#14 Hog Island Beer Co – Orleans, MA

Location: Orleans, MA
Brewery Type: Brew Pub
Opening Date: 2016
Website: https://www.hogislandbeerco.com/
Features: Outdoor Seating, Full Kitchen, Beer Garden, Full Bar

Going Whole Hog on the Cape Cod Rail Trail

For those of you thinking that I spent all my time hiking, you might be happy to know that I’m not so one dimensional. In addition to hiking and kayaking, I also enjoy long distance bike rides, especially ones with a brewery at the end of the trail.

Wednesday was one such day. I packed up my Koda Sport and made the drive down to Dennis, MA to park at one of the many parking lots along the 25 mile long Cape Cod Rail Trail. It was a cool day in the 60s and threatened to rain at one point. Thankfully, despite the gloom, I was able to stay dry the entire ride.

For those of you who are allergic to elevation gain, most of the trail was completely flat with only the slightest of inclines. This is a trail perfect for all age groups and skill levels with plenty of families out and about enjoying their day biking, strolling or rollerblading. Not only was the trail well kept and clean, there were picturesque views of the Massachusetts countryside, small ponds and charming small villages. All along the trail there are a number of areas to stop to relax, grab a bite to eat or enjoy a beverage. One such spot is Hog Island Beer Co, 12 miles into my bike ride.

The Whole Hog

Hog Island is right off of the rail trail a short ways down West Road and shares the space with The Jailhouse Tavern. Down the driveway, there is plenty of bike parking. I lock my bike up and despite the brewery just opening at noon, there’s already a line to be seated.

I’m seated in the spacious courtyard that was slowly filling up with patrons. Despite not being the best day weather wise, it was a cozy environment nonetheless.

Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the beer selection from Hog Island itself was pretty slim. Kind of disappointing after reading about the plethora of brews they’re known for online. I will have to revisit this brewery after the pandemic when production is going full steam.

Nevertheless, the beer they did have on tap was on the lighter side and paired perfect with patio weather. To go with my beverages, I ordered some crab cakes, which were light, flakey and flavorful. 

After enjoying the patio a bit more, it was time to hop back on my bike and head towards the Northern terminus of the trail at Wellfleet.

A Day at the Beach

I was back on the trail, wind at my back as I passed through charming cape communities, ponds, swamps and forested areas. Eventually, I made it to Wellfleet, the end of the Cape Cod Rail Trail. If you wanted to bike all the way to Provincetown, there is a designated bike route that follows calm side streets, but that would have made this a multi-day trip and that was not on the menu today. Ice cream however, was on the menu, as I stopped by the Hot Chocolate Sparrow in Orleans for a frosty treat on my way back.

The cape is famed for its beaches, and one of the best parts about the bike trail is that you’re within a relatively short distance of a beach throughout your bike ride. After passing Hog Island on my way back, I went off trail and down a road a short distance to Linnell Landing Beach. There were just a few other people at this beach, giving me plenty of space to settle down and relax by the waters of Massachusetts Bay.

After some time, I hopped back on my bike and continued down the trail. Just as dusk was starting to settle in, I made it back to Dennis, after riding 44 miles round trip.

Overall, it was a great trail, however, you might want to plan a visit during the summer months as more shops and eateries will be open. It might have been because of the pandemic or because I chose a random Wednesday after Labor Day, but some of the stops I wanted to make ended up being closed. So keep that in mind and do your research before the trip.

What’s on Tap at Hog Island Beer Co

Unfortunately, with just 3 beers on tap, there’s not much to write about at the moment. Here’s hoping to a swift end to the pandemic, allowing the golden brews to flow once again.

• Little Bay – Lager – The perfect light and refreshing drink after completing miles of the bike trail. Smooth and with a sweet twinge, this is a sessionable beer for those summer days.
• Summer Ale – Golden Ale – Light and fruity with a subtle sweetness, this brew’s drinkability was its high point.

Final Verdict

Located right off the Cape Cod Rail trail and boasting an impressive beer garden, Hog Island is a great way to enjoy summer – or early fall. Just make sure to arrive early, this is a popular spot, even on a Wednesday.

Information
Hog Island Beer Co
https://www.hogislandbeerco.com/
28 West Road
Orleans, MA 02653