Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Massachusetts
Barnstable County

Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop

Easy

4.9

(8977)

13,345

hikers

Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop

01:07

4.23km

40m

Hiking

Hike the easy 2.6-mile Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop in Nickerson State Park, featuring clear kettle ponds and sandy beaches.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.36 km

Grassy Nook

Peak

2.62 km

Beach

Beach

B

4.23 km

End point

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.83 km

276 m

126 m

Surfaces

2.82 km

1.01 km

375 m

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Thursday 28 May

19°C

13°C

33 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 3.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Print

Share

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop?

The Komoot tour for the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop is estimated to take approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete. This duration is for the 4.2 km (2.6 miles) route.

What is the difficulty level of the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop?

The Komoot tour for this loop is rated as easy. While the terrain includes sandy sections, roots, and rocks, the overall elevation gain is minimal, making it suitable for most hikers, including families. There are also shorter, easier options like the Little Cliff Pond Loop (approx. 1.7 miles) within the park.

What is the terrain like on the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop?

Hikers can expect a varied terrain featuring sandy trails, especially along the pond shores, and wooded paths with roots and rocks through the surrounding hills. The woodlands are primarily pitch pine and scrub oak, and you'll encounter sandy beaches along the clear kettlehole ponds.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop?

The trail offers beautiful water views of both Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond, known for their clear waters. You'll wind through pitch pine and dry oak woodlands, occasionally opening up to sandy beaches. The views of the ponds and their reflections are often described as breathtaking, especially in the fall.

Are there opportunities for swimming along the trail?

Yes, the sandy beaches along Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond offer excellent opportunities for swimming in the clear, freshwater ponds. Many find the water to have an almost tropical feel on clear days, making it a perfect spot to cool off.

Where can I park for the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop trail?

The Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop is located within Nickerson State Park in Brewster, Massachusetts. Parking is available within the park. The trails are well-maintained and connect to various campgrounds within the park, providing multiple access points.

Are there any fees or permits required to access the trails in Nickerson State Park?

Yes, Nickerson State Park, where these trails are located, typically charges a day-use parking fee during peak season. For current fee information and operating hours, it's best to check the official Massachusetts state parks website: mass.gov/nickerson-state-park.

Is the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop dog-friendly?

Dogs are generally allowed on trails within Nickerson State Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Always ensure to clean up after your pet to help keep the park pristine for all visitors.

What is the best time of year to hike the Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but it is particularly scenic in the fall when the foliage changes. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, and summer is ideal for combining your hike with a swim in the ponds. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Nook Road Trail, Cliff Pond Trail, Little Cliff Pond Trail, Silas Road, and Ruth Pond Road. Nickerson State Park also features an eight-mile bike path that links to the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Nearby routes

Easy

5.0

26

Nauset Marsh Trail

00:38h

2.43km

20m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy