Trip Planner U.S. Department of the Interior National Seashore

Seasonal listings of activities, events, and ranger programs are available at seashore visitor centers. NPS/MCQUEENEY Park Information Superintendent’s Message

Cape Cod National Seashore Oversand Office at Race Point Mention Cape Cod National 99 Marconi Site Road Ranger Station Seashore and different thoughts Wellfleet, MA 02667 Route Information: come to mind. Certainly, for Superintendent: Brian Carlstrom 508-487-2100, ext. 0926 many, the national seashore is Email: [email protected] (April 15 through November 15) “the beach”—a place to recreate, rejuvenate, and forge lasting Park Headquarters, Wellfleet Permit Information: memories with family and friends. 508-771-2144 508-487-2100, ext. 0927 Other people are attracted to Fax: 508-349-9052 nature’s wildness. Change is an North Atlantic Coastal Lab ever-present force on the Outer Nauset Ranger Station, Eastham 508-487-3262 Cape, with wind, waves, and 508-255-2112 storms constantly shaping and reshaping the land. As the longest Emergencies: 911 NPS/KEKOA ROSEHILL Race Point Ranger Station, Provincetown continuous stretch of shoreline 508-487-2100 https://www.nps.gov/caco on the East Coast, the national seashore doesn’t just host sun-loving humans; it provides a refuge Salt Pond Visitor Center Province Lands Visitor Center for many species, including threatened shorebirds. Salt marshes and forests support a diverse array of plants and animals. And off-shore, Open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm (later during Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, mid-April to the ocean teems with life, including the microscopic plankton that the summer). mid-October. lure massive whales into Cape Cod Bay to feed - plus fish, seals, and the sharks that hunt them. This visitor center offers magnificent views of Just two miles from the tip of the Cape, this Salt Pond, Nauset Marsh, and the Atlantic; an center features an observation deck with Cape Cod National Seashore is also a place to explore rich human outstanding museum; and regularly scheduled 360-degree views; exhibits; and showings stories. The First People, the Wampanoag, were here long before films in the theater. Exhibits showcase the of park orientation films. Whales are often the Mayflower set anchor in in 1620 and Outer Cape’s location in the Gulf of Maine viewable from here. Restrooms are available in her passengers set foot in the new world. Whaling captains and ecosystem and stories of people. Restrooms are the parking area. The Province Lands Bicycle keepers; inventors, artists, and writers; early tourists and available in the parking area. The Nauset Marsh Trail and Race Point Beach are nearby. today’s park neighbors and visitors, including you and me, are all and Buttonbush trails and the Nauset Bicycle part of a continuum of human activity here. Trail are nearby. This trip planner is an excellent first step for getting oriented. I Location: 50 Nauset Road, Eastham. Location: 171 Race Point Road, Provincetown. invite you to seek out our staff and volunteers in visitor centers and Telephone: 508-255-3421. Telephone: 508-487-1256. elsewhere in the park. We’re here to help! Rangers and park partners offer many programs and activities to enhance your enjoyment and Getting to the Park understanding of the national seashore. Your safety is a high priority. Take note of safety messages in this trip planner and at seashore Cape Cod National Seashore is located about 100 miles south of Boston using Route 3, and about locations, especially beaches and bike trails. We also are committed 105 miles east of Providence using Interstate 195. Cape Cod is accessed using either the Sagamore to protecting resources. Over four million people come to the Bridge at the northeast end of the Cape Cod Canal, or the Bourne Bridge at the southwest end of national seashore each year. We ask you to consider your actions. the Cape Cod Canal. A passenger ferry runs between Boston and Provincetown seasonally. Join us in protecting this special place for all who will come after us. What’s Inside Whatever your reason for visiting, we welcome you, and we hope you explore the many dimensions of the seashore. Savor a wild cranberry, Page 2: General Information Page 6: Local Area Information climb a lighthouse, spy migrating birds, and enjoy a morning stroll on the beach. And when you can’t be here in person, we invite you to Page 3: Beaches Page 7: Get Involved stay in touch through our website, www.nps.gov/capecod, and social media. Page 4: Hiking and Biking Trails Page 8: Park Map Brian Carlstrom, Park Superintendent Page 5: Historic Structures

Trip Planner 1 General Information

Beach Entrance Fees Oversand Permits Private Vehicle $20 Permits for driving on seashore oversand routes are required Motorcycle $10 and available for purchase at Race Point Oversand Station in Provincetown. Oversand permits cannot be acquired for rental Per Person $3 vehicles. Bird-nesting activity, weather, and impassable conditions Groups Inquire due to changing beach conditions may require some route closures during the spring and summer. Annual Passes Cape Cod National Seashore $60 Call 508-487-2100, ext. 0927, for permit and general information (April 15 through November 15). Call 508-487-2100, ext. 0926, for Interagency (Multiple Federal Areas)* $80 route closure information, or access the park’s website for an up-to- Interagency Senior (Age 62+)* $20 date map of open and closed areas: go.nps.gov/CACOORV Lifetime Passes Hunting and Fishing Interagency Senior (Age 62+)* $80 Interagency Access Pass (Permanently Disabled)* Free Upland wildlife and migratory waterfowl may be hunted in certain areas in season. Federal, state, and local laws apply. Ask at visitor U.S. Military Pass centers for a brochure about hunting. Annual Pass for U.S. Military Free Available to active U.S. military members and dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Visit go.nps.gov/caco_hunting-fishing for more information and Marines, and Coast Guard, and Reserve and National Guard members. (Must be maps of open and closed areas. obtained in person by showing a Common Access Card [CAC] or Military ID [Form 1173].) Special-Use Permits * Photo ID required for pass use Special-use permits are required for events, weddings, and commercial filming. Information and applications are on the park’s Fees are charged and passes are available spring-fall. website at: go.nps.gov/caco_permits

