My first few days of exploring Cape Cod had culminated into one defining moment, The Great Island Trail. Research indicated that this is the longest and most difficult hiking trail on the Cape, due to soft sand, high tides and some log steps. It also offered views of Cape Cod Bay, Wellfleet Harbor and a detour to the remains of an old tavern that was built by some of the first settlers of this land.
Sadly, I had accidentally brought two left hiking shoes, so I was forced to hike in sandals, albeit the sturdier kind. I was hopeful that they could handle the terrain as I strapped on my pack and heading off into the coastal wilderness.
This is not the hiking terrain I am used to, and the sand took some time for my body to get adjusted. The low lying sand dunes though encapsulate such peaceful feelings within me that I don’t mind not having a harder dirt surface to hike along.
The beaches are closed to allow shore birds to nest their young. I see no foxes as I go, only the dead remains of birds that have met their end through a fox encounter.
Up and over small hills I go, heading further and further out towards the inevitable sea.
High tide awaits as I make it, somewhat, to Jeremy Point. The wind is whipping my beard fiercely, and I think I see one other person way off in the distance. They may even be trapped on a small stretch of land that is yet to be submerged from the incoming tide. I remove my sandals and let my bare feet carry me the rest of the way.
I slosh through bogs as I explore this pristine land, pulling up to the old Smith Tavern for a pint after a long day in the New World, sun kissed and weary from the adventure.
