Cape May County in South New Jersey is rapidly becoming a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially cyclists. With its strategic location within driving distance of major East Coast cities like Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C., the region is developing an impressive Cape May County Trail Network. This ambitious project aims to connect existing paved paths with new rail-trails and multiuse trails, creating a continuous, nearly 30-mile trail stretching across the county. Supplementing this main artery will be spur trails and on-road cycling routes, extending access to nearby communities, famous beaches, and various attractions.
Cyclists and pedestrians enjoy the Route 52 bridge trail, a key component of the Cape May County trail network.
Currently, the backbone of the Cape May Railroad Bike experience is formed by three established rail-trails: the Cold Spring Bike Path, the Middle Township Bike Path, and the Woodbine Railroad Trail. These trails already offer families and individuals safe and enjoyable routes to popular destinations such as the Cape May County Park and Zoo, the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, and the expansive Belleplain State Forest. Looking ahead, the vision for the Cape May County Trail Network includes a northward expansion towards Ocean City, a well-known tourist hotspot. Furthermore, the network aims to integrate with Atlantic County trails via the already popular Route 52 bridge, which accommodates both cyclists and pedestrians and demonstrates the high demand for such infrastructure.
“When you get a good example of something accomplished, others will want the same thing.” – Alan Huff, senior transportation planner with the South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization
Alan Huff’s quote highlights the success of the Route 52 bridge trail as a regional benchmark for bike and pedestrian infrastructure. The bridge, equipped with a counter, has recorded an astounding 458,000 crossings by bicyclists and pedestrians in just two and a half years since its installation. This impressive figure far exceeded initial expectations, underscoring the significant demand for safe and accessible cycling and walking routes in the region.
A scenic view along the Middle Township Bike Path, part of the developing Cape May County rail-trail system.
Just north of the Route 52 bridge, a crucial connection is in progress to further enhance the multicounty trail system. A mere 1.1-mile gap separates the well-utilized Atlantic County Bikeway and the Pleasantville to Somers Point Bike Path. Bridging this gap will provide a significant benefit to local cyclists who currently must navigate the dangerous Black Horse Pike to move between these trails. Tom Sexton, Director for RTC’s Northeast Region, is collaborating with the New Jersey Department of Transportation to solve this issue. The proposed connector, utilizing a former rail corridor, will feature an at-grade crossing with a stoplight at an optimal location between the two trails. This development will create a seamless and, crucially, safe 16-mile trail experience for all users.
The historic Erma depot along the Cold Spring Bike Path, a highlight for cyclists exploring Cape May's railroad heritage.
Funding for the Cape May railroad bike network is sourced from both federal grants for trail development and Cape May County’s Open Space Program. This local funding pool has proven vital in closing critical gaps within the network and facilitating complementary projects. Leslie Gimeno, Planning Director for Cape May County, notes the substantial progress made over the past two decades and anticipates continued development in the future.
Looking even further ahead, trail advocates are working with RTC’s broader vision to extend the trail system beyond New Jersey. Potential expansions include connections northwest to Philadelphia’s Circuit Trails and south to Delaware’s trail networks in the Lewes and Rehoboth Beach areas via a bicycle-friendly ferry.
While a dedicated website for the Cape May County Trail Network is still in development, with RTC assisting in a communications plan to boost public awareness and support, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to more updates. The future is bright for Cape May as a premier cycling destination.
Trail Facts: Cape May County Trail Network
Location: Cape May County, New Jersey
Railroad Heritage: Utilizing former rail lines including the Cape May Seashore Line, West Jersey and Seashore Railroad, and Pennsylvania and Reading Railroad.
Total Length: 26.4 miles
Surface: Asphalt