Beach Campfire Permits A limited number of campfire permits per day, per seashore beach, may be reserved up to three days in advance in person or by phone. Locations are: Salt Pond Visitor Center for Coast Guard, , and Marconi beaches; or Province Lands Visitor Center for Head of the Meadow, Race Point, and Herring Cove beaches. Fire permits for the Oversand Route are issued through the Oversand Station at Race Point. Permits are free and must be picked up at the reserving visitor center prior to 3:30 pm the day of the fire. Demand often exceeds the number of permits available. People waiting in line when the visitor centers open are given reservation priority over those who call in by phone.

How to Reserve a Reserve on: Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Fire Permit: For a fire on: Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues NPS

Safety and Park Regulations • Glass containers, flotation devices (rafts, rubber • Be alert for rip currents and underwater tubes), snorkels, and masks are prohibited on obstacles. Keep children within reach. lifeguard-protected beaches. • Use sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Use a • Public nudity is prohibited. waterproof sunscreen if you intend to go • Surfing, windsurfing, and stand-up swimming. paddleboarding are permitted in waters outside • Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is lifeguard-protected areas. prohibited on protected swimming beaches when • Possession or use of metal detectors is lifeguards are on duty. prohibited. • Drones are prohibited in the national seashore. NPS • Permits are required for all beach fires. They • Biking is prohibited on seashore beaches. National Park Service rangers provide assistance may be obtained on a first-come, first-served • Kite surfing is permitted at Duck Harbor on and enforce regulations that protect you and the basis at Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham, the the bay side in Wellfleet, and in a posted 1¾-mile national seashore. Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown, section of ocean beach between north of Coast and the Oversand Station at Race Point. Do not Guard and Nauset Light beaches in Eastham. Observe the following: bury coals. (See campfire information above.) • Do not disturb natural or cultural features • Sand collapses easily. Climbing steep slopes For more information about park regulations, including wildlife; all are protected by federal law. or digging deep holes above knee level are check the Superintendent’s Compendium, available Do not feed wildlife. hazardous and prohibited. at: go.nps.gov/caco_compendium • Keep trails, roadsides, and other areas clean. • Swim only where there are lifeguards, and obey Use trash receptacles and recycle bins, or take their directions. Lifeguard-protected beaches are trash with you. marked with signs.

Beach Safety Beach warning flags: Placing your beach gear: During the summer a colored flag is flown at the head Do not settle in front of an on-duty lifeguard chair or one lifeguard chair. A sign at each beach describes the that is soon to be opened. This area must be kept clear meaning of each color. for equipment. Stay out of this area to avoid an accident or delay a rescue. GREEN: Low Hazard. Calm Conditions. When you hear a whistle: YELLOW: Medium Hazard. Moderate Surf and/or Lifeguards will signal swimmers when they are in or Currents. approaching a hazardous area or because they are swimming too far out for adequate supervision. RED: High Hazard. High Surf and/or Strong Currents. Rip currents are dangerous: A rip current can carry a swimmer out from shore and be RED WITH NO-SWIM SYMBOL: Water Closed to difficult to swim against. Do not panic if you get caught the Public in one. Do not tire yourself out trying to swim against it. Normally, they are not wide. Swim parallel to the shore a PURPLE: Dangerous Marine Life. short distance, then swim to the shore out of the current. Look for the “Break the Grip of the Rip” sign located at PURPLE WITH SHARK: Caution! White Sharks each beach. Feed in These Waters. COURTESY ELYCE RIVERA

Accessibility Park trails near Doane Rock in Eastham and the Marconi Station Site in Wellfleet have been surfaced to accommodate wheelchairs. The Buttonbush Trail is available for people with impaired vision. Some park publications also have large-print versions. Park films have captions and audio descriptions. Coast Guard and Herring Cove beaches provide accessible parking, restrooms, changing facilities, and beach wheelchairs. Herring Cove Beach features showers that accommodate wheelchairs.

