HappyCapeCod

Lesser Known Walking Trails of Chatham

by Mike Shaw

The view of Mill Pond from the new Overlook Trail. Photo credit: Mike Shaw.

During a recent weekend in Chatham, I explored two walking trails which may be slightly off the beaten path but equally deserving of a visit for a leisurely stroll.

The sign of the Sylvan Gardens path.
Photo credit: Mike Shaw

The first walking trail is Sylvan Gardens Conservation Area. Sylvan Gardens was privately owned until 2004, when the town purchased the land with a conservation restriction. The trail entrance is located just off Old Main Street and directly behind the Chatham Cut Restaurant on Route 28. Handicap parking is available. The path itself is ADA accessible for approximately 850 feet. While cycling is not allowed on the trail, you may park your bike at the bike rack stationed at the trail entrance. The largest loop along the trail is Black Pond Loop, running approximately 1 mile and providing picturesque views of Black Pond. Keep your eyes open for two white swans which are a permanent feature of the pond year-round. There are several other smaller trails – including Azalea Trail, Bog Trail, and Holly Loop – which cover shorter distances.

Mamou’s Bench at Sylvan Gardens. Photo credit: Mike Shaw.

As you walk along the trail, you’ll notice a number of benches which have been dedicated to the memory of deceased locals. For arguably the best view, walk in the direction of Black Pond. When you can’t walk any further – unless you wish to fall down the hill and into the pond – turn left and walk up a small hill to find “Mamou’s Bench,” with the following inscription: “From the Sloan Family in memory of Chantal O’Hennin Sloan overlooking a place that she loved and knew well.” Mamou’s Bench offers a beautiful view of the pond and a sense of peace which is likely what kept bringing Mamou back to this spot.

A pair of swans making the rounds in Black Pond.
Photo credit: Mike Shaw.

The second walking trail is Mill Pond Overlook Trail. The trail is located off Stage Harbor Road and directly behind the Atwood House, home to the Chatham Historical Society. The town opened the trail to the public earlier this summer.

The Mill Pond Overlook Trail sign at the Atwood Museum. Photo credit: Mike Shaw.

The trail entrance can be found to the left of the Atwood Museum, adjacent to a grey cottage with a sign which reads “Nickerson North Beach Camp.” The trail covers approximately 1/2 a mile and includes one partially paved loop, allowing walkers the choice of starting their walk uphill or downhill. When you arrive at the end of the loop – regardless of direction taken – you’ll be treated to an expansive view of Mill Pond as well as some waterfront homes in the distance.

The path to Mill Pond passes private homes en route to the water. Photo credit: Mike Shaw.

If you wish to enjoy this view for a bit longer, one bench is perfectly situated to afford you some extra time. The bench is dedicated in memory of Evelyn Burckhart (1945-2022), with the following inscription: “Dedicated staff member and friend of Chatham Conservation Foundation, Inc.”

February 1, 2023

“Hot” Concept: The Après Sea Lodge

by Jeff Shaw

One of two curling lanes at the Pelham House in Dennis Port. Photo credit: Pelham House.

For the third straight year, I’ve dedicated a winter post to snowsports. As you may have noticed, I like to ski. Sadly, Cape Cod is a desert when it comes to downhill skiing. No worries, a short-ish drive west will take you to the slopes.

While plenty of winter wonderlands can be found on Cape Cod, particularly during the holiday weeks of December, a hot new-ish concept (and perfect pun) can be found in Dennis Port: an oceanfront Après Sea [Ski] Lodge! (The aforementioned perfect pun.)

Last February, The Pelham House in Dennis Port, launched “Cape Cod’s only curling and cozy winter dining destination.” The oceanfront Après Sea Lodge features curling, food and drink, live music with a ski village vibe.

The fireplace behind the curling lane surrounded by Christmas Trees creates a winter village vibe at the Pelham House. Photo credit: Brad Joyal.

That’s right, the ocean giving the mountains a serious challenge for the much sought-after winter village experience. While the program is aimed at attracting visitors to boost off-season business, the après sea scene is a hot ticket with locals.

The public access to curling lanes provides an opportunity to make new friends and try a new activity. The $50 price tag includes curling, but more practically acts as a dining credit, extending the evening.

Whether curling or dining, live music can be enjoyed from 6-9pm each Friday and Saturday. Currently, reservations are only available through January, though ongoing popularity might force an extension.

Either way, be sure to catch the Après Sea Lodge, the next winter wave on Cape Cod!

A Culture of Homes with Names

By Jeff Shaw

‘They’ are everywhere on Cape Cod. In every town, can be spotted in every neighborhood, heck, probably on your street! I’m not talking people, nor houses, not cars, or lawns, but signs noting a home’s name.

A column written by John Whelan in a July 2022 edition of the Cape Cod Chronicle traced the somewhat remarkably lasting impact of naming homes on Cape Cod. While Whelan’s article covered the origins of the Chatham Sign Shop, just raising the topic made it hard to ignore the obvious; that a lot of houses — at least in my neighborhood, but probably yours, too – has a name!

