dune tour provincetown

Experience the history, culture, and ecology of the Provincetown Dunes in the National Seashore Park

Online Reservations open May 1, 2024    Book Online

Art's Dune Tours

Welcome! At Art's Dune Tours we offer a wide variety of memorable experiences that combine the natural beauty of the dunes with the Cape’s famous sunsets, dinners on the beach, boating, and even private celebrations created for you.

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Harbor Tours

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Bronco Tours

Our Popular Dune Tours

Daily Tours

Take a one-of-a-kind tour of the protected dunes of the Provincetown Cape Cod National Seashore. This one-hour tour is perfect for all ages!

Sunset Tours

Enjoy a two-hour tour culminating with watching the sunset from Race Point Beach. You can also add dinner and a bonfire!

Dune & Water

Experience the beauty of Provincetown’s dunes AND waters with your choice of charter fishing, sailing or speed boating!

Celebrations & Groups

Celebrate that special occasion! Weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, reunions, amidst the beauty and privacy of the National Seashore.

Provincetown Dunes

The extraordinary Provincetown dunes are part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, which stretches the coast along the Outer Cape up to Chatham, MA. Established in 1961, the Park protects this unique but fragile ecological system, ensuring the preservation of its beauty and the natural habitat living in it. Read More ...

Questions & Answers

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Tour Dates & Times

When do the dunes tours run? We open our tours on April 15th and they run until November 15th. You can contact us year-round if you have any questions. more details What times do your Daily Tours depart? Our daily tours start at 9:45 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 2:30 pm & 4:00 pm (departure times may vary later in the season). more details What times do the other tours, such as the Sunset Tour and Dune and Water Tour depart? The Sunset Tours run several times a week, while the other tours are scheduled at the time you make your reservation. That’s why we ask that you call to make these tours. Sunset Tours Dune & Water Tours

Reservations

Do you offer any discounts on the tour? We offer a discount on the 9:45 tour when booked online only. Do we need to make a reservation in advance? We recommend making reservations in advance, so that you will have a greatest selection of tours and times available. Book Online How many people does your truck hold? Each suburban has a 6 seat passenger capacity. Can I reserve a private tour? Yes, a private daily or sunset tour can be arranged. The price would be determined on a car of 6. So if you reserve 2 spots, you would also be responsible for the remaining 4 too. Can I cancel my trip? Yes, you can cancel the trip however we will need a 24 hour notice. You must call our office to be sure we have acknowledged your cancellation. If you do not give a 24 hour cancellation notice we reserve the right to withhold all funds paid. 508-487-1950

Tour Information

Will the tours still run if its raining? Our daily 1-hour tour goes out rain or shine. Our vehicles are covered, so the weather does not affect the tour. In fact, it’s a great way to spend and hour in the rain. The meal portion of our sunset tour will not be served in inclement weather. Daily Tours Sunset Tours What should we bring/wear? We travel in a covered vehicle, so anything you’re comfortable wearing is fine. You should make sure you bring a camera, we stop at a wonderful picture taking spot. Are there restrooms on the tour? We have one very small restroom in our office for your use. But it can get very busy. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND using the public restrooms by the main parking lot located around the corner from our office. There are no restrooms out in the dunes. Is it customary to tip our driver? And if so, how much? The usual gratuity is between 10%-20% or whatever you feel comfortable with giving.

Children & Pets

Children IF YOU BOOK A TOUR WITH A CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER, YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN, WE DO NOT SUPPLY Families traveling with children under the age of 8 years old must supply a car seat in compliance with state and federal regulations. Is there an age minimum for children on your tour? No, all ages are welcomed for our Daily and Sunset Tours. Pets Are pets allowed on the tour? Unfortunately pets are not allowed on our tour, due to the small space in the vehicle and other customers’ allergies. We can make an exception for service animals.

Directions & parking

How far are Hyannis, Orleans Rotary, Plymouth, Providence and Boston from Provincetown? • Hyannis is 47 miles from Provincetown, which takes a little over an hour without traffic. • The Orleans Rotary is 26 miles from Provincetown and takes about 35 minutes without traffic. • Plymouth is 77 miles and will take 1 .5 without traffic. • Providence is 121 miles and takes 2 hours without traffic. • Boston is 115 miles and takes 2.5 hours without traffic. Please allot enough time for traffic, Parking and restrooms. During the months of July & August traffic can really be congested on RT. 6, so please include some extra time for traffic. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to do in Provincetown until your tour! more details Where is parking in Provincetown? See our Parking Page for a list of parking lots. Parking Page Can we be picked up at our hotel? Local hotel pickups are only done with a private charter.

Our online reservation system closes 24 hours prior to departures. Please call our office: 508-487-1950 , for additional same day availability tour times. IF YOU BOOK A TOUR WITH A CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER, YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN, WE DO NOT SUPPLY.

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WBZ News Radio 1030

Went on a fabulous 1 hour tour of the iconic sand dunes in Provincetown w/ @ArtsDuneTours . They’ve been in business since 1958, the only dunes tour company in PTown still operating. I learned that about 75% of PTown & Truro are made up of sand dunes & national seashore. pic.twitter.com/y1rbN3eMc9 — Kim Tunnicliffe (@KimWBZ) September 3, 2019

I got to go on amazing tour of Cape Cod’s iconic sand dunes w/ @ArtsDuneTours , which was founded in 1958 by Art Costa. It’s now run by son Robert, who calls the dunes the “Outback of Provincetown.” There were several tour co’s in PTown at one time, but Art’s is last one standing. pic.twitter.com/J9V5Id1rW8 — Kim Tunnicliffe (@KimWBZ) September 3, 2019

Robert Costa, son of @ArtsDuneTours founder Art Costa still gives truck tours of the Cape Cod sand dunes some 61 years after his dad started the company. He’s the only dune tour company in the area still standing. He calls the thousands of acres of dune land the Outback of PTown. pic.twitter.com/07KQVmeNaw — Kim Tunnicliffe (@KimWBZ) September 3, 2019

19 famed artists’ dune shacks remain on thousands of acres of sand dunes in Provincetown & Truro. I got to see them during a dune tour w/ @ArtsDuneTours . They were inhabited by the likes of Eugene O’Neill, EE Cummings, Harry Kemp, Norman Mailer,Tennessee Williams & Jack Kerouac. pic.twitter.com/475eM2Xr2p — Kim Tunnicliffe (@KimWBZ) September 3, 2019

508-487-1950 [email protected] 4 Standish St Provincetown, MA 02657 Tours operate 7 days a week from April 15 – November 15.

