Cape Cod Bike Trails

Cape Cod from Satelliite





 

Harborview, Harwichport

Click any link below to see pictures and read more about each of these key Cape Cod bicycle trails or routes.

Cape Cod Canal Bike Paths - These paths follow the service roads along both sides of the Cape Cod Canal.  They are popular for bicycling, walking, and rollerblading.  The biking is entirely on the level, parking is exellent, and sightseers can view the scenic Bourne and Sagamore bridges from unique perspectives unavailable to automobile drivers.  Other attractions along the Cape Cod Canal bike paths are the Canal Marina, the Canal Electric Plant, the US Coast Guard Station, the Buzzards Bay Railroad Bridge, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Scusset Beach and Fish Pier, and Bourne Scenic Park. 


Cape Cod Rail Trail -
During 2006-2007, reconstruction of the Rail Trail from Route 134 in Dennis to Welfleet vastly improved the already famous Cape Cod Rail Trail.   Initially completed in 1983, the Cape Cod Rail Trail currently extends from South Dennis to South Wellfleet, running much of the length of Cape Cod in the mid-Cape and lower-Cape.  Gorgeous lake and cranberry bog views, woodlands, Nickerson State Park, and the National Park are right along the trail.  Just a short distance off the trail are many places to eat, to shop, to swim, or just to enjoy the scenery of the Cape.  The Cape Cod Rail Trail has become a "must-do" for bicyclists on the Cape. 


Chatham Bike Route  -
An extension of the Rail Trail, begun in 2004 and completed in 2006, brings bicyclists from Harwich to Chatham.   There is a wealth of scenery to take in while visiting Chatham, and lots of shopping for those so inclined as well.   There are some breathtaking views from the Chatham Light area, overlooking the breakers and the sandbars there; bathing is available at several beaches, and there are many restaurants and stores right in Chatham center.    


Falmouth Shining Sea Trail  -
Planning is in the works to extend the Falmouth Shining Sea Trail from Woods Hole all the way to the Cape Cod Canal.  Presently, the trail runs from Woods Hole to north of Jones Road.  While tiny, Woods Hole is a fantastic destination and opportunity, with the marine museums, lighthouse area, and busy science centers providing plenty to see and do.   There are many restaurants and stores right in Woods Hole, as well.  Falmouth Center also provides many opportunities for visitors.  The Shining Sea Trail runs directly along Martha's Vineyard Sound in some spots - you can literally stop for a swim or picnic right on the beach.


National Seashore Trails -
There are miles of bicycle paths found within the Cape Cod National Seashore.  Besides the Rail Trail that passes through the Park, other bicycle paths are found in Provincetown, Truro, and Eastham.  While many local residents disputed the wisdom of forming the National Park in the 1960's, few will disagree now about the blessing that it has been, especially in preventing over development and in teaching an appreciation for Cape Cod's natural resources. The bicycle trails that the seashore maintains are amongst the best on the Cape, with fantastic ocean breezes and scenery that will definitely become a part of your memories!  And stop to see what the National Park offers in terms of tours, talks, and displays at the recently-renovated Salt Pond Visitor Center.  


Nickerson State Park Trails -
You could easily spend an entire day just bicycling on the bicycle paths found within Nickerson State Park.  In all there are almost ten miles of trails at Nickerson.   These bike trails tie in directly to the Cape Cod Rail Trail.  At the Park, there is camping, swiming, picnicing, and some beautiful wooded areas that only hikers and bikers are able to enjoy. 



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