the Cedar Swamp.
Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge: Sand stretches for eight miles off the elbow of Cape Cod, forming the barrier islands of North and South Monomoy. In addition to the two islands, a 40-acre unit on Morris Island is also part of the refuge. This is where the headquarters and visitor center are located. The total size of the refuge is 7,604 acres with varied habitats of oceans, salt and freshwater marshes, dunes, and freshwater ponds of which 3,244 acres are designated Wilderness.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map and brochure
Morris Island Trail: 3/4 mile walk through beach, sand dunes, forest,
salt marsh, and tidal flats.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map and brochure
Strong Island: A 1.7 mile trail system along Strong Island.
CLICK HERE for a guide to the conservation areas in the Town of Dennis.
Crowe’s Pasture: Crowe’s Pasture is full of beautiful dirt roads to walk, scrub oak woods, meadows, and marsh land for viewing of our local wildlife and birds. Be careful to watch for occasional approaching 4 wheel drive vehicles, with the beach itself at the end of the mile long road
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Fresh Pond Conservation Area: The area consists of 27 acres of wetlands and upland woods bordering Fresh Pond. Trail entrances are on the west side of Route 134, about 1 mile north of Route 28. Also features a dog park with fenced enclosures and dog-friendly walking trails.
Indian Lands Conservation Area: 46 acres bordering Bass River with a 0.75 mile nature trail in wooded uplands and salt marsh. The trail entrance is along the powerline 0.5 mi. west of the parking lot at Dennis Town Hall, Main Street, South Dennis. At the northern end of Town Hall’s parking space, walk through the gate and take the right-of-way path for 1500 feet or a 6 to 10 minute walk. There is a large map sign on the left.
John Kelly Recreation Area: 1.25 mile circular trail in scrub pine woods with life course. Entrances to the recreation area are on the east side of Old Bass River Road 0.1 mi. south of Access Road, and on Access Road 0.1 mi. east of Old Bass River Road.
Quivet Neck and Crowe’s Pasture Conservation Area: Sand roads and foot trails in 71 acres of wooded uplands, dunes and marshes. Crowe’s pasture includes a beach along Cape Cod Bay. At low tide you can walk across Quivet Creek to Crow’s Pasture. The entrance is at the end of South Street, north of Route 6A.
Romig-Jacquinet and Simpkins Neck (Blueberry Patch) Conservation Areas: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip. Wood roads in 75 acres of upland woods and bordering salt marshes. The entrance is on the south side of New Boston Road. 0.6 miles west of Route 6A.
Swan Pond Overlook: Approximately 1-1.5 miles long. The walking trails are designed in a butterfly shape with picnic facilities making up the “body” of the butterfly and trails fanning out as the “wings.”
CLICK HERE for a trail map of Eastham’s conservation areas.
Aschettino Property: Walk through one of Eastham’s treasured town properties, the Aschettino Property. You’ll pass through diverse landscapes of forest, with some very old “specimen trees,” marsh, and the historic Jeremiah’s Gutter. Take South Eastham Street (on the west side of Route 6) to Arrowwood Drive, turn left at Peach Orchard Lane.
Cottontail Acres Conservation Area: 24 acres abutting Herring Pond. Walk a 1/2 mile trail through meadows with stands of pine, oak,and red cedar. Parking at corner of Samoset Road and Lawton Road.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Lamont Smith Conservation Area: 27 acres with a loop trail in pine/oak woods and a blueberry swamp. Conservation area has a connection to the Rail trail. Parking is at the end of Peach Orchard Lane, from Route 6 via South Eastham Street and Arrowwood Drive.
South Eastham Conservation Area: Walk through one of Eastham’s treasured town properties, the South Eastham Conservation Area. You’ll pass through diverse landscapes of forest, with some very old “specimen trees,” marsh, and the historic Jeremiah’s Gutter. Take South Eastham Street (on the west side of Route 6) to Arrowwood Drive, turn left at Peach Orchard Lane.
