Stephens Field Beach

The Mayflower II – North Plymouth (Seaside) Rail Trail loop is a fantastic option for an easy touring cycling route, offering 15.2 miles (24.5 km) of scenic riding with only 484 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 38 minutes. You'll find yourself gliding along a notably flat path with varied surfaces, including paved sections, crushed stone, and boardwalks. The route provides continuous, blissful views of the ocean, salt marsh, Plymouth Beach, and Kingston Bay, passing through diverse coastal habitats and even offering a chance to spot an osprey nest.

Planning your visit to this family-friendly cycling route is simple, as parking is readily available at both Nelson Memorial Park and Cordage Park. The trail's easy difficulty makes it suitable for all fitness levels, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, ensuring a relaxed and accessible outing. Given its gentle nature, it's a great choice for a leisurely ride at any time of day, especially when you want to soak in the coastal atmosphere.

This trail holds a unique historical significance, following the former rail bed of the Old Colony Railroad, where locomotives were named after Pilgrim figures. While cycling, you're also near the Mayflower II, a reproduction of the historic ship, which adds a layer of cultural context to your ride. Beyond its own charm, the North Plymouth Rail Trail also serves as a gateway to other local paths, like the Upper and Lower Pilgrim Trails, making it a central point for exploring Plymouth's recreational offerings.

Embark on a diverse touring cycling adventure with the Mayflower II – North Plymouth (Seaside) Rail Trail loop from Kingston, a challenging 62.7-mile (100.9 km) route that blends historical exploration with coastal scenery. While the Seaside Rail Trail portion offers easy, flat riding with picturesque views of salt marshes and the ocean, the majority of this 7-hour and 5-minute journey involves demanding road cycling. You'll pass through woodsy tunnels and open meadows, eventually reaching the iconic Mayflower II at Pilgrim Memorial State Park, making for a rich and varied experience.

Planning for this difficult ride means preparing for a full day on the bike, with 2237 feet (682 metres) of elevation gain. The loop starts from Kingston, and while the Seaside Rail Trail itself is accessible, the connecting road sections require good endurance and a bike suitable for mixed terrain. Ensure you carry enough water and snacks for the long duration, as amenities might be sparse on certain road segments. This route is best enjoyed by experienced touring cyclists with very good fitness levels.

This loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and significant historical context, tracing parts of the former Old Colony Railroad bed. The Mayflower II, a full-scale reproduction of the 17th-century ship, provides a tangible link to colonial history, moored near Plymouth Rock. The Seaside Rail Trail also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, including osprey nests, adding another layer of interest to this extensive touring cycling route in the Plymouth County area.