It snowed here last night for about 3 hours and then turned to rain. So I know Spring is coming. (In the deep part of winter it doesn’t turn to rain!) Every year about this time I start to get antsy and want to be outdoors. Right now, I’m staring out my window looking at our canoe - nestled under it’s protective tarp - and wishing I was in it.
But it can be dangerous to rush the paddling season on Cape Cod. Our ponds and ocean waters are very cold and falling into them could seriously harm a person. Hypothermia would happen in minutes.
But as the temperatures warm up the waters, one of the first places Leo and I venture into is Shawme Pond, which is right in the middle of the Sandwich Historic Town Center. It is anchored on one end by the Sandwich Town Hall and at the other end by the Hoxie House (the oldest house in Cape Cod). Shawme Pond is a very shallow pond and sheltered. So its waters heat up the fastest of any we’ve found. Usually by late April if we’re lucky we can be out paddling.
The best place to put in your canoe is by the bandstand beach. You can park in the Hoxie House parking lot. The only problem is that there is a steep incline between the parking lot and the beach. Leo doesn’t have any problems, but he’s very fit and strong. I need Leo to get it off the car and into the water.
The first thing you’ll notice is the pair of swans. If you’re lucky they’ll put on a show. They’re huge! When they take off flapping their wings, they make quite a noise. They do have a nest and every summer we have baby swans. A smart paddler stays far from their nest.
Watch below the water as well. We’ve see a very large snapping turtle everytime we paddle at Shawme Pond. Based on size we think he might be 30 or more year’s old. Shawme Pond isn’t that big for paddling, but it’s silly with wildlife. Paddle slowly along the shore and you’ll see all kinds of interesting activity. Look in the tree tops and you’ll see all kinds of birds.
Sandwich voters approved purchasing all of the open land on the far end of Shawme Pond a few years ago, so this unique “urban” paddling experience will always be available. If you want to start children on paddling, I think this would be the perfect place. But as always, please wear life jackets and follow good safety procedures.
On the practical side, during the summer months there are restrooms opposite the Town Hall.