Ashumet Holly and Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore 1.5 miles of trails at Ashumet Holly. Take the Mystery Trail to see the tallest holly on the property, along with a secluded natural vernal pool.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Beebe Woods: Beebe Woods hosts an extensive network of walking trails that cover miles of varied terrain, exploring wooded ridges and steep-sided hollows, and encircle the picturesque pond know as the “Punch Bowl” that lies deep within the Woods. The trails also connect at the southern end of Beebe Woods to Peterson Farm.
The Beebe Woods Trailhead may be accessed by parking at Highfield Hall and entering from the rear of the property at the Ice House
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Bourne Farm: 34 acres managed by Salt Pond Areas Bird Sanctuaries; this is an ancient working farm with paths for walkers through a woodlot west of the railroad line. Parking is off Route 28A at the Thomas B. Landers Road intersection.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Falmouth Town Forest at Long Pond: The 3.5-mile dirt service road that circles Long Pond is open to the public. Because the kettle hole was formed at the edge of the glacial moraine, the terrain is smooth with gentle slopes on the southern side while the northern side has steeper, rocky slopes.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map
Frances A. Crane Wildlife Management Area: The reservation contains a rare expanse of meadowland. A late-summer stroll attests to this when the meadow wildflowers bloom and attract throngs of butterflies and birds. The grasslands provide habitat for a wide variety of birds and wildlife and support more than 15 threatened plant species, including sandplain blue-eyed grass, New England blazing star and sandplain flax.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map of the Western portion.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map of the Eastern portion.
Goodwill Park: Wooded paths connect Goodwill Park to the trails around Long Pond, which is popular for walking, running and mountain biking (and for occasional cross-country skiing and snowshoeing). The park is home to a variety of tree species including red pine, white pine, hickory, beech, locust, oak, and Norway and red spruce.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Peterson Farm: A short distance from the heavily-traveled Woods Hole Road are the tranquil pastures of Peterson Farm, where sheep graze and Scamp, a llama, keeps watch. Surrounding the fields are pine and oak woods with trails that connect to Beebe Woods and Miles Pond, also known as Ice House Pond.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Salt Pond Area Reservation: Salt Pond is located just off the Shining Sea Bikeway and is flanked by Elm Road, Mill Road and Surf Drive. The 41 acre parcel was originally owned by Mass Audobon and was transferred to Salt Pond Areas Bird Sanctuaries in 1962 under the guidance of Ermine Lovell. The property has wonderful nature trails. Maps are located in two kiosks on the trails just off the bike path.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Sea Farms Marsh: Sea Farms is a 1.2-mile trail that curves through the property to protect fox dens and habitats of other animals. A bench offers a view of Black Duck Cove, which is a small inlet of Bournes Pond; another bench sits above a larger cove, Israel’s Cove, which takes its name from an early resident of Davisville, Captain Israel Davis. Both are prime spots for viewing great blue heron, osprey, cormorant, marsh hawk and a variety of ducks.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
The Knob: The Knob is open to the public from dawn to dusk for bird watching, strolling, beach combing, and swimming. Please help protect The Knob by staying on trails and leaving the protective stones in place.
CLICK HERE to download a trail map.
Washburn Island: Washburn Island is one of the last large undeveloped coastal properties on Cape Cod and a jewel within the Reserve. Habitats consist of a barrier beach, oak and pine forest, and coastal salt ponds. Washburn Camping salt ponds. Most of the present vegetation on the site dates from after World War II. There are also trails on the island for nature viewing and exploration.
CLICK HERE to see a trail map.
Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve trails: There are marked walking trails located at the Reserve Headquarters, the Quashnet River area, South Cape Beach State Park, Abigail’s Brook, and Washburn Island.
Bank Street Bogs Nature Preserve: The Robert F. Smith Cold Brook Preserve protects wildlife habitat, water quality, and two miles of walking trails. Cold Brook flows through the 66 acres to Saquatucket Harbor on Nantucket Sound. In the fall of 2015, the Preserve was named in honor of Robert F. Smith. This conservation destination and includes a Bluebird Trail with 44 nestboxes monitored by volunteers from the Cape Cod Bird Club and Harwich Conservation Trust.
