The "Clam Trees" at Rock Harbor

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

     At Rock Harbor, a row of young pine trees with old street signs attached to them extends into the bay, giving the appearance of a modern art installation.

     At low tide, visitors can walk up to the trees, which appear to be growing right out of the sand. Known to the locals as “clam trees,” legend has it that back in the 70’s, quahoggers who used to harbor there dropped clams near the bases of the trees. Later in the season when permit holders dug for clams, they’d have the best luck near the trees. Locals would claim that the clams fell from the trees.

     “Clam trees” are installed along the waterway each spring to help boats navigate in and out of the man-made harbor. The reflectivity of the signs helps guide the boats, and the trees show up on radar. A small commercial and charter fishing fleet docks at the harbor, located on the border of Orleans and Eastham.

     Rock Harbor attracts many visitors and beachcombers, touted as one of the most picturesque places on the Cape for sunset viewing.