News Release

National Seashore Announces Spring Visitor Activities

Park rangers are offering outdoor information services at visitor centers

NPS

News Release Date: April 15, 2021

Contact: Sue Moynihan, 508-957-0738

National seashore rangers and volunteers who staff visitor centers and lead programs are gearing up for a busy spring at the seashore. Last spring, visitor center operations were shuttered and there were no guided programs. “We missed an entire season of sharing seashore resources with visitors and helping them plan a fun, safe visit,” said Cape Cod National Seashore Chief of Interpretation and Cultural Resources Management Sue Moynihan. “Whales, migratory songbirds, nesting shorebirds, and spawning horseshoe crabs, as well as historic resources like lighthouses, whaling, and lifesaving are intriguing stories we look forward to sharing this year,” Moynihan said.

Seashore staff remain focused on slowing the spread of COVID-19. Visitor center buildings remain closed for the time being, and rangers continue to staff outdoor information stations on visitor center grounds, providing maps and brochures, answering questions, and helping visitors plan an enjoyable and safe visit. Rangers are currently on duty daily at the entrance to Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham, and the outdoor operation at Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown will begin May 1. The America’s National Parks store operated by education partner Eastern National is open daily at Salt Pond, with books, maps, field guides, apparel, and other seashore-related items. Seashore education rangers have developed virtual lessons on erosion, weathering, and pollinators. Geared toward elementary-age students and consisting of short videos and live Q & A with a ranger, these lessons are available to educators by making a request through e-mail us.

A limited number of ranger-guided programs will be offered during April vacation week. Program level will increase beginning in May. Participation will be limited to meet COVID-19 safety guidelines, and reservations will be required for most programs. All ranger-guided activities will be listed at Calendar - Cape Cod National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov), and activity flyers will be available at seashore visitor centers. The seashore’s junior ranger program is available again this year, and youngsters may pick up a free junior ranger booklet at visitor centers. Other family-friendly activities include a history scavenger hunt available during April vacation week, and the Buttonbush Trail, with its hands-on exploration activities.

Under federal executive order, masks are required in federal buildings and on federal lands where social distancing cannot be maintained. At certain congested areas at the seashore masks must be worn, including around visitor centers, the Off-Road Vehicle permit station, on narrow trails and beach approach paths, on ranger-guided programs, and on trams once service commences in late May.Seashore neighbors and visitors are encouraged to bookmark the seashore’s current conditions page, where operational updates and other important information will be provided throughout the season: Current Park Conditions - Cape Cod National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)