The best cycling routes in Block Island National Wildlife Refuge

There are over 9 touring cycling routes available in and around Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 8 classified as easy and 1 as moderate, offering diverse experiences across the island's landscapes.

The terrain for cycling on Block Island is generally considered easy, with most routes featuring paved surfaces. However, some segments may include unpaved, dirt, or gravel roads for those seeking a more rugged experience. While there are some hills, such as the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, they are typically not extreme, making the island accessible for varying fitness levels.

Yes, Block Island offers excellent family-friendly cycling opportunities. A popular option is a shorter 7.5-mile loop, ideal for families and novice cyclists, which focuses on the southern part of the island. The generally easy terrain and mostly paved surfaces make it suitable for a pleasant family outing.

While cycling on Block Island, you can explore several significant landmarks and natural features. These include the historic North Light and Southeast Light, both offering scenic views. The dramatic Mohegan Bluffs rise 200 feet above sea level, providing stunning coastal scenery. You might also pass by Sachem Pond and Fresh Pond, adding to the diverse natural beauty. For more information on the refuge itself, you can visit the official FWS website.

While the immediate Block Island National Wildlife Refuge has specific regulations regarding pets, the broader Block Island offers many roads and adjacent conserved lands suitable for cycling. It's always best to check local regulations for specific trails or areas you plan to visit with your dog, ensuring they are allowed and kept on a leash.

Block Island is an excellent destination for cycling throughout the warmer months. The fall is particularly renowned for birding, attracting hundreds of birders to witness migratory songbirds. While specific cycling conditions vary, spring through fall generally offers pleasant weather for exploring the island by bike.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes on Block Island are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, you can enjoy the Crescent Beach – Old Harbor loop from Block Island, an easy 5.6-mile ride with coastal views, or the Old Harbor loop from New Shoreham, which is 6.9 miles and connects key points of interest.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches and rolling dunes, as well as the scenic ocean views. The accessibility of the routes, with many easy, paved options, is also frequently highlighted.

While most routes are easy, there are options for longer rides. For instance, the Crescent Beach – Block Island North Lighthouse loop from New Shoreham offers a moderate 10.4-mile journey. For those seeking more rugged experiences, dirt and gravel roads provide excellent off-road biking opportunities beyond the main paved paths.

Block Island is accessible by ferry. Visitors have the option to bring their own bikes on the ferry or rent bikes directly on the island. Several local shops offer bike rentals, making it convenient to explore the island's cycling routes.

Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is an internationally recognized hotspot for birding, especially in the fall, attracting hundreds of birders. You might spot over 70 species of migratory songbirds, as well as Rhode Island's largest gull colony. The refuge is also a breeding ground for federally listed species like the endangered American burying beetle and threatened piping plover, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

Absolutely. Routes like the Cherry Tree Hill – Old Harbor loop from New Shoreham, a 7.5-mile trail, lead you through a mix of island scenery, including upland shrub habitats and coastal areas. These routes provide a great way to experience the island's diverse landscapes, from maritime forests to open morainal grasslands.