508-487-1950 [email protected] 4 Standish St Provincetown, MA 02657 Tours operate 7 days a week from April 15 – November 15

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Arts Dune Drivers use Smith Chromapop lenses exclusively because they cut out the glare while enhancing the natural beauty of Provincetown and the Dunes.

Copyright © Art's Dune Tours 2023 | all rights reserved

New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Massachusetts  ·  July 1, 2022

Art’s Dune Tours: The Best Way To Explore Cape Cod’s Sand Dunes

While Cape Cod is known for its stunning beaches and coastline, the sand dunes in this region are an equally incredible landscape to experience. For the last 75 years, Art’s Dune Tours has been providing unforgettable adventures by taking people out into the Province Lands dunes, and showing them some of the most unique landscapes in the entire country.

If you’re planning a trip to Cape Cod, and are looking to get out into the sand dunes, this post is all about what to expect with Art’s Dune Tours, and why it should be on your itinerary.

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

This tour was hosted by the Cape Cod Tourism Board. All opinions are my own.

The History Of Art’s Dune Tours & Provincetown’s Sand Dunes

Art’s Dune Tours started with a man named Art and his 1936 Ford Woody. Art began as a taxi service that brought people out to the dunes, which eventually evolved into a tour company. Stemmed from his passion for the region, and his love and knowledge of the dunes, Art’s Dune Tours quickly became one of the most exciting things to do in Provincetown. Art continued to do tours for 50 years, and his son, Rob, shared that he truly loved every minute of it.

Rob now owns the company, and he’s just as passionate as his father, and excited to take people out into the dunes to provide not just a tour, but a meaningful experience.

In 1961, when President Kennedy established the Cape Cod National Seashore, this land became protected from any further development, and its natural beauty has remained untouched since. During the tour, I learned that 70% of Provincetown is sand, and also that the Cape Cod National Seashore is the largest protected coast in the U.S. Special permits are needed to drive in the dunes, and with some of the dunes reaching 110 feet tall, this is really quite an amazing experience!

What To Expect On Your Art’s Dune Tour

In a nutshell, lots of fun, incredible views and interesting stories about the history of the dunes.

Tours will start at Art’s Dune Tour offices in Provincetown, a short walk from MacMillan Pier, and most tours last about one hour or so. From there, you’ll hop into one of their Suburbans, and head toward the dunes, which are only a 5-minute or so drive away. Each vehicle seats up to 6 people, and are equipped with air conditioning for a comfortable ride.

Once you arrive at the entrance for the dunes, you’ll stop for a quick moment to allow the guide to let air out of the tires so the vehicle can easily navigate the soft sand. And then you’re off! You’ll ride up and down the dunes (some of them pretty steep) pass by the dune shacks, stop to admire the local foliage and have moments to get out of the car and take some photos.

Tour guides for Art’s will share so much interesting history of the Province Lands, dunes, artist shacks and local ecosystem. I was lucky enough to be on a tour with Rob himself, and he was able to point out and share his knowledge on all the beautiful flora that exists amongst the dunes, including mosses, lichen, rugosas and so much more. We even got to pass a natural cranberry bog, which was surprising to see in the middle of these vast dunes.

The History Of The Dune Shacks In Provincetown

Wondering what the story is with the dune shacks? Great! I’d love to tell you all about them. You’ll also hear many more stories on your tour, but here are some highlights.

The dune shacks are quite famous in Provincetown, and throughout all of Cape Cod, and date back to the 1920s. The 19 shacks were built by members of the Coast Guard as a place for their families to stay during visits, or as a place of rest on their days off. They’re scattered amongst the sand dunes, and many of them offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

As the Provincetown artist colony gained popularity, artists began using the shacks during their Cape Cod visits. Famed artists and writers like E.E. Cummings, Jackson Pollock, Jack Kerouac, Tennessee Williams, Harry Kemp and Normal Mailer have all stayed in the dune shacks. In fact, Jack Kerouac wrote part of On The Road while staying in one of the shacks.

Many of the shacks became property of the government in 1961 when Kennedy established the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Can You Stay In The Provincetown Dune Shacks?

Yes you can, but it will require some work and a bit of luck. The government partners with non-profit organizations to host local and aspiring artists and writers in the shacks. Imagine, as an artist or writer, the amazing inspiration you’d get by being surrounded by such remote, natural beauty just outside your door each day.

Those hoping to stay in one of the dune shacks can apply for residency, and applications are accepted by a lottery system (this is where the luck comes into play). Samples of your work are required during the application process.

Some things to keep in mind to appreciate a residency at the shacks even more: There is no indoor plumbing or electricity at the shacks. And they’re very secluded, meaning you’ve got quite the hike through soft sand if you’re in need of additional food or supplies. It’s also common to encounter wildlife like snakes and bugs during your stay. It’s not for the faint of heart. But it’s also considered an honor to stay in one of the famed shacks.

Do The Tours Harm The Local Ecosystem?

Absolutely not, and this one of the first questions I asked on the tour. Art’s Dune Tours has to get a special permit each year for every vehicle in their fleet, and the tours stay on the access “road,” which is the main path that runs through the dunes. Guides don’t stray from the main path to keep the vegetation in-tact.

During the tour, you’ll witness the deep respect between tour guides and the dunes, and one of the main goals of the tours is to educate visitors on how important this area is for the local ecosystem, as well as what a special place it is. This was the most impressive part of the tour for me.

