6 Most Bike-Friendly Towns In Massachusetts

Whether you’re a die-hard cyclist or a more leisurely rider, Massachusetts boasts several bike-friendly and safe destinations that are worth exploring. While larger cities like Cambridge are well-known as bike-friendly places to visit, many of the state’s most popular tourist destinations are also going to great lengths to ensure they cater to cycling enthusiasts, too.

These towns are not only becoming increasingly committed to enhancing their cycling infrastructure through well-maintained bike paths and rental programs, they’re also supportive of local businesses and cycling groups that cater to this rapidly growing segment of the population. So put on your helmet and check that tire pressure as we head out to explore these six most bike-friendly towns in Massachusetts.

Provincetown

Although one of the smallest communities on our list of bike-friendly destinations in Massachusetts (its population is just 3,000 people), Provincetown ranks at the top as it’s home to six bike shops and rental businesses; that’s an impressive one bike-related business per 500 townsfolk. Its location at the tip of Cape Cod also helps. This stunning coastal location offers cyclists breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean as they explore on two wheels. In fact, some of the town’s best bike routes take in the epic Cape Cod National Seashore, a magnificent stretch of coast that boasts over 40 miles of bike paths traversing sand dunes and wooded areas.

Another key cycling route is the Cape Cod Rail Trail, connecting Provincetown to other Cape Cod towns, ensuring a scenic and traffic-free experience. Highly rated businesses that cater to the bike needs of locals and tourists include Provincetown Bike Rentals with its popular guided bike tours; and the Bike Shack which, along with repair services and accessories, provides free parking for rental clients, a real perk if visiting this popular tourist destination during the busy summer season.

Northampton

Northampton is another of the most bikeable towns in Massachusetts and is great to explore on two wheels. Situated 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 picturesque cycling routes, including the first-rate Norwottuck Rail Trail. This 11-mile combined bike and pedestrian trail connects Northampton with the nearby towns of Hadley and Amherst and is popular among cyclists for its scenic views and smooth ride.

Many other Northampton attractions are easily reachable by bike, including Smith College and the downtown cultural district. Several businesses catering to the biking crowd are also flourishing here, including Northampton Cycle, which offers a range of services including repairs and rentals. Check out the Northampton Cycling Club, too, for news of organized rides and events.

Salem

Located on Massachusetts’ North Shore, Salem is well-known for its fascinating history and has also garnered a reputation as one of the region’s most bike-friendly communities. The big draw for those who enjoy exploring via pedal power is the new Salem Creek Greenway, a multi-use route that connects the community’s neighborhoods with just over five miles of safe, scenic travel. This popular paved path will eventually join up with the Roanoke Valley Greenways, which, when complete, will provide access to over 400 miles of trails.

Until then, key attractions such as the Salem Witch Museum and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site are easily accessible by bike. In addition to dedicated bike lanes and bike racks on public buses, the town’s Blue Bikes rental program provides easy-to-access bicycle rentals at several pick-up points across town.

Amherst

One of the larger communities on this list of bike-friendly towns in Massachusetts, Amherst’s pretty location near the Connecticut River makes it an ideal spot for a cycling getaway. Highlights include the Norwottuck Rail Trail, the same 11-mile-long bicycle and pedestrian trail that follows an old railway line that visitors to Northampton can enjoy.

Mountain bikers are also drawn to Amherst. For these hardy adventurers, the Earl's Trails Bunker Trailhead is the big draw. Connecting to the larger Earl’s Trail network in Northampton, the fun begins around Amherst College with over 12 miles of single-track trails to explore. Need a rental? Check out the Hampshire Bicycle Exchange for its rental programs.

Fitchburg

Up in north-central Massachusetts, Fitchburg offers several good cycling opportunities suitable for serious and casual cyclists alike. Set against a backdrop of the Nashua River near the ski resort area of Wachusett Mountain, the terrain here is ideal for those who enjoy experiencing stunning scenery while they pedal. If that sounds like you, head for the Twin Cities Rail Trail, a nearly five-mile-long route connecting Fitchburg to Leominster and Westminster along an old railway line, with access points to numerous other bike routes along the way.

The town supports cycling with several bike lanes and amenities in high-traffic areas, and local businesses are also on hand when repairs and services are needed. These include The Break Bike Shop which offers repair services and cycling equipment, while Bike Fitchburg, the local cycling club, organizes local rides and events.

Great Barrington

Great Barrington makes for an excellent base for those wanting to explore the trails of the beautiful Berkshires region of southwestern Massachusetts. Topping the list for most cyclists is the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, a well-maintained 14-mile multi-use path that extends from the neighboring town of Adams into Great Barrington. This wonderfully scenic trail not only provides cyclists with tremendous views of the Berkshires' natural beauty, including forests and rivers but also offers a good workout at the same time.

Great Barrington is also home to the Berkshire Bike and Board, a local shop that’s been around for 30 years, offering bike rentals, repairs, and gear to residents and visitors alike.

The Final Word

Thanks to its forward-thinking residents, Massachusetts small towns are among the most bike-friendly in the United States. As popular with locals as they are with visitors, numerous dedicated bike trails have also sprung up, with more on the way to satisfy the demand. From Provincetown’s coastal paths and bike shops to Fitchburg’s rail trails, these lovely small towns cater to a range of cycling interests and levels. Whether exploring scenic trails and historical sites or even shopping at local bike stores, cyclists will find these six small towns offer some of the best biking experiences in Massachusetts.