For a peaceful walk through classic Cape Cod scenery, head to Red Brook Pond Conservation Area in the Bourne village of Pocasset. With rolling trails through the woods, past working cranberry bogs, and along placid Red Brook Pond, this Bourne Conservation Trust property is an enjoyable place to explore any time of year.

Red Brook Pond Conservation Area lies just a stone’s throw from bustling Red Brook Harbor. In contrast with its busy neighbor, Red Brook Pond Conservation Area is an oasis of dense forests and quiet fresh waters. For anyone looking for an escape to nature, these trails have it all: woodlands, wildlife, and even working cranberry bogs along the far end of the trail. The views are particularly beautiful in fall when cranberries ripen red and vibrant autumn leaves reflect on the pond’s surface.

The mile-long trail network at Red Brook Pond Conservation Area forms a large loop with multiple path options. Along these sandy, well-marked trails, you can tour the entire property in about an hour. (Download trail map)

For a quick jaunt down to Red Brook Pond, take the short loop trail from the parking area. There are several benches along the pond where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the view.

To reach the longer loop walk, follow the path that runs parallel to Thaxter Road. (Make sure to follow all posted trail signs and respect private property.) We recommend you start on the North Trail, which begins across the road. The trails are hilly in spots as they climb up and down ridges – remnants of the area’s glacial past. But the trek is worth it for the views: from up high, you can gaze out over the bogs and the pond through the trees. Benches in the most scenic spots allow you to stop and stay awhile.

Red Brook Pond Conservation Area’s 40 acres are home to a diverse array of habitats, from its mixed oak and pitch pine forest to the cranberry bogs and freshwater pond. This variety of habitats provides shelter for lots of wildlife. Red Brook Pond is a particularly good place to watch for wintering waterfowl, including species like buffleheads, black ducks, and Canada geese.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Red Brook Pond Conservation Area.