View of Falmouth Inner Harbor loop from Coonamessett Bogs

The View of Falmouth Inner Harbor loop from Coonamessett Bogs is an easy touring cycling route that truly delivers on varied coastal and natural beauty, offering 14.9 miles (24.0 km) of riding with a gentle 288 feet (88 metres) of elevation gain, all achievable in about 1 hour and 23 minutes. This route is perfect for anyone seeking a relaxed ride through diverse ecosystems, combining paved paths with glimpses of Falmouth's unique landscapes.

What to expect on View of Falmouth Inner Harbor loop from Coonamessett Bogs

As you pedal this route, you'll primarily follow the paved Shining Sea Bikeway, a smooth path built on a former railroad bed that makes for effortless touring. The scenery constantly shifts, taking you past expansive salt marshes like the Great Sippewissett Marsh, then through wooded uplands and alongside active cranberry bogs. While the main path is paved, the route integrates sections that bring you closer to the Coonamessett Bogs, where you might encounter dirt or gravel paths, offering a more rugged feel amidst wetlands and restored bogs. This journey is ideal for cyclists who appreciate a mix of coastal views and natural habitats without strenuous climbs.

Planning your visit

This route largely utilizes the accessible Shining Sea Bikeway, which is open year-round. While the bikeway itself is paved and well-maintained, be aware that detours into the Coonamessett Bogs area may involve dirt and gravel surfaces, so a hybrid bike with wider tires or a mountain bike would be more comfortable for those sections. Connecting to Falmouth Inner Harbor will involve navigating local roads. No specific permits are required for cycling these public paths.

Trail details

• Distance: 14.9 miles (24.0 km)
• Elevation gain: 288 feet (88 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 23 minutes