Park in Massachusetts
Cape Cod National Seashore
Leashed dogs can use two walking trails, the fire roads and many ocean beaches outside lifeguarded and nesting areas. Beach rules change with the seasons.
Where dogs can go
- Doane Trail in Eastham and Pilgrim Spring Trail in Truro.
- Head of the Meadow Bicycle Trail all year. Province Lands and Nauset bike trails from November 1 to April 30.
- Freshwater ponds (beaches and water) from October 16 to May 14.
- All fire roads.
- Ocean beaches, except lifeguarded beaches in summer and posted shorebird areas.
- Leash no longer than 6 feet, at all times.
Off limits for dogs
- All walking trails except Doane and Pilgrim Spring.
- Nauset and Province Lands bike trails, May 1 to October 31.
- Freshwater ponds (beaches and water), May 15 to October 15.
- Lifeguarded beaches in summer. Leashed pets may pass through to reach open areas, unless there are shorebird closures.
- Posted shorebird nesting areas, 24 hours a day while posted.
- April 1 to October 15: parts of Coast Guard Beach, Nauset Marsh, Jeremy Point (Great Island), Hatches Harbor, and part of Herring Cove.
- West and Sunset horse trails in the Province Lands.
- Seashore trams.
Good to know, from the park
- Shorebird pet closures can change daily. Beach signs take priority over the website.
- Town beaches may have different pet rules than the national seashore. Check with each town.
- Pick up and pack out all pet waste.
- You can be fined for an unleashed pet or for being in an area closed to pets.
Dog-friendly spots in this park
- HikeMassachusetts
Doane Trail
One of the trails at Cape Cod National Seashore where leashed dogs are allowed.
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Head of the Meadow Bicycle Trail
One of the trails at Cape Cod National Seashore where leashed dogs are allowed.
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Nauset bike trail
One of the trails at Cape Cod National Seashore where leashed dogs are allowed.
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Pilgrim Spring Trail
One of the trails at Cape Cod National Seashore where leashed dogs are allowed.
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Province Lands bike trail
One of the trails at Cape Cod National Seashore where leashed dogs are allowed.
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