Now sure, Cape Cod is both vacation and second home country, so it is common for second home owners to have a little fun with their prized vacation properties. A sign with a name or phrase is on the low-end of the flair scale. And for rental properties, a sign with a house’s name does make it easier for first-time guests to locate, at least in the daylight and before GPS. I suppose such signs could be helpful in finding your rental in dense cottage communities.

“The naming of houses, which has become quite popular, was important for the business. People want a design that is both handsome and distinctive,” wrote Whelan.

Home signs don’t just serve as identifying markers, but also as works of art. As Whelan observed in the Chatham Sign Shop gallery, “Sign design and names vary considerably, with many easily passing as works of art.”

I agree. Many of these home signs are an absolute delight to stumble across. Many names are simple. Others whimsical. Lots are punny. Some could pass as free advertisements. Most colorful. All creative.

So next time you’re cruising your neighborhood, make sure to see the sign(s)! (Queue Ace of Base…)

Simple

In Memoriam

Whimsical

Punny

Advertisement?!

December 9, 2022

Hidden Harbor View in Harwich

The view from Alex B. Haas Memorial Park, Harwich. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

by Jeff Shaw

“Ocean views.” “Waterfront location.” “Private dock.” “Deeded rights to Sandy beach.” “Easy access to Gray’s beach.” These vivid descriptions, used predominantly in real estate listings, illustrate the fabulousness that is Cape Cod, i.e., the water. Indeed, a large sandy, peninsula surrounded by water (Cape Cod Bay, Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Sound and Buzzards Bay), plus a mindboggling 300+ inland fresh water ponds, adds up to one special place.

Yet, because so much of Cape Cod – beaches, marshes, forests, ponds – are protected (and they should be), there are less shoreline attractions than other coastal communities. On the flipside, the lack of shoreline development/attractions, is also what makes Cape Cod one special place.

The memorial rock inscribed with a lovely poetic tribute. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

With so many of us drawn to the water, finding a secluded place on Cape Cod can seem few and far between. Fear not.

While not a traditional park, the Alex B. Haas Memorial Park in Harwich is a wonderful spot. First, it honors those “crossing the bar,” with an unobstructed view of Saquatucket Harbor, a beautiful resting place.

Surrounded by green shrubbery, the Alex B. Haas Memorial Park is hidden in plain sight.
Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

Second, it is located in an active harbor, so the loading and unloading of boats is some of the best free entertainment you will find on Cape Cod.

Three, it is located between the popular Dockside Cafe and the iconic Brax Landing, two restaurants pumping delicious smells into the air.

A seated view from Alex B. Haas Memorial Park, Harwich. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

Now sure, no one is bringing family and friends to meet up at this park. The park is barely the size of a Ford F-150 – with the tailgate closed. Yet, it is a somewhat hidden sanctuary in a lively place.

Haas Memorial Park is for your quiet time. Watch, listen, meditate, read, paint, do what inspires. It’s an awe-inspiring view.

November 1, 2022

Hidden Paths Within One Square Mile of Chatham

A delightful homemade map to the beach from a rental on Tern Lane.
Photo credit: Frank Infurchia, Jr.

by Jeff Shaw

I am eternally fascinated with so-called “things hidden in plain sight.” An example that recently occurred to me, while on a run around the block, was one I’ve known about for decades. The hidden paths, trails and cut-throughs of my neighborhood.

Admittedly, these paths aren’t worth visiting (in this case, finding) for most people. However, their presence illustrates the point about discovering things hidden in plain sight. Practically, the paths listed are cut-throughs, time savers if you suddenly realize you left a pot of boiling water on the stove.

Similar paths probably exist in your neighborhood, too. You should check them out. Just be sure to follow any local private property signs, or at least, don’t loiter!

Overlook Drive connects Cranberry Lane (to Ridgevale Beach or West Chatham Center)

The “not to scale” path to the beach. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

My friend Frank sent me the “map to the beach,” a cut through I was not aware of. This short path saved him from having to drive to the beach (and pay to park). It is also a great route for residents of lower Ridgevale Road to have a reasonable walk to West Chatham Center.

Shannon Lane connects Chatham Crest Drive (cul-de-sac connection)

The cul-de-sac connection. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

If not for this trail, a 10–15-minute walk would be required to connect the two cul-de-sac roads.

Happy Valley Road connects Eileen Road (parallels part of Ridgevale Road)

An alternate route for walkers and runners that parallels a portion of Ridgevale Road. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

Perhaps the most unknown of the paths listed, the Happy Valley Road, a mostly dirt, tight, one-way road is a great alternative for walkers or runners to a busy Ridgevale Road.

Nantucket Drive connects Patterson Road (Buck’s Creek Right of Way)

The Buck’s Creek Right-of-Way, complete with bench partially seen in foreground. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

This path is an actual “Right-of-Way,” which means the public can access the area (which is surrounded by private, and large, homes. There is even a bench to soak in the view of Nantucket Sound on a clear day.

October 3, 2022