The only bench along the Old Colony Rail Trail (OCRT). Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
by Jeff Shaw
Over the summer, Chatham Bikeways Committee Chair Bob Oliver recommended benches be installed along the Old Colony Rail Trail (OCRT). Only a single bench exists along the 4.6-mile route at the intersection of the trail and George Ryder Road, near the Hangar B (a public cafe), leaving weary travelers nowhere to take a break.
Indeed, “not a stone, not a log, not a bench, nothing to sit on whatsoever,” Oliver said. He’s right. I biked the route recently and other than two picnic tables in a grassy area above White Pond, there is no other place to sit along the OCRT.
Currently, the Bikeways Committee is seeking sponsors for at least four additional benches to be installed along the route. Each bench will cost $2,500, with the option of including a memorial plaque. While the price point of the benches ($2,500) is way more than the memorial brick ($150-300) pathway installed in Kate Gould Park last year, I assume a local business and/or wealthy donor will scoop up this wonderful opportunity to enhance outdoor recreation in town.
As for the locations of these four benches; good question. As of this writing, I have not received a response from the Bikeways Committee regarding where these benches would be installed.
However, having used the trail for the last 25 years or so, I have some guesses. I describe my four guesses for the four benches locations as follows: Sure Things; “Yes, But”; and a “Hail Mary”. And for a little fun, I have a bonus guess, which will be called “How Has That Not Been Done Already!”
Once the money is raised (or the Bikeway Committee responds), I’m looking forward to seeing if I’m right or wrong!
Sure Thing #1: Intersection of Route 137 and Route 28 (between Short ‘n’ Sweet Ice Cream and Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church)
Prime real estate for a bench. There is even an ice cream shop next to the parking lot! Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
The intersection of the trail and Route 137 already received a safety upgrade at the road crossing. Flashing lights on both sides warns oncoming vehicles if a rider, walker or runner is nearby. Additionally, the site has a large parking lot, that also accommodates a food truck at select times. Already on site: a small bike rack, air pressure pumps, garbage cans and a large framed map of the trail in the immediate area.
Sure Thing #2: Intersection at Crowell Road
The OCRT Trailhead at Crowell Road. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
The intersection is already billed as the Old Colony Rail Trail Trailhead (at least on Google maps), so, there should probably be a bench at the beginning/end of the trail. Additionally, there is a large framed map of the trail in the immediate area.
Yes, But: Paved Area Where Trail Becomes Wilfred Road, near Sky Way
The quiet side of the Chatham Municipal Airport (CQX). Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
A small paved area at the end of Wilfred Road leads to an emergency access gate along the fence of the airport property. Granted, the area is a little dusty and certainly quiet compared to the bustling side with the Airport Café and Stick’n Rudder Airplane Tours. Still, a bench facing the runway with views of planes taking off and landing would be an enjoyable view while taking a break. Admittedly, the location is less than a mile from the original bench on the other side of the airport, and just down the street from the picnic tables at White Pond.
Hail Mary: Wilfred Road Overlooking Little White Pond, White Pond or Emery Pond
A view of White Pond from Wilfred Road. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
Let’s be honest, a bench is best placed in a location with a scenic view. A few spots along Wilfred Road, closer to Old Queen Anne Road, would provide stunning views of area ponds. However, there is not much ground to secure a bench along the bluff, but it would be a lovely view in a quiet part of town.
How Have They Not Done That Yet!: Veteran’s Field, Paved Area Behind Outfield
The end of the sanctioned route (Veteran’s Field). Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
Perhaps the most obvious option when you think about it, a bench – or two, or even three – installed on the paved area above (and facing) the outfield makes a lot of sense. First, that’s literally where the OCRT officially ends. Second, there is a large framed map of the trail there as well as a garbage can, so people gather there. Three and most importantly, that is prime real estate for viewing baseball games!
A couple other locations that make sense, but are not as fun as the other guesses are below:
If You Insist#1: Intersection at Volunteer Park extension.
The “four corners” intersection of the OCRT. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
This location happens to be an extension trail to Volunteer Park, a public park with a skateboard park as well as ballfields. Not in view, but across from the extension path is the tennis court at Bailey’s Path, a private neighborhood. Indeed, a lot of action at this intersection.
If You Insist #2: Chatham-Harwich OCRT line.
The Chatham – Harwich line of the OCRT. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
I cannot think of a better way to illustrate being a welcoming community that promotes outdoor recreation than with a bench as soon as people cross into Chatham from Harwich.
