The best road cycling routes in Dukes County

Dukes County, primarily Martha's Vineyard, offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find extensive networks of mostly flat, paved paths, especially in 'down-Island' areas connecting towns like Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown. For more challenging rides, 'up-Island' communities such as West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah feature hillier and curvier routes. Many paths also offer scenic coastal views.

Yes, Dukes County is very family-friendly. There are approximately 44 miles of 'down-Island' bike trails that are mostly flat and suitable for recreational and younger cyclists. An excellent easy option is the Edgartown Beach loop, which is 15.5 miles (24.9 km) and offers coastal scenery. Another easy route is Sweetened Water Pond loop from Edgartown, covering 45.5 km.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past the famous gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs and stop at the East Chop Light. The six-mile path between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown along Beach Road provides scenic views of Joseph Sylvia State Beach and Sengekontacket Pond. Inland, the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest offers over 14 miles of trails amidst lush greenery. You might also encounter Historic Edgartown, a charming town with a rich history.

There are over 45 road cycling routes available in Dukes County on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes 29 easy routes and 17 moderate routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to more experienced cyclists.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse island landscapes, the prevalence of coastal paths, and the charming towns. Over 800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Dukes County's varied terrain, highlighting its appeal.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the entire perimeter of Martha's Vineyard can offer rides of 60+ miles. A moderate route to consider is Road ride to Aquinnah Headlands Preserve – South Head, which is 49.3 miles (79.3 km) and takes approximately 3 hours 34 minutes, leading to the Aquinnah Headlands Preserve with coastal views. Another moderate option is the Vineyard Haven Harbor – Aquinnah Headlands Preserve loop from Vineyard Haven, covering 62.2 km.

Yes, the Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) public buses are equipped to accommodate bicycles, making it convenient to explore different parts of the island without having to cycle the entire distance. This allows for more flexible route planning.

Martha's Vineyard offers appealing cycling conditions throughout much of the year. The summer months are popular, but spring and fall often provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the island's diverse landscapes and coastal routes.

Yes, many routes in Dukes County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Edgartown Beach loop and Around Martha's Vineyard – road cycling in MA, which leads through diverse island landscapes. The Historic Edgartown – Joseph Sylvia State Beach loop from Oak Bluffs is another excellent circular option.

Coastal views are a highlight of road cycling in Dukes County. The path between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown along Beach Road offers stunning vistas of State Beach and Sengekontacket Pond. East Chop Drive also provides picturesque views with less car congestion. Many routes, such as Joseph Sylvia State Beach – Vineyard Haven Harbor loop from Katama Airpark, incorporate significant stretches along the coastline.

While many conservation areas are primarily for hiking, road cyclists can enjoy routes that pass by or through areas like the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, which features well-marked bike trails amidst lush greenery. Routes leading to areas like Aquinnah Headlands Preserve also offer access to natural beauty and coastal views.