2 Trip Planner Beaches

Coast Guard Beach, Eastham Marconi Beach, Wellfleet Race Point Beach, Provincetown Located at the end of Doane Road. Summer access via Located at the end of Marconi Beach Road. Located at the end of Race Point Road. shuttle from Little Creek Parking Area. This beach is situated in front of a steep glacial scarp Access to this beach is over a tall dune. Mobi-Mat Coast Guard Beach is popular with families. Access is and has stair access only. It is popular with surfers. The is provided. This is a popular destination for whale relatively gentle, and beach wheelchairs and Mobi-Mat historic Marconi Station Site and the Atlantic White watching from shore and for sunset viewing. Old Harbor are available in summer. Nauset Marsh and the historic Cedar Swamp Trail are nearby. Life-Saving Station and Province Lands Visitor Center Coast Guard station (not open to the public) are located are located nearby. The Province Lands Bike Trail has a nearby. The Nauset Bike Trail terminates at Coast Guard Head of the Meadow Beach, Truro spur to Race Point Beach. Beach. Located at the end of Head of the Meadow Road. Access to this broad, sandy beach is over a tall dune. Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown Nauset Light Beach, Eastham Waves are typically gentler here than at Marconi and Located on Province Lands Road by the end of Route 6. Located 1 mile north of Coast Guard Beach on Ocean Nauset Light beaches. This beach often has seaweed This beach has easy access and fully accessible facilities. View Drive at the intersection of Cable Road. and large populations of seals nearby. The Head of the Beach wheelchairs and Mobi-Mat are available in This broad, sandy beach is situated in front of a steep Meadow Bike Trail runs between this beach and High summer. Gentle surf makes this beach popular with glacial scarp. A hard-packed path leads from the parking Head. families. It’s known for its views of , lot down to the beach. Nauset Light and the Three sunsets, and spring whale watching. There is a seasonal Sisters are located nearby. snack bar, and free concerts are held during the summer. The Province Lands Bike Trail has a spur to Herring Cove Beach. NPS/MCQUEENEY Beach Parking Lot Trends Coast Guard Beach/Little Creek Tram, Eastham: (360 spaces) Tram parking area fills on most holiday weekends; moderate turnover. Beach access via Little Creek Tram and parking area, a half-mile away. Drop-off and pickup of passengers and belongings at the beach are PROHIBITED. Limited handicapped parking (state-issued plate or placard required) at the Coast Guard Station parking area.

Nauset Light Beach, Eastham: (94 spaces) Public parking area fills by 10 am daily during the summer; minimal turnover. Drop-off and pickup of passengers and belongings at the beach are PROHIBITED.

Marconi Beach, Wellfleet: (528 spaces) Parking area fills during weekends and some weekdays during July and August; moderate turnover.

Head of the Meadow Beach, Truro: (285 spaces) Parking area rarely fills.

Race Point Beach, Provincetown: (360 spaces) Parking area rarely fills during June and July. When the parking area does fill, it is usually 1 to 2 hours after Herring Cove fills. Access is also available on the Provincetown/North Truro Shuttle with $3 park entrance fee. Additional information about the Provincetown/North Truro Shuttle is available on page 8.

Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown: (400 spaces) Parking area rarely fills in June. Parking area fills occasionally in July and August; moderate turnover after 1 pm. Access is also available on the Provincetown/North Truro Shuttle with $3 park entrance fee. Seasonal snack bar. Additional information about the Provincetown/ North Truro Shuttle is available on page 8. Parking space is reduced at Herring Cove Beach due to storm damage.

Sharks Seals Shorebirds Piping plovers (Charadrius melodus) are small shorebirds that winter along the southeast coast of the United States. Each spring, they return to Cape Cod to establish territories and form pairs. Starting in COURTESY PROVINCETOWN CENTER FOR COASTAL STUDIES, TAKEN April and extending into UNDER NOAA PERMIT #774-1875 summer, plovers build NPS/SIDNEY MADDOCK Cape Cod’s waters are part of a natural and wild marine their nests and lay eggs above the high-tide line, usually ecosystem with a rich diversity of sea life, including Once hunted to near extinction, seals are now protected in front of the dunes. Their nests, called “scrapes,” are sharks. Sharks have existed for more than 400 million under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and National little more than shallow depressions scraped directly into years. As top predators, sharks are critical for maintaining Park Service regulations. They are often spotted the sand. a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Great white shark swimming along the Outer Beach, and at some locations, numbers have increased on the Cape because of a hundreds of seals may haul out at low tide to rest on The female typically lays four eggs that the male and growing seal population that has rebounded after being sandbars. female take turns incubating. The eggs hatch in about hunted to near extinction. 25 days, and within hours of hatching, the tiny, downy Gray seals and harbor seals are commonly seen. The chicks begin learning how to search for food. Plovers In recent years there have been confirmed reports of heads of gray seals have a horse-like appearance. Males feed by running and darting to catch insects, amphipods, great white sharks feeding on seals close to shore as well are dark brown, gray, or black with small, lighter spots. and other invertebrates found on the surface of the sand as sightings from spotter planes flying along the Outer Females are tan or light gray with darker spots. Males and mudflats or living amid the washed-up seaweed and Cape near swimming beaches. While it is rare for a great may be 8 feet long and weigh over 700 pounds. Females marsh grass at the high-tide line. white shark to bite a human, it did occur in Truro in 2012. reach 6.5 feet and weigh up to 450 pounds. Harbor seals have small heads, very large eyes, and a face that Piping plovers blend into their surroundings to avoid Be shark smart. To stay safe and to protect wildlife: resembles a cocker spaniel. They are about 5 feet long detection by predators. When real or perceived • Follow instructions of lifeguards and national and weigh 250 pounds. They have leopard-like spots on predators approach too closely, an adult bird will run seashore staff. Become familiar with the beach dark gray or tan coats. down the beach dragging its wing, as if injured, or call flag warning system. Take time to read signs at the loudly as a distraction. Although this behavior may beaches. Seals are semi-aquatic and often spend part of each day prevent chicks from being eaten, it leaves the eggs and • Great white sharks feed on seals close to shore; stay on land. Young seals may haul out on land to rest for up chicks vulnerable to cold or over-heating. For chicks, away from seals. to a week. Many seals have scratch marks and scars from the stress of running for cover burns calories needed for • Swim close to shore, where your feet can touch the hauling out; this is no cause for alarm. Seals consume a growth and maturation. bottom. variety of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. They do not eat • Swim, paddle, kayak, and surf in groups. on land. Sharing the beach with shorebirds is easy if you know • Do not swim alone in the ocean at dawn and dusk. how: • Avoid isolation. Noise, sudden movements, and people, boats, or pets • Follow staff directions and posted signs. • Limit splashing, and do not wear shiny jewelry. getting too close can all disturb seals and alter their • Comply with dog restrictions. Seashore regulations • Avoid murky or low-visibility water, which make it natural behavior. When disturbed, seals may return require that dogs be on a leash no more than 6 feet difficult to see sharks and for sharks to see you. to the water as individuals or as a group. Seals that long at all times. are continually approached never get a chance to rest, • Don’t feed wildlife or leave food scraps or trash on Shark sightings: leaving them vulnerable to predators and illness. the beach; this attracts predators. • Notify a lifeguard if you see a shark. • Follow established pedestrian detours. In most cases • Beaches will be temporarily closed to swimming or It is against the law to disturb or harass seals. To you’ll be able to continue your beach walk without surfing after a sighting. protect the seals and avoid a fine or jail time: disturbing birds. • Swimmers will be notified when they can re-enter • Remain at least 150 feet from seals and observe • Set up your beach blanket several meters away from the water. with binoculars. Move farther back if seals begin posts and strings (symbolic fencing) placed along vocalizing or entering the water. nesting habitat. The prolonged presence of people To learn more: • Keep pets on a leash. This is a national seashore near these areas causes disturbance. If possible, set Shark Research Program regulation. Dogs are likely to startle a resting seal, up in an area that does not have symbolic fencing. Division of Marine Fisheries causing an aggressive, defensive response that might • Be aware of park regulations about boat landing and www.mass.gov/marinefisheries injure your pet, you, or the seal. kite flying. If you’re uncertain, check at a park visitor • Do not approach swimming or resting seals by center or the Race Point Oversand Station. Supporting Local Shark Research and Education boat or on a board. Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up • Bring your binoculars and field guide to observe and Atlantic White Shark Conservancy paddleboards can elicit an alarm response and cause enjoy these birds from a distance. www.atlanticwhiteshark.org seals to rapidly enter the water. • Do not swim among seals. Seals can scratch and bite. Also, they are an important prey species for great white sharks that inhabit these waters. •Seals that are on land are likely resting and warming themselves. Splashing or pouring water on them is a form of harassment.

