The Cape Cod Rail Trail follows the former Old Colony railroad right of way through the middle of the Cape, running from the Dennis and Yarmouth area up through Harwich, Brewster, Orleans and Eastham to Wellfleet. The state Department of Conservation and Recreation describes it as a paved trail of roughly 25 miles, suitable for bicycles, in-line skates and wheelchairs, open from dawn to dusk. It is flat and gentle, passing kettle ponds, cranberry bogs, shady pines and small village centers, with benches, bike shops and cafes close to the route. Trailheads with free parking include South Yarmouth, South Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans and the National Seashore at Salt Pond in Eastham. Nickerson State Park in Brewster has a trail connection too, though its parking fee season ended on 31 October. In November the trail is quiet and the foliage is turning to russet and gold. Please note that DCR has scheduled a maintenance closure between Samoset Road and Locust Road in Eastham from 14 October through 30 November 2026.
The trail is the easiest way to see the inner Cape slowly. From Dennis the path passes Scargo Hill country and the woods of Harwich, then reaches Brewster, where the Nickerson State Park trails and the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History are close by. At Orleans the route meets the town center and the bike-friendly roads toward Nauset Beach, and farther north it enters Eastham and the National Seashore at Salt Pond, one of the best places to stop and walk toward Coast Guard Beach.
How to ride it in November: pick a section rather than the whole length. The stretch from Brewster to Orleans, or Orleans into Eastham, are good half-day rides with plenty of places to turn around. Many Cape bike shops reduce their hours or close for the winter, so bring your own bike or confirm a rental in advance. Dress for wind and early dusk, carry a light if the afternoon runs late, and remember the speed limit on the trail is 15 mph, with helmets required by law for riders aged 16 and under.
Good to know: the Eastham closure between Samoset Road and Locust Road means you should check the latest DCR advisory before riding north of Orleans until the end of November. Dogs are allowed on a leash, and there is no alcohol and no littering. Pair the trail with a stop at a village bakery or a walk on a National Seashore beach.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided ride or walk on a flat paved trail through woods, bogs and ponds, with trailheads and village stops along the way.
Best time
A sunny autumn afternoon with leaves turning; start early because daylight is short in November.
How long
Two to four hours for a section such as Brewster to Orleans; a full day for a longer ride.
Tips
Check the DCR advisory for the Eastham closure between Samoset Road and Locust Road until 30 November, and confirm bike rentals are open for the season.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Easy, scenic cycling for all ages and abilities on a car-free path.
- Families
- Flat and paved with frequent trailheads, so you can choose short loops; helmets are required for children aged 16 and under.
- Couples
- Ride a quiet autumn section and finish with a bakery stop or a dinner in Orleans.
- Pair with
- The Cape Cod National Seashore at Salt Pond and the Chatham fish pier.
- Time needed
- Allow half a day for a comfortable section.
Good questions
Is the Cape Cod Rail Trail open in November?+
Yes, the trail is open from dawn to dusk, with one exception. DCR has closed the section between Samoset Road and Locust Road in Eastham from 14 October through 30 November 2026 for maintenance.
How long is the trail?+
The state describes it as roughly 25 miles, running from the Dennis and Yarmouth area to Wellfleet. It is paved and flat, so you can ride any section you like.
Where can I park?+
Free trailhead parking is listed at South Yarmouth, South Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans and the National Seashore at Salt Pond. Nickerson State Park charges a parking fee only from Memorial Day through 31 October.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail. Keep them leashed and carry out waste.
Can I rent a bike in winter?+
Some shops stay open year-round and many close or reduce hours, so call ahead. Bringing your own bike is the safest plan.