image of barnstable county courthouse

Mass in Motion “Maps” Cape Hiking and Biking Opportunities

Now that summer is in full swing, it is the perfect time for residents and visitors alike to take advantage of the warm breezes and long sunny days. And the Barnstable County Mass in Motion program is eager to help everyone learn more about healthy outdoor activities in our region.

A statewide program, Mass in Motion works locally to increase opportunities for Cape Cod residents and visitors to promote opportunities for healthy eating and active living in the places people live, learn, work, and play. The Barnstable County Department of Human Services has promoted and managed the local Mass in Motion program since 2012 with funding from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

“Mass in Motion supports prevention-based approaches to improving health and wellness in our community by implementing policies and environmental strategies that increase access to healthy eating and active living,” said Vaira Harik, Senior Project Manager for the Barnstable County Mass in Motion program. “Sometimes that means developing an entirely new solution, but other times it simply means drawing attention to the great number of resources our community has on hand for healthy living.”

Whether it’s biking, walking, kayaking, or golfing, Cape Cod residents and visitors can find more information about regional outdoor activities using these online resources:

  • Cape Cod Walking Trails – Created by the Cape Cod Commission, this Google document shows over 100 public walking trails, including trail descriptions, pictures, and links with more information.
  • Transit Map – Created by the Cape Cod Commission in partnership with the CCRTA, this PDF provides a detailed map with off- and on-road bike paths, parks, wetlands, and transportation options.
  • MassParks Biking Paths – This page lists several bike paths along the Cape and Islands, as well as paths throughout the state. Of particular note is the Cape Cod Rail Trail, the paved bikeway that runs 25 miles from South Dennis to Wellfleet. The terrain is relatively flat with some minor grades in certain sections in the Lower/Outer Cape areas, specifically Orleans and Wellfleet. It easily offers the greatest variety in scenery and natural landscapes of all the regional bike paths.
  • Cape Cod Travel Guide – Has an interactive map where you can search for activities by type and town.