If you see an entangled, sick, or injured seal, call NPS/MARY HAKE 866-755-6622 or 508-743-9548.

Trip Planner 3 Hiking and Biking Trails Detailed brochures available at the visitor centers.

Trail Name Trailhead Location Description Difficulty Pets Fort Hill Trail 70 Fort Hill Road in Eastham. This loop trail crosses open fields and connects with Easy; solid surface; some log No pets. 1-mile loop the Red Maple Swamp Trail. steps on slopes. Red Maple Swamp Accessed from the Fort Hill Boardwalk sections of this trail meander through Moderate; boardwalk. No pets. Trail Trail and Hemenway Landing in the heart of the Red Maple Swamp. 0.8-mile round trip Eastham. Nauset Marsh Trail Adjacent to the Salt Pond Visitor This trail winds along the edge of Salt Pond and Easy; some log steps; No pets. 1.3-mile loop Center amphitheater, 50 Nauset Nauset Marsh, crosses fields, and returns to the Salt moderate grade. 1.5-mile spur Road, off Route 6 in Eastham. Pond Visitor Center through a recovering forest. There is a 1.5-mile spur connecting to Coast Guard Beach. Buttonbush Trail 50 Nauset Road, off Route 6 in This loop trail includes interactive features great for Easy; some log steps on No pets. 0.3-mile loop Eastham. kids and involves all the senses as it winds through the second half of the trail; forest. moderate grade. Doane Trail One mile east of Salt Pond This paved, wheelchair-accessible loop trail winds Easy; wheelchair-accessible No pets. 0.6-mile loop Visitor Center on Nauset Road through an emerging pine and oak forest. grade (also good for in Eastham. Two-hour parking limit. strollers). Atlantic White Cedar 195 Marconi Station Road in This trail leads to a boardwalk that winds through Moderate; some steep stairs; No pets. Swamp Trail Wellfleet. the picturesque Atlantic White Cedar Swamp. return route is 0.5 miles in 1.2-mile loop soft sand; a portion of this trail is boardwalk. Great Island Trail Corner of Griffin Island and This trail follows sandy stretches between the Difficult; mostly soft sand; Limited 3.9 to 8.8-mile round Chequessett Neck roads in elevated heights of Great Island and Great Beach portions are submerged at leashed pet trip Wellfleet. Hill. high tide. areas. Pamet Area Trails 111 North Pamet Road in Truro. Bearberry Hill overlooks offer spectacular views of Moderate; log steps; steep No pets. 0.6 miles each way, the Pamet landscape, with views of the Atlantic and grade to overlook. No plus extensions the glacial terrain of the Pamet River valley. restrooms.

