The Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) offers one of New England’s most picturesque cycling experiences. Following the path of a former railroad line, this 25-mile paved trail winds through six charming Cape Cod towns, past cranberry bogs, pristine ponds, and fragrant pine forests. Whether you’re a casual rider seeking a leisurely day trip or an avid cyclist looking to cover the entire route, the CCRT provides an intimate way to experience the natural beauty and small-town charm of Cape Cod away from the busy beaches and crowded roadways.
Trail Basics and Tips for a Successful Ride
The CCRT stretches from South Dennis to Wellfleet. The first two of three phases of an extension to the trail connecting with South Yarmouth have been completed. The trail is entirely paved, mostly flat, and largely separated from automobile traffic, making it ideal for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.
Before You Ride: Essential Tips
Bike Rentals: Don’t have your own bike? No problem. Several outfitters along the trail offer rentals, with the largest concentration near the trailheads in Dennis and Brewster. Rail Trail Bike & Kayak in Brewster has road, pedal, electric, and tandem bikes available to rent by the hour or for multiple days.
Weather Considerations: While summer offers perfect cycling weather, it also brings crowds. Consider riding in the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for a more peaceful experience with comfortable temperatures and spectacular foliage.
Timing Your Ride: Start early to avoid crowds, especially in peak summer months. The trail is typically less busy on weekdays than weekends.
What to Bring:
- Water bottles
- Sunscreen and a hat (portions of the trail offer limited shade)
- Light layers (ocean breezes can make temperatures variable)
- Small repair kit and pump
- Camera for capturing scenic vistas
- Cash for small shops along the way
Safety Notes: While the trail is well-maintained, always wear a helmet, announce yourself when passing other cyclists, and be aware that some road crossings require caution.
Town-by-Town Guide to the Cape Cod Rail Trail
South Yarmouth/Yarmouth Port
The newest section of the trail begins in South Yarmouth and connects to the main trail in Dennis. This extension allows riders to access more of the Mid-Cape area.
Nearby Attractions:
- Cultural Center of Cape Cod (short detour off the trail)
- Bass River Bridge (old railroad bridge converted into a bike and pedestrian path)
Where to Eat:
- Skipper Restaurant & Chowder House (seafood classics with water views)
- Yarmouth House of Pizza (quick stop for refueling)
Dennis
Dennis marks the traditional western trailhead of the CCRT and provides an excellent starting point with ample parking facilities.
Nearby Attractions:
- Cape Cod Museum of Art (worth a detour for art enthusiasts)
- Scargo Tower (climb for panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay)
- Cape Playhouse (America’s professional summer theater since 1927)
Where to Eat:
- Ice Cream Smuggler (perfect post-ride treat)
- Marshside Restaurant (seafood with marsh views, slightly off-trail)
Harwich
As you continue east from Dennis, Harwich offers charming New England village atmosphere with convenient access to the trail.
Nearby Attractions:
- Harwich Conservation Trust trails (explore additional nature paths including the bicycle friendly Old Colony Rail Trail)
- Brooks Park (quick rest stop with seasonal facilities)
Where to Eat:
- Hot Stove Saloon (casual pub with a love of baseball)
- Ruggie’s (breakfast spot popular with cyclists)
Brewster
Brewster represents the heart of the trail and makes an ideal home base for multi-day explorations. The trail winds past beautiful Nickerson State Park and offers access to several freshwater ponds perfect for a mid-ride swim.
Nearby Attractions:
- Nickerson State Park (8 miles of additional trails and pond swimming)
- Brewster Historical Society Museum (housed in a late 1700 – early 1800s sea captain’s home)
- Stony Brook Gristmill and Museum (historic working mill)
- Cape Cod Museum of Natural History (nature trails and exhibits)
Where to Eat:
- Brewster Pizza (convenient trail-side location)
- Snowy Owl Coffee Roasters (specialty coffee since 2015)
- Deepwater Dogs (food truck offering gourmet hot dogs)
Orleans
The trail through Orleans brings riders closer to Cape Cod Bay and provides easy access to both bay and ocean beaches.
Nearby Attractions:
- Orleans Farmers Market (Saturday mornings, seasonal)
- French Cable Station Museum (unique telecommunications history)
- Rock Harbor (spectacular sunsets over Cape Cod Bay)
Where to Eat:
- Hot Chocolate Sparrow (coffee, chocolates, and ice cream)
- Land Ho! (casual Cape Cod dining institution)
- Sunbird Provisions (breakfast and lunch with healthy options)
Eastham
Continuing toward the Outer Cape, Eastham offers proximity to both the Cape Cod National Seashore and Cape Cod Bay beaches.
Nearby Attractions:
- Salt Pond Visitor Center (Cape Cod National Seashore headquarters with restrooms and a National Parks store)
- The 1869 Schoolhouse Museum (hands-on museum)
- Fort Hill Trail (panoramic views of Nauset Marsh)
Where to Eat:
- Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar (iconic Cape Cod seafood shack)
- Local Break (pub with 16 beers on tap)
Wellfleet
The trail’s eastern terminus, Wellfleet embodies the artistic spirit and natural beauty of the Outer Cape.
Nearby Attractions:
- Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (Audubon property with extensive trails)
- Uncle Tim’s Bridge (Instagram-worthy landmark)
- Mayo Beach (bay beach with gentle water)
Where to Eat:
- PB Boulangerie (authentic French bakery and bistro)
- Mac’s Shack (local fish shack with a sushi menu)
- The Wicked Oyster (refined Cape Cod cuisine)
Staying at Brewster By The Sea Inn: Your CCRT Home Base
Located in Brewster, near the center point of the CCRT, Brewster By The Sea Inn offers an ideal base for exploring the trail. This charming bed and breakfast provides several advantages for cyclists:
Strategic Location: From Brewster, riders can easily access both the western and eastern sections of the trail over multiple days, avoiding the need to cover the entire 25 miles in one journey.
Post-Ride Comfort: With only four guest rooms, the inn provides a calm place to relax. The seasonal salt-water pool can help soothe muscles after a day of cycling.
Proximity to Brewster Attractions: When not cycling, guests can visit Brewster’s beaches, restaurants, and attractions including Nickerson State Park, which offers additional cycling opportunities on its internal trail network.
The Cape Cod Rail Trail offers much more than just a cycling path—it provides a gateway to experiencing the authentic Cape Cod, away from traffic and tourist crowds. By basing yourself in centrally-located Brewster and exploring the trail in segments, you’ll discover hidden gems, sample local cuisine, and create lasting memories of Cape Cod’s natural beauty and small-town charm.
