by Jeff Shaw
Cape Cod is many things to many people. To many (me included), it’s all about the beach. Not that there is anything wrong with say, walking trails through the woods, fresh water kettle ponds, buttery lobster rolls or Cape League baseball games, but the seemingly endless coastline and salty air breezes is what makes Cape Cod, such an iconic and beautiful place.
So you have my attention when local officials in Chatham increased accessibility to a favorite trail through the marsh and dunes at Harding’s Beach. And by accessibility, it is now open to dogs on leash year-round (well, it’s a one-year pilot program. Let’s not mess this up!).
Indeed, the Harding’s Beach Marsh Trail, extending 3/4 of a mile (approximately 1.5 miles roundtrip) from the second parking lot to the property line of the Stage Harbor Lighthouse, is iconic in and of itself. The trail is gently sloped and extra wide along a mostly hard packed sandy surface. The trailhead eventually forks behind the Lighthouse or toward the beach. You will also find an informational sign with a brief history of the Lighthouse at this junction.
While the dunes and surrounding vegetation are largely protected piping plover nesting grounds, the shrubbery is low enough so the view extends farther than anticipated. There are spots along the trail where it kind of feels like you’re in the Province Lands of PTown.
Not convinced? See for yourself. And don’t forget to take your dog – on leash of course.
June 17, 2026