Woods Walk Trail 43 Old Dewline Road in Truro. This trail winds through the back woods of the Moderate; paved and Leashed pets 1-mile loop emerging Highlands Center for arts, science, and unpaved roads. No allowed. education. restrooms. Small’s Swamp Trail Turn right off Route 6 at the Former farmland. Gradually, the soil gave out, farms Easy; some log steps; No pets. 0.6-mile loop Pilgrim Heights area sign. Walk were abandoned, and the landscape began its slow moderate grade; short begins at the covered shelter in recovery. boardwalk surface. Truro. Pilgrim Spring Trail, This short loop trail winds through the recovering Easy; some log steps; No pets. 0.7-mile loop pine and oak forest. moderate grade. Beech Forest Trail 36 Race Point Road in Journey into the heart of a picturesque beech forest, Easy; extension loop has No pets. 1-mile loop Provincetown. and enjoy great birding opportunities. steep log steps; some soft sand. Nauset Bike Trail 50 Nauset Road, off Route 6, This bike path connects the Salt Pond Visitor Intermediate; some hills; Leashed 1.6 miles Doane picnic area (2-hour Center, Doane picnic area, and Coast Guard Beach. paved surface. pets allowed parking), or Coast Guard Beach . November 1 in Eastham.(seasonal fees). -April 30. Head of the Meadow End of High Head Road in This 2-mile bike trail connects the dirt parking lot at Easy; some surfaces may be Leashed pets Bike Trail Truro (2-hour limit), or Head High Head Road to Head of the Meadow Beach. bumpy, use caution. May allowed year- 2 miles of the Meadow Beach (seasonal encounter biting insects. round. fees). Province Lands Bike Province Lands Visitor This trail loops around the Province Lands, passing Advanced-intermediate; Leashed Trail Center, Herring Cove Beach through pine forests, sandy dunes, and low-lying steep hills, sharp turns, pets allowed 5.45-mile loop (seasonal fees), Race Point cranberry bogs. There are connections to both tunnels. November 1 1.1-mile spur Beach (seasonal fees), or the Herring Cove (1.1-mile spur) and Race Point (0.5- -April 30. 0.5-mile spur Beech Forest parking lot in mile spur) beaches, as well as Bennett Pond (0.25- 0.25-mile spur Provincetown. mile spur). NPS/MCQUEENEY

Trail Safety and Regulations Healthy Parks, Healthy People

Hiking: • Beware of trail hazards, which could include: • Stop by a visitor center to get a trail guide. sand, standing water, bumps in the pavement, There are also trail guides available at most and low-hanging branches. trailheads. • Walk bicycles through tunnels and under- • Check the weather forecast before you go out. passes. Weather can change quickly. • Biking off-trail is prohibited except on The national seashore and Cape • Wear proper footwear that is comfortable and designated fire roads. Cod Healthcare are focused on the durable. • Bicycles are never allowed on any of the self- benefits of the national seashore • Tell somebody your hiking plans. If hiking in guided hiking trails. in helping people improve physical fitness and well- a group, designate a meeting location. • Bicycles of any type are not allowed on being. In the summer months healthcare professionals • Bring water and food. beaches. are at the Salt Pond Visitor Center on weekday • Stay on the trail. mornings, helping the public set and measure their • On bike trails, keep to the right; be aware of Pets: personal well-being goals, including blood pressure bicyclists who are using the trail as well. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6-feet at • Wear insect repellent and sunscreen. all times and are permitted only in the following screenings, and providing a Passport to Health booklet • Consider wearing long pants and a long- locations: for tracking fitness progress. For more information, sleeved shirt; this helps protect you from both • All fire roads within Cape Cod National visit: www.capecodhealth.org/healthyparks the sun and insects. Seashore; • Pets are never allowed on any of the self- • Head of the Meadow Bicycle Trail year round In addition, look for the in the national seashore's guided hiking trails except where indicated and Province Lands and Nauset bike trails, seasonal activity listings for ranger programs that under the trail description. November 1-April 30; support physical fitness and well-being. • Freshwater ponds (beaches and water), Bicycling: October 16-May 14; • Always wear a helmet when riding a bike. • Cape Cod National Seashore ocean beaches Massachusetts law requires all persons 16 except as follows: years of age and under to wear a helmet. 1. During the summer, pets are not permitted • Always ride single file to the right. on lifeguard-protected beaches. Passing • Announce yourself when passing other trail through these areas of the beach is users from behind; pass on the left. permitted. • Don’t speed. 2. During shorebird nesting, staging, and • Stay on bike trails. migrating periods, pets are not permitted • Be alert for hills, sharp turns, and other users. in posted locations. Passing through these NPS/MCQUEENEY • Always check brakes, gears, and steering. areas is prohibited.

4 Activity Guide Historic Buildings

NPS/BRENT ELLIS NPS NPS NPS NPS

Penniman House Pamet Cranberry Bog House Atwood-Higgins House Old Harbor Life-Saving Station Highland House Eastham Truro Wellfleet Provincetown Truro 70 Fort Hill Road. 86 North Pamet Road. 269 Bound Brook Island Road. 191 Race Point Road. 27 Road. The Penniman House, Originally constructed around The Atwood-Higgins House At Old Harbor, the National The Highland House Museum completed in 1868, was styled 1830, the Bog House is located is a fine example of a properly Park Service interprets the occupies the Highland House, after the French Second-Empire among former cranberry bogs framed Cape Cod cottage, which dramatic story of shipwrecks originally a hotel built in 1907. period. It included every known in the Pamet Valley. It supported grew from a half-house in the and the role of the U.S. Life- A visit provides insight into the comfort of the day and many cranberry harvesting that early 1700s to a full-Cape with Saving Service in preventing people of Truro dating back to innovative ideas. The Captain occurred there until the 1960s. eight rooms by the 19th century. shipwrecks and performing early European settlers and the Edward Penniman family Views of the house can be The oldest house owned by the rescues. During the summer, American Indians who preceded enjoyed this fine home for nearly seen from atop Bearberry Hill. national seashore, it is flanked reenactments of the historical them. 508-487-3397. Open 100 years. Limited parking. Limited parking. by an eclectic collection of breeches-buoy drill are seasonally and operated by the later-vintage buildings. Seasonal performed weekly. Seasonal Truro Historical Society. tours. Limited parking. open houses. Beach fee may www.trurohistorical.org apply.

