The best walks and hikes in Nickerson State Park
4.6
(45)
359
hikers
16
hikes
Hikes in Nickerson State Park explore a 1,900-acre landscape of wooded trails and freshwater kettle ponds in Brewster, Massachusetts. The park's terrain consists of paths winding through pitch pine and oak forests, with some hilly sections around the ponds. This environment offers a different experience from the typical salt marshes and dunes found elsewhere on Cape Cod.
Best hiking trails in Nickerson State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Cliff Pond Trail loop — Nickerson State Park, a…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
9.74km
02:34
90m
80m
Hike the moderate 6.1 miles (9.7 km) Ober, Deer Park, and Ruth Pond Loop through woodlands and past kettle ponds in Nickerson State Park.
4.23km
01:07
40m
40m
Hike the easy 2.6-mile Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop in Nickerson State Park, featuring clear kettle ponds and sandy beaches.
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4.7
(3)
45
hikers
4.76km
01:14
30m
30m
Easy 3.0-mile loop hike around Cliff Pond in Nickerson State Park, featuring clear waters and wooded paths.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
14.4km
03:46
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
2.26km
00:35
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Nickerson State Park
Tips from the Community
The Cliff Pond Trail runs completely around its namesake pond, passing by a number of beaches and campgrounds. It's a great way to see the largest of the ponds within Nickerson State Park.
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Nickerson State Park is a great 1,900 acre natural area with a host of hiking, running and biking trails. It is a beautiful wooded area and there are plenty of different routes to go and explore the multitude of scenic ponds in the area. You can enter the park here on your bike but if you have a car you will have to go to the main entrance just off the Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT). From here you have good access to the park trails.
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Flax Pond is a kettle pond that is 48 acres and 75 feet deep at its deepest point.
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Covering an area of 204 acres (82.5 ha), Cliff Pond is the biggest pond in Nickerson State Park. It's a popular place to swim, boat and fish during the summer. In 1992, the largest ever recorded American eel was caught here, weighing 8 pounds. Named after the surrounding cliffs, the pond is full of life, with trout, perch, bass and killifish. Fish stocks are replenished in spring and summer.
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Covering an area of 204 acres (82.5 ha), Cliff Pond is the biggest pond in Nickerson State Park. It's a popular place to swim, boat and fish during the summer. In 1992, the largest ever recorded American eel was caught here, weighing 8 pounds. Named after the surrounding cliffs, the pond is full of life, with trout, perch, bass and killifish. Fish stocks are replenished in spring and summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Nickerson State Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Nickerson State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be aware that dogs are not permitted in the swimming areas or on the beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What are the trails like in Nickerson State Park?
The trails are quite different from the typical coastal landscape of Cape Cod. Expect to hike through shaded woodlands of pitch pine and oak trees. The paths are often sandy and can be hilly in sections, especially around the park's many freshwater kettle ponds.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. The park has many options suitable for families. A great choice is the Flax Pond loop from Orleans, which is a short, shaded walk around one of the park's beautiful ponds. Most of the trails around the ponds offer gentle terrain perfect for all ages.
Can I go for a swim after my hike?
Yes, combining a hike with a swim is a popular activity. The park has designated swimming beaches at Flax Pond, Cliff Pond, and Higgins Pond. These clear, freshwater kettle ponds are perfect for a refreshing dip after exploring the trails.
Are there any paved trails for walking or biking?
Yes, Nickerson State Park features an eight-mile paved bike path that winds through the woods and around the ponds. This path is great for a smooth walk, run, or bike ride. It also connects directly to the 26-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail, offering even more extensive paved routes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Nickerson State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene atmosphere of the kettle ponds, the well-maintained trail network, and the beautiful shaded forests that provide a cool escape on warm days.
Is there a particularly long trail for a more challenging hike?
For those seeking a longer outing, the Nickerson State Park Long Trail – Nickerson State Park is the best option. This moderate 9-mile (14.4 km) route connects several of the park's ponds and forested areas, offering a more immersive experience of the park's diverse landscape.
How many hiking trails are in Nickerson State Park?
There are over 35 hiking routes to explore in Nickerson State Park. The network includes everything from short, easy loops around the ponds to longer, more moderate trails that venture deeper into the woodlands.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The park's forests and wetlands are home to a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for box turtles basking in the sun near the ponds. It's also a fantastic spot for bird watching, with over 190 species recorded, including ospreys and great blue herons.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, there is ample parking available throughout Nickerson State Park, typically near the main pond areas and trail access points. During peak season in the summer, it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot, as the park is very popular.
Are the trails accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
While most of the hiking trails are unpaved with sandy and sometimes hilly terrain, the park's paved bike path is an excellent option for wheelchairs and strollers. This path offers a smooth surface to enjoy the park's scenery.
Can I hike around the ponds?
Yes, hiking around the kettle ponds is one of the main attractions. Many trails are loops that circle the ponds, offering continuous water views. For a scenic route around the park's largest pond, consider the Cliff Pond Trail loop — Nickerson State Park.
Most popular routes in Nickerson State Park
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