So many people have been asking about the 5 clearings on the Red Maple Swamp Trail at Fort Hill. We bumped into one of the experts and a ranger the other day and they told us the story: (Click on blog link for other photo.)
The reason that they have cleared these areas is because many invasive plants have taken over this area and killed the Red Maple trees. Clearing the land, the trees are able to self-germinate and grow because it is an open area full of sun. The small white stakes that you see are Red Maple seedlings that the park service has planted.
They have already seen much progress and hope that the Red Maple trees will again be the dominant trees in this area.
“Doane Rock is a glacial erratic located in Eastham, Massachusetts on the grounds of the Cape Cod National Seashore. It is the largest exposed boulder on Cape Cod. It stands 18 feet (5.5 m) high and extends below the ground an estimated 12 feet.”
Doane Rock is a cool place to visit as it has so much history. There are even picnic tables and trails nearby… and, kids love it! The 2nd photo is of one of the trails from Doane Rock to Coast Guard Beach.
There are so many picnic areas in the National Seashore, that sometimes you have to choose which one you like better! (Click on blog link for other photos.)
One on our favorite areas to picnic is near Doane Rock where it is shady and cool. (Click on blog link for other photos.)
These picnic areas are near Doane Rock and have room for a family or a larger group. They are all accessible by car which makes it very easy. Have you ever picnicked there?
It certainly looked just like summer at Rock Harbor yesterday. There were people everywhere…on the beach, in the water and on the boats. It felt like we jumped into summer in one day! (Click on blog link for other photo.)
So much fun to see all of the activity!
Cape Cod daily articles on the wonderful Cape Cod places to hike, experience and photograph. A Cape Cod Outdoor Adventure Series.
