Looking for an easy place to hike or ride your bikes with your kids? Why not try the Cape Cod Canal?
The Herring Run Recreation Area is easy to get to. Ttake the exit just before the Sagamore Bridge and head right. Follow the road a little ways and you’ll see the parking area on your left.
HOW TO GET THERE
810 Scenic Hwy, Bourne, MA 02532
TRAIL DESCRIPTION & MAP
There are public restrooms here, picnic tables, and access to the service road/bike path that runs along the canal.
The trail is a paved service road intended for access to the canal for maintenance and repair. However, it’s open to the public for walking, biking, and fishing. You can walk in either direction, but just keep in mind you’ll need to turn around to get back to your car, so don’t walk too far!
For an easy 1-mile or so walk, head left towards the Sagamore Bridge. We walked up to the bridge and back and it was just right for us.
Some tips:
1. Pack a picnic and eat it at the picnic tables
2. Wear sunscreen! There’s NO shade!
3. Best to go early morning or evening. Avoid the heat of midday.
4. Bring bikes if you can, the path is paved and relatively flat.
After our bike ride, we headed down the canal to Bourne where there is a splash pad and playground right by the railroad bridge.
If you’re looking for ice cream nearby, we recommend The Shipwreck in Sandwich. It’s over the Sagamore bridge, but not too far and well worth it. Check them out at https://shipwreckicecream.com.
P.I.N.T. SCORE
P – parking & access – 5 (plenty of parking)
I – interest level – 3 (trail is paved and flat. Other than the boats, not much to see)
N – navigation – 5 (you can’t get lost)
T – terrain – 5 (trail is paved and flat)
The P.I.N.T. Score represents our opinions of this trail. It reflects our experience, perception, and physical health. Therefore, the scores are not intended to be expert advice, nor will they be accurate for everyone: we cannot judge what may or may not be appropriate for each individual’s different abilities. Consult a physician or medical expert before attempting any new physical activity. Hiking contains inherent hazards, so hike at your own risk. You should always make your own decisions about what level of physical activity is appropriate for you and your family. Weather and other factors may affect trail conditions. Remember, trail conditions may change suddenly and drastically at any time.