Cape Cod CanalInLine Skating in Greater Boston |
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Terrain Flat Surface Excellent smooth pavement Scenery The canal, ocean liners, wildlife, and fishermen Auto Traffic None Pedestrian Traffic Moderate (bikes and foot) Distance 6.5 miles (13 round trip) |
Bourne/Sagamore The Cape Cod Canal, considered the gateway to America's Intercoastal Waterway, is a skater's dream, or nightmare, depending on which way the wind blows. And how the wind does blow! The idea for the canal was first explored by the Pilgrims in 1623. Miles Standish, though not known as a skater, recognized that connecting Buzzards Bay with the Cape Cod Bay would eliminate the dangerous and expensive trip around the arm of Massachusetts. Hundreds of shipwrecks and 370 years later, construction began, with the canal finally opening in 1914. Today, it is the widest sea level canal in the world (480-foot bottom clearance), and is designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The U.S Army Corps of Engineers operates and maintains not only the safe passage of vessels through the canal, but also the recreational facilities along each bank. Once you have chosen your entry point -- see Where to Skate --the rest is a skating experience as pure and unique as it gets. The newly paved paths are smooth, wide, and offer a parade of interesting sights and sounds. Tankers escorted by tiny tugs drift by on their way out to sea; fishermen cast into the waters for a successful daily catch; and sun bathers sizzle under the warm summer sun. Pack a lunch, bring plenty to drink, and don't forget your camera; this is one you will want to remember. For more information about the canal, call the Army Corps of Engineers at (508) 759-4431.
How to Get There Head down Rtes. 3 South (from Boston) or 495 (from the west) towards the Cape, until you see either the Bourne or Sagamore bridges. Access points to the canal path are located along its entire distance (Rte. 6) on each side of the canal itself. Also on both sides, at each end of the canal, are public parking areas. In the middle, on the east side, before crossing the bridges, there's a large lot and a Visitors' Center. There is also camping and a picnic area at the Bourne Scenic Park. Where to Skate The recommended plan of attack for a day of skating depends on how long and hard you want to work. The end-to-end distance of 6.5 miles can seem endless if there is a strong head wind. If the wind is relatively calm, park at one of the public lots at either end. The “east” side is the less crowded of the two sides. If the wind is strong, park at one of the lots beside one of the bridges and skate into the wind first. When you turn around, you'll sail along with the ships as you return. Copyright ©2000-2003 |
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