Lighthouses Map of lighthouse locations located on page 8.

NPS/KATIE TRUDEAU NPS/KEKOA ROSEHILL NPS COURTESY DAVE QUINCY Race Point Light, Provincetown Light, Provincetown Nauset Light, Eastham , Chatham The first Race Point Light was erected This light at the entrance to Nauset Light was built as three brick Chatham Light was built in 1808 as two in 1816. The current lighthouse Provincetown Harbor was first lit in towers in 1838 to differentiate the brick towers with a keeper’s house. and keeper’s house date from 1876. 1827. The lighthouse and keeper’s location from Highland and Chatham Two lights were used to distinguish it Occasional tours for special events. Beach cottage were rebuilt in 1875. Not open lights. When erosion claimed the from the single light at Truro’s Highland fees apply during summer months and on for tours. originals in 1892, they were replaced by Light. weekends in late spring and early fall. Caution: Hazardous conditions possible three wooden towers called the Three along breakwater. Summer boat service Sisters. Open seasonally and operated by from MacMillan Wharf. the Nauset Light Preservation Society. www.nausetlight.org

NPS/KEKOA ROSEHILL NPS/KEKOA ROSEHILL NPS/CHARLOTTE HECHT USFWS , Provincetown Highland Light, North Truro Three Sisters, Eastham , Chatham A twin to guarding Also known as Cape Cod Light, Built at Nauset in 1892. Two of the The first Monomoy Light was erected the entrance to Provincetown Harbor, Highland Light was the first light seen three lights were sold to become a in 1823 and rebuilt in 1849 with cast- Wood End Light is located toward the on a voyage from Europe to Boston. In summer cottage in 1911. The third one iron plates lined with brick. Monomoy end of the breakwater. Not open for 1798, Highland was the first Cape Cod was replaced in 1923 by one of the two is now part of the Monomoy National tours. Caution: Hazardous conditions lighthouse built. Open seasonally and Chatham lights. Located a short walk Wildlife Refuge of the U.S. Fish & possible along breakwater. Summer boat operated by Eastern National, Inc. inland on Cable Road from the parking Wildlife Service. The island is accessible service from MacMillan Wharf. www.highlandlighthouse.org area to Three Sisters. Limited parking at only by boat at the end of 5-mile-long Three Sisters. Seasonal tours. South Monomoy Island.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! Water Bottle Filling Stations Do Your Part to Keep Our Beaches Clean Help us make a difference – please refill your Cape Cod National Seashore is cutting back on waste with our beach recycling bins. water bottle at one of our many filtered bottle Recycling reduces our pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. filling stations: Do your part and recycle. Recycling bins are now located at all beaches. • Salt Pond Visitor Center: outside at the restrooms, and inside the lobby • Province Lands Visitor Center • Herring Cove Beach Bathhouse • Coast Guard Beach Bathhouse • Highland Light Keeper’s House Shop

Thank you to CARE for the Cape and Islands and to Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore for funding the purchase of the park’s filling stations. Note: Salt Pond stations are available all year. Other stations are available from spring through fall.

NPS/SUE MOYNIHAN COURTESY JESSE MECHLING

Activity Guide 5 Local Area Information

Chambers of Commerce Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce: 5 Patti Page Way, Centerville Website: www.capecodchamber.org Email: [email protected] Phone: 508-362-3225 Chatham: Eastham: Truro: 2377 Main Street, Chatham 4730 Route 6, Eastham Route 6 at Head of the Meadow Road, www.chathaminfo.com www.easthamchamber.com North Truro Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.trurochamberofcommerce.com Phone: 800-715-5567 Phone: 508-240-7211 Email: [email protected] Info Booth: 508-945-5199 Info Booth: 508-255-3444 Phone: 508-487-1288

