Barnstable Great Marsh Loop

This short, easy route begins and ends at the Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, located off Route 6A in West Barnstable, MA. From the small parking area, head west on Cedar Trail through a quiet mix of oak, cedar, and pine forest. Turn right onto Otter Trail, which gradually transitions into Sandy’s Trail and then Cow Path as the route approaches the edge of the marsh. Continue right onto Copper Pond Loop, circling back toward the pond before reconnecting with Cedar Trail. From here, retrace the final stretch back to the trailhead. The route passes Otter Pond and Copper Pond and features a boardwalk and small footbridge near the marsh. A salt-marsh overlook offers wide views of the wetlands and Sandy Neck’s barrier beach. This is a foot-traffic-only route, open year-round from dawn to dusk. Poison ivy, ticks, and muddy sections are common in warmer months. Dogs are not permitted, and parking is limited—arrive early to ensure a spot.