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Nearby routes
Best routes near Bridge on the Rail Trail
4.9
(11)
38
riders
51.9km
03:06
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
23
riders
36.1km
02:10
190m
190m
The Bridge on the Rail Trail – Trestle Trail loop from Cranston offers a delightful touring cycling experience, transitioning from urban fringes to serene natural beauty. You'll pedal along the Pawtuxet River, past historic brick textile mills, and over a distinctive truss bridge, all while enjoying the shade of forested areas. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the Scituate Reservoir and Jordan Pond as you explore this scenic route.
This moderate 22.4-mile (36.1 km) ride, with a gentle 620 feet (189 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete. Its mostly flat and paved surface makes it an excellent choice for families or beginner friendly cycling routes near Cranston, Rhode Island. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for your ride.
As part of the Washington Secondary Bike Path, Rhode Island's longest bike path, this route is a segment of the East Coast Greenway, a monumental project connecting Maine to Florida. Its origins as a former railroad corridor ensure gentle grades, making it genuinely accessible for a wide range of users, from those with young children to hybrid bike enthusiasts.
3.8
(5)
7
riders
18.9km
01:07
80m
80m
The Bridge on the Rail Trail loop from Cranston offers an easy 11.8-mile (18.9 km) touring cycling experience with just 265 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes. You'll pedal along a paved rail trail, enjoying views of the Pawtuxet River South Branch and crossing several bridges. The route transitions from a more urban Cranston start to scenic wooded areas and glimpses of old brick textile mills, providing a pleasant and varied ride for all skill levels.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with numerous access points and parking available along the Washington Secondary Bike Path. While the trail is mostly smooth, be aware that some sections, especially in Cranston and West Warwick, can be bumpy due to tree roots affecting the asphalt. You'll even find ice cream stops conveniently located along the path, perfect for a mid-ride treat.
This route is a significant part of Rhode Island's longest bike path, the Washington Secondary Bike Path, and is also integrated into the larger East Coast Greenway. Its rail-to-trail conversion ensures a consistent, gentle grade, making it an ideal choice for family-friendly cycling routes near Cranston. The blend of natural riverine landscapes and historical industrial architecture makes it a notable and accessible option for exploring the region.
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