Art’s Dune Tour Options

Art’s Dune Tours offers a few different options, with some really great add-on experiences. Below is a breakdown of tours you can arrange with them.

Daily Tours

This is the tour I experienced, which will take you around the dunes for about an hour. These tours run daily at 9:45a, 11a, 1p, 2:30p and 4p from May 1-October 31. Times may change a bit later in the fall season, so be sure to give them a call to confirm if you plan to visit after Labor Day.

Sunset Tours

There are 3 different Sunset Tour options to customize your perfect evening. You can go for either a regular sunset tour, a tour with dinner, and finally, a tour with both dinner and a bonfire. For these tours, you’ll ride through the dunes for 1 hour, and then drive down to the beach to watch the sunset, have dinner and start the bonfire.

Art’s Dune Tours also offers a few other options that include art, photography, kayaking and ventures out to Race Point Lighthouse. Click here to check out these tours on their website.

How Much Do Art’s Dune Tours Cost?

Daily tours cost $38.11 per person (as of 2022), which includes taxes and fees, and there is a 4-person minimum for each tour to operate.

For sunset tours, prices start at $56.65 per person (as of 2022), and will go up from there if you choose to add on dinner or the bonfire experience.

For all other tour experiences, call them directly for pricing.

Does Art’s Dune Tours Operate If It’s Raining?

They sure do! In fact, the day of my tour, it was drizzling rain off and on, and it was still an incredible experience. Tours run rain or shine since you’re inside a vehicle, and protected from the elements.

Are Art’s Dune Tours Suitable For Children?

Definitely. If you need a car seat, you’ll need to bring one with you. But other than that, this is a really fun adventure that children will love.

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That’s A Wrap On My Art’s Dune Tours Review

And there you have it, everything you can expect on your tour with Art’s Dune Tours. I’ve been coming to Cape Cod for a long time, and this truly is one of the best experiences I’ve had here. Between the mind-blowing landscapes and the incredibly knowledgeable, fun tour guides and hearing really fascinating stories about the history of the Province Lands, it’s impossible to not have a great time.

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Art's Dune Tours

Narrated tours of the Dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore Park.

Art’s Dune Tours provides a fulfilling off-road tour experience to our family of visitors through the heart of the National Historic District of the Cape Cod National Seashore Park.

We strive to provide a great value, exceptional service and an informative, fun experience that our customers will cherish. Our most satisfying reward is when our customers come back with their friends and family.

We offer one-hour tours daily in addition to our spectacular two-hour sunset tour with optional clambakeBBQ meals and beach fires.

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Hello! I'm Laurence

Arts dune tours: the ultimate cape cod experience.

The dunes of Cape Cod have drawn writers, artists and musicians for years. It’s desolate beauty has inspired some of our most well known songs and movies. The best way to visit the dunes is with Arts Dune Tours out of Provincetown.

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Arts Dune Tours

Arts Dune Tours has been in business for 75 years. It began with founder Arthur Costa offering a taxi service from P-town out to the dune shacks. Now protected by the National Park Service, Art’s Dune Tours is the only company to get a yearly permit to drive through the dunes.

I booked our tour over the phone. There are several times throughout the day to choose from (at time of booking our offerings were 10 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3 pm). The daily tours last one hour. Tours run rain or shine from mid May to November 15th.

There are also sunset tours that last two hours. Add-on experiences such as clambakes, kayaking and a tour of Race Point Light can be arranged.

Our dune tour left right from the center of Provincetown. The four-wheel-drive Suburbans have air-conditioning and comfortably fit up to 6 people. It is basically a private tour because you will only be with your group. Our driver had a negative covid test that day and there was plexi glass between the driver and the rest of the car.

Children of all ages are welcome on the tours. If you want your child in a car seat, you will have to bring your own as they are not provided. Otherwise, the kids can just use a seatbelt or sit on a parent’s lap.

Our tour was jam packed with history from the moment we got in the car. We saw what was left of the life-saving station whose mission it was to help survivors of shipwrecks in the late 1800’s. One time it took two attempts to get up and over the tallest dune which was close to 100 feet tall.

The landscape of the dunes is really unique. The enormous sand deposits were left behind when Ice Age glaciers receded. The peaks and valleys rise and fall like waves and the grass is beautifully windswept. Any refuge from the wind allows a tree to take root, yet it will grow sideways. It is hard to believe that anything could survive in that desolate of a habitat.

We stopped at the top of one of the dunes from a 10 minute break and were able to take photos.

One of the most interesting parts of the tour was learning about the dune shacks and the visitors who sought out the isolation of the dunes to let their creativity flow.

History of the dune shacks

Provincetown has always been an artistic community and people seeking inspiration began heading out to the dunes.

In 1920, people began using the scraps of shipwrecks and parts of the old life-saving station to build shacks.

Tennessee Williams wrote a Street Car Named Desire from his shack and it is said that Marlon Brando walked through the dunes shouting “STELLA!” in an attempt to audition for the role.

The shacks have hosted great minds such as Henry David Thoreau, Jack Kerouac, Eugene O’Neill, Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Norman Mailer, Mark Rothko, and E.E. Cummings, to name a few.

Can you stay in a dune shack?

The easy answer is yes, but you will have to fight for it. There are week-long residence opportunities for artists, musicians and writers. A non-profit in Provincetown helps the NPS with the stays for the summer residency programs. The would-be residents must apply, and are chosen by jury selection or by lottery.

There are still 19 dune shacks remaining. These primitive shacks have never been wired with electricity or running water. You will have a bare wooden shack with an outhouse. It may come prepackaged with mice. There is no coming and going. You will be delivered to your shack and your ride will return a week later. With that said, those who have experienced the dune shacks claim it to be an existential experience.

What does Arts Dune Tour cost?

Number of People Per Truck- (There is a minimum price for 1-4 people)

1-4 people     $140.08

5  people        $175.10

6 people         $210.12

Are the dune tours harmful to the environment?