Orleans: Wellfleet: Provincetown: Eldridge Parkway at Route 6A, 1410 Route 6, Wellfleet 307 Commercial Street, Provincetown and 44 Main Street, Orleans www.wellfleetchamber.com www.ptownchamber.com www.orleanscapecod.org Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 508-349-2510 Phone: 508-487-3424 Phone: 508-255-7203 Info Booth: 508-255-1386 Tours and Services Several local businesses have Commercial Dune Tours in Provincetown: Eco Tours: Use Authorizations to provide authorized Art’s Dune Tours, 4 Standish Street, Provincetown, Great Marsh Kayak Tours, Mashpee, services in the national seashore. For more 508-487-1950 508-328-7064 information, visit: Kayak and Boat Rentals: Blue Claw Boat Tours, Orleans, 508-240-5783 go.nps.gov/caco-current-authorizations Goose Hummock, 15 Route 6A, Orleans, 508-255-0455 Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Welllfleet, Bicycle Rentals: 508-349-2615 Idle Times: Nauset Marine East, 235 Main Street, Orleans, 4550 State Highway, Eastham, 508-255-8281 508-255-3045 Center for Coastal Studies, MacMillan Wharf, Provincetown, 508-487-3622 2616 State Highway, Wellfleet, 508-349-9161 Castaways Marine, 4655 State Highway, North Eastham, 508-255-7751 Campgrounds: 29 Main Street, Orleans, 508-240-1122 Nickerson State Park, Brewster, 508-896-3491 Jack’s Boat Rental, 2616 State Highway, Wellfleet, Little Capistrano: 508-349-9808 Atlantic Oaks, 3700 State Highway, Eastham, 30 Salt Pond Road, Eastham, 508-255-6515 508-255-1437 Wellfleet Marine, 25 Holbrook Avenue, Wellfleet, 1446 State Highway, Wellfleet, 508-349-2363 508-349-6417 Maurice’s, 80 State Highway, Unit 1, Wellfleet, 508-349-2029 Arnold’s, 329 Commercial Street, Provincetown, Flyer’s Boat Rental, 131 Commercial Street, 508-487-0844 Provincetown, 508-487-0898 Paine’s, 180 Old Kings Highway, Wellfleet, 508-349-3007 Gale Force, 144 Bradford Street Ext., Provincetown, Provincetown Aquasports, 333R Commercial 508-487-4849 Street, Provincetown, 508-413-9563 Truro Hostel, North Pamet Road, Truro, 508-349-3889 The Bike Shack, 63 Shank Painter Road, Venture Athletics Water Sports, 237 Commercial www.hiusa.org/truro Provincetown, 508-487-0232 Street, Provincetown, 508-487-9442 Adventure Bound Camping Resorts: Ptown Bikes, 42 Bradford Street, Provincetown, Surfing Lessons: 508-487-1847 508-487-8735 Cape Side Surf School, 978-771-3840, North Truro Campground, 46 Highland Road www.capesidesurf.com Provincetown Bike Rentals, 136 Bradford Street, Horton’s Campground, 71 Highland Road, North Provincetown, 774-447-4539 Sacred Surf School, 4900 State Highway, Eastham, Truro 508-514-1555, www.sacredsurfschool.com Shellfishing in Eastham: North of Highland, 52 Head of the Meadow Road, Eastham Natural Resources Office (permits), Fun Seekers, 2480 Old Kings Highway, Wellfleet, North Truro, 508-487-1191 555 Old Orchard Road, Eastham, 508-240-5972 774-722-0764, www.funseekers.org Coastal Acres, 76R Bayberry Avenue, Provincetown, Whale Watching in Provincetown: Sickday, Inc., 3 West Main Street, Wellfleet, 508-487-1700 Dolphin Fleet, 307 Commercial Street, 508-214-4158, www.sickday.cc Provincetown, 800-826-9300 Dune’s Edge, 386 State Highway, Provincetown, Sugar Surf Cape Cod, 21 Cross Street, Wellfleet, 508-487-9815 Provincetown Whale Watches, 309 Commercial 508-240-4166, www.sugarsurfcapecod.com Street, Provincetown, 508-487-1102 *This listing is updated as needed. Emanate Surf Project, 971-236-2628, www.emanatesurfproject.com Concessions and Vacation Rentals

NPS NPS/KATIE TRUDEAU NPS/KATIE TRUDEAU NPS

Herring Cove Snack Bar, Highland Links Golf Course, Nauset Knoll Motor Lodge, Vacation Rentals Offered by Cape Herring Cove Beach, Province Lands 10 Highland Light Road, North Truro, 237 Beach Road P.O. Box 642, Cod National Seashore Road, Provincetown 508-487-9201 East Orleans, 508-255-2364 Operated by Far Land on the Beach Operated by Johnson Golf Operated by Benz Corporation Looking for a place to stay on your Management next trip to Cape Cod? We’ve got This food and beverage service is Nauset Knoll Motor Lodge is located you covered, from remote locations open from Memorial Day through One of Cape Cod’s oldest golf on the Atlantic Ocean in East Orleans, off the beaten path to cottages with Columbus Day. Herring Cove courses, Highland Links is perched within Cape Cod National Seashore. commanding ocean views and within Beach is relatively gentle and ideal high along windswept bluffs Every room commands a superb walking distance of beaches with for families. View Race Point Light overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. view of the great beach and the ever- great surf. Superb locations and while you look for whales, which are Founded about 1892-1898, Highland changing sea. Swimming, sunbathing, flexible booking options. Funds common in spring. Free concerts are Links has seen more than 100 years of and fishing are at your front door. The collected from these rentals directly held here on Sunday and Wednesday golf. motor lodge is open seasonally. support Cape Cod National Seashore. nights in summer. www.highlandlinkscapecod.com www.nausetknollmotorlodge.com www.nps.gov/caco/planyourvisit/ www.facebook.com/Far-Land-on- lodging.htm the-Beach-1592264207694243/

6 Activity Guide Get Involved

Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore Become a Seashore Volunteer!

