Hike The Marsh Trail At Sandy Neck

Sandy Neck Beach Park

Sandy Neck is a barrier beach located in the town of Barnstable on Cape Cod in Massachusetts.  The park, managed by the town of Barnstable, offers a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding.

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Location Of Trailhead

The Marsh Trail trailhead is located located at 405 Sandy Neck Road, just off of Route 6A in West Barnstable.  In season, staff at the gatehouse will tell you where to park and can provide trail maps and information about the park.

Mileage

The beach, Marsh Trail, and Connector Trails can be combined to make several loops ranging from 1.6 miles to over 12 miles.  If you choose to use the beach as part of your route it can save time and make for easier walking. Remember, however, that this area is open to vehicles and beachgoers and may be crowded during summer months and weekends.

Suggested Maps

A free trail map of Sandy Neck Park can be viewed online by clicking here and is also available at the Sandy Neck Gatehouse.  In addition, the guide AMC’s Best Backpacking In New England contains a map of the area as well as trail descriptions and turn-by-turn directions for a hike to the campsites on Connector Trail 4.

Trail Markings

Although the trails on Sandy Neck are not blazed, I found them well maintained and easy to follow.  Signs clearly identify trail junctions and signage at the trailhead indicates mileage to various points.

Hike Highlights

Sandy Neck is an area of diverse ecology with opportunities to view a wide variety of plant and animal species.  Hikers can experience marshlands, dunes, maritime forest, and a barrier beach all within even a short day hike.

A number of small cottages scattered throughout the dunes made for interesting viewing during out hike.  Because of these antique structures, Sandy Neck is designated as a Cultural Historical District.

Five backcountry campsites are available for backpackers on Sandy Neck.  Sites are available on a first-come basis and a nightly fee is collected.  Contact the Sandy Neck Gatehouse for more information.

Know Before You Go

Because of the unique ecosystems on Sandy Neck, a hike there is different from most others in the Northeastern United States.  As a result, there are some important things to keep in mind when planning your visit.

Sand – On most of the trails in Sandy Neck Beach Park you will be walking in deep, soft sand.  Remember to account for this when calculating hiking times as it will significantly reduce your speed, especially if you are carrying a heavy pack.  Also choose footwear carefully for this hike. Hiking boots or trail runners will become full of sand but may be necessary depending on the season and conditions.  I hiked comfortably in early fall in my Xero Shoes Z-Trail sandals.

Exposure – While you may be able to find some shady areas, the vast majority of the trail is very exposed.  Be sure to plan appropriately for protection from sun and wind.

Water – There are no fresh water sources on Sandy Neck.  Water bottles can be filled near the trailhead. Be sure to carry enough water for the duration of your hike

Delicate Ecosystems – The dunes and marshlands are delicate protected areas.  While it is always good practice to stay on trail, it is particularly important in these places.  Signs on Sandy Neck remind visitors of the fines for leaving the trail.

In season amenities near the trailhead parking area include bathrooms, picnic tables, drinking water, and outdoor showers for rinsing.  For more information visit the town of Barnstable’s Sandy Neck Beach Park website.

Have you hiked at Sandy Neck?  Share your experience in the comments below!