No, they are not. This was a worry of mine before the tour. We only drove on the fire access road that is there to reach the shacks. You won’t be off-roading willy nilly, ripping up the dunes or crushing piping plovers. The company has to apply for a permit each year, so access is very regulated. The vehicles they use are outfitted with special fat tires that don’t damage the fragile dune ecosystem.

Are the tours dog friendly?

No, dogs are not allowed in the vehicles.

Taking a dune tour with Arts Dune Tours is a really unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world. We learned a lot about the history of the area and had fun doing it. We would highly suggest checking it out. Growing up, we visited P-town almost every summer but never left the main street. Provincetown has so much more to offer than shopping. Our other favorite experience was visiting Long Point .

In closing, I will leave you with the lyrics of Rupert Holmes Piña Colada Song , so that it will be stuck in your head as it has been in mine.

If you like piña coladas And gettin’ caught in the rain If you’re not into yoga If you have half a brain If you like makin’ love at midnight In the dunes on the cape Then I’m the love that you’ve looked for Write to me and escape.

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Off the Beaten Path

Provincetown offers unique attractions and activities like nowhere else…  Go on a Dune Tour, climb to the top of the Pilgrim Monument, or sail on the open waters.

Experience the history, culture, and ecology of the Provincetown Dunes in the National Seashore Park .

Art’s Dune Tours and Topless Tours Ptown offer a wide variety of memorable experiences that combine the natural beauty of the dunes with the Cape’s famous sunsets, dinners on the beach, boating, and even private celebrations created for you.  Tour guides share the history and ecology of these beautiful and unique dunes that have inspired so many fine artists and writers.

Their daily tours roll through the Peaked Hill Bars Historic District Sand Dunes, catching sight of Pilgrim Lake nestled among the dunes and the famed artists’ dune shacks.

End your day with a sunset tour and watch the magnificent light and colors over the water and see why artists from all over the world have been drawn to the light on the outer Cape.

Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum

The Pilgrim Monument was founded in 1892 to commemorate the Mayflower Pilgrims’ first landing in the New World in Provincetown, in November 1620. The Pilgrims spent 5 weeks in Provincetown exploring the tip of Cape Cod, before they sailed on to Plymouth.

President Theodore Roosevelt laid the cornerstone of the monument in 1907. In 1910, President William Howard Taft dedicated the finished 252-foot tower.  The Monument is the tallest granite structure in the United States.  The Provincetown Museum opened at the base of the monument, to educate the public about Provincetown’s role in Pilgrim and American history.

In 2020, the museum debuted a new permanent exhibit, “ Our Story: The Complicated Relationship of the Indigenous Wampanoag and the Mayflower Pilgrims. ” The interactive and technological exhibit offers an accurate story of the Wampanoag Tribe’s history on Cape Cod, including the 1620 arrival of the Mayflower from England.

Clang, Clang, Clang, Went the Trolley...

Explore the sights and sounds of Provincetown from the comfort of the Mayflower Trolley .  Expert conductors will take you on a 45-minute overview of all that Provincetown has to offer.

It’s a great way to start exploring America’s first destination.  The tour includes driving through parts of Commercial and Bradford streets, as well as Herring Cove Beach, Race Point, Province Lands Dunes and more.  Tours run 7-days a week.

Embark on a new adventure with Anne Hutchinson to embrace the LGBTQ Provincetown History Tour . This tour unique experience is for adults 21+ and is offered on the weekends at 3:30 PM.

Join the Captain and the crew of the Bay Lady II for a memorable sail across Provincetown Harbor and into Cape Cod Bay.  A 2-hour sail will take you either across the Bay towards the Bluffs of Corn Hill or around Long Point Light at the tip of the Cape in the direction of Wood End Lighthouse.

Moment Sailing Adventures is outer Cape Cod’s only choice for deluxe private captained sailing day charters offering 2, 4, and 6-hour sails for groups of up to six guests (including children). Aboard the 47-foot Moment, you will experience the wildlife, beaches, lighthouses, and sunsets of this New England gem.

Flyers Sunset Cruises knows that Cape Cod’s unrivaled sunsets are best experienced on the water. Allow one of their licensed captains to drive you around Provincetown harbor while you take in the views, relax, or party the evening away!

Provincetown Art Association and Museum

The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM) is a nationally recognized, year-round cultural institution that fuses the creative energy of America’s oldest continuous art colony with the natural beauty of outer Cape Cod that has inspired artists for generations.

PAAM was established in 1914 by a group of artists and townspeople seeking to build a permanent collection of works by artists of outer Cape Cod, and to exhibit art that would allow for unification within the community.

PAAM presents an ever-changing lineup of exhibitions , lectures , workshops and cultural events that seek to promote and cultivate appreciation for all branches of the fine arts for which Provincetown is known.

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Explore Cape Cod's Sand Dunes with Art's Dune Tours

Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

Ah, the dunes of the Cape... they've been written about, sung about... and they're probably one of the first images that pop into your head when you envision Cape Cod .

And yet, many tourists visit Cape Cod without ever really experiencing one of New England's most remarkable natural wonders.

It's easy to get caught up in all of the other enticements of the Cape... sandy, family beaches; villages teeming with cute little shops; seaside seafood shanties... but you haven't truly been to Cape Cod until you've done the dunes.

Of the 44,600 acres that comprise the Cape Cod National Seashore—New England's most visited national park —4,000 of them make up two-thirds of the town of Provincetown at the very tip of the Cape. It is here that you'll find the most dramatic dune views. The enormous sand deposits were left behind when Ice Age glaciers receded. It's difficult to imagine, but the dunes were covered with a layer of soil and densely forested before the arrival of European settlers. Deforestation led to massive shifting of sand as the winds sculpted the exposed landscape. Efforts to stabilize the dunes began in the 1800s, and the National Park Service has continued beach grass planting efforts since 1961, when the Cape Cod National Seashore was created.

Want to Experience the Dunes? 

There are several ways to see the dunes, but by far the most entertaining is  Art's Dune Tours . This tour company has a history that is almost as long and storied as that of the dunes themselves. OK, I exaggerate a bit, but Art's Dune Tours has been in existence for 70 years.

