The most popular of the bicycling trails on Cape Cod is
the Cape Cod Rail Trail. While a few portions of the Rail Trail are
not especially splendid, it being, after all, a railroad grade, most
sections are quite beautiful, and some are simply spectacular.
Highlights of the Trail include the many cranberry bogs in Harwich,
the sunny views at Long Pond and Seymour Pond, and the
National Seashore Visitor Center in Eastham. In Brewster, there
is direct access to Nickerson State Park with its campgrounds, ponds,
and woodlands.
Rock Harbor in Orleans, a busy port for traffic to
Boston in the 1800's, offers an historical perspective as well as
stunning views of Cape Cod Bay. And not to be missed are the
sights along the trail in Eastham and Wellfleet. Several beaches
are accessible by short side routes from the Rail Trail. And of
course, there are always the ice cream shops and country stores along
the way.
Biking on the Rail Trail is generally quite easy, although be wary
of the high volumes of bicycling traffic and of cross roads. Most of
the bicycling is very level. Try not to be tempted to set distance
records. Instead, use a good guide and try to really see some of the
things along the Trail.
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