Massachusetts is made for nature lovers, especially hikers. One of the best things about hiking in the state is you’ll find a trail whether you want a short and sweet experience or you want to spend an entire day exploring all that Massachusetts has to offer. The Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts, for example, just might be the perfect trail. You can hike it in sections or tackle it all in a single day.
The Cape Cod Rail Trail spans 22 miles, meandering through picturesque towns and past lush state parks. You’ll have plenty of opportunities, too, to go off the path and to explore.
All Trails/Ed Lipson
Predominately flat and paved, the rail trail is popular with hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders. Most find that it’s easily navigable if you’re pushing a stroller or you’re in a wheelchair. Handcycles are also available to rent.
All Trails/Marc Hurwitz
If you’re hiking during the summer, bring your beach gear along for a dip in the water at one of the beaches you’ll pass. During the winter, you can travel the trail as a cross-country skier.
All Trails/Ramon Abad
Getting on and off of the rail trail is easy with more than a handful of trailheads that offer free parking. Route 134 in Dennis, Route 137 in Brewster, and Orleans Center all offer free parking and an easy way to start your journey.
All Trails/Curry Rose H.
If you decide to hop on the trail at Nickerson State Park, you’ll have to pay for parking between Memorial Day and Halloween. Parking is just $5 for Massachusetts residents and $20 for non-residents.
All Trails/Curry Rose H.
If you’re not in a hurry, you might want to stop to explore one of the state parks you’ll pass. Nickerson State Park, for example, offers swimming, boating, a playground, and restrooms.
All Trails/Sushanth Mali
Boasting miles of white sandy beach, South Cape Beach State Park is also along the trail. It’s the perfect spot to relax, to sink your toes in the sand, and to cool off before continuing on your way.
All Trails/Tasha Bollinger
You’ll probably want to make a bit of time to stop in one of the charming towns to grab a bite to eat. The rail trail passes through Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet.
All Trails/Keith Morini
Plan your day before hitting the trail, especially if you want to stop at a state park or in one of the towns. The trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
All Trails/Tom Kuchar
Check out the official website of the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which also features a map of the trail.
All Trails/Keith Morini
Have you hiked all or part of the Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts? Share your experience in the comments! For a short, sweet, and leisurely hike, follow the one-mile Ellisville Harbor State Park Trail, which leads to a secluded beach.
All Trails/Ed Lipson
All Trails/Marc Hurwitz
All Trails/Ramon Abad
All Trails/Curry Rose H.
All Trails/Sushanth Mali
All Trails/Tasha Bollinger
All Trails/Keith Morini
All Trails/Tom Kuchar
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Address: Cape Cod Rail Trail, Orleans, MA, USA