Art Costa first began sharing the wonder of the dunes with Cape Cod tourists in 1946 in a 1936 Ford Woody. Today, the family business is run by Art's son, Rob, and he and a "cast" of tour leaders keep alive the tradition of taking small groups of seven to nine passengers out onto the dunes in four-wheel-drive Suburbans.

Now, you  can  go out on the dunes in your own four-wheel-drive vehicle, but obtaining a permit will cost you quite a bit of cash, there aren't exactly any road maps to follow and you'll have to entertain yourself with amusing anecdotes and corny jokes. It's much more relaxing and amusing to simply book passage with Art's Dune Tours, grab the camera and allow Rob or one of the other guides to regale you with tales of the dunes' animal and human inhabitants as you make tracks through the sandy turf.

For a preview of what you'll experience, or if you can't get to Cape Cod, join me as I set out with Rob on a daytime dune excursion. (I promise not to give away  too  many of the jokes in Rob's repertoire.) 

All About Art's Dune Tours

Art's Dune Tours operates from April through mid-November, and in addition to one-hour, narrated tours throughout the day, you can also reserve your place on a two-hour Sunset Tour with or without a BBQ, sushi or clambake dinner. Adventure tours are also available for guests who'd like extra time to paint or photograph the dunes; who want to combine dune touring with sailing, kayaking or speed boating, or who want to catch and eat their own dinner. Private charters for weddings on the dunes or other events are also available.

Tours depart from 4 Standish Street in Provincetown—look for a small table set up on the sidewalk. Reservations are always a good idea, as tours only operate with a minimum number of passengers, and summertime can be quite busy. For reservations and pricing information, call 508-487-1950 or toll free, 800-894-1951. You can also book your tour online.

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More Than Sand

First things first... arrive at Art's Dune Tours early for your tour, so you can secure a window seat. Rob Costa, our guide, explained that when 44,000 acres of Cape Cod coast were set aside in the 1960s for preservation and protection by the National Park Service, the local reaction was mixed. However, today, residents and visitors alike appreciate the beauty of what has been preserved. Fewer than 3,000 people live in Provincetown in the winter. The number of people in town swells to about 50,000 in the summer.

Did you think that sand was all we'd see on a Cape Cod dune tour? Au contraire! There are several historic buildings within the Cape Cod National Seashore, including the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station . Built circa 1897, the station was originally located at Nauset Beach in Chatham, where it housed US Coast Guard lifesaving crews and served as temporary shelter for rescued persons. Beach erosion necessitated relocation of the station, so it was moved by the National Park Service to Provincetown in 1977.

Are you interested in birdwatching? One of the unexpected sights on our trip was a pair of terns safeguarding their eggs, which were buried in the sand. We snuck up carefully in the Suburban so as not to frighten them away. Rob explained that terns come to the dunes of Cape Cod from as far away as South America to lay their eggs here. 

Not the Pilgrims' Provincetown

The site of the Pilgrims' first landfall wasn't Plymouth: It was Provincetown. The dunes looked very different then, Rob explained. "The dunes were completely forested at one time." Of course, the Pilgrims chose not to stay in Provincetown, and they headed further up the Massachusetts coast to settle.

Rob explained the reason for the Pilgrims' decision: "Even back then, the shops were a bit expensive." Actually, their decision to move on was related to a lack of fresh water and farmable land. Later, Portuguese fishermen would settle the town and would turn Provincetown into a thriving fishing and whaling community. In fact, during Provincetown's golden years, residents had the highest average per capita income in all of Massachusetts.

The Landscape Changes, The Jokes Stay the Same

Beach grass helps to "anchor" the sand of the Cape Cod dunes, but there is still a subtle shifting of the landscape that is always occurring. Rob explained that his father, Art, started Art's Dune Tours in 1946 after he returned from World War II. He had worked for others before the war and was determined to own his own business when he returned. "He just loved taking people out here," Rob said. He added that his father told him if he were to follow in his footsteps, "You'll never get sick of what you're doing." And it appears that he doesn't, although he did tell us, "My jokes are always the same."

Rob stops the Suburban at prime viewing spots, where we are able to hop out and take pictures of the magnificent sand dunes of Cape Cod. It is difficult not to appreciate what a talented sculptor the wind can be.

During our excursion, the clouds seemed as if they were posing in order to complement the scenery. It is easy to see why this picturesque area was selected as the location for the filming of  The Thomas Crown Affair  in 1968. In fact, Rob explained that his father helped with transportation for the movie stars and crew. His mother, he said, still has a signed note from Steve McQueen thanking her for the coffeecake she baked for him. "Of course, my father had a big crush on Faye Dunaway, too," he said.

Dune Shacks

Interspersed among the dunes in Provincetown are a number of small, rustic shacks. The first dune shacks were built in the 1800s by the Humane Society in conjunction with lifesaving efforts, but as lifesaving personnel moved to more solid facilities, the shacks were discovered by artists and writers, who flocked to the dunes of the Cape in the 1930s and '40s for inspiration. Among the shacks' notable inhabitants were poets e.e. cummings, Harry Kemp and Mary Oliver; painters Edwin Dickinson, Boris Margo, Willem de Koonig and Jackson Pollock; and authors Eugene O'Neill, Jack Kerouac and Norman Mailer.

In 1989, the shacks were listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the National Park Service took over ownership of all but one. Rob, our Art's Dune Tours  guide, explained that several are still occupied by the original "squatters" and that others are leased by the Park Service to those who "bid" to obtain a 15-year lease. The cost is only about $3,000 per year plus maintenance of the shack, but before you get all excited, realize that these shacks have no electricity, no running water and outhouses. Also, the "bidding" process involves submission of an essay explaining why you'd want to live in a dune shack. "It goes to the people with the pen, not the dollar," Rob said. Five of the shacks are currently leased to non-profit groups that provide shorter " artist-in-residence " experiences for interested occupants.