CLICK HERE to see a trail map.
Bell’s Neck Conservation Lands: 2.75 miles of trails offer views of wind ruffled water and sweeping salt marsh. The land surrounds the Herring River, West Reservoir (fresh water) and East Reservoir (brackish). Watch for ospreys and the secretive black-crowned night heron in spring and summer.
VIDEO of Bell’s Neck.
CLICK HERE to see a map
Coy’s Brook Woodlands: Walk trails through quiet woods, along a dike through an old bog long since grown into red maples. Peer skyward through a stand of Atlantic white cedars, an uncommon habitat across the Cape.
CLICK HERE to see a map.
Hawksnest State Conservation Lands: Hawksnest State Park is a hidden jewel. There are no signs to inform you of its presence or direct you to its entrance. If you are aware of the park, and can travel the dirt entrance road, you will be rewarded with a near private beach on one of Cape Cod’s least developed ponds.
CLICK HERE for a trail map and more.
Isabel Smith Monomoy River Conservation Lands: 1.25 miles of walking trails and a stunning view from Route 28 of woods rambling down to water.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Janet DeFulvio Wildlife Sanctuary Boardwalk: AmeriCorps volunteers helped to construct a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk and resting bench that offer views of the Herring River salt marsh as well as of an osprey nesting platform. From late March through September, watch for ospreys or “fish hawks” soaring overhead.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Lee Baldwin Memorial Woodlands: Perched at the edge of a red maple swamp, this site offers a short 800-foot walking trail and a 134-foot boardwalk with a bench.
CLICK HERE for a map.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Thompson’s Field: 2.75 miles of walking trail within a mosaic of woods and fields.
CLICK HERE for a map.
William and Barbara Lang Hacker Wildlife Sanctuary and Island Pond Conservation Lands: 2.75 miles of trail in quiet woodlands between Katie’s Pond and the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Mashpee
Besse Bog Conservation Area: .75 mi trail along an abandoned cranberry bog & freshwater wetlands.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Childs River Conservation Area
Jehu Pond Park Conservation Area: 362 acres of salt marsh, old cranberry bogs and uplands connected by old roads and footpaths conducive to bird watching.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
John’s Pond Conservation Area: 258 acres adjacent to a 323 acre freshwater pond and swimming beach.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Lowell Holly Reservation: Four miles of carriage roads follow the shoreline of Mashpee and Wakeby Ponds and pass through the peninsula’s beech woodlands. The shallow, sandy shores of both ponds provide an opportunity for cooling off when the weather is hot.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge: There are miles of walking trails and fire roads for visitors to explore neighboring lands where one can access areas such as the Childs River for fishing to a tranquil paddle on Moody Pond. A well utilized access site is on Great Neck Rd at the Jehu Pond parking area.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Mashpee River Woodlands: 8 miles of trail along the Mashpee River.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Mashpee-Wakeby Lake: Two connected natural kettle-hole ponds under the administration of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife are treated as one large body of water covering 729 acres. It is fed by groundwater and drains to the Mashpee River. Access may be obtained through Lowell Holly Reservation in Mashpee. The 135-acre reservation boasts woodland rich with mature American beech, tupelo, red maple, black birch and several species of pine and oak. One of its two peninsular knolls juts out into Mashpee Pond and the other into Wakeby Pond, and both offer spectacular views over these large ponds. The ponds are renowned for their exceptional trout, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel and bluegill.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Noisy Hole: 2.5 miles of walking trails through mixed forest and freshwater swamps.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Pickerel Cove: 1.8 miles of walking trails through forested woodlands.
CLICK HERE for a map.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Santuit Pond Preserve
CLICK HERE for a map.
Over 3 mi. of sand roads for hiking in addition to The Great Flat Pond Trail, a 1 mi. trail crossing pine-oak woodlands, marshes and bogs.
CLICK HERE for a map.
