Cape Cod National Seashore / Pixabay

The entire Red Maple Swamp Trail in Eastham, Massachusetts, has reopened following a collaborative rehabilitation project between Cape Cod National Seashore and Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore. The trail, which was closed since 2010, is a 1.5-mile-long walking trail connecting the Fort Hill and Hemenway Landing areas.  

The trail was first developed in 1964. It is a favorite of many residents and a special treat for first-time visitors, transporting them into a natural environment of large trees, swamp habitat, and wildlife. The trail had deteriorated over time to the point where seashore managers closed it due to safety concerns. 

“We quickly learned how much our neighbors and visitors love this trail,” said Cape Cod National Seashore Superintendent Brian Carlstrom. “Through public advocacy and $25,000 in financial support from Friends, the profile of this project was raised to the national level, making a compelling case for it to be funded through entrance fees. The Friends and those who donated to this important project made it happen.” 

The seashore’s maintenance team consulted with staff from Fire Island National Seashore in New York on the best approach to rehabilitate the boardwalk trail that meanders through a wetland environment. Staff repaired the trail in stages, utilizing innovative methods to shape the boardwalk into its characteristic curved configuration. Most of the trail reopened in 2017, with the final piece, the spur, being completed in November.  

In the spring of 2019, Friends and seashore staff will host a reopening event to celebrate the project’s completion and to recognize donors.