As our dune tour continues, Rob takes a moment to stop the Suburban to tell us more about Kemp, the "poet of the dunes." Kemp was a dune shack inhabitant for about 40 years until his death in 1960. Costa recited a 1934 poem by Kemp titled, "The Last Return," written for the Coast Guard men who have steadfastly worked to save the lives of those shipwrecked on Cape Cod's coast.

Sayonara Sand Dunes

As we leave the ocean behind and begin to head away from the sand dunes, the vegetation gets thicker, punctuated with scrub pines. The one-hour tour seems over in almost no time at all. Rob says he and his employees at Art's Dune Tours in Provincetown take all variety of visitors out to see the dunes each day—"gay, straight, young, old, children, families, single people—it really is a good thing for everybody to do."

While a one-hour daytime tour of the sand dunes of Cape Cod is a wonderful way to "do the dunes," keep in mind that Art's Dune Tours does offer some other tour options that might provide an additional touch of fun or romance. Sunset tours provide stunning views and good food, too, as you enjoy a lobster clambake, barbecued chicken dinner or vegetarian or seafood sushi on a blanket spread out on the dunes. Race Point Lighthouse Tours are offered on Sundays. Private charters are available if you'd like to design your own outing. If you're an early riser, charter a sunrise tour in the wee hours of the morning and enjoy spectacular views as day arrives on Cape Cod.

For more information, prices and reservations, call 508-487-1950 or toll free, 800-894-1951.

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Provincetown Dune Shack Trail – Visitor’s Guide

by Gregg Squeglia | Nov 8, 2021 | Cape Cod & Islands , NE National Parks , New England

Many travelers to Cape Cod, no matter which town they choose to stay will take a day trip to Provincetown, located at the tip of the Cape. There are 15 towns on Cape Cod, and Provincetown is different from the rest in almost every regard. Perhaps most well-known for its LGBTQ+ culture, this patch of sand also offers some great outdoor activity and natural beauty that cannot be found elsewhere. A hike on the Dune Shacks Trail is a great way to experience the outdoors and get a glimpse of the rustic dune life that visual artists and writers have for generations used as inspiration in their work. 

Cape Cod National Seashore encompasses much of the outdoor landscape around Provincetown. One of its recreation areas, Province Lands, is home to acres of sand dunes and several historic dune shacks nestled amongst the sand dunes where visitors can take an approximately one-mile hike from the trailhead, past the cottages to one of the most pristine and isolated beaches on Cape Cod. It is undoubtedly the best dune trail on the Cape with a landscape that is otherworldly. You will find deep bowls made entirely of sand, wild cranberry bogs, and a desert-like atmosphere right up until you crest the final dune and meet up with the open Atlantic Ocean.

The National Park Service operates the Province Lands Visitor Center which is open seasonally and provides detailed information on the dune trails as well as other outdoor recreation opportunities in the Provincetown area.

Preparations

Hikers can easily navigate the trail despite the lack of trail markers. Just follow the footprints.

Although the hike is relatively short, about one mile each way, you will want to be sure to take along a few items for safety and enjoyment. During the height of summer, the heat reflecting off of the sand can be extreme and there is very little shade along the trail network. At a minimum, you will want to bring:

Water : One quart for each person during the summer months

Beach towels or blanket : You will want to spend some time on the beach once you arrive. A large, light blanket is ideal to protect against sand fleas and blowing sand.

Bug Spray : The beach flies are no joke and will chase you off the beach in a hurry if you forget repellant

Shoes : This sounds like common sense, but as you begin your hike you will notice many pairs of shoes scattered amongst the dunes. These are from other folks that have opted to go barefoot. While it is possible to walk without some kind of footwear, it is not recommended. The sand can get hot and there can also be some muddy portions of the trail.

Getting There

The trailhead for the Dune Shack Trail is located on Route 6 northbound, as you are heading into Provincetown. There is no parking lot or designated parking spaces. You may park along the road and no permit or fee is required. However, this is quite a popular trail during the summer months, so plan to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

There is a Cumberland Farms 2.5 miles north of the parking area, just in case you forgot to bring ample water or bug spray or to use the restroom before beginning your hike.

Wild cranberry bogs can be seen in the low portions of the trail where the aquifer reaches the surface

Once on the dunes, there are no actual trails or trail markers to guide you. You can generally find your way to the beach pretty easily by walking north toward the dune shacks. Walking on loose, soft sand is slow, so allow 45-60 minutes to complete the trail in one direction. During the peak summer, I would recommend starting this hike earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon due to the considerable sun exposure. There is very little shade along the sand trail. Again, be sure to bring plenty of water.

Along the way, you will encounter several wild cranberry bogs where the natural aquifer rises to near-surface level. If you are hiking in late summer or fall, you may be able to see some wild berries. In case you are wondering, wild cranberries on their own are very bitter. Don’t expect anything like the sugar-infused dried cranberries that can be purchased at the grocery store.

While hiking through the artists’ shacks, you may see an SUV riding through an oversand vehicle corridor. This is Art’s Dune Tours , the only concessionaire authorized by the National Park Service to offer motorized tours in this unique environment. If you want to explore a larger area of the dunes and learn more about the history of the dune shacks, then Art’s Dune Tours is recommended.

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History of the Provincetown Dune Shacks

The history of the Provincetown Dune Shacks dates back to the 19 th   century, before the construction of the Cape Cod Canal. During this time, ships traveling from New York to Boston or Halifax would have to negotiate the treacherous waters of outer Cape Cod that were peppered with constantly shifting shoals and sandbars from Chatham to Provincetown. Over time, Cape Cod had amassed over 3,000 shipwrecks and was notorious for its reputation as an ocean “graveyard”.

The dune shacks were initially built in part with wreckage gathered from the beach to house members of the US Lifesaving Service along the sparsely populated coastline. Their mission was to assist crew members who washed ashore after a wreck, providing emergency shelter and food until they could be returned home. The US Lifesaving Service eventually merged with another agency, the Revenue Marine, to form the modern-day U.S. Coast Guard.  After the completion of the Cape Cod Canal, ships were able to bypass the hazardous waters and the number of shipwrecks dropped off dramatically, making the lifesaving stations obsolete.