South Mashpee Pine Barrens: Over 300 ac. of rare pine barrens, Atlantic white cedar swamps, wet heaths, and mixed forests; 3.8 mi. of trails and dirt roads.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Orleans
Bakers Pond Conservation Area: 1 mile rail around a classic coastal plain kettle pond with a wide sandy shoreline.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Kent’s Point Conservation Area: 1.5 miles of trail on undeveloped shoreline, and fronts on Lonnie’s Pond, Little Pleasant Bay and Frost Fish Creek.
Paw Wah Point Conservation Area: The property comprises a 9.3-acre parcel of upland and beach on Little Pleasant Bay and a 2.3-acre salt marsh on Paw Wah Pond, which is an 8-acre salt pond.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Provincetown
Clapps Pond and Duck Pond Conservation Area: A beautiful woodland trail through Town and State conservation lands.
Corn Hill to Pamet Harbor Railroad Right of Way: 1.5 mile trail along an abandoned railroad through woods and dunes between Routes 6 and 6A.
Foss Woods: This trail winds through beautiful woodlands and consists of 15 acres of sloping woodland between Route 6A and the town-owned Old Colony Nature Pathway.
Fox Run Conservation Area: A densely forested area with maple trees, oak trees and beech trees and white cedar swamps.
Hatches Harbor Trail: This trail has a spectacular walk out to the dunes beyond to the Bay.
Nicky’s Park: This area includes pond, cranberry bog, quaking bog, marsh, meadow, and shrub and tree swamp habitats.
Old Colony Nature Pathway: This pathway extends from Mayflower Heights to Howland Street. It is used by many people for jogging, walking, skiing, mountain-biking, horseback riding and dog walking.
Shank Painter Pond Wildlife Sanctuary: The largest known quaking bog on a barrier beach system found anywhere in the world.
Whistle Path Woods: Whistle Path Woods, is composed of sands eroded off the Truro cliffs and reshaped by wind and waves over the past several thousand years.
Briar Patch – Green Briar Nature Center: Located on the shores of Smiling Pool and adjacent to the famous Briar Patch, home of Peter Rabbit and many of the other animal character sof Thornton Burgess’s stories. Green Briar offers interpreted nature trails and a spectacular wild flower garden.
Boyden Farm Conservation Area: The 48-acre parcel features 730 feet of frontage on Peter’s Pond, a wildlife management area and walking trails.
Heritage Museums & Gardens: Containing labyrinths and mazes, there are more than 100 acres of display gardens and a Hidden Hollow.
Maple Swamp Conservation Area: Within this area lies some of the most dramatic topography on Cape Cod, ranging from 40 feet above sea level in the deepest hollow to a high point of 250 feet. Spectacular views north across Cape Cod Bay to Provincetown and south to Vineyard Sound can be had from several locations.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Murkwood Conservation Area and Scorton Creek: The Murkwood Conservation area covers 79 acres in East Sandwich, and a short trail meanders through a lovely woodland just off Route 6A near Scorton Creek. All around is sprawling salt marsh and the forest path is interrupted now and again with side paths, so walkers can glimpse the marsh. The path can be affected by the tidal flow, so be prepared to get your feet wet. There are numerous American hollies to view, but while walking, you should look out for poison ivy. The walk is especially lovely at sunset, and it is possible to catch sight of osprey, eagles and white-tailed deer. In the same area, it’s worth visiting Talbot’s Point on Old Country Road. This land stretches over 112 acres and extends along Scorton Marsh. Trails wind through oak, white and red pine, pitch pine, beech and spruce. Birding here can yield sightings of osprey, marsh hawks and terns.
Ryder Conservation Land: Walking trails weave through native holly trees over 100 years old and beech/pine groves.
Sandwich Boardwalk and Town Neck Beach: About 1.5 mi. walk – boardwalk crosses Mill Creek and Town Neck Marsh to Old Sandwich Harbor and Cape Cod Bay.
Scusset Beach State Reservation: Scusset Beach boasts over 1.5 miles of beach and rolling dunes, and a 98 site campground.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Shawme-Crowell State Forest: More than 15 miles of roads and trails provide hiking and equestrian access to over 700 acres of pitch pine and scrub oak landscape.
