Shining Sea Bikeway

Explore Upper Cape Cod's Shining Sea Bikeway

Grab your bike, rollerblades, or sneakers, and take in the sights along Upper Cape Cod's scenic Shining Sea Bikeway. This paved trail – named in honor of Falmouth native Katherine Lee Bates, who wrote "America the Beautiful" – stretches over 10 miles from North Falmouth to Woods Hole. During your journey, you'll pass through four of Falmouth's quaint villages, traverse an active cranberry bog, and enjoy picturesque views of coastline, marshes, and a bird sanctuary.

Tips for Visiting

Best Time to Visit

For optimal wildlife viewing – including ospreys, blue herons, foxes, and turtles – it’s advisable to start your adventure early in the morning.

Traveler Experiences

Recent visitors describe the views along the trail as "unbelievable" and commend its well-maintained path, which offers plenty of benches and beaches for resting. Many suggest taking a break in Woods Hole to explore its charming shops, delectable restaurants, and attractions like the Woods Hole Science Aquarium. You can also catch a ferry from Woods Hole to Martha's Vineyard for more trails to explore.

Operating Hours

The Shining Sea Bikeway is accessible from dawn to dusk.

Parking

Parking Locations

There are five convenient parking areas providing easy access to the trail:

• Off of Country Road in North Falmouth
• Oyster Pond Road in Woods Hole, near the trail's beginning and end
• Depot Avenue parking lot in Falmouth, which also features a self-serve bike repair station equipped with tools for basic bike fixes and adjustments

For more information about the trail's history and heritage, visit Falmouth's official website.