In the 1920s, many of the dune shacks were purchased and rebuilt by painters and writers who flocked to the artist’s colony developing in Provincetown. Over the years, many well-known creatives have spent time at the shacks developing their work including writers Jack Kerouac, e.e. cummings, Norman Mailer, and painter Jackson Pollock.

Since the creation of the Cape Cod National Seashore in 1961, the federal government has purchased most of the real estate along the coast, including 18 of the 19 existing dune shacks. They are still available for rent in the summertime to artists who apply for residencies from one to several weeks in duration. A lottery system determines who is offered a dune shack and those artists who receive financial assistance for their stay are required to present the work created while in residence. 

These rustic shacks offer a pretty spartan living experience. The intent is to provide the artist with a distraction-free environment so that work can get done. To this end, shacks have no running water, indoor plumbing, or electricity, except for some lighting generated from solar-powered batteries. A small gas refrigerator is usually provided as well as a wood stove. Walking to the outhouse in the middle of the night may provide particular inspiration.

Have you done this hike or maybe even stayed in one of the dune shacks for a time? Drop a comment and let us know how it went. 

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Art's dune tours.

In 1946, Art Costa started driving sightseers out to ogle the decrepit "dune shacks," where such transient luminaries as Eugene O'Neill, Jack Kerouac, and Jackson Pollock found their respective muses; in one such hovel, Tennessee Williams cooked up the steamy A Streetcar Named Desire. The park service wanted to raze these eyesores, but luckily, saner heads prevailed: They're now National Historic Landmarks. The tours conducted by Art's son and others, via Chevy Suburban, typically take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours and are filled with wonderful stories of local literati and other characters. Don't forget your camera for the views of this totally unique landscape. Additional tours offered include a sunset clambake dune tour ($89 adults, $63 children) and a barbecue tour ($82 adults, $57 children).

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Hike Provincetown Dunes on the Cape Cod National Seashore

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Elevation Gain

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Leah Joy

"A grand place to be alone and undisturbed" as American playright Eugene O'neill described it. Explore the rolling sand dunes, dune shacks and miles of untouched beaches in a pristine, unique environment.

Begin your journey from a small parking area that holds 3 cars just off route 6 (additionally you can park on the side of the road) The trail head is unmarked until about 50' into the woods where you will find a sign describing the rich history of the area. Continue up the large sand dune immediately in front of you where you will take in the first magnificent view of the miles of rolling dunes.

Map out your general route form here or just begin exploring. The trails are unmarked but there are visible, well established paths. Take care to avoid stepping on vegetation.

Eventually making your way to the ocean, you will likely pass many picturesque cottages or Dune Shacks that were built in the early 1900's. They are still used today seasonally for writers and artists as well as a few lucky general public who are picked from a lottery system. For more information click here .

If you are looking to explore the true, natural beauty of Cape Cod this hike is not to be missed.

There are several trails and routes you can take. Mileage is approximate for hiking to the ocean and back. You can walk along the beach and make a loop for a much longer hike or spend more time exploring the dunes

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Hike Provincetown Dunes on the Cape Cod National Seashore Reviews

Madden Bremer

Great hike all year round

Be prepared to work out your calves if you plan on hiking through the dunes for an afternoon, it can be tiring. This is a great spot to visit in any season - you'll find wild cranberries in the Fall so bring a baggie if you feel like making authentic Cape Cod cranberry sauce when you get home.

Margo Schmiederer

A lot of fun and surprisingly challenging

This is a really fun hike because of its unique terrain - it's also pretty challenging walking/hiking through sand

Frank Armstrong

A Delightful Late Summer Excursion

The dunes and beaches are truly magical. So much fun to sleuth around the old town and discover old monuments, too!

Tyler Cranden

Beautiful area

These dunes are amazing. The landscape and foliage is unlike any other place I've ever seen. I would bring bug spray with you! If you have time, walk out to the ocean. If you're lucky you can see whales breaching without binoculars.

Absolutely Stunning

There is no other place quite like it. Tucked just steps away from Rte 6, as soon as you enter this vast landscape you'll feel like you've entered a different world.

Tye Martinez

Beautiful Sunsets.

Easily one of the most beautiful places to catch a sunset in MA.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Dunes' Edge in Provincetown

Explore Hatches Harbor and Race Point

Hike the Pamet Area Trail

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• Category : All Articles , Beaches , Biking & Walking , Excursions & Tours
• Tag(s) : 4WD Adventure Tour , Arts Dune Tours , Barnstable , Cape Cod 4WD , Cape Cod Jeep Rentals , horseback riding on the beach , Nauset Beach , Off Road Tours , ORV tours on cape cod , over sands vehicles cape cod , over-sands adventures on Cape Cod , Provincetown , Race Point Beach , Sandy Neck Beach , Top Cape Cod National Seashore

Sandy Adventures with Off-Road Tours On Cape Cod

• Maureen Thompson
• July 10, 2024

Off-road tours on Cape Cod are a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and unique landscapes of the region. Here are some options for off-road tours on Cape Cod, including guided adventures like dune tours and Jeep excursions.

Understanding the Basics of ORV/OSV

Before you embark on an off-road tour on Cape Cod, you will need to check with permitting offices as some Cape Cod ORV paths are closed due to erosion and bird nesting.  If you are using your own vehicle, there are many regulations, vehicle requirements and equipment that you need to understand. It may vary slightly depending on which beach you are taking your ORV tour on Cape Cod but here are the basics:

• 4WD Vehicle: Your must have a four-wheel drive vehicle. All-wheel drive (AWD) is not sufficient for the deep sand conditions.
• Tire Pressure : You will need to deflate your tires to about 15-20 PSI to increase traction on the sand. Bring an air compressor to re-inflate your tires when you leave the beach.
• Equipment : Carry the required equipment including a spare tire, jack, a board or mat for the jack, a tow strap or cable, a shovel, a tire gauge and a bucket for extinguishing campfires.
• ORV Permit : You must obtain an ORV permit to drive on the following off-road or over-sands areas: National Seashore , Dennis, Nauset and Sandy Neck . Permits are available for daily, weekly, or seasonal use, depending on the location.

