There’s something special about a fall hike on Cape Cod. After all, the area is known for its fall foliage, and heading out into a secluded location to enjoy the views and the crisp autumn air provides a one-of-a-kind experience for those who partake.

In addition, the Cape is relatively quiet in the fall, as the crowds from the summer are long gone. This atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to visit if you’re looking to escape the bustle of the city and get into nature.

Here’s a look at five spots you won’t want to miss if you’re doing some fall hiking on your Cape Cod vacation.

Eddy Bay Trail

Located in Brewster, Massachusetts, the Eddy Bay Trail is a short, easy-to-moderate hike ideal for all skill levels. This scenic path meanders through wooded areas and opens to stunning views of Cape Cod Bay. It’s the perfect introduction to Cape Cod’s natural beauty in the fall.

The trail’s trees burst into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows during autumn, creating a colorful canopy to wander through. The views of Cape Cod Bay are breathtaking, too, with the bay’s deep blues contrasting against the bright leaves.

The trail is well-maintained, offering a mix of dirt paths and occasional roots. It’s accessible, but you’ll have to pay attention to your footing. Along the way, you may spot oak and maple trees, along with glimpses of local wildlife like birds and small mammals.

For the best experience, hike in the early morning when the lighting enhances the foliage and the trail is quiet. Nearby, Nickerson State Park offers additional amenities and trails if you want to extend your hike or enjoy a picnic.

Lowell-Holly Reservation

Managed by The Trustees of Reservations, Lowell-Holly Reservation in Mashpee and Sandwich is a beautiful, historic area with trails that wind through woodlands and around Wakeby and Mashpee ponds. This relatively easy network of trails is suitable for most skill levels and offers an ideal escape into nature.

In the fall, the reservation transforms as the oak and holly trees showcase brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows that reflect off the water. The trails are beautiful during peak foliage, making it the ideal fall hiking spot.

The well-marked trails are easy to navigate, with paths, gentle slopes, and views of the surrounding ponds. Walking here feels peaceful and secluded, with a quiet canopy overhead and frequent water views.

Parking is available at the trailhead, though it can fill up on weekends, even in the fall. For a quieter experience, visit during weekday mornings.

Great Island Trail

The Great Island Trail in Wellfleet is one of Cape Cod’s most rewarding and challenging hikes. It stretches over eight miles along the coast and takes you through dunes, salt marshes, and forested areas, providing an authentic wilderness experience.

The trail is particularly scenic when the cranberry bogs turn deep red in the fall. The cooler weather also makes it more comfortable for a longer trek.

This trail is best for hikers with experience due to its length and sandy terrain. You’ll also want to check the tides before heading out, as some sections become impassable at high tide.

You’ll want to start our hike at the Great Island Trailhead on Chequessett Neck Road, where there’s limited parking. Early morning or late afternoon hikes offer quieter conditions and softer lighting over the landscape.

Beebe Woods

Beebe Woods, in Falmouth, is a picturesque forested area offering a network of trails for hikers of all levels. It’s known for its tranquil woodlands and historic charm. The park covers over 380 acres and has diverse trees, streams, and the scenic Punch Bowl pond.

As the weather cools, the woods come alive with fall colors, as the trees shift to shades of red, orange, and yellow. The shaded paths are lined with fallen leaves, creating a peaceful experience. The views of Punch Bowl Pond are especially notable at this time of year.

The trails range from easy to moderate, weaving through dense forests. There are opportunities for wildlife spotting, too, as deer, birds, and small mammals live in the forest. The terrain is generally well-maintained and ideal for leisurely walks or extended hikes.

Parking is available at the main entrance on Highfield Drive. Beebe Woods is dog-friendly, so you can bring your pets on a leash.

Sandy Neck

Sandy Neck, a unique coastal barrier beach in Barnstable, offers a memorable fall hiking experience along its six-mile stretch of beach, dunes, and marshes. This gem combines beachside tranquility with panoramic views, making it an iconic Cape Cod location for seasonal hikes.

The region is particularly gorgeous in the fall, as the beach grasses turn golden, and the cooler temperatures make for a comfortable hike. The coastline is quieter than in summer, too, so hikers can hear the sounds of the ocean and enjoy uninterrupted views of Cape Cod Bay.

The trails here include sandy paths that require little effort, with occasional dune crossings and stretches of salt marsh. Expect soft sand, rolling terrain, and sweeping views across the bay.

Parking is available at the Sandy Neck Gatehouse. Come prepared for varying terrain, bringing sturdy footwear and layers for the coastal breeze.

Book Your Fall Vacation Rental

These fall hikes are just some options you’ll encounter on your Cape Cod vacation. The area is full of outstanding places to trek through the woods in the fall, and the coastal beauty is unmatched anywhere else in the country.

Book your vacation rental early to ensure you have the ideal spot to begin your hikes and a cozy home to return to after your walks.