Trail Overview

Race Point North is a great starting point for driving the Cape Cod National Seashore. A permit will need to be acquired at this entrance, as well as watching a short video, vehicle inspection, and checklist to make sure you have all required safety items. Items include;a shovel, fire extinguisher, recovery strap, full-size spare tire, and board for a vehicle jack in the event of changing a tire on the sand. The beach can only be driven during certain times of the year, and sections can be closed off in June/ July to protect nesting grounds for native birds. Airing down to 15 psi is highly recommended by the park service due to the deep soft sand at Cape Cod. An air-up station is at the park entrance when leaving. Cell service is minimal to non-existent due to the tall sand dunes so traveling in a group or having a radio on hand is a good idea in case things go sideways. This is a fun, family-friendly experience with lots of active fishing as well as seal sightings and great white sharks. When the beach is fully open, you can drive southwest all the way to the tip of the cape to see Race Point Lighthouse.

Photos of Race Point North Entrance

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Difficulty

Deep sand can become softer throughout the day as temperatures rise. Keep track of the tides and make sure you don't get stuck with a rising tide. Airing down before driving on the sand is highly recommended to prevent getting stuck.

Technical Rating

John Robinson

Aug 18, 2026

2026 Jeep Wrangler

Open

The Race Point North Entrance Trail is roughly a 1.1-mile oversand route through the dunes of Cape Cod National Seashore in Provincetown. Compared with the South Entrance, the North route is a longer and more interesting dune drive, with deep, soft sand and rolling terrain before reaching the beach near Race Point Lighthouse. It’s a fun, scenic 4x4 trail that feels more like an actual off-road excursion before opening onto the spectacular outer Cape shoreline. Once on the beach, the ORV corridor provides access toward Race Point Lighthouse and the surrounding north beach. Tires must be aired down—NPS recommends 11 psi and no more than 15 psi when entering—and an ORV permit and required recovery equipment are necessary. Access can change because of beach conditions and protected shorebirds.

Adam Parker

Jul 06, 2025

2024 Chevrolet Silverado

Temporarily Closed

Posted SignSeasonal Closure

trail is closed until mid August for bird nesting.

Juan Arias

May 03, 2025

2011 Jeep Wrangler

Open

Normal

Cory Buckwell

Oct 07, 2023

Open

Normal