Pavilion and three tables at the west parking lot for the Pilgrim Heights Picnic Area at Cape Cod National Seashore

See the Picnic Areas web page for an interactive location map.

The Pilgrim Heights area of Cape Cod National Seashore is reached via Pilgrim Heights Road, which ends in a long, narrow loop. There are large parking lots that hold approximately 80 vehicles on both the west and east sides. I have no idea why that many people would ever come to this area, because there is nothing here other than two trails that aren’t worth hiking and less than a dozen picnic tables. All tables are taken on a first come, first served basis, so this isn’t even a place where anyone would consider hosting a party or other event.

The loop road is one way and traffic passes around it in the clockwise direction, bringing visitors to the west side first. At the far end is a lone pavilion with three picnic tables, no grills. Trailheads for the Small’s Swamp Trail and the Pilgrim Spring Trail are also accessed from this side of the parking lot.

If the pavilion tables are taken, just continue around to the other side of the loop. Here you will find a restroom facility and a half-dozen picnic tables spread out along the length of the parking lot. There are no grills or pavilions on this side.