Cape Cod Rail Trail

The Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) is a paved bikeway that runs 22 miles from South Dennis to Wellfleet. The terrain is relatively flat with some minor grades in certain sections in the Lower / Outer Cape areas, specifically Orleans and Wellfleet. The trail stretches from Route 134 all the way to Lecount Hollow Road in South Wellfleet. The name stems from an old railroad right of way it follows, which transported passengers and freight to Cape Cod in the early 1800s until around 1960. The CCRT passes by many local points of interest and several areas with lakes suitable for swimming / picnicing, including Nickerson State Park in Brewster.

The whole trail is good for running, providing an excellent off-road option. Some of the most scenic areas are (heading from Dennis) miles 5-8, passing by several ponds, and miles 10-14 from Nickerson State Park to Orleans. There’s a good connection to the Salt Pond Visitors Center and trails there, at Locus Rd. between miles 16 and 17. There’s also a connection to a 4 mile spur that goes to Chatham at a ‘bike rotary’ in Harwich, near Mile 3.

Note: An extension of the trail is underway, from Yarmouth to Wellfleet. The first phase, from Hosmer Park to N. Main St. is scheduled to open this spring.