VIPs—Volunteers in Parks—bring passion and expertise Love the Seashore? to nearly all national seashore operations, from trail Join the Friends of the maintenance and resource protection activities to engaging the public at historic buildings and visitor Cape Cod National Seashore center information desks. Meet new people, gain insights into the national seashore, and participate in meaningful activities that benefit the public and park resources. • Assist visitors with trip planning at Salt Pond and Whether you are here for a day or consider yourself a year-rounder, the richness Province Lands visitor centers. of the Cape Cod National Seashore will touch your heart. The sparkle of sunrise • Prune along park trails and join organized trail improvement projects. on Great Beach waters, the peace of kayaking, or considering the migration of the • Monitor and help protect nesting shorebirds. smallest and largest creatures will stay with you. • Introduce visitors to maritime, whaling, and early Cape Cod history during historic building tours and open houses. Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore (FCCNS) shares your sense of joy • Document seasonal changes in the natural world to help build a and wonder. For more than 30 years, FCCNS has committed money, brainpower, phenological database. and energy to this special place. If you have enjoyed the ponds within the park, • Photo-document seashore activities, facilities, and resources to build a Eastham’s Penniman House, the Red Maple Swamp Trail, or Provincetown’s Old digital image library. Harbor Life-Saving Station, you have benefited from our members’ donations • Tend to native gardens. and our fundraising within the community of people who care about the national seashore. To get started, visit www.nps.gov/caco and select “Get Involved.” Browse the list of current volunteer opportunities. The challenges ahead include the effects of climate change and maintenance needs that outstrip federal budget allocations. FCCNS approaches these challenges strategically, viewing them as opportunities to make a difference in a place we love. FCCNS welcomes and appreciates your financial commitment. In addition, you Calling All Kids - Become a Junior Ranger! may want to work in the park. Volunteer opportunities abound. Some members clear trails or join in the hard work of controlled burns, eliminating invasive brush Youngsters between the ages of 5 and 12 are invited and trees. Their labors take them all over the park! to join a growing group of young people interested in learning about the national seashore and ways they Others develop interests in particular aspects of the seashore. For example, can help protect it in the future. To get started, stop by volunteers have developed expertise in natural history and seal behavior in Salt Pond or Province Lands visitor centers to obtain response to the presence of seals hauling out at low tide. The sharing of that free program materials. Requirements to earn a patch knowledge with the public leads to seal viewing experiences that are safe for both or badge include attending a ranger-guided activity the seals and the visitors they attract. (or substitute activity from fall through spring) and completing activities designed to build understanding We also recruit volunteers with skills that strengthen FCCNS, including of the national seashore’s natural and cultural community outreach, writing, and fundraising. resources. It may take a day or more to complete the program requirements. Whatever the task, it embodies the FCCNS mission: To support the educational, NPS/KEKOA ROSEHILL environmental, cultural, recreational, and scientific purposes of the Cape Cod Interested in exploring even more? Ask at a visitor National Seashore. center to borrow an Explorer Pack. The packs are full of guides and tools for in- depth investigation into the science and history of the national seashore. Join us!

FCCNS is the not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) fundraising partner of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Visit fccns.org

NPS/SUE MOYNIHAN Additional Park Partners A private, nonprofit organization that provides quality educational products and services to park visitors. Proceeds are donated directly to Cape Cod National Seashore to support interpretive and educational programs, including this publication. The mission of the CCS is to understand and protect our coastal environment and marine ecosystems. Located in Provincetown, CCS collaborates with the national seashore on research projects that help park managers better understand and protect park resources. www.coastalstudies.org Payomet is one of Cape Cod’s leading presenters of performing arts, including professionally staged theater productions. Located at the Highlands Center in Truro, Payomet’s mission is to produce exciting professional live music, circus, theatre, and humanities events rooted in strong social values. www.payomet.org

This national service movement engages Americans of different ages and backgrounds in service to our nation’s communities. Focus areas include education, literacy, public safety, the environment, and disaster response. Corps members at the national seashore support park planning and resource protection. www.americorpscapecod.org Many other partners support Cape Cod National Seashore. These include organizations that preserve historic buildings and provide public access, such as Truro Historical Society, Nauset Light Preservation Society, Cape Cod Modern House Trust, Provincetown Community Compact, Peaked Hill Trust, and the Outer Cape Artist in Residency Consortium. Activity Guide 7 Park and Local Area Map

Rules of the Road

Race Point Light MOTORIST WARNING

Wear your seat belt. It’s the LAW. Massachusetts state law provides pedestrians the right of way in a crosswalk. Be aware of pedestrians, bicy- clists, and other park users, and

share the road. Long Point Light

Wood End Light Public Transportation Highland Light (Cape Cod Light)

Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA)

The Flex bus picks up and drops off passengers at designated stops and also “flexes” off its route up to ¾ of a mile by reservation. The Flex bus travels from Brew- ster on Route 6A, down Route 6 through the towns of Orleans, Interested in lighthouses? See Eastham, Wellfleet, and Truro to page 5 for additional lighthouse Provincetown. It connects to the information. H2O Line at Stop & Shop, Orleans, and in the summer, to the Provincetown/North Truro Shut-tle at Highland Road, Truro, and Stop & Shop in Provincetown, with Hyannis as its destination. Flex also connects with the Plymouth & Brockton bus service to Boston.

Fares: $2 one way per person for adults and youth; $1 for 60 and older, and for people with dis- abilities. Day and monthly passes are available. Website for schedules: www.capecodtransit.org

Cape Flyer Bring your bike for FREE! Weekends from Memori- al Day through Labor Day, travel comfortably by train from Bos- ton’s South Station to Hyannis. See more at www.capeflyer.com.

Ferry Information: Martha’s Vineyard and Nauset Three Light Sisters Lights Steamship Authority www.steamshipauthority.com Hyline Cruises www.hylinecruises.com/ Freedom Cruise Lines www.nantucketislandferry.com Provincetown Bay State Cruises www.baystatecruisecompany.co m Boston Harbor Cruises www.bostonharborcruises.com/ provincetown-ferry

Visit Us Online Chatham Light Website: www.nps.gov/capecod  Facebook: @CapeCodNPS Instagram: @CapeCodNPS Monomoy Twitter: @CapeCodNPS Point Light  YouTube: @CapeCodNationalSeashore

8 Activity Guide