Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop
Cliff Pond and Little Cliff Pond Loop
4.9
(8977)
13,345
hikers
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
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.83 km
276 m
126 m
Surfaces
2.82 km
1.01 km
375 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 28 May
19°C
13°C
33 %
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Max wind speed: 3.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.