Discover the Best Hiking Trails in Cape Cod with GoTravelDaily

While long walks on Cape Cod beaches are a thing for a reason, inland hiking trails offer insight into the Cape’s diverse ecology, including marshes, forests, and freshwater ponds. Moreover, the picturesque scenery allows hikers to experience solitude and wildlife even during the summer high season.

Most Cape Cod hikes tend to be on the short side compared to trails in other parts of the country; however, they still offer incredibly rewarding views and encounters. Here are eight of the best hikes throughout Cape Cod.

Cliff Pond Loop, Brewster: Best Hike with Dogs

3.2 miles/5.2 km roundtrip, 2 hours

Glaciers that carved the Cape some 15,000 years ago melted to form large inland freshwater ponds called kettle ponds, with some of the best examples found at Nickerson State Park. At 204 acres, Cliff Pond is the largest pond in the park, offering several secluded sandy beaches for swimming and fishing.

Wildlife commonly seen here includes eastern painted turtles, foxes, and herons. Moreover, the Cliff Pond Loop can be combined with the Little Cliff Pond Trail to create a longer figure-of-eight route. Leashed dogs are allowed on park trails.

Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail, Wellfleet: Best Forest Hike

1.2 miles/1.9 km loop, 1 hour

Located within Cape Cod National Seashore, the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail offers a beautiful forested contrast to the nearby beach views, featuring a grove of endangered Atlantic white cedars. A plank boardwalk allows hikers to traverse this swamp ecosystem, attracting numerous bird species.

The trailhead begins at the Marconi Wireless Station parking lot, providing amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables. Although most of the trail is level, a few steps to the boardwalk may hinder accessibility for wheelchairs. Pets are not allowed on the trail.

Morris Island Trail, Chatham: Best Hike for Seeing Wildlife

1.6 miles/2.5 km loop, 1 hour

This loop trail begins at the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge visitor center, offering insight into the vital species, such as horseshoe crabs and seals, that contribute to the Cape’s ecology. The sandy, pine-lined path leads to the beach, where visitors frequently spot plovers and pipers.

The trail continues inland past ponds and marsh grass meadows, providing excellent opportunities to see red-wing blackbirds, dragonflies, and various coastal critters.

Dune Shacks Trail, Provincetown: Best Historic Hike

2 miles/3.2 km roundtrip, 3 hours

Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, the Dune Shacks Trail begins from a parking area at the Route 6 and Snail Road intersection. The trail opens to steep sand dunes and stunning views of the beach.

The namesake dune shacks, originally built as life-saving stations, became the summer studios of renowned writers and artists such as Jack Kerouac and E.E. Cummings. Hikers may view these historic cabins but are asked to respect the occupants’ privacy.

Sea Farms Marsh Trail, Falmouth: Best Hike for Birdwatching

1.2 miles/1.9 km roundtrip, 1 hour

Sea Farms Marsh Trail travels through 87 acres of marsh and woodlands along Bourne’s Pond and Israel’s Cove. Keep an eye out for various wildlife, including blue herons, osprey, and marsh hawks.

Benches along the trail provide picturesque views and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Bourne’s Pond is also popular for outdoor activities like swimming and kayaking.

Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen: Best Hike with Kids

2 miles/3.2 km roundtrip, 1.5 hours

Once the home of children’s book author and conservationist Thornton Burgess, these grounds now contain the Green Briar Nature Center. The walking paths meander through gardens and wildflower plots, featuring Smiling Pool pond and the briar patch highlighted in Burgess’ Peter Rabbit stories.

After enjoying the conservation area, visitors can explore the historic Green Briar Jam Kitchen, a living museum where they can learn about traditional jamming processes and purchase fruit jams made onsite.

Menemsha Hills Reservation Trail, Martha’s Vineyard: Best Hike for Views

3.7 miles/6 km roundtrip, 2 hours

One of the Cape’s longest hikes, Menemsha Hills Reservation Trail traverses wetlands, forest groves, coastal plains, and steep cliffs, ultimately reaching Prospect Hill, which stands at 308ft above sea level. This point provides dramatic views of Menemsha harbor and the Elizabeth Islands.

Sandy Neck Nature Trail, Barnstable: Best Hike for Camping

2 miles/2.5 km roundtrip, 1.5 hours

The Sandy Neck Nature Trail explores the dunes and marshes behind Sandy Neck Beach. Visitors can enjoy a diverse landscape, home to various wildlife, including snakes and blackbirds.

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, and there are limited free parking options. Tent camping is also possible in the nearby oak forest, making it an ideal location for outdoor adventures.

Tips for Hiking Cape Cod

• Be cautious of ticks in grassy areas. Regularly check yourself and children, especially around the waist and scalp.

• Stay on designated trails to avoid poison ivy.

• Use bug repellent to protect against deer flies and mosquitoes, particularly in marshy regions.

• Prepare adequately, as many trails lack restrooms and drinking water.

• Know the rules regarding pets on trails, especially during nesting seasons for birds. Always keep dogs leashed in public areas.

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