East Coast Greenway: Newburyport to Portsmouth

The terrain along this section is largely considered relatively flat. For cycling, the route primarily features well-paved surfaces, with approximately 89% paved and 11% unpaved. Some segments may have crushed stone or other variable surfaces. Notably, an 8-mile section of the New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway, part of the ECG, is a rail trail with a crushed stone surface, connecting Portsmouth to North Hampton. A paved stretch also exists from just south of Seabrook into Newburyport.

This route offers continuous and often breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, especially along the New Hampshire coastline. You'll pass through charming coastal towns and can visit specific highlights like Salisbury Beach, Jenness State Beach, and Odiorne Point. The route also takes you through New Castle and into Downtown Portsmouth.

The overall difficulty for cycling this segment is moderate, requiring good fitness. However, many sections are considered easy due to the mostly well-paved and largely flat surfaces, making them suitable for various skill levels. Keep in mind that some on-road sections, especially in New Hampshire, may lack dedicated provisions for cyclists and are recommended for experienced riders comfortable sharing the road with vehicle traffic.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the coastal scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures for beach stops, while spring and fall provide cooler rides and beautiful foliage, especially inland. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

Parking is available in both Newburyport, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Specific parking areas will vary, but you can typically find public parking lots in the downtown areas of these cities, which provide convenient access to the route. For detailed parking information, it's best to check local municipal websites for Newburyport and Portsmouth.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the East Coast Greenway itself. However, if you plan to visit state parks or beaches along the way, such as Salisbury Beach or Jenness State Beach, there might be parking fees or day-use fees for those specific locations.

While the East Coast Greenway itself is generally dog-friendly, specific rules regarding dogs (leash requirements, waste disposal) can vary depending on the town, park, or beach you pass through. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them. Check local regulations for any specific sections you plan to visit.

The route is approximately 87 kilometers (54 miles) long. For a racebike, the estimated duration is around 3 hours and 26 minutes of active cycling time. This duration can vary significantly based on your speed, fitness level, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

Yes, the East Coast Greenway is still under development, and some sections, particularly in New Hampshire, utilize on-road connections. These often run along quiet residential and country roads, but some may have narrow or absent shoulders. A racebike is suitable for the predominantly paved surfaces, but given the potential for crushed stone or variable surfaces in some areas, a road bike with slightly wider tires or a gravel bike might offer more comfort and versatility.

Yes, both Newburyport, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, offer public transportation options. Newburyport is accessible by the MBTA commuter train from Boston, and Portsmouth has Amtrak service nearby. This makes it convenient to plan one-way cycling trips or to connect to the route without a car.

Yes, as the route connects two historic and picturesque New England port cities and passes through several coastal towns, you'll find numerous options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. Both Newburyport and Portsmouth offer a wide range of dining and lodging choices, and smaller towns along the New Hampshire coast will also have establishments to refuel and rest.