The Best Walk

Cape Cod is one of the most popular places to walk in Massachusetts. As a matter of fact you can’t go anywhere without seeing people walking. They go for the beach but walking gets equal time. They walk early in the morning, late at night, and all through the day. They walk in all seasons - in all weather. You will see casual and serious walkers of all ages. The walking seems to occur everywhere, but primarily at the beaches, parks, walking trails, and through the neighborhoods. OK, you r probably thinking, that’s about everywhere. But we have to ask, where is The Best Walk!

Entering the Low Tide Area

The best walk is at the beach on the Cape’s bay side at low tide. Specifically, it’s in the town of Dennis. Either begin the walk at Chapin Beach and take a right (East) or at Mayflower Beach and take a left (West). Both beaches have parking areas and both fill up early. In the summer there is a parking fee. But this area can be and is walked in all seasons. Remember to go at low tide!

At Low Tide

So why is this such a great walk? Well, it’s all about the magic of the low tide . Depending on the day, the low tide can add a couple hundred of yards to the beach. The low tide area is basically flat but there are lower areas trapping water forming pools and even streams. Much of the sand is smooth, but there are area where the water left the sand formed into various shapes. The sand also varies in colors with the whiter sand at the water’s edge. You will see the seagulls chasing the fish and the dunes along the shoreline. As you look out at the sailboats passing you’ll notice that the water varies in color. You won’t hear any steel drum music and no one will be dropping a lei over you head, but this is a beautiful spot!

Sand Shapes

So there’s great scenery, what about walking? Step one is to take off your shoes. Step two is to wander out to the water’s edge. From there head in the direction that looks most interesting. You can walk through the water a bit or through the various sand textures, or just zig zag your way back and forth to the shore. and the waterline. The most interesting section is off of Chapin Beach. There’s plenty of space to walk and there are no crowds. You can easily get enough exercise, mental relief, and enjoyment in this area.When you walk is over, you might want to consider staying around for lunch, dinner, or a drink. On Taunton Avenue, very near the walking area, there are two good restaurants: Chapins and Gina’s.So if you’re in the coastal Massachusetts area, or will be, you might try this walk!

Filed under: Cape Cod on March 4th, 2007by Hank