Whether you’re a diehard cyclist or a more leisurely cyclist, Massachusetts offers several bike-friendly and safe destinations worth exploring. While larger cities like Cambridge are known as bike-friendly destinations, many of the state’s most popular tourist destinations go to great lengths to ensure they cater to cycling enthusiasts as well.
Not only are these cities increasingly committed to improving their cycling infrastructure through well-maintained bike lanes and bike share programs, they’re also supporting local businesses and cycling groups that cater to this rapidly growing segment of the population. So put on your helmet and check your tire pressure as we set out to explore these six most bike-friendly cities in Massachusetts.
Provincetown
Although Provincetown is one of the smallest communities on our list of bike-friendly destinations in Massachusetts (its population is just 3,000), it comes out on top because it’s home to six bike shops and rentals; that’s an impressive bike shop per 500 residents. Its location at the tip of Cape Cod is also a plus. This stunning coastal location offers cyclists breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean as they explore on two wheels. In fact, some of the town’s best bike routes run along the epic Cape Cod National Seashore, a gorgeous stretch of coastline with over 40 miles of bike paths that wind through sand dunes and forested areas.
Another major bike path is the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which connects Provincetown to other towns on Cape Cod, making for a scenic and traffic-free ride. Highly rated businesses catering to the cycling needs of locals and tourists include Provincetown Bike Rentals, with its popular guided bike tours, and the Bike Shack, which offers repair services and accessories as well as free parking for rental customers—a real perk when visiting this popular tourist destination during the busy summer season.
Northampton
Another of the most bike-friendly towns in Massachusetts, Northampton is a great place to explore on two wheels. Located in the Pioneer Valley area of the Connecticut River Valley, this attractive small town is known for its extensive bike-friendly infrastructure and active cycling community. Its location along the Connecticut River provides access to numerous scenic bike trails, including the world-class Norwottuck Rail Trail. This 11-mile combined bike and pedestrian trail connects Northampton to the nearby towns of Hadley and Amherst and is popular with cyclists for its scenic views and peaceful ride.
Many of Northampton’s other attractions are within easy cycling distance, including Smith College and the downtown cultural quarter. Several businesses specializing in cyclists also thrive here, including Northampton Cycle, which offers a range of services including repairs and rentals. Also check Northampton Cycling Club for news of organized tours and events.
Salem
Located on the northern shore of Massachusetts, Salem is known for its fascinating history and is one of the region’s most bike-friendly communities. The big draw for bikers is the new Salem Creek Greenway, a multi-use route that connects neighborhoods along five miles of safe, scenic trails. This popular paved path will eventually connect to the Roanoke Valley Greenways, which will provide access to over 400 miles of trails when completed.
Until then, major attractions like the Salem Witch Museum and Salem Maritime National Historic Site are easily accessible by bike. In addition to dedicated bike lanes and bike racks on public buses, the city’s Blue Bikes rental program offers easily accessible bike rentals at several pickup points throughout the city.
Amherst
Amherst is one of the larger communities on this list of bike-friendly towns in Massachusetts. Its pretty location near the Connecticut River makes it an ideal place for a bike ride. Highlights include the Norwottuck Rail Trail, the same 11-mile bike and pedestrian trail that follows an old railroad line that visitors to Northampton can enjoy.
Mountain bikers are also drawn to Amherst. For these brave adventurers, the Earl’s Trails Bunker Trailhead is the big draw. It connects to the larger Earl’s Trail network in Northampton, and the fun starts around Amherst College with over 12 miles of singletrack to explore. Need a bike to rent? Check out the Hampshire Bicycle Exchange’s rental programs.
Fitchburg
Fitchburg in northern Massachusetts offers several good biking opportunities suitable for both serious and recreational cyclists. Set against the backdrop of the Nashua River near Wachusett Mountain Ski Resort, the terrain here is ideal for those who enjoy taking in stunning scenery while biking. If that’s you, head out on the Twin Cities Rail Trail, a nearly five-mile route that connects Fitchburg to Leominster and Westminster along an old railroad line, with access points to numerous other bike routes along the way.
The town supports cycling with several bike lanes and facilities in high-traffic areas, and local businesses are available when repairs and services are needed. These include The Break Bike Shop, which offers repair services and bike equipment, while Bike Fitchburg, the local cycling club, organizes local rides and events.
Great Barrington
Great Barrington is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to explore the trails of the beautiful Berkshires region of southwestern Massachusetts. At the top of most cyclists’ lists is the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, a well-maintained 14-mile multi-use trail that runs from the neighboring town of Adams to Great Barrington. This scenic trail not only offers cyclists great views of the Berkshires’ natural beauty, including forests and rivers, but also provides a good workout.
Great Barrington is also home to Berkshire Bike and Board, a local shop that has been in business for 30 years and provides bike rentals, repairs, and accessories to locals and visitors alike.
The last word
Thanks to their forward-thinking residents, Massachusetts’ small towns are some of the most bike-friendly in the United States. Popular with locals and visitors alike, numerous dedicated bike lanes have also sprung up, with more planned to meet demand. From the coastal trails and bike shops in Provincetown to the railroad tracks of Fitchburg, these charming small towns offer something for all cycling interests and levels. Whether exploring scenic trails and historic sites or shopping at local bike shops, cyclists will find that these six small towns offer some of the best cycling experiences in Massachusetts.