Where do you think the benches should be installed?
Fifteen year old and trusty “Hercules” was built to haul stacks of SUPs.
Author’s Note: With summer temperatures setting records for heat, staying cool has become a priority. Avoiding the heat of the day requires some adjustment in one’s outdoor activity schedule, mainly getting outside early in the morning or around dusk. One outdoor activity that can keep you cool and has ballooned in popularity in recent years on and beyond the Cape, is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The over-sized, wide surf boards allow paddlers to cruise above the water’s surface or ride breaking waves while standing, kneeling or siting. It’s a great workout that you may not notice unless you are paddling against a headwind or have not figured out your balance (the latter point will definitely keep you cool with each and every splash).
There are two kinds of SUPs, hard core and inflatable. The hard core boards are better for deep, rough waters, like the ocean; inflatables are perfect for lazy, shallow rivers. Both work in fresh water ponds. When it comes to paddles, all are adjustable, but opt for the more sturdy, one-piece paddle. You’ll want the extra weight of a solid paddle compared to the lighter, easy to pack, two-piece paddle. Always make sure to have a leash wrapped around your foot and a personal flotation device on your waist or chest. Pro tip: keep the leash on the board, rather than in the water; as its drag will slow you down. Lastly, make sure you have the proper sized fins on the bottom of the board based on your activity. If you are paddling in a narrow river, you’ll want smaller fins made for quick turns that won’t scrape the bottom. If you are riding waves, you’ll want longer fins to help keep the board straight while getting pushed around by the waves. Now the more important question, where to SUP on Cape Cod? I got you covered.
A sailboat floats with the gentle off-shore breeze.
Lower Cape
Long Pond (Brewster), Crowells Bog Road, is an enormous fresh water pond (for Cape standards) just off the Cape Cod Rail Trail with a dedicated swim area, small parking lot (parking permit required) and a wide boat landing. Be aware that motorized water craft (boats, wave runners, etc) are allowed on the pond. The motorized boats usual keep their distance so wave action is minimal. To avoid boat-created churn, keep to the edges of the pond or head to nearby Black Pond. Black Pond, next to the landing, is super small, but calm and surrounded by lots of greenery. Pro tip: If you do not have a Brewster parking permit, park in the dirt parking lot for the Cape Cod Rail Trail off Route 124. Parking is free and the walk to Long Pond is only six minutes.
Hana came along for a short lap around White Pond, Chatham.
White Pond (Chatham), Wilfred Road, is a medium-sized, fresh water pond, tucked in between Route 28 and the Chatham Municipal Airport. It’s my favorite spot to paddle.The usually unoccupied pond is surrounded by cottages, moored sailboats, greenery, discarded sheds, tenders and benches. Every thirty minutes or so you’ll see a prop plane taking off in the distance. The off-shore breeze carries you south around the pond’s edge until a clearing appears to the right, with a second secluded pond area. It would appear to be a dead-end, but it is not. In the far left corner, a tiny opening takes you to, what I call, Hidden Cove. Hidden Cove is the fishing spot, as the entrance is concealed, shallow and narrow, keeping most kayakers, ‘SUPers’ and sailboats away. One day on that same water, I was actually inspired to write a poem. The small parking lot is never full and is right off the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
The party house at Goose Pond, Chatham.
Goose Pond (Chatham), Old Queen Anne Road, is tucked away in a conservation area, between Sam Ryder Road and the popular Corner Store. The uneven, narrow, dirt access road is a great way to get the heart pumping before arriving at the landing with a parking lot for barely four cars. The fresh water pond is small-to-medium-sized, with limited parking, but never busy. The red cottages tucked away in the left corner (east) are a throwback to the days when original property owners probably had the pond to themselves. Another house on the opposite side of the pond, fondly dubbed, the “party house,” as a tiki bar, hammock and beach toys are promptly displayed on the water’s edge. The owners have the right ideas as it’s (always) five o’clock somewhere.
The line of reeds acts as a line separating the beach and marsh areas.
Schoolhouse Pond (Chatham), Schoolhouse Pond Road, is one of two fresh water ponds in Chatham with lifeguards. The small pond is a popular beach for young families, and the parking lot fills quickly. Cars without a parking permit park around the bend off Sam Ryder Road across from Schoolhouse Pond Road. To the right of the swimming area, a shallow section leads to a secluded, back pond area “protected” by two lines of reeds, which almost look purposely planted. Thanks to the family-friendly environment, an ice cream truck plants itself in the parking lot.
