Shining Sea Bikeway

Paved Path Network
MAP

Overview

The Shining Sea Bikeway follows the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad’s original route that ran from Buzzards Bay through North and West Falmouth around Woods Hole, then ending at Falmouth Station. In the early 1970’s, the Town of Falmouth purchased this right-of-way, dismantled it and built the 3.3-mile Shining Sea Bikeway in 1975.

A new 7.4-mile section was added in 2009, extending the trail to North Falmouth. At present, the Shining Sea Bikeway runs 10.7 miles from County Rd. in North Falmouth all the way to the Steamship Authority parking lot in Woods Hole.

Photos

Area Details

The Shining Sea Bikeway hugs the coast from Falmouth to Woods Hole and then beyond to North Falmouth, winding along Vineyard Sound. Ideal for casual and beginner cyclists, it was built on a former railroad right-of-way (just like the Cape Cod Rail Trail). Because of this, the path is level for nearly all of its 10.7-mile distance with only slight grades at certain points.

Lined with familiar Cape Cod flower and tree species, it makes for a truly scenic ride from Falmouth to Woods Hole. Following the Old Colony rail line, the newer extension passes through Sippewissett Marsh, by cranberry bogs and also Chapaquoit Beach. The Bikeway avoids much of Falmouth’s notorious summer traffic by following its shoreline and crisscrossing the Salt Pond Bird Sanctuary.

This paved path features a bike repair station, complete with tools and an air pump. This self-service fixture was funded by the Falmouth Bikeways Committee and is located at Bud’s Stop pavilion in the Depot Ave. trailhead parking lot.

Both tools and air pump are securely attached with stainless steel cables and theft-proof hardware. A built-in hanging frame rack allows bikes to be fully suspended for added convenience. Additionally a QR code links to online support resources for anyone needing further assistance.

The Shining Sea Bikeway is extremely popular during the summer, so be prepared for a crowded journey if you plan to ride during those peak season months. Please also be sure to respect the rights of other end users like walkers, runners and inline skaters.

Driving Directions

Weather

Shining Sea Bikeway Weather