Cape Cod stands out as a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts, offering a stunning tapestry of landscapes where bay, pond, and ocean converge. Cyclists are drawn to the extensive network of bicycle paths, totaling 114 miles and continually expanding. Imagine pedaling through picturesque towns, alongside breathtaking coastlines, and past iconic lighthouses – all easily accessible via these routes. Nickerson State Forest in Brewster provides idyllic campsites adjacent to the renowned 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail. During peak season, visitors from Boston can even bring their bikes on a ferry directly to Provincetown, a true cyclist’s haven. Alternatively, the seasonal CapeFLYER train service offers free bike transport from Boston to Cape Cod, making access incredibly convenient.
Cape Cod Rail Trail
(25-mile off-road paved path)
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Cyclists can immerse themselves in the history of Cape Cod by following the Cape Cod Rail Trail, tracing the route of the old Cape Cod Railroad through six charming mid- to lower-Cape towns. Beginning in South Yarmouth and extending into Dennis, the trail meanders through Harwich, Brewster (offering a scenic detour into Nickerson State Park), Orleans (passing through the picturesque Rock Harbor area), and continues along a salt marsh to the Cape Cod National Seashore Center in Eastham, finally reaching Le Count Hollow in Wellfleet. Numerous hotels, restaurants, and attractions provide direct access to the Trail, enhancing its appeal. Named after the historic railroad right-of-way that once transported passengers and freight to Cape Cod from the early 1800s until around 1960, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is steeped in local history. The route is dotted with points of interest and several inviting lakes perfect for swimming and picnics, notably within Nickerson State Park in Brewster. Regularly patrolled by local police bike units, the Cape Cod Rail Trail ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for a memorable Cape Cod summer day. For those needing equipment, bicycle and rollerblade rentals are readily available at bike shops conveniently located along the trail in Dennis, Brewster, Orleans, and Wellfleet. Parking is accessible at various trailheads, with the primary starting point in South Dennis, just a short distance from Route 6 on Route 134.
Cape Cod Canal Bike Paths
(14.2 miles paved, off-road trail; access the paths in Sagamore)
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The Cape Cod Canal Bike Paths offer a unique cycling experience along both sides of the impressive man-made Cape Cod Canal. Characterized by wide, level paths with gentle gradients, these trails are ideally suited for cyclists of all skill levels, particularly beginners and families with young children. Following the Canal for approximately 7½ miles between the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges, the bikeway features a smooth concrete surface, clearly marked with a central yellow line to separate two-way traffic. Cyclists can relish refreshing sea breezes and observe the constant flow of ships and boats navigating the Canal. Numerous scenic spots along the way invite riders to stop and appreciate the captivating views. On the Buzzards Bay side (off-Cape), the path extends from Buzzards Bay to Scusset Beach, a distance of about seven miles. Access points include the Herring Run on Route 6 or any parking area from the Sagamore Rotary. On the Cape side, cyclists can pedal from Sandwich to Bourne, approximately 6.8 miles, with starting points at the U.S. Engineering Observation Station, Sandwich, or from Pleasant Street, Sagamore.
Shining Sea Bikeway
(10.7 miles of paved, off-road trails; access the Trail from various points in Falmouth)
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The Shining Sea Bikeway showcases some of Cape Cod’s most stunning coastal scenery. This picturesque path stretches from North Falmouth village to the vibrant village of Woods Hole, renowned as the home of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the Marine Biological Laboratory, and numerous other esteemed scientific institutions. The bikeway traces the original route of the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, which historically ran from Buzzards Bay, through North and West Falmouth, around Woods Hole, and into Falmouth Station. The newly developed sections of the Shining Sea Bikeway present spectacular vistas reminiscent of the landscapes celebrated in Katherine Lee Bates’s song “America the Beautiful,” from which the path derives its evocative name. This route effectively bypasses much of Falmouth’s heavy summer traffic by winding along the coastline, passing cranberry bogs, harbors, marshes, and the Salt Pond Bird Sanctuary. Popular throughout the season, cyclists are encouraged to be mindful of other users, including inline skaters and runners, ensuring a shared and enjoyable experience for all.
Other Cape Cod Bike Trail Options
The Chatham Loop: A clearly marked five-mile ‘loop’ starting from Chatham Fish Pier or any town parking area, guiding cyclists to Chatham Light, boatyards, and harbors, offering a charming exploration of Chatham’s key attractions.
Nauset Marsh Trail (1.6 miles): Beginning at the Salt Pond Visitors Center (Route 6) or Doane Rock Picnic area in Eastham, this trail extends to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, intersecting with the Cape Cod Rail Trail. It provides panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. This three-mile roundtrip route initially meanders through a dense grove of cedar, pine, and oak trees before opening into rolling countryside. A trailside bench offers a perfect spot to rest and soak in the scenery. A worthwhile detour at the second stop sign leads to the Doane Memorial, commemorating Deacon John Doane and marking the location of his 1644 home. Continuing on the paved path, cyclists cross a wooden bridge over the marsh, overlooking Salt Pond. A short distance further stands the old Coast Guard Station, with commanding views of Coast Guard Beach, a vast and beautiful expanse where waves meet the shore as far as the eye can see, often frequented by surfers and curious harbor seals.
Head of the Meadow Trail (2 miles): Accessible in Truro at the Head of the Meadow Beach parking area, this trail leads directly to the tranquil Head of the Meadow Beach, providing a short and peaceful ride to a beautiful coastal destination.
Province Lands Trail (7¼ miles): A more challenging paved loop through the impressive dunes of Provincetown, leading to Herring Cove and Race Point Beaches. Starting from the Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown, this hilly 7¼-mile loop can be extended by two miles with trail extensions to Herring Cove Beach, Race Point Beach, and Bennet Pond. Cycling this trail offers a fantastic way to explore the extensive dune system of the Province Lands area, as well as the shaded Beech Forest. While the undulating terrain presents a more strenuous ride, the paved network traverses much of Province Lands’ 4,000 wild acres, winding through dunes, cranberry bogs, marshes, and saltwater kettle ponds. The trails showcase breathtaking marshland, dramatic dunes, and expansive shore views, and conveniently provide direct access to both Race Point and Herring Cove beaches.
Wellfleet Town: For a relaxed cycling experience, Wellfleet, in the Outer Cape, offers considerable charm and beauty. Beyond its numerous art galleries, cyclists can explore winding roads through a quaint village or enjoy the bustling Main Street. Everything in Wellfleet is conveniently accessible by bike, from the bay to the ocean, making it a delightful town for leisurely cycling exploration.
Cape Cod’s bike trails offer something for every cyclist, from casual riders to seasoned adventurers. Explore these paths and discover the unique beauty of this coastal paradise.