Tenders await action on the sand.
Meeting House Pond Landing (Orleans), Barley Neck Road, is a salt water pond and active recreational harbor with access to Little Pleasant Bay. Not surprisingly, the departing and arriving boats create a bit of churn in the water, though the scenery of boats gently rolling with the tide, noise of an active harbor, and surrounding marshlands, make up for it. We did come across at least four seals on our journey, one of which kept pace with us most of the paddle. Thankfully, no “fins to the left, or fins to the right,” were spotted. The dirt parking lot provides ample, free parking.
Arey’s Pond Boat Yard (Orleans), Arey’s Lane, is not a GoT Targaryen reference, but a salt water pond and active “hurricane hole” (protected harbor) in Orleans. Owned by boat builder and designer Tony Davis, Arey’s Pond Boat Yard has restored over 300 sailboats, many of them wooden hulls, over 30 years and is the home to many boats awaiting their next adventure or waiting out the next storm. Being pressed for time, I only did a quick lap around (between) the moored (perhaps recently restored) boats, but discovered the snaking channel leads into Namequoit River into Little Pleasant Bay. Parking is limited.
Mid Cape
Hathaway’s Pond (Barnstable), Phinney’s Lane, is a medium-sized, fresh water pond nestled beneath the quiet shade of pitch pines and oak trees. Surrounded by hilly terrain and dense forest, the pond provides a restful atmosphere ideal for families and has a dedicated area to put-in a SUP or kayak. Unique to this pond, sixty feet below rests a purposely sunk 36-foot cabin cruiser (boat) for diving practice for marine emergency responders. Aside from its underwater oddities, the pond provides a beach with stunning views of the surrounding nature preserve and features a biking and hiking path under a natural canopy. Pro tip: It just so happens Cape Cod Beer is located a mere five minute walk from the pond. If you don’t have a Barnstable beach parking permit, you could park at the brewery and walk over. Just make sure to pick up a 4-pack or growler to ensure good karma and support the local economy for this childish parking hack.
The steeple of St. Piux V Church is the landmark for Wings Cove.
Long Pond (Yarmouth), Indian Memorial Drive, is a large fresh water pond tucked away in a residential community in South Yarmouth. There is free parking at Wings Cove, near St. Pius X Church. The pond is surprisingly shallow along the edges, though there are multiple coves that feature interesting sights such as a white gazebo, red picnic tables, shabby docks, parks and of course a heck of a lot of lily pads. Off private docks you will find lots of fun inflatables. The steeple of the church in the distance will guide you back to Wings Cove.
The old pilings can be seen under the water in the foreground.
Little Sandy Pond (Yarmouth), Buck Island Road, is a small freshwater pond, part of the recreation area, complete with softball and soccer fields, basketball court, dog park, and walking trails. The pond is actually super small for a SUP, but, the tiny beach features crystal clear and warm water until a huge drop-off occurs about 20 feet from the shore. Along the left edge of the pond, I discovered a long collapsed and abandoned wooden dock, which was a bit mysterious as the land closest to the remaining pilings is dense woods. I also stumbled upon an odd looking, medium-sized turtle that looked more like a chicken in a shell. Mysteries at Little Sandy Pond.
Middle Pond (Barnstable) Hollidge Hill Lane, is a large fresh water pond perfect for fooling around on a SUP. Try new stances and push the limit of SUP balance. The water is clear, and no motorized powered boats make for smooth water.
Outer Cape
On our way to Gull Pond after a day at Newcomb Hollow Beach, Wellfleet.
Gull Pond (Wellfleet), Valley Road, is a medium-sized, fresh water kettle pond that has an active SUP, kayak and sailboat scene. The small parking lot fills up by mid-morning since there is an active paddle club located at the water’s edge. Parking permits are required from 9-5. There is a dedicated swimming area near the landing, so young families looking for an alternative to the slammed Atlantic Ocean beaches have a refuge. I had a great time at Gull Pond watching my buddy fail at finding his balance for a good thirty minutes.
Upper Cape
Boardwalk/Town Neck Beach, Boardwalk Road (Sandwich), is one of the most popular beaches in the area, with views of boats passing through the Cape Cod Canal. Paddle the lazy salt water river behind the barrier beach, or venture into Cape Cod Bay when the winds are low.
The Sandwich Boardwalk goes over the inlet on the way to Cape Cod Bay. Photo credit TripAdvisor.
