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Cape Cod Rail Trail (MA-USA)

Cape Cod Rail Trail

Easy
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Cape Cod Map

Overview

This is a great trail for people of ALL LEVELS! If you're new to biking, or like most people haven't touched a bike since you were 10, I'd highly recommend this route.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a 27 mile paved multi-use rail path that runs through the heart of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It follows an old railroad corridor from South Dennis / Yarmouth north to South Wellfleet. It’s heavily used for cycling, walking, in-line skating, and horseback riding.

  • Optional Extension: Many more experienced bikers like to extend this ride up to Provincetown. Highly recommend P-Town if you've never been but do some research on road conditions and ensure you will be comfortable and able to do them.

Difficulty Explained

Cape Cod Rail Trail is mostly flat, car-free and paved with gentle grades and clearly marked crossings, making it ideal for most riders (families included).

This makes a great activity if you're ever spending a night in Cape Cod or looking for a quick day trip.

Notable towns along the way:

  • Dennis,
  • Harwich,
  • Brewster,
  • Orleans,
  • Eastham and
  • Wellfleet.
Map
Local Amenities
Sites
Logistics
Warnings

Route Map

Interactive map showing the complete route. Green marker indicates start point, red marker shows the end point.

Local Businesses

Food/Drink

Hot Chocolate Sparrow (Orleans, MA): Cute Coffee Shop located right in town. Directly off the trail. 

Lodging

Nickerson State Park – Area 1 (Brewster, MA): State campgrund located close to the start. . .5 mile south of trail. 

Wellfleet Hollow State Campground (Wellfleet, MA): State Campground at the end point. Directly end of the trail. 

Resources

Barb’s Bike Shop (South Dennis, MA): Local bike shop with rentals. Directly off the trail. 

Dennis Cycle Center (South Dennis, MA): Local shop with bike rental options. Directly off the trail. 

Notable Sites + Highlights

  • Nickerson State Park – forested shade, kettle ponds, picnic spots, swimming, hiking and campgrounds.

  • Salt Pond Visitor Center (Cape Cod National Seashore) – exhibits, trails, and info about local ecology.

  • Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary – birdwatching, boardwalks, and educational programs near Wellfleet.

  • Historic Cranberry Bogs – especially picturesque in fall harvest season.

  • Orleans – a bustling town center with dining, shopping, and local stores right near the trail.

  • Rock Harbor & Coast Guard Beach – accessible via short detours off the trail

  • White Crest Beach – Gorgeous public beach towards the end of the route

Logistics

Transportation to and from

  • To Start: CapeFlyer is only regional train that takes you from Boston to Hyannis which is about 5 miles to the start. Otherwise driving is probably your best option.
  • Finish to Start: Public transit options are limited which can carry a bike. This is why this is listed as an Out and Back.

Recommended Gear

  • Any type of bike will suffice on this trail.  Everything is paved.
  • Clothing should be weather-appropriate. Given it is such a short trail, check the weather forecast ahead and plan accordingly.
  • There's plenty of affordable bike rental places along the trail in case you need one.
  • Camping: There are several camping sites along the way and Cape Cod is one of the best places to camp.  Hotels are pricey and nothing beats sleeping next to the Ocean!

Navigation

  • Well signed throughout the route.

Resources along the way

  • You will never be too far from any resource or cell signal.  There are many small towns that offer food and water.
  • Lodging can get pricey on Cape Code, especially in the summer. Plan a little ahead on where to stay, or better yet just camp!

Tips

  • Summer time is definitely the most lively time of year for the Cape.  If you are a more experienced biker, then continuing onto Provincetown is an a great option.
  • Emergency Number (USA/Canada): 911 (+1 country code)

Important Warnings

Deer ticks & poison ivy are present in the region — use bug spray and check after rides.

Route Details

Distance(Miles)

55 mi

Duration

1-2 Days

Elevation(ft)

1500

Countries

United States

Start/End Points

Yarmouth, MA -> Wellfleet, MA

Route Format

Out and Back

Bike Lane Types

Bike Path
90%
Separated Bike Lane
10%
Shared Lane

Tags

CoastalRail-Trail

External Resources

  • Trail Link
  • Friends of the Cape Code Rail Trail
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