There is no better way to enjoy Cape Cod than by getting outside. From nature walks and hiking trails to fun events and a wide variety of programs, Barnstable Land Trust (BLT) is a local nonprofit that is a force for nature. Dedicated to preserving open space and natural resources in the Town of Barnstable, BLT has protected 1,250 acres in the Town of Barnstable and supported the Town in conserving over 11,000 more thanks to the support of its members and donors.
Lasting Impact: A Forever Mission
When we conserve an open space, BLT makes a commitment to steward and protect that land in perpetuity. This year we have five active land projects in different Town of Barnstable villages. Today, the challenges posed by development pressures and the looming reality of climate impacts means that we must act with greater agility and urgency. That is why BLT is working hard to save more land faster so that we can ensure that Barnstable’s natural treasures remain protected and enjoyed by future generations.
Programs and Events: For a Breath of Fresh Air
Engaging more people on and with the land is another BLT focus. Each year, BLT is proud to offer over 100 different programs – and most are free! Working with over 50 community partners, our calendar offers a wide variety of talks, hands-on activities, walks, and learning opportunities for people of all ages.
Annual celebrations include our popular First Day Hikes Cape Cod (January 1), Hike Barnstable (June), Climate Conversations (September); and Earth, Arts, and Humanities month (October). Other programs offered throughout the year include Volunteer days (beach clean-ups and field work), kid-friendly events (field games, story times, and nature activities), environmental programs (ranger-led beach walks, author talks, and expert-led programs) as well as creative community events (flowerpot music concerts, Thoreau readathons, and geocaching), and more.
If you are looking to explore conservation-related programs across the entire Cape, you can also explore a new year-round calendar here. There really is something for everyone – so we hope we’ve tempted you to explore the call of the wild!
June Spotlight: Hike Barnstable for Kids and Adults
Celebrate Great Outdoors Month® as Barnstable Land Trust (BLT) kicks-off its annual Hike Barnstable programs in June. With support from Cape Cod Healthcare, program highlights include a lady slipper walk, a “tech and trail hike”, author talks, a Thoreau Community Readathon, volunteer days and beach clean-ups, a solstice labyrinth walk, a Nordic walking clinic, a bog restoration program, and a day of field games and geocaching to celebrate the end of the school year.
NEW this year: Join the Hike Barnstable Hiking Challenge for both children and adults. Simply hike 5, 10, or 20 miles during the month to be eligible for special certificates, gifts (who doesn’t love a free ice cream cone?), and cool gift baskets! Click here to download the Hike Challenge form.
For more details about the June calendar, check out the Hike Barnstable page at https://blt.org/hikebarnstable
Take A Hike: Free Trail Maps
If you are looking for short walks or long hikes, Barnstable Land Trust (BLT) has three free popular trails maps that are worth exploring: 1) The Barnstable Trail Guide (also available in Portuguese) highlights 34 different locations spanning 95 miles found in just the Town of Barnstable; 2) Cape Cod Pathways showcases trails that connect Sandwich and Yarmouth and is perfect for the off-the-beaten-path and experienced explorer; and 3) perfect for local lore lovers as well as flora and fauna fans, Cotuit’s Eagle Pond and Little River Sanctuary Guide is sure to deliver. Maps can be picked up at BLT’s office (Route 6A), libraries, or downloaded online here.
Trailside Poetry: Words In the Wild
BLT’s Words in the Wild is a unique hiking trail initiative that features original site-specific poems penned by local poets. Each short poem has been etched onto individual cedar trail signs that include a QR code connecting to audio recordings and other information. Why not try to find all 9 locations and discover why each Words in the Wild poem is so inspirational! Here is a link to start your quest.
Learn More
To learn more about Barnstable Land Trust, how to volunteer, join as a member, or receive program updates, we encourage you to sign-up for our bimonthly e-newsletter, follow us on @barnstablelandtrust, visit http://www.BLT.org, call 508-771-2585, or contact Sue ( BLT’s Director of Communications and Programs) at sue@blt.org. We hope to see you out and about!