Great Pond (East Falmouth/Teaticket), Maravista Avenue, is Falmouth’s largest salt water pond known for SUP fitness and yoga due to the calm water. It is a solid location for those new to SUP.
Calm waters for paddlers and birds.
Great River, located in Mashpee near New Seabury, Will’s Work Road, offers ample parking and easy access to the calm waters of Jehu and Hamblin Ponds, or into Waquoit Bay with access to beaches that you won’t find in any tour guide. Translation, your very own private beach awaits!
Tall pine trees act as a landmark for John’s Pond, Mashpee. Photo credit: Secret Reel.
John’s Pond (Mashpee), Algonquin Avenue, is a large, fresh water pond and picture-perfect location to SUP or kayak with calm waters in a quiet neighborhood. The large, often unoccupied, beach, is unique in that it features two large pine trees at the water’s edge. Lifeguards are on duty and the town offers swimming lessons here.
Just beyond the woods lies Mashpee Pond. Naukabout Beer Company’s outdoor space is impressive.
Mashpee Pond (south basin) and adjoining Wakeby Pond (north basin), Fisherman’s Landing, is the largest fresh water pond on Cape Cod. While motorized water craft are allowed, which may create some wake, the location cannot be better because…the new Naukabout Brewery is located just off the south basin. After a long paddle, relax with a variety of craft drafts and a ton of outdoor games and music. Seriously, the brewery’s outdoor space is like Legoland for adults.
I’ve also heard good things about West Falmouth Harbor; Washburn Island, Waquoit; Mashpee’s Popponessett Spit; and Red Brook Harbor, Bourne. Where is your favorite spot to SUP on Cape Cod?
On the last day of a mini family vacation, I took the still-new NRS Thrive inflatable stand-up paddleboard (SUP) to White Pond to enjoy some quiet. For those unfamiliar, White Pond is a fresh water pond tucked away in woods between Route 28, Queen Anne Road and the north end of Chatham Municipal Airport, accessed by car off Wilfred Road or by bike off the Old Colony Rail Trail.
The previous four days focused on the 7- and 5-year-olds from Colorado, with a mix of hunting for pincher crabs, pretending to be a pirate in 1717 at the Whydah museum (on the rain out), watching seals feed at the pier, and eating delicious BBQ, lobster rolls and fisherman’s platters, prepared or organized mostly by my better half, Ellen. Also included was a fishing charter, Friday night band concert, stroll through town (sharks in the park!) and of course, a Chatham A’s home baseball game. Ellen actually planned the whole long weekend (the itinerary!) which kept things organized and stress-reduced.
As I “put-in” the SUP at the Pond’s main landing, I turned right and began an unplanned afternoon of discovery, reflection and well, happiness. (Recently, I’ve started carrying a pen and pad with me to capture random thoughts — a calm pond allowed for such writing and paddling without multiple splashes.) What I ended up with was a series of experiences in chronological order. Channeling my inner artist, I organized these thoughts, only slightly edited from the original note, and put them in, dare I say, poem form.
It’s amazing what you see, feel, hear even taste when immersing yourself in nature. Also, standing on water is quite remarkable:
Paddle right, warm sun, gentle wind, smiling,
Birds chirp, a frog groans, ducks emerge,
The water looks like glass.
Red, green and yellow stained reeds sway in the breeze,
Little blue dragon flies skim the surface,
I can see the sandy bottom.
The sun cuts through the still water,
Sound travels across the pond as tourists and locals bask in the summer heat,
Around the bend, a hidden cove is revealed.
Patches of bright green and yellow lily pads surround me,
A school of minnows follow my shadow,
A giant red-black dragon fly guides me back the way I came.
A school of striped fish get spooked from their hiding place,
The taste of salt in the air,
Twin water towers stand watch like sentries in the distance.
Clapboard cottages line the elevated land,
A small weathered boathouse appears,
A pile of drift wood waits to be re-purposed.
A secluded staircase and its tender dot the hill,
An anchored sunfish floats with the quiet tide,
A row of tall trees as if grown from the depths.
Seagulls take off and land as a prop plane passes overhead,
A pair of weathered wooden benches half-submerged,
An inviting clearing with a view of the pond.
I take a moment, have a seat and admire the scene of summer bliss before me.
Oh, the sounds, sights, and tastes of adventures that lay ahead.
On a second pass, purposed mostly for the exercise, I grabbed the camera to take a few pictures of the scenery.