Talbot’s Point Conservation Land: This spectacular point of land extends 1/3 mile into Scorton Marsh. Several trails meander through stands of oak, white and red pine, along with tupelo, large pitch pines, beech and spruce trees
Pamet Area Trail System: This steep .6 mile trail ascends both summits of Bearberry Hill. From this trail you can also access a .7 mile one-way trail to the Pamet Cranberry Bog House and a 1.1 mile one-way trail through the Truro hills to two overlooks with benches and ocean views.
Railroad Dike-Corn Hill to Pamet Harbor: 0.75 mi. trail across old railroad dike with views of salt marsh and harbor; great sunset walk.
Box Turtle Woods Conservation Area: This small trail system first goes through woodlands where the Box Turtles were once so noteworthy that the old mailing address for the old farmhouse was simply “BTH” for Box Turtle Hollow. It then skirts the shores of Loagy Bay Marsh and provides views of Mill Hill Island, Lieutenant Island and, on a clear day, looking beyond Mill Hill Island, a view of the brilliant sands of Great Island, the land mass that defines the western boundary of Wellfleet Harbor.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Bayberry Hill Conservation Area: This relatively small parcel and short trail off of Lieutenant Island Road provides a surprisingly varied and tranquil landscape of field, forest, and marsh
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Fox Island Marsh and Pilgrim Spring Woodlands Conservation Area: This large swath of pitch pine and mixed oak forest land stretches from Baker Road off Paine Hollow Road to Pilgrim Spring Road and provides the only public pedestrian path between them. Each of the two trailhead parking lots provides access to trails which lead to marsh and harbor views.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
Great Island Trail: The Great Island Trail is a prime location for isolated marsh, tidal flats, upland and dune ecology studies.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Massachusetts Audubon Society Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: Just off Route 6 in South Wellfleet, the sanctuary offers 1,110 acres of salt marsh, sandy beach, pine woodland, freshwater pond and heathland along five miles of trails. More than 250 species of birds have been sighted at the sanctuary, and staff there provides an ongoing series of educational talks, cruises, workshops and events.
Yarmouth
Bud Carter Conservation Area: The trail is situated on what is known as the Sandwich Moraine, a significant glacial feature left over from the last ice age of 20,000 years ago.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Callery-Darling Conservation Area: The marshes and bogs support numerous bird, mammal, amphibian and reptile habitat. The 800 foot Bass Hole Boardwalk offers a unique perspective of the salt marshes.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Crab Creek Conservation Area: The trail winds its way along the shore of Crab Creek which connects Mills Pond to Follins Pond and eventually Bass River.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Dennis Pond Conservation Area: The main trail winds its way through a variety of woodland communities. There is also a side trail which follows closely along the shoreline and rejoins the main trail later. Trail maps are available in the mailbox next to the front door.
CLICK HERE for a map.
Historical Society of Old Yarmouth Nature/Botanical Trails: 1.5 miles of trails on 50 acres of upland woods, ponds and wetlands with a good display of spring-flowering shrubs.
Horse Pond Conservation Area: The Horse Pond Trails are located within a 400 acre tract of Town owned land.
CLICK HERE to download a brochure.
Meadowbrook Road Conservation Area: A 310 foot boardwalk leads from the parking area to the north shore of Swan Pond.
CLICK HERE for a brochure.
Peter Homer Park: Located on Old Townhouse Road.
Raymond J. Syrjala Conservation Area: The trail is approximately 3500 feet in length and forms a loop that passes through a rather wet environment.
CLICK HERE for a brochure.
Sandy Pond Recreation Area: Located opposite Park Dept on Buck Island Road
Taylor-Bray Farm: The farm is open during daylight hours. Picnic tables are available. There are no admission fees at the farm but donations are gratefully accepted.
Thacher Shore Conservation Area: The Thatcher Shore Conservation area consists of mostly salt marsh with a short trail through a wooded thicket.
CLICK HERE for a brochure.
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