Let’s Xplore Off-road Tours on Cape Cod!

1.  orv corridor- race point/national seashore.

The ORV corridor typically opens every year on April 15th and closes on November 15th. Certain parts of the corridor may be closed during nesting season.  Their website will provide you with all of the requirements and regulations for driving off-road at Cape Cod National Seashore.

2. Off Road Vehicles on Sandy Neck Beach

Sandy Neck Beach also has an off-road driving corridor which is available for permitted vehicles. You can obtain a permit for approved four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles as well as two-wheel drive motor homes, but day passes for ORV are not available at Sandy Neck.

The ORV trail begins at the Sandy Neck Gatehouse. The rangers will guide you on protocol for entering and exiting the beach and using the designated area near the gatehouse to deflate your tires before entering the sand.  Sandy Neck does have a compressor but is not guaranteed, so they recommend that every vehicle carries a portable compressor.

Sandy Neck Beach is popular for surf fishing as long as you have the appropriate fishing licenses.  Sandy Neck Beach is also home to various wildlife, including protected species, so it is possible that corridor access can be restricted at certain times.  Typically, night driving is not allowed to protect nesting birds and other wildlife.

 Horseback riding is allowed on the part of the front beach to the closure line until 9pm. Please call the Gatehouse before planning a horseback riding

3. Nauset Beach

The Nauset Beach Over Sand Vehicle(OSV) conservation and recreation area is under the joint supervision of the towns of Orleans and Chatham.

The ORV trail begins at the Nauset Beach Administration Building. Follow the instructions from the rangers for entering and exiting the beach.  Use the designated area near the administration building to deflate your tires before entering the sand.

To avoid getting stuck in the soft sand, maintain momentum with a steady speed and avoid sharp turns to reduce the risk of getting stuck.If you need to stop, try to do so in areas with firmer sand to avoid getting bogged down. Park your vehicle in designated areas and enjoy the beach.

4.Arts Dune Tours

This off-road tour includes a ride in their vehicles to view the dunes and scenic coastal views.  You will be able to roll through the Peaked Hill Bars Historic District dunes, catch sight of Pilgrim Lake nestled among the dunes, and learn the unique history and ecology of the beautiful dunes and the dune shacks .

Some Final Thoughts on Over-Sand Adventures on Cape Cod

If you don’t own a 4-wheel drive yourself,  you can always rent a jeep or a 4WD vehicle for your off-road adventures. You can take your Jeep over the sands and enjoy the pristine beaches and views of the unspoiled coastal Cape Cod environment, instead of the crowded local beaches.

Leaving the well- traveled roads and going on off-road tours on Cape Cod, does carry with it the responsibility of being a good steward to protect this beloved environment.  Stay on designated ORV trails to protect the dunes and wildlife habitats, carry out all trash, and do not disturb plants or animals.

Some trails will be closed during nesting season so it is important to read all rules and regulations thoroughly before heading out. It is equally important to always check tides before entering the OSV trails as sections of the beach may be impassable at high tides.

Exploring Cape Cod’s off-road trails and dunes provides a unique perspective of this beautiful coastal region, offering adventures that range from thrilling dune rides to serene nature explorations. Enjoy your off-road tours on Cape Cod!

Be sure to check out more Cape Cod tours .

• 4WD Adventure Tour , Arts Dune Tours , Barnstable , Cape Cod 4WD , Cape Cod Jeep Rentals , horseback riding on the beach , Nauset Beach , Off Road Tours , ORV tours on cape cod , over sands vehicles cape cod , over-sands adventures on Cape Cod , Provincetown , Race Point Beach , Sandy Neck Beach , Top Cape Cod National Seashore

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So much to Xplore on the Cape & Islands and so many ways to do it!!

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• Getting here
• Cape Cod and The Outer Cap
• Gay and Lesbian History of Provincetown
• Gay and Lesbien Events
• Provincetown marriage
• Provincetown winter visitor guide
• Trip informations
• For children
• Beautiful Beaches
• Water excursions
• Provincetown Artists

Provincetown Tours

• Whale Watching
• Provincetown tennis
• Provincetown Lodging
• Food stores, wine cellars
• American restaurants
• Asian restaurants
• Cool restaurants
• Chic restaurants
• Italian restaurants
• Seafood restaurants
• Mexican restaurants
• Vegetarian restaurants
• Bicycle joy rides
• Bars & lounges
• Nightlife and cabarets
• Theatre and Cinema
• Art galleries
• Bookstores and library
• House Decor
• Gifts and Souvenirs
• Provincetown food stores, wine cellars

Ptown tours To visit the town, and learn more about its historical, architectural, and artistic aspects, Ptown tours: Ptown tours  offers several options.

For a mini road trip, Arts Dune Tours offers an array of educational tours: a discovery tour, a tour for photography, or more excursions during sunset with dinner on the beach (more:    http://artsdunetours.com , tel: 508-487-1950)

Provincetown Trolley

Appreciated by the young and old, the  trolley  proposes a great and relaxing visit of Provincetown. Touristy but informative, 40 minutes depart every 1/2 hour (hourly evening)  It meets on Commercial Street in front of the town hall.

Provincetown Ghost Tour

Pilgrims, Pirates and People of the Past fill the sights and sounds of this historical walking tour. 90 minute walking tours depart nightly at 9pm from The Coffee Pot, 315 commercial street ,Lopes Square, Provincetown Center. Link

Provincetown weather

Recent posts.

• Speaking of ART with Sian Robertson
• Speaking of Art with Frankie Rice
• Speaking of Art with Jim Austin
• Speaking of Art with Olivier Jamin Changeart
• Speaking of Art with Marisa Geraghty

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