EASTHAM

Eastham is a quintessential paradise, where the Outer Cape begins.  It is a narrow strip of rural country with marshes, ponds, bogs and forests.  The town has a grand heritage with First Encounter Beach where Pilgrims and the Native Americans first met with a barrage of arrows and musket fire.  Pilgrims came to Eastham because they were dissatisfied with the poor quality of lands granted to them in Plymouth.  Three of the original passengers of the Mayflower are buried in the Old Cove Cemetery. 

Today Eastham proudly continues its heritage.  There are miles of walking and bike trails through woods, fields, marshes, and several designated historical sites and areas.  Here you can discover windmills, museums and salt air breezes.

Canoe Trips

Does a quiet morning paddle on a kettle pond appeal to you?  How about taking a journey through a marsh or saltwater tidal river?  These experiences can by yours by joining a ranger-guided canoe trip.  Canoe trips offer an opportunity to explore the park from the water, providing new perspectives and insights into park resources.  Trips are offered periodically in June and daily in July and August.

All trips require basic paddling experience.  The park provides equipment.  Canoe lessons are also available.  Check the schedule of ranger-guided activities or park visitor centers for schedules and cost.

Salt Pond Visitor Center off Route 6, Eastham 508-255-3421

Province Lands Visitor Center off Race Point Road, Provincetown 508-487-1256

          

Fort Hill Area – Off Route 6, Open fields. Views of Nauset Marsh, historic Penniman House (seasonally-scheduled free tours and open houses).  Limited parking.  Seasonal restrooms.  Access to Red Maple Swamp Trail.

Coast Guard and Nauset Light beaches, Nauset and Three sisters Lighthouses off Route 6 at the traffic light at Nauset Road at the Salt Pond Visitor Center.  Ocean View Drive in Eastham affords ocean and marsh views, and an opportunity to see histori8c lighthouses (seasonally-scheduled free tours and open houses).  Seasonal restrooms at beaches.  Seasonal beach fees may apply.  Highly congested in summer; spring and fall use recommended.