Old Colony Nature Path, Provincetown MA

• 3-star hike
• 2 miles each way
• Moderate | Low gradient
• Provincetown, MA | Cape Cod
. MA Rail Trails

The image shows a red sign that reads “FIRE RD” attached to a chain blocking the entrance to a dirt path. The path leads to a green structure with some information posted on it. The area is wooded with various trees and shrubs, and the sky is clear.

The Provincetown end of the rail trail.

The Old Colony Nature Pathway on the outskirts of Provincetown is well-used but mostly unimproved trail that follows the alignment of an old railroad bed. Mostly popular with local runners and dog-walkers it is also possible to ride a bicycle here, though there are a couple of short sandy sections where you'll likely need to walk your bike. After all, this area is mostly sand dunes.

The railroad arrived at Provincetown in 1873, transforming the once remote fishing settlement into a popular resort and artist community. Passenger service was active until 1940 and a freight service continued until 1960 after which the rails were removed. The Provincetown Conservation Trust has an excellent publication describing the route of the old railroad, accompanied by maps and old photographs - see the link at the foot of this page. Folks who want to explore more of Cape Cod's railroad heritage will want to check out our articles on the more significant rail trails linked at the bottom of the article..

⬤ Hardpack ⬤ Rough ⬤ No Access ⬤ Parking

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 3★ Old Colony Nature Trail 1.5 mi ea way, moderate, gain 40ft (20ft E-W)
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

The unimproved trail allows for nature to thrive here, surrounded as it is by squat oak and sassafras trees and sections of wetland. West of Snail Road the trail is wide and sections appear suitable for occasional vehicle access. However, our favorite section is between Snail Road and Mayflower Avenue to the East - this single track trail with undulating ground was a lot of fun on our small hybrid bicycle.

⚠ Trail Conditions: Medium difficulty for cycling, easy for pedestrians. Rough trail with tough sandy patches, particularly west of Snail Rd. East side offers a more firm, narrow trail.

The image shows a sign for the Old Colony Nature Pathway with information about its establishment and conservation efforts. The pathway is surrounded by lush greenery, and the sunlight filtering through the trees creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Eastern, narrower section of the Nature Pathway at Mayflower Ave.

View of a coastal landscape from above, during the daytime. It features a dense green forest adjacent to a body of water, with a bridge or pier extending into the water on the left side. There are buildings near the edge of the forest, and the coastline curves gently into the distance under a clear sky.

Birds-eye view of the trail in the trees towards Provincetown.

Tangents:
• Official: Provincetown Conservation
• Public Maps at AllTrails: Old Colony Nature Trail
• TrailLink: Old Colony Nature Trail
• Other Links: Self-Guided Provincetown Railroad Tour (PDF)
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article

Trailspotting Nearby
4★ Cape Cod Rail Trail (28 mi) · 4★ Old Colony Rail Trail (8 mi) · 5★ Shining Sea Rail Trail (11 mi) · Show Map

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