The Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) is a 25.5-mile (41.0 km) paved rail trail on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. The trail route passes through the towns of Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet. It connects to the 6-plus mile (10 km) Old Colony Rail Trail leading to Chatham, the 2 mile Yarmouth multi-use trail, and 8 miles (13 km) of trails within Nickerson State Park. Short side trips on roads lead to national seashore beaches including Coast Guard Beach at the end of the Nauset Bike Trail in Cape Cod National Seashore. The trail is part of the Claire Saltonstall Bikeway.

History

The original rail line from Yarmouth to Orleans was constructed by the Cape Cod Central Railroad (1861–1868), which was later incorporated into the Old Colony Railroad in 1872, and finished the line to Provincetown in 1873. The railroad was later incorporated into the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad in 1893. The New Haven Railroad merged into Penn Central in 1968: it went bankrupt by 1970. The corridor was purchased by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1976: 165–166 and a portion of the right-of-way was converted to the Cape Cod Rail Trail by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation in 1980. The current owner, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, leases the line from Station Avenue in Yarmouth to US Route 6 in Wellfleet to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation for trail use.

In July 2020, the state awarded $181,000 for design of Phase 3 of the extension project, which will extend the trail west from Peter Horner Park in Yarmouth to Mary Dunn Road in Barnstable. Because that section of the rail line is still in use, the trail will follow a different route to the south.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT) is a beloved, scenic, and mostly flat paved bike and multi-use trail that stretches through several towns on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It’s built on a former railroad bed, making it ideal for cyclists, walkers, runners, families, and even inline skaters.

Quick Facts:

• Length: ~25.5 miles

• Surface: Paved, well-maintained

• Trail Type: Out-and-back (not a loop)

• Accessibility: Great for all levels

• Towns Traversed:

• South Dennis

• Harwich

• Brewster

• Orleans

• Eastham

• Wellfleet

Trail Highlights:

• Flat and Easy Riding: The old rail bed provides a gentle grade, making it very accessible—even for kids and casual riders.

• Natural Beauty: Expect pine forests, cranberry bogs, marshes, and glimmering kettle ponds. Autumn and spring are especially beautiful.

• Beach Access: Easy detours to Cape Cod beaches, including Nickerson State Park and Coast Guard Beach (via connecting trails).

• Charming Stops: Passes near ice cream stands, cafes, general stores, bike shops, and other classic Cape businesses.

• Facilities: Restrooms and bike parking are available at trailheads and key stopping points.

• Parking: Multiple trailhead lots, including in South Dennis (start), Nickerson State Park, and Wellfleet (northern end).

Connecting Trails:

• Old Colony Rail Trail: Connects to Chatham (~8 miles one-way) at Harwich.

• Head of the Meadow Trail: Connects to Cape Cod National Seashore.

• Nauset Trail: Leads to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham—beautiful detour!

Popular Starting Points:

1. Station Avenue, South Dennis – Southern terminus with a large parking area.

2. Nickerson State Park, Brewster – Connects easily to the trail, plus access to ponds and camping.

3. Wellfleet Terminus – Quiet northern end near Lecount Hollow Rd.

Good to Know:

• Seasonal Popularity: Summer weekends get crowded, so early morning rides are calmer.

• Rentals: Available at multiple spots along the trail, including Dennis, Brewster, and Orleans.

• Safety Tips: Watch for road crossings and pedestrians. Helmets strongly recommended (required for under 16 in MA).

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1-day ride or spots to stop along the way for food or swimming

Here’s a 1-day Cape Cod Rail Trail ride itinerary with the best scenic, food, and swim stops—great for a leisurely, feel-good day out. This version assumes a round-trip ride of 15–25 miles, which is enough to enjoy the trail without overdoing it.

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Cape Cod Rail Trail – 1-Day Ride Itinerary (South